Anclote Key Preserve State Park

Welcome to Anclote Key Preserve State Park

Located three miles off the coast of Tarpon Springs, the park is accessible only by private boat or ferry service.

Enjoy the blue-green Gulf of Mexico waters that lap gently along the sandy beaches of the four islands that make up Anclote Key Preserve State Park - Anclote Key, North Anclote Bar, South Anclote Bar and Three Rooker Island. The 11,773-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.

There are no provisions offered on the island, so be prepared to bring your own water and supplies.

Ferry service to the island is offered by these providers:

• Island Paradise Charters – 877-774-0589.
• Parrotdise Express – 727-388-7333.

These ferries leave from Tarpon Springs' historic Sponge Docks: 

• Odyssey Cruises - 727-934-0547.
• Spongeorama’s Cruise Lines - 727-943-2164.

Ferry services do not drop off visitors for overnight camping. You must have your own transportation to stay overnight. Dogs are allowed only on North Anclote Bar. 

Park GPS coordinates:

• Location of Lighthouse: N 2810.020 W 08250.687