Kayak to a Small Island & Historic Stilt Houses North of Tampa
Just off the coast of Port Richey, about 50 minutes north of Tampa, paddlers can kayak, SUP, or canoe to Durney Key, a small Gulf island near one of Florida’s rare remaining clusters of historic stilt houses.
Along the way, it’s possible to spot dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, eagles, spoonbills, and more before spending some time relaxing on the island. Here’s what to know before heading out on the water.
Durney Key and Pasco County’s Historic Stilt Houses
Durney Key, a small spoil island in the Gulf, is a great spot to swim, snorkel, and relax for the day. Paddlers can access it from Brasher Park or Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park in Port Richey.
From the island, you can see views of historic stilt houses. The first stilt houses were built off the coast of Port Richey more than 100 years ago.
Over the years, the houses evolved from places for mullet fishermen to work into weekend retreats for local families. Today, the stilt houses are all privately owned and not open to the public, but they’re beautiful to admire from a distance.
The paddle to Durney Key and the historic stilt houses is about 30 minutes from Brasher Park, but parking is limited.
There is more parking about ten minutes north at Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park, but the launch is about 150 yards from the water. From the state park, experienced paddlers typically reach Durney Key in about 60 to 90 minutes one way depending on conditions.
Kayak rentals are also available at Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park if someone in your party doesn’t have their own vessel. (Full disclosure: I own Salty Dog Kayak Rentals there).
Things to Know Before You Go
Check the weather, wind, and tides before launching. The Hudson Creek tide chart is one of the more reliable tools for this area. It’s typically easiest to paddle to Durney Key on an outgoing tide and return on an incoming tide.
Always wear a life jacket. The Coast Guard requires one for every person on board.
Paddle with a partner or let someone know your float plan, which simply means telling someone where you’re launching, where you plan to paddle, when you expect to return, and what your vessel looks like.
Bring basic safety gear, including a whistle, communication device, and plenty of water.
Directions from Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park to Durney Key
The Pasco County Schools Energy & Marine Center is a key landmark at the entrance of the inlet where the Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park launch is located.
Paddle southwest from Salt Springs Run toward Durney Key. Look for the tall tree in the center of the island.
Cow Key (marked on Google Maps) will be on your left as you paddle toward Durney Key.
Stay alert for boat traffic. This area has no no-wake zone.
Use extreme caution crossing the marked boat channel east of Durney Key. Check carefully for boats in both directions and cross as a group if paddling with others.
On Durney Key
It’s easy to spend a few hours relaxing on Durney Key. You can walk around, swim, snorkel, enjoy a packed lunch, and take in views of the nearby historic stilt houses.
Here are a few tips to keep your trip seamless:
Secure your kayak well above the waterline. Rising tides can quickly carry it away.
Keep an eye on weather and wind conditions, which can make the return paddle more difficult.
Have fun! Between the island scenery and views of the historic stilt houses, this is a unique adventure worthy of your Tampa Bay bucket list.
