Are you fascinated by the sea and maritime history? These are the top maritime museums in Florida
1Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters Museum
Key West, FLThe Key West Lighthouse, situated in Key West, Florida, boasts a rich history dating back to 1825. The original lighthouse was a 65-foot tower, a testament to the architectural prowess of the era. 2Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum
Jupiter, FLThe Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse is a historic landmark located in Jupiter, Palm Beach County, Florida. This lighthouse has been a part of the National Register of Historic Places since October 15, 1973. It is situated between the Cap Canaveral Lighthouse and the Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse, making it a significant point of interest in the region. 3Key West Shipwreck Museum
Key West, FLThe Key West Shipwreck Museum, previously known as the Shipwreck Historeum, is situated in the beautiful location of Key West, Florida. This museum offers a unique blend of actors, films, and real artifacts to narrate the 400-year-old story of shipwreck salvaging in the Florida Keys. 4Fort Matanzas National Monument
St. Augustine, FLThe Fort Matanzas National Monument is not just a fort; it also includes approximately 0.5 km² of marshland with saltwater and some small islands along the Matanzas River. Located near St. Augustine on Florida's north coast, this site offers a unique combination of natural beauty and historical significance. Visitors can explore the fort and the surrounding marshland, providing a unique opportunity to experience both history and nature in one place. 5St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum
St. Augustine, FLThe St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, previously known as the Pirate Soul Museum, is a unique institution dedicated to the preservation and display of pirate artifacts. Originally located in Key West, Florida, the museum was relocated to St. Augustine in 2010. It offers a unique insight into the world of pirates and their history, making it an interesting destination for those fascinated by these maritime outlaws. 6Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
Key West, FLThe Mel Fisher Maritime Museum is situated at 200 Greene Street, Key West, Florida. This location is easily accessible and provides a convenient spot for tourists to explore the rich maritime history of the region. 7Amelia Island Light
Fernandina Beach, FLThe Amelia Island Light holds the distinction of being the oldest existing lighthouse in the state of Florida. This historical monument, located near the northern end of Amelia Island, has been a beacon for sailors since its construction in 1838. Its light marks St. Marys Entrance, the inlet leading to St. Marys River, the Cumberland Sound, and the harbor of Fernandina Beach, Florida along the Amelia River. 8St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
St. Augustine, FLThe St. Augustine Lighthouse is a significant landmark located at the northern end of Anastasia Island, in Saint Johns County, Florida. This location offers visitors a chance to explore a unique part of Florida's coastline and immerse themselves in the rich maritime history of the area. 9Tampa Bay History Center
Tampa, FLThe Tampa Bay History Center is a renowned history museum located in Tampa, Florida. It has been accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, a recognition that signifies its commitment to excellence, accountability, high professional standards, and continued institutional improvement. Additionally, the museum is a Smithsonian Affiliate, which means it has access to the Smithsonian Institution's resources, including its collections and educational programs. 10American Victory Ship
Tampa, FLThe SS American Victory is a historical ship that has seen service in three major wars. It was active in the Asia-Pacific theater during the final months of World War II, and later served in the Korean War from 1951 to 1954, and the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1969. This ship has a rich history that is sure to intrigue visitors interested in military history. 11Ximenez-Fatio House Museum
St. Augustine, FLThe Ximenez Fatio House Museum is a significant historical site in St. Augustine, Florida. It is one of the best-preserved and most authentic residential buildings from the Second Spanish Period (1783-1821). This period is a crucial part of Florida's history, making the museum an important destination for those interested in understanding the state's past. 12Cape St. George Light
Eastpoint, FLThe Cape St. George Light is a significant historical landmark in Florida. This 72-foot high brick lighthouse originally stood for 153 years on St. George Island before it toppled into the Gulf of Mexico in 2005. However, the pieces of the lighthouse were retrieved and the light's restoration was completed in April 2008. Today, it stands as a testament to the area's rich history and resilience. 13Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
