Three miles off the coast of Tarpon Springs, you’ll find four magnificent, sandy beaches that make up the hidden gem Anclote Key Preserve State Park. The Anclote Keys are off the Gulf Coast and are only accessible by boat! This means, if you’re looking to have an island adventure at this beautifully pristine set of islands, you’ll need to hop on one of the many ferries in order to set foot in the sand.

Anclote Key Preserve State Park is a tucked-away gem on the Gulf Coast that is only accessible by private boat or ferrying service.

Flickr Steven Miller

At nearly 12,000-acres of space, this preserve is a wonderful way to see over 40 different species of birds, plus enjoy many different activities away from it all.

TripAdvisor dragonflytx64

The island is a wildlife haven, plus there is a bounty of unique shells dotting the shoreline - a mix of colors and shapes.

Flickr James St John

Enjoy the sweeping views of the uninhabited island landscape, which includes the lighthouse at the southern end which was built in 1887.

TripAdvisor mattspringhill

Guests of the island can swim and soak up the sun during the day and enjoy setting up a tent on the sand to sleep overnight!

TripAdvisor Dan P

Just note, if you do end up camping, there are no provisions on the island, so be prepared to have water and other necessary supplies on hand.

TripAdvisor dragonflytx64

There are a handful of ferry services offered to get you to the island if you do not have a private boat, including many that leave from the Tarpon Springs’ historic Sponge Docks.

TripAdvisor Janna64

But be forewarned, ferry services are just used for service during the daytime to the island, not for overnight stays.

TripAdvisor Dan P

Come enjoy an island adventure like no other when you visit Anclote Key Preserve State Park.

TripAdvisor 65Scott30

To find out where Anclote Key is in Florida, click here to open the map.

Google Maps

Have you ever visited Anclote Key Preserve State Park in Florida before? Share with us your experience in the comments section! Or if you’re looking for more information about this set of islands, then check out the Florida State Parks page.

Flickr Steven Miller

TripAdvisor dragonflytx64

Flickr James St John

TripAdvisor mattspringhill

TripAdvisor Dan P

TripAdvisor Janna64

TripAdvisor 65Scott30

Google Maps

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Address: Anclote Keys, Florida 34691, USA