Egmont Key Light, Lighthouse at entrance of Tampa Bay, Florida, United States.
Egmont Key Light is a white brick tower that stands at the northern end of Egmont Key island, marking the entrance to Tampa Bay since 1858. The structure rises 26 meters above the island landscape and remains the oldest functioning lighthouse serving this busy waterway today.
The lighthouse was built in 1858 to guide ships entering Tampa Bay and has operated continuously for over 160 years. Confederate forces removed its original lens during the Civil War, which Union troops later restored when they regained control of the structure.
The lighthouse stands as part of a National Wildlife Refuge where visitors observe shore birds, gopher tortoises, and maritime activities.
Visiting the lighthouse requires taking a boat from Fort De Soto Park, as the island is accessible only by water. Bring water and food for your visit since the island has no facilities, shops, or amenities available to visitors.
Beach erosion constantly threatens the island where the lighthouse stands, leading to ongoing sand replenishment efforts to protect it. These regular interventions reveal how challenging it is to maintain a historic structure in a dynamic coastal environment.
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