Located three miles from Tarpon Springs and accessible only by boat Anclote Key Preserve State Park provides a unique opportunity for the naturalist beach adventure along the gentle blue-green Gulf waters of Florida. This preserve is also designated as an historic site due to the presence of a lighthouse built in 1887 which still stands on the southern end of the island. The endless opportunities for beach and in-shore adventures make this park an excellent Sun Coast destination for those making the short boat trip from the mainland.

The sandy beaches along the shoreline of the four islands which make up this preserve (Anclote Key, North Anclote Bar, South Anclote Bar and Three Rooker Island) are home to a vast number of birds which inhabit the area. The 403-acre park is home to at least 43 species of birds, including the American oystercatcher, bald eagle and piping plover and remains an important bird nesting sanctuary.

This park offers no concessions on the island and only a few basic amenities such as picnic pavilions, grills and primitive campsites. Visitors should plan to bring their own water, food and supplies. Due to the preserve and sanctuary status of the islands, several do not allow dogs and those which do require they remain leashed at all times.

For more information about this park, or making travel arrangements by boat or ferry, a link to the Anclote Key Preserve webpage is provided below for your convenience.

 

 

[forecast location= “dunedin, fl”]