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Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge St. Petersburg, FL 33715 ☎ (352) 563-2088 Last Updated: 09/30/2023 |
| Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge is a protected island and wildlife sanctuary located near St. Petersburg, Florida, in the Tampa Bay region. This remote island offers a unique natural environment and historical significance, making it an interesting destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs. | |
| - Location: Egmont Key is situated at the entrance of Tampa Bay, about 1.5 miles southwest of Fort De Soto Park and approximately 9 miles southwest of St. Petersburg. Access to the island is primarily by private boat or via ferry services from Fort De Soto Park. - Natural Beauty: The island is a designated wildlife refuge and is known for its natural beauty, including sandy beaches, dunes, and coastal habitats. It offers opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and wildlife observation. - Wildlife Viewing: Egmont Key is home to a variety of wildlife, including gopher tortoises, shorebirds, sea turtles, and numerous bird species. It is a designated Important Bird Area, making it a prime spot for birdwatching. - Lighthouse: The island features the historic Egmont Key Lighthouse, which dates back to 1858. Visitors can explore the lighthouse and its grounds, providing panoramic views of the surrounding waters and Tampa Bay. - Fort Dade Ruins: The remnants of Fort Dade, an old military installation built during the Spanish-American War, can be found on the island. You can explore the historic fortifications and learn about the island's military history. - Snorkeling and Shelling: The clear waters around Egmont Key are ideal for snorkeling and offer opportunities to observe marine life and collect seashells along the shore. - Guided Tours: Various ferry services and guided tours are available for visitors who want to explore the island and learn about its history and ecology from knowledgeable guides. - Picnicking: There are picnic tables and shaded areas on the island where you can enjoy a meal or snack while taking in the natural surroundings. - Educational Programs: The Egmont Key Alliance, a nonprofit organization, often offers educational programs and events on the island to promote conservation and awareness. - Accessibility: While the island has no roads or vehicles, it is relatively accessible to visitors. Ferries provide transportation to and from the island, and guided tours typically include transportation. - Conservation: The island is protected to preserve its natural habitats and wildlife, making it an important conservation area in the Tampa Bay region. Visiting Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge offers a chance to explore a relatively untouched island with a rich history and diverse natural ecosystems. It's an excellent destination for those interested in history, birdwatching, marine life, and enjoying a day in a pristine natural environment. | |
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Pinellas County » St Petersburg
Place » Outdoors
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Maximo Park Place » Outdoors Maximo Park is a spectacular waterfront park complete with a beach along Boca Ciega Bay; a nature boardwalk; two playgrounds; a hearty collection of boat ramps, bike and nature trails; a 50-foot observation tower; spectacular shade trees; a 70-acre archaeological site and the 18-hole Tocobaga Disc Golf Course. 12 views 💖 1Sunshine Skyway Ln S, St. Petersburg, FL 33711 |
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Vinoy Park Place » Outdoors Vinoy Park is a public park located along the waterfront of Tampa Bay, providing beautiful views of the bay and the skyline of St. Petersburg. The park features spacious green areas, walking paths, and waterfront access. It's a popular spot for picnics, walking, jogging, and enjoying outdoor activities. 13 views 💖 1701 Bayshore Dr NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 |
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Gizella Kopsick Palm Arboretum Place » Outdoors The Gizella Kopsick Palm Arboretum is a botanical garden located in St. Petersburg, Florida. It is situated along the waterfront of Tampa Bay and is known for its collection of palm trees from around the world. The arboretum is named after Gizella Kopsick, a local resident and philanthropist who contributed significantly to the development of the garden. 13 views 💖 1605 11th Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 |
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Sawgrass Lake Park Place » Outdoors Sawgrass Lake Park is a public park located in St. Petersburg, Florida. It is known for its scenic beauty, particularly its extensive sawgrass marsh and diverse wildlife. Sawgrass Lake Park is home to various species of birds, turtles, and other wildlife. Birdwatchers, in particular, may enjoy the diverse avian population in and around the park. 12 views 💖 17400 25th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33702 |
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Skyway Fishing Pier State Park Place » Outdoors The Skyway Fishing Pier State Park is located in St. Petersburg, Florida, and it is a unique and popular recreational area. The park is situated on the remnants of the original Sunshine Skyway Bridge, which was partially destroyed in a ship collision in 1980. The remaining portions of the bridge were converted into the Skyway Fishing Pier, making it one of the longest fishing piers in the world. 12 views 💖 1I-275, St. Petersburg, FL 33711 |
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Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Place » Outdoors Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is a popular natural area and environmental park located in St. Petersburg, Florida. This preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore a variety of natural ecosystems, including pine flatwoods, swamp woodlands, and lake shorelines, and it is known for its rich biodiversity and outdoor recreational activities. 17 views 💖 11101 Country Club Way S, St. Petersburg, FL 33705 |