Searching for Old Florida charm, fresh seafood, and coastal serenity? Visit Cedar Key! This laid-back Gulf Coast island is a haven for artists, paddlers, birdwatchers, and seafood lovers—perfect for unplugging and soaking up unspoiled nature and small-town friendliness.

Cedar Key, FL Highlights:

  • For Families: Visit the Cedar Key Historical Museum – Discover the town’s past through artifacts and exhibits in a quaint historic home.
  • For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Kayak through the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge – Explore mangrove islands, tidal creeks, and remote beaches.
  • For Kids: Walk the Cedar Key Railroad Trestle Nature Trail – A short scenic path with native plants, birds, and Gulf views.
  • For an Adventure: Take a boat tour to Atsena Otie Key – Visit the ruins of the original Cedar Key settlement and relax on quiet shores.
  • For Shoppers: Browse local art galleries and coastal shops – Find handmade jewelry, paintings, and beachy treasures downtown.

Best Time to Visit Cedar Key, FL

The best time to visit Cedar Key is in spring and fall (March–May and September–November). Mild temperatures, low humidity, and fewer crowds make it ideal for kayaking, birding, and festivals.

How to Get to Cedar Key, FL

  • If you are traveling by car: Cedar Key is located at the end of State Road 24, about 1 hour west of Gainesville and 2.5 hours north of Tampa.
  • By Air: Gainesville Regional Airport is the closest commercial airport, with rental cars available for the drive to the coast.
  • By Boat: Private boats are welcome at Cedar Key’s marina; guided water tours and ferry services are available locally.

Where to Stay in Cedar Key, FL

  • Cedar Key Bed & Breakfast – Charming rooms, porch swings, and lush gardens in a restored historic home.
  • Island Hotel & Restaurant – Built in 1859, this iconic inn offers old-world hospitality with onsite dining and bar.
  • Park Place Hotel – Comfortable waterfront suites with balconies and views of the Gulf and sunsets.

Best Things to Do in Cedar Key, FL

The Cedar Key Historical Society Museum


Explore coastal history and enjoy an affordable, educational stop.

The Cedar Key Historical Society Museum

© The Cedar Key Historical Society Museum

  • What is the Cedar Key Historical Society Museum?
  • Where is the museum located?
    • The museum is located within the Cedar Keys Historic and Archaeological District.
  • When was the museum founded?
    • The museum was founded in 1979 through the vision of local artist Polly Pillsbury, who worked with citizen donors to preserve the region’s history.
  • How many buildings does the museum encompass?
    • The museum spans two preserved historic buildings:
      • The 1871 Lutterloh Building – Features exhibits on fossil findings, indigenous cultural artifacts, economic industries, and the region’s connection to naturalist John Muir.
      • The Andrews House annex – Originally constructed on Atsena Otie Key, this building houses exhibits on the area’s railroading history, manufacturing, and medical and dental history.

609 2nd St, Cedar Key, FL 32625, Phone: 352-543-5549

Cedar Key State Museum


Discover pioneer life and admire unusual artifacts on a quiet trip.

Cedar Key State Museum

© anwar/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Cedar Key State Museum?
    • Cedar Key State Museum is a popular Florida state park in Cedar Key, featuring the preserved home of Saint Clair Whitman.
  • What is the history of the Whitman House?
    • The house was originally constructed in the 1880s and acquired by Saint Clair Whitman around 1920. It has been restored to its historic early 20th-century appearance and décor.
  • What exhibits can visitors see inside the museum?
    • The house showcases exhibits including:
      • Collections of sea shells and indigenous artifacts originally displayed by Whitman.
      • Dioramas depicting life in Cedar Key throughout history.
  • What outdoor attractions are available at the museum?
    • A short nature trail offers opportunities to observe native wildlife and vegetation, including native and migratory birds.
  • Is there a historical marker on-site?
    • Yes, a marker commemorates the site's 1867 visit by famed naturalist John Muir during his walk from Kentucky to Florida.

12231 SW 166th Ct, Cedar Key, FL 32625, Phone: 352-543-5350

For Nature Enthusiasts

Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge


Spot birds and explore peaceful sights on a spring adventure.

Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge

© Brian Lasenby/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge?
  • When was the refuge established and why?
    • The refuge was originally established in 1929 to protect native bird populations from overkilling for fashion plumage.
  • What wildlife can be found in the refuge?
    • The refuge provides a safe habitat for more than 20,000 native birds, including white pelicans and bald eagles. Other wildlife includes manatees and dolphins.
  • How many islands are included in the refuge?
    • The refuge encompasses 13 barrier islands and is also home to the 379-acre Cedar Keys Wilderness Area, established in 1972.
  • What outdoor activities are available?
    • Popular activities include:
  • What historical attractions are within the refuge?
    • The Cedar Keys Light Station is open to the public for guided tours several times a year.

16450 NW 31 Place, Chiefland, FL 32626, Phone: 352-493-0238

Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge


Walk boardwalks and admire wildlife during a relaxing fall outing.

Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge

© Anne Lindgren/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge?
  • When was the refuge established?
    • The refuge was established in 1979 to protect one of the largest undeveloped river delta ecosystems in the United States.
  • What areas does the refuge cover?
    • The refuge stretches for 20 miles along the Suwannee River estuary and an additional 20 miles along the Gulf of Mexico coastline.
  • What wildlife can visitors see at the refuge?
    • Native wildlife includes:
      • Manatees
      • Deer
      • Sturgeon
      • Turkeys
      • Bald eagles
  • What recreational activities are available?
    • Visitors can enjoy:
      • Fishing
      • Paddling
      • Hunting
      • Nature photography
      • Wildlife watching
  • Are there any facilities for wildlife observation?
    • Yes, the refuge features several observation towers and boardwalks for visitor use.
  • What interpretive programs are available?
    • Visitors can participate in nature walks and a wildlife driving tour program.

16450 NW 31 Pl, Chiefland, FL 32626, Phone: 352-493-0238

The Cedar Key Railroad Trestle Nature Trail


Hike to historic ruins and enjoy a quick, scenic escape.

The Cedar Key Railroad Trestle Nature Trail

© khlongwangchao/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Cedar Key Railroad Trestle Nature Trail?
  • What is the history of the trail?
    • The trail follows the route of a former railroad line that connected Cedar Key to Fernandina Beach, which operated between 1861 and 1932.
  • What kind of environment surrounds the trail?
    • The trail is surrounded by lush native vegetation and is home to a variety of native migratory and shorebird species.
  • What can visitors see at the end of the trail?
    • At the end of the trail, a shallow bay contains a number of preserved trestle posts that once supported a bridge carrying trains across the water to Cedar Key.
  • Are bicycles allowed on the trail?
    • No, bicycles are not permitted due to the trail’s sandy, uneven terrain.

Grove St, Cedar Key, FL 32625

Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:

Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve


Explore scrubland trails and enjoy a quiet, off-the-beaten-path trip.

Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve

© neosiam/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve?
  • What types of habitats are preserved in the reserve?
    • The park protects 12 distinct natural habitat areas, including a rare Florida scrub habitat.
  • What wildlife species can be found in the reserve?
    • The reserve is home to species such as:
      • Florida scrub jay
      • Southern bald eagle
      • Gopher tortoise
  • How can visitors access the reserve?
    • There are two trailheads, accessible via:
      • State Road 24
      • Levy County Road 347
  • How many miles of trails are in the reserve?
    • The reserve features more than 13 miles of multi-use trails, open to hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders.
  • What recreational activities can visitors enjoy?
    • Popular activities include:
      • Paddling
      • Fishing
      • Birding
      • Geocaching
      • Wildlife watching
  • Are there facilities available for visitors?
    • Yes, the SR24 trailhead offers day-use picnic areas and public restrooms.

FL-24, Cedar Key, FL 32625, Phone: 352-543-5567

Waccasassa Bay Preserve State Park


Paddle remote waters and discover exciting coastal wilderness sights.

