All maritime museums to visit in Florida

Set sail on a journey through maritime history at 29 maritime museums in Florida. These museums showcase the history of seafaring, shipbuilding, and naval exploration.

Are you fascinated by the sea and maritime history? These are the top maritime museums in Florida

  1. Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters Museum1

    Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters Museum

     Key West, FL
    The 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.
  2. Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum2

    Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum

     Jupiter, FL
    The 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.
  3. Key West Shipwreck Museum3

    Key West Shipwreck Museum

     Key West, FL
    The 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.
  4. Fort Matanzas National Monument4

    Fort Matanzas National Monument

     St. Augustine, FL
    The 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.
  5. St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum5

    St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum

     St. Augustine, FL
    The 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.
  6. Mel Fisher Maritime Museum6

    Mel Fisher Maritime Museum

     Key West, FL
    The 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.
  7. Amelia Island Light7

    Amelia Island Light

     Fernandina Beach, FL
    The 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.
  8. St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum8

    St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

     St. Augustine, FL
    The 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.
  9. Tampa Bay History Center9

    Tampa Bay History Center

     Tampa, FL
    The 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.
  10. American Victory Ship10

    American Victory Ship

     Tampa, FL
    The 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.
  11. Ximenez-Fatio House Museum11

    Ximenez-Fatio House Museum

     St. Augustine, FL
    The 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.
  12. Cape St. George Light12

    Cape St. George Light

     Eastpoint, FL
    The 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.
  13. Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum13

    Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

     Pensacola, FL
    The 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.
  14. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park14

    Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

     Key Biscayne, FL
    Bill 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.
  15. Old Post Office and Customshouse15

    Old Post Office and Customshouse

     Key West, FL
    The 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.
  16. Mclarty Treasure Museum16

    Mclarty Treasure Museum

     Sebastian, FL
    The 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.
  17. Key West Museum of Art and History17

    Key West Museum of Art and History

     Key West, FL
    The 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.
  18. Military Sea Services Museum18

    Military Sea Services Museum

     Sebring, FL
    The 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.
  19. Schoolhouse Children's Museum19

    Schoolhouse Children's Museum

     Boynton Beach, FL
    The 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.
  20. Man in the Sea Museum20

    Man in the Sea Museum

     Panama City Beach, FL
    The 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.
  21. Elliot Museum21

    Elliot Museum

     Sewall's Point, FL
    The 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.
  22. Destin History & Fishing Museum22

    Destin History & Fishing Museum

     Destin, FL
    The 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.
  23. History of Diving Museum23

    History of Diving Museum

     Islamorada, FL
    This museum provides more interesting facts than you could ever wish for. Very insightful!
  24. Florida Maritime Museum24

    Florida Maritime Museum

     Cortez, FL
    The 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.
  25. Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum25

    Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum

     Boca Grande, FL
    The 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.
  26. Uscgc Ingham Maritime Museum26

    Uscgc Ingham Maritime Museum

     Key West, FL
    The 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.
  27. Palm Beach Maritime Museum27

    Palm Beach Maritime Museum

     West Palm Beach, FL
    This museum nicely recapitulates the maritime history of South Florida. Perfect for families with inquisitive kids.
  28. 28

    Apalachicola Maritime Museum

     Apalachicola, FL
    The 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. 29

    Hellings Curry Museum home of the Key West Womans Club

     Key West, FL