Pensacola, FLThe Pensacola Light, located at Pensacola Bay in Florida, is a lighthouse that has a rich history. It is the third version of what was originally a lightship named the Aurora Borealis. Despite its evolution over the years, the Pensacola Light continues to serve as an aid to navigation, a testament to its enduring relevance and functionality. 14Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
Key Biscayne, FLBill Baggs Cape Florida State Recreation Area is a significant part of Key Biscayne, occupying about a third of the island. One of the key features of the park is the Cape Florida Light, which holds the distinction of being the oldest standing structure in Greater Miami. This historical lighthouse adds a touch of antiquity to the park's scenic beauty. 15Old Post Office and Customshouse
Key West, FLThe Custom House and Old Post Office is a historic site situated at 281 Front Street, Key West, Florida, United States. This location is easily accessible and offers a glimpse into the rich history of the area. It's a great place for tourists who are interested in history and architecture. 16Mclarty Treasure Museum
Sebastian, FLThe McLarty Treasure Museum is situated at 13180 North A1A on North Hutchinson Island. This location is north of Windsor and Vero Beach, Florida, on the barrier island at the northern end of Indian River County. This strategic location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of the area while enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery. 17Key West Museum of Art and History
Key West, FLThe Custom House and Old Post Office, located at 281 Front Street, Key West, Florida, is a historic site that holds significant importance. This location is not just a testament to the architectural prowess of the past, but also a symbol of the rich history of Key West. 18Military Sea Services Museum
Sebring, FLThe Military Sea Services Museum is situated at 1402 Roseland Avenue, Sebring, Florida. This location is easily accessible and provides a convenient spot for tourists interested in military history and sea services. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Marines, and U.S. Navy. 19Schoolhouse Children's Museum
Boynton Beach, FLThe Schoolhouse Children's Museum & Learning Center is situated in the historic Boynton School building at 129 East Ocean Avenue in Boynton Beach, Palm Beach County, Florida. This location is steeped in history, providing a unique setting for the museum and learning center. 20Man in the Sea Museum
Panama City Beach, FLThe Man in the Sea Museum is conveniently located at 17314 Panama City Beach Parkway, Panama City Beach, Florida. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of diving. 21Elliot Museum
Sewall's Point, FLThe Elliott Museum is situated at 825 N.E. Ocean Blvd. on Hutchinson Island in Stuart, Florida, United States. This location is easily accessible and offers a scenic view of the surrounding area. The museum is a perfect destination for those interested in art, history, and technology. 22Destin History & Fishing Museum
Destin, FLThe Destin History & Fishing Museum is conveniently located at 108 Stahlman Avenue in Destin, Florida. It is situated at the foot of the Destin Bridge, making it easily accessible for tourists. The location is ideal for those interested in learning about the history of Destin and its fishing industry. 23History of Diving Museum
Islamorada, FLThis museum provides more interesting facts than you could ever wish for. Very insightful! 24Florida Maritime Museum
Cortez, FLThe Florida Maritime Museum is situated within the historic fishing village of Cortez, Florida. Sponsored by the Manatee County Clerk of Circuit Courts, the museum is located on almost 4 acres of land, known as the Cortez Nature Preserve. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich maritime history of Florida in a serene and picturesque setting. 25Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum
Boca Grande, FLThe Port Boca Grande Lighthouse is a significant landmark located on the southern tip of Gasparilla Island in Boca Grande, Florida. This historic lighthouse marked the Boca Grande Pass entrance to Charlotte Harbor and was first lit on December 31, 1890. It is a two-story frame dwelling raised on iron screw-piles, with the lantern placed in a cupola at the peak of the roof. The lighthouse keeper used to live in the building, and a similar house was built next to it for the assistant keeper. 26Uscgc Ingham Maritime Museum
Key West, FLThe USCGC Ingham (WPG/WAGC/WHEC-35) is a significant piece of maritime history, being one of only two preserved Treasury-class United States Coast Guard Cutters. This vessel stands as a testament to the rich history and heritage of the United States Coast Guard, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore a piece of living history. 27Palm Beach Maritime Museum
West Palm Beach, FLThis museum nicely recapitulates the maritime history of South Florida. Perfect for families with inquisitive kids.- 28
Apalachicola Maritime Museum
Apalachicola, FLThe Apalachicola Maritime Museum is situated in the city of Apalachicola, within Franklin County, Florida. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich maritime history of the region. - 29
Hellings Curry Museum home of the Key West Womans Club
Key West, FL