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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.
Primitive camping is permitted on the very north end of Anclote Key. There is a compostable toilet for use in that area.
There is no water or any other amenities, so you will have to bring everything that you need.
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.
This is my favorite place to be. It's amazing that we have this paradise just a short boat ride away!
On a good day, this place is really nice!! We took the boat and parked on the back facing the gulf. We have also parked on the south, its nice there too.
Great boat ride out. Very peaceful island. We saw so many dolphins the guide said “it’s raining dolphins !” We also found many beautiful shells along the beach.
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.
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!
