Located three miles off the coast of Tarpon Springs, Anclote Key Preserve State Park is accessible only by private boat or ferry service. The 403-acre park is home to at least 43 species of birds, including the American oystercatcher, bald eagle and piping plover. A picturesque 1887 lighthouse stands as a sentinel on the southern end of the island. Visitors can swim and sunbathe at the beach, fire up a grill and enjoy a picnic, or pitch a tent and enjoy a night of primitive camping under the stars.

Guest Reviews

Kelly Black

2 years ago

Beautiful beach! It was part of a tour out of Tarpon Springs. Spent 30 minutes on the beach and combed for shells. The water is beautiful and warm (72°F). Highly recommend the tour (Spongeorama) it is a boat ride from the spongedocks to the island. You see wildlife and the captain and crew guy are funny and very knowledgeable about the local history. I will def. Be returning to do this again!

Capt. John mulford

3 years ago

Anclote is a beautiful island to take your family for a picnic, or just a walk on the beach. There is easy access to pull a boat rite up to the beach. all along the Gulf side and on the north and south ends. There is also a ferry boat that brings people to the south end. I hear it is very affordable. It's definitely a must if you live around the area. There is also great fishing around the island.

Tommy Gerlach

2 months ago

Anclote Park Boat ramps Beach swimming area pavilions.

Omar Tech

8 years ago

I must have come to this place at least a dozen times with family and friends. Having a boat definitely makes it much easier to frequent this place and enjoy the multiple things there is to do in this place. Our first trip we had a nice picnic right on one of the sandy beaches and then went walking the trails. Another time we went around the island on our sailboat until we found a nice spot to stop for a nice lunch and siesta on a hammock. We loved this place so much that we wanted to try the primitive camping. Camping turn in to a true adventure as we picked the wrong time (just before a cold front rolled in) however it remains one very memorable occasions we have gone through as a family. Definitely one of my favorite spots in this area.

Michael Solberger

8 years ago

Wo w! This island is So Beautiful. When we visited was a great time of the day. Late afternoon on a weekday. Not too many people. Lots of great seashells to pick up. The water is Very clear here. Can't wait to go back.

General Information

  • Family-friendly
  • Hours: 8 a.m. - sunset

Rates & Times

  • Time to Experience Activity: Half day

On-Site Facilities & Services

  • Picnic Area

Park Activities

  • Boat Access
  • Fishing