Anclote Key State Park

Anclote Key State Park is a beautiful barrier island beach as well as a historic site on the Florida Gulf Coast. It is recognized by the 1887 lighthouse that resides and holds court on the Gulf coastline.



This barrier island is located three miles off the Tarpon Springs coast. There is no attached road so you will have to take a charter or ferry to get to it but well worth the slight inconvenience. Of course, if you brought the yacht...

The heavenly beach will provide you an almost spiritual and relaxing experience on its white rolling sands while aqua waters lap at your feet. Lots of birds and other nature to enjoy here.

Anclote Key State Park is actually comprised of four small islands- Anclote Key, North Anclote Bar, South Anclote Bar and Three Rooker Island, all of which are only accessible by boat or ferry.

Three Rooker Island is a bird nesting sanctuary. There are 43 species of birds that call this beautiful park home.

Enjoy primitive campsites with great views of the beach for a simple, relaxing vacation experience.

Anclote Key State Park offers a simple island escape for anyone just looking for a great beach to enjoy or for a back-to-basics camping experience.



What to do in Anclote Key State Park

  • Beachcombing, shelling, swimming, and boating
  • Restroom facilities
  • Picnic pavilions with picnic tables and grills, first come first serve
  • Open 365 days, including holidays, 8 a.m. to sunset, nominal fees
  • Primitive camping available, be sure to bring food and other items as there are no shops or stores on the islands-
  • Call ahead (727)638-4447 for reservations

What to Do: The city of Dunedin (where the park is located) is more of just a relaxing beach town.

There are boat tours and charters to take you around the islands so you can see all of them and pick your best Florida beach from the four.

Also, don't miss the opportunity to visit Tarpon Springs, Florida, a Greek settlement and the sea-sponge capital only three miles away (on the coast).

Pssst: Tarpon Springs is also a shrimp haven. So fresh you can almost see them move around on your plate.

One of the best places to see "Natural Florida" is New Port Richie which is overflowing with Native American culture and history. Be sure to pay homage to these first Americans.

Where to Eat: There are many nice and quaint restaurants in Dunedin, but none located in the park.

However, when you are in Tarpon Springs there are many wonderful restaurants. Since this is a Greek settlement, you can find some of the best Greek food in the United States. The aroma from the restaurants will pull you in, the waiters will seat you and the chefs will take care of you.

If you’re looking for something different, check out Kabob House in the city, which offers delicious Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes.

Where to Stay: If you’re all for camping in a primitive area, staying right on one of the park’s campsites may be for you.

If you prefer to have current day amenities, there are a few hotels in Dunedin to choose from such as the secluded Best Western Yacht Harbor Inn and Suites.

Anclote Key Preserve State Park is located at #1 Causeway Boulevard Dunedin, Florida 34698 Phone- (727)469-5942

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