Egmont Key Light stands at the mouth of Tampa Bay near St. Petersburg, Florida, guiding mariners since 1848. One of the oldest lighthouses on the Gulf Coast, it survived the Civil War — when Union forces occupied the island — and multiple hurricanes. The lighthouse remains an active navigational aid operated by the U.S. Coast Guard, though the tower is not open to the public for climbing. Visitors can reach Egmont Key by ferry and explore the surrounding state park, which features pristine beaches, historic fort ruins, and abundant wildlife including gopher tortoises. Golden hour and sunset provide the best photography conditions, with Tampa Bay as a dramatic backdrop. Fort De Soto Park and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge are nearby.
Explore Nearby
- Egmont Key State Park — State Park in Florida
- Skyway Fishing Pier State Park — State Park in Florida
- Groveland, Florida Dark Sky Park — Dark Sky Site in Florida
- Thunder Mountain Pootsee Nightsky Dark Sky Park — Dark Sky Site in Arizona
