Passage Key
Passage Key, also known as “Naked Island,” is a low-lying sandbar and National Wildlife Refuge located in Tampa Bay, Florida, near Anna Maria Island, where nudity is tolerated, but no law is in place, and the area is patrolled by law enforcement. Public sex is definitely NOT allowed!
- Location: Passage Key is a sandbar located in Tampa Bay, about a mile north of Anna Maria Island.
- National Wildlife Refuge: It’s a protected area under the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, and is a bird sanctuary.
- Nudity: While nudity is not technically permitted in Pinellas/Manatee counties, law enforcement doesn’t seem to have an issue with it as long as it remains non-sexual.
- Access: The only way to get to Passage Key is by boat or jet ski, and it’s easiest to dock out of Fort De Soto or Anna Maria Island.
- Activities: The area is known for its crystal-clear water, birdlife, and is popular for snorkeling, paddle boarding, and looking for seashells.
- Currents: Currents can be strong, and it is not recommended to kayak to Passage Key.
- Walking: Walking on the shoreline is not permitted.
- Wildlife: Passage Key is a wildlife sanctuary and is closed to all public use.
- Size: It is a low-lying sandbar that fluctuates in size and is often completely below water during high tide.
Anclote Key
Anclote Key, Florida, is over near Clearwater and Tarpon Springs. It is a beautiful and relatively undeveloped barrier island located off the Gulf of America Coast. It is a great meeting spot for boaters on the gulf, north of St Pete.
- Anclote Key Preserve State Park:
- This state park encompasses Anclote Key and several surrounding islands, including North Anclote Bar, South Anclote Bar, and Three Rooker Island.
- It’s known for its pristine white-sand beaches, diverse wildlife, and opportunities for outdoor recreation.
- Access is primarily by boat, adding to its secluded and natural charm.
- Natural Environment:
- The island features a variety of habitats, including mangrove wetlands, coastal pine flatwoods, and sandy beaches.
- It’s a significant nesting area for numerous shorebird species.
- The surrounding waters are home to diverse marine life.
- Anclote Key Lighthouse:
- A historic lighthouse stands on the southern end of Anclote Key, serving as a landmark and a reminder of the area’s maritime history.
- It is a very unique cast iron constructed lighthouse.
Beer Can Island
Beer Can Island, also known as Pine Key, is a popular destination in Tampa Bay. This man-made, 9-acre island in Tampa Bay, was created by dredging. The island became a popular boating and party spot, earning its nickname from the beer cans left behind by visitors. In 2017, four friends purchase the island from the dredger, on a bar napkin in a local pub. They have built a tiki bar, swing, giant inflatable slide and more.
- Location and Origins:
- It’s located in Tampa Bay and is a man-made island, created from dredged materials.
- The nickname “Beer Can Island” came from its history as a popular, often raucous, party spot for boaters.
- Transformation:
- In recent years, the island has undergone significant changes, with efforts to transform it into a more family-friendly destination.
- It now features amenities like a tiki bar, recreational areas, and a waterslide.
- Current Status:
- The island is privately owned, and there are membership options for those wanting regular access.
- There have been plans and actions to rebuild the island after damages from recent hurricanes.
- Location and Origins:
- Plans are in place to add docks, food, drink, and even a concert area
Fantasy Land
Fantasy Island is in the north part of Tampa Bay and is a very small island. It has a great sandbar and is very protected from the wind. It’s a local hangout for boaters on the weekends, typically on very windy and rough days. The island was man-made with a focus on ecological restoration, rather than commercial development. The perfect Sunday funday hideaway spot.
- Ecological Restoration:
- A primary focus is on restoring the island’s shoreline and creating oyster reefs.
- Organizations like Tampa Bay Watch are actively involved in projects to stabilize the shoreline and enhance the island’s ecosystem.
- These efforts help to mitigate erosion from boat wakes and provide habitat for marine life.
- Oyster reef construction is a key part of the restoration, as oysters filter water and create valuable habitat.
