Madeira Beach is a charming city adjacent to St. Petersburg bordering the Gulf of Mexico, and it’s well-known for John’s Pass Village. Centrally located in this town between Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach is Shoreline Island Resort. With easy access to major attractions throughout the city and surrounding area, there’s no better place to call home. One of the many adventures to embark on during your stay at our Maderia Beach resort is a road trip to Egmont Key State Park.
This History of Egmont Key State Park
Egmont Key State Park is located on an uninhabited island found at the mouth of Tampa Bay, Florida. The island is situated between Fort de Soto and Anna Maria Island and is a state park under the city of St. Petersburg. This park is primarily home to the Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge, established in 1974. The acreage of this refuge provides habitat to sea birds, turtles, and tortoises. The southern part of the island is not open to the public to give wildlife a quiet space.
Another landmark of this park is Fort Dade. Established during the Spanish-American War, all that remains of this old community are historic ruins. In addition to hiking through these ruins or along brick paths, there is no shortage of things to do and see during your visit to this Florida state park.
How to Get to the Park
The only way to access Egmont Key island is via private boat or ferry. Hubbard’s Marina, located at John’s Pass, is the operator of the Egmont Key Ferry, which sets out to Egmont Key every day during the peak season from the Fort De Soto Boat Ramp. The boat ramp is inside the Fort de Soto State Park in a place known as Mullet Key.
The ferry ride lasts 60 minutes to and from the dock and gives you three hours to explore the island. They also offer a snorkeling cruise while out at Egmont Key, exploring the sunken ruins of Fort Dade or glass flat beds. This outing is dependent on the weather and conditions on the island. You can reserve your spot on the way out to the island, but this is a first come, first serve excursion.
Unwind after Adventure-Filled Days in Madeira Beach
As you set out to explore the whole of Madeira Beach, don’t forget to reserve your accommodation at Shoreline Island Resort. Our luxurious beachfront resort is the perfect place to unwind after any outing, like visiting Egmont Key State Park.
Our newly renovated accommodations have all the comforts of home while remaining tropical and inviting. Call 800-635-8373 to learn more about booking