Cedar Key

The Cedar Keys are a small group of islands just off the Florida Gulf Coast in Levy County. They are a federal protected sanctuary and migratory stop for many birds including the bald eagle. There are nature trails by salt marshes and Indian mounds, making this a gem in the Florida Nature Coast.

Cedar Key has been compared to Key West about sixty years ago, it is still a quiet laid-back old Florida beach town. It is now being discovered and more visitors are arriving, and has become popular as a home for writers and artists.

The small George T. Lewis Airport has a single 2300 foot paved runway with no taxiway, and sits in a small island of its own about 2 miles from the center of town. This is an invigorating walk for visitors flying in after sitting on a plane for a while. No services at the airport so flyers must arrange for ground transportation in advance.

For visiting boaters, the Cedar Key City Marina has two boat ramps plus several docks. The docks are first-come first-served basis where guests can dock for up to 24 hours. Private marinas that sell supplies are available, but they have no guest docks.

There is only one bridge connecting Cedar Key to the mainland, which is Florida state road 24 that starts in Gainesville about 50 miles to the northeast. Gainesville is the closest airline service. Distance from Tampa to Cedar Key is about 135 miles.

During April is the Old Florida Celebration of the Arts, and the Seafood Festival is in October. There is a small beach on one side of the Cedar Key City Park, plus several beaches on uninhabited small keys reachable by boat.

No national chains here, just great southern hospitality at the Cedar Key Bed and Breakfast, Island Hotel, Lookout Cottage, Mango Manor, Bayou Cottage, and Seahorse Landing. Check with Island City Rentals for weekly home and apartment accommodations.

Several open-air seafood dining spots along the shore, among them Ken's Cedar Keyside Diner, Kona Joe's Island Cafe, and Island Room Restaurant. Enjoy some clams, the locally-grown specialty.