Fort DeSoto Park

The beaches at Fort DeSoto are some of the best in North America. The park contains five Keys and the main island, Mullet key is where you find the East beach and the North beach. 

The North beach has been named America's # 1 beach several times.

Sunset at the North beach

The park also offers picnic tables and shade in addition to camping facilities, two fishing piers, a seven mile 
trail, concession stands, a canoe trail and a nature trail.

The shallow water around the park is a great place for kayaking and wade fishing.

Great fishing at the two piers

The old fort still stands. The area was first surveyed and recommended for fortification in 1849 by Col Robert E. Lee

You can also take a ferry across to Egmont Key where the old lighthouse, built in 1858 still lights the opening to Tampa Bay.