Egmont Key Lighthouse stands near the center of a barrier island at the mouth of Tampa Bay. The present 76-foot brick tower is capped by an exposed modern beacon after its original lantern and upper section were removed in 1944.
The first lighthouse was completed in 1848 and survived a powerful hurricane within months of opening, but cracks and erosion soon required a replacement. A taller tower was finished in 1857 and returned to service after the Civil War in 1866. Fort Dade transformed the island during the Spanish-American War and World War I. In 1944, the lantern and upper tower were removed and a rotating beacon installed on the capped structure. Egmont Key was the last staffed lighthouse in Florida when it was automated in 1989.
The island is reached by private boat or ferry, including service from the Fort De Soto area. Visitors may walk the park and view the lighthouse exterior, but the tower is closed. Bring water and sun protection, and respect wildlife closures and restricted areas.
The Coast Guard owns the lighthouse, while Egmont Key State Park and refuge partners manage the surrounding island. The light remains active with a modern beacon. Preservation groups continue to advocate for restoration, but there is no public tower access.
