Where
Anclote Key Preserve Park is located approximately three miles offshore from Tarpon Springs, FL 34689. The GPS coordinates of its lighthouse are: N 2810.020, W 08250.687. The following ferries and charters provide transportation to the island: Odyssey Cruises and Spongeorama’s Cruise Lines (both departing from Tarpon Springs' historic Sponge Docks), as well as Island Paradise Charters (Port Richey) and Parrotdise Express (Dunedin).
Vibe
Remote haven for wildlife with pristine beaches. Spanning 11,773-acres and four islands, Anclote Preserve is only accessible via private boat or ferry, giving it a remote feel and providing sanctuary for nature -- and beachgoers yearning for an unspoiled white sand beach.
See, feel
At Anclote Preserve, expect to see boats anchored just offshore in the emerald-hued, gin-clear waters. It’s a natural wonderland, with ungroomed beaches, laden with white sand and abundant shells, set to a soundtrack of birdsong and the waves. Here, pelicans dive into the surf while a smattering of people stroll the beaches and splash or snorkel in the shallow, tranquil water. While the water is usually calm, winds, tides or offshore systems can occasionally cause rough conditions.
On or near the beach
Anclote Key invites you to take a dip in its crystalline waters; hunt for multi-hued seashells; and follow the boardwalk to see Anclote Key lighthouse, a mammoth iron sentinel that guides boaters in the Gulf.
The birding is spectacular: Anclote is home to at least 43 species of birds, including the American oystercatcher, bald eagle and piping plover. During nesting season, thousands of shorebirds nest on Three Rooker Island. The fishing is likewise outstanding, with catches of sea trout, redfish, snook and sharks. Don a snorkel to discover the island’s underwater world, lush with seagrass that makes it a favorite with manatees, bottlenose dolphins, tropical fish and sea turtles.
For an epic adventure, camp under the stars and let the sound of the surf lull you to sleep.
Check out more about Anclote Key’s activities.
Accessibility
There are no accessible amenities on the island. Island Paradise Charters, Odyssey Cruises, Spongeorama’s Cruise Lines and Parrotdise Express are handicap accessible.
Facilities
Anclote Key offers grills, picnic tables, and pavilion on the south side of the island, as well as one compostable toilet on the very north end of the key and another a short distance from the lighthouse compound. You’ll also find a boardwalk to the lighthouse.
There’s no electricity or fresh water, and you should bring everything you need with you, including sunscreen and insect repellent, and perhaps something for shade. As there are no trash receptacles, you need to bring your trash with you when you leave the island.
Most if not all of the ferries/tour boats have toilets and offer food and drink.
Lifeguards
There are no lifeguards; swim at your own risk. Visitors are reminded to pay close attention to the warning flag signs posted at the welcome station and on the beach.
Parking
You can find parking information on each ferry’s website, here: Odyssey Cruises, Spongeorama’s Cruise Lines, Island Paradise Charters and Parrotdise Express.