Waccasassa Bay Preserve State Park

© Earl Robbins/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Waccasassa Bay Preserve State Park?
  • How can visitors access the park?
    • The preserve is only accessible by boat from Cedar Key and Yankeetown.
  • What type of habitats are preserved in the park?
    • The park spans 20 miles of shoreline tidal marsh habitats along Waccasassa Bay.
    • It also preserves some of the last remains of the Gulf Hammock, Florida’s largest hydric hammock, which once covered more than 100,000 acres.
  • What endangered species can be found in the park?
    • The preserve provides habitat for:
      • The endangered salt marsh vole
      • The West Indian manatee
      • A variety of saltwater sporting fish species
  • What recreational activities are available?
    • Visitors can enjoy:
      • Saltwater and freshwater fishing (with a valid Florida fishing license)
      • Boating
      • Paddling
      • Birding
      • Wildlife watching
  • Are camping opportunities available?
    • Yes, the park offers primitive campsites, available on a first come, first served basis.

8312 SW 125th Ave, Inglis, FL 34449, Phone: 352-543-5567

Where to Eat in Cedar Key, FL

  • 83 West – Upstairs offers upscale seafood dining with Gulf views; downstairs is more casual with tacos and oysters.
  • Tony’s Seafood Restaurant – Home of the award-winning clam chowder, plus fried seafood and sandwiches.
  • Annie’s Café – Beloved breakfast and brunch spot with hearty Southern cooking and friendly service.

If you are interested in local events:

  • Old Florida Celebration of the Arts (April) – Juried art festival with artists, live music, and local food along historic streets.
  • Cedar Key Pirate Invasion (October) – Family-friendly event with costumed pirates, parades, and waterfront reenactments.
  • Clamerica Festival (July 4th Weekend) – Celebrate Cedar Key’s clam farming heritage with seafood, music, and fireworks.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Cedar Key, Florida:

  • Shell Mound Archaeological Site (15–20 min) – Hike to an ancient Native American shell midden with marsh views and history.
  • Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge (20–30 min) – Explore forest trails, boardwalks, and abundant birdlife.
  • Waccasassa Bay Preserve State Park (30 min, by boat) – A remote estuary accessible only by water, ideal for wildlife and solitude.
  • Otter Creek (25–30 min) – Quiet small town offering rural drives and access to Suwannee River fishing spots.
  • Chiefland (30 min) – Visit Manatee Springs State Park for swimming, kayaking, and wildlife viewing in crystal-clear waters.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Question: Where is Cedar Key located?
    Answer: Cedar Key is a lovely island city off Florida's Gulf of Mexico coast, located in Levy County within the Cedar Keys barrier island cluster.
  • Question: Why are the Cedar Keys named as such?
    Answer: The Cedar Keys are named for their former abundant populations of eastern red cedar trees.
  • Question: What is significant about Cedar Key’s archaeological importance?
    Answer: Cedar Key is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the Cedar Keys Historic and Archaeological District.
  • Question: What does the Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge protect?
    Answer: The Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge protects important bird nesting habitats.
  • Question: What is the Old Florida Celebration of the Arts?
    Answer: The Old Florida Celebration of the Arts is a highly praised festival that takes place in the spring.
  • Question: Where can visitors find information about the Cedar Key Boat Ramp?
    Answer: Visitors can click here for fees and information about the Cedar Key Boat Ramp.

At a Glance:


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Top Activities
Spring (March-May) – Warm temperatures and fewer crowds. Cedar Key Bed & Breakfast – A charming and cozy historic stay. Visit Cedar Key Museum State Park – Learn about the island’s rich history.
Summer (June-August) – Hot and humid, great for water activities. Island Hotel & Restaurant – A historic hotel with an old Florida feel. Kayak through Cedar Key’s coastal waterways – Explore mangroves and wildlife.
Fall (September-November) – Pleasant weather and local festivals. Seahorse Landing – A waterfront condo-style stay with great views. Attend the Cedar Key Seafood Festival – Enjoy fresh seafood and local crafts.
Winter (December-February) – Mild temperatures and peaceful atmosphere. Harbor Master Suites – A boutique waterfront stay. Birdwatch at Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge – Spot rare coastal birds.

Cedar Key is a 2 hour 20 min day trip from Orlando.


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