Cedar Key Travel Guide

This travel guide for Cedar Key, Florida includes a list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, along with transportation options and logistics, nearby destinations and excursions, and a week-long itinerary.


A Comprehensive Tour Guide for Cedar Key, Florida

Introduction to Cedar Key

Nestled in the heart of Florida’s Big Bend Coast, lies the picturesque Cedar Key - a quaint island community with a population of just over 700 people. It is a place where time seems to stand still, a place where people come to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and a place that boasts some of the most stunning natural beauty in the state. Cedar Key is home to a vibrant arts community, world-class seafood restaurants, and an array of outdoor activities that are sure to please all types of travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Cedar Key

Cedar Key is a small island town, but it has plenty of attractions to offer. Here are some of the must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cedar Key Historical Museum
  • Cedar Key Light Station Museum
  • Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge

Natural Attractions of Cedar Key: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve
  • Shell Mound Park
  • Atsena Otie Key
  • Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge
  • Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cedar Key

Cedar Key is a paradise for hikers and cyclists. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in Cedar Key include:

  • Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve Trail
  • Shell Mound Trail
  • Cedar Key Railroad Trestle Nature Trail

Best Things to Do in Cedar Key: Activities and Tours

Cedar Key offers a variety of things to do, such as:

  • Boat Tours
  • Fishing Tours
  • Beach and Swimming
  • Kayaking and Canoeing

Week-Long Itinerary for Cedar Key

Here is a week-long itinerary for Cedar Key:

  • Day 1: Visit the Cedar Key Historical Museum and learn about the town’s past.
  • Day 2: Explore the Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve and the Shell Mound Park.
  • Day 3: Take a boat tour around the Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge and enjoy the scenic views.
  • Day 4: Head out to Atsena Otie Key and go swimming, fishing, kayaking, and boating.
  • Day 5: Do a day trip to the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge and see the Florida wildlife.
  • Day 6: Check out the Cedar Key Light Station Museum and enjoy the view from the top of the lighthouse.
  • Day 7: Spend the day relaxing on the beach and trying delicious local seafood.

Food and Drink Scene of Cedar Key

Cedar Key has a thriving food scene, with restaurants that specialize in fresh seafood. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cedar Key Clam Chowder
  • Fried Clams
  • Grouper Sandwich
  • Cedar Key Oysters

Local Beverages

  • Florida Citrus juices
  • Florida craft beers from Cedar Key Island

Where to Stay in Cedar Key: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Cedar Key has a range of accommodations, from hotels and inns to bed and breakfasts:

  • Cedar Key Bed and Breakfast
  • Sunset Isle RV and Yacht Club
  • Cedar Key Island Vacation Rentals

What to Buy in Cedar Key: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products you can bring home:

  • Cedar Key Clam Products
  • Handcrafted jewelry and pottery
  • Cedar Key Island Honey

Local Culture and Customs of Cedar Key

Cedar Key has a rich history and culture that can be experienced through its museums, galleries, and annual festivals, such as the Cedar Key Seafood Festival and the Cedar Key Pirate Invasion.

Best Time to Visit Cedar Key

Cedar Key can be visited all year round. However, the best time to visit is generally from October to April, when the weather is mild.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cedar Key

Do:

  • Take a boat tour around Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge
  • Visit the local museums and learn about the town’s history
  • Try the local seafood at the restaurants

Don’t:

  • Feed or disturb the Florida wildlife
  • Take any shells or rocks from the beaches

Safety and Health

Safety in Cedar Key

Cedar Key is a safe destination for travelers. However, it’s always advisable to take standard precautions, such as locking doors and windows in your accommodations and being aware of your surroundings while out and about.

Health in Cedar Key

Cedar Key is a relatively low-risk destination for travelers. Still, it’s recommended to stay hydrated, use sunscreen while outdoors, and apply bug spray to avoid mosquito bites.

Getting to Cedar Key: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cedar Key

  • Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV) - 73 miles
  • Tampa International Airport (TPA) - 135 miles

Bus Stations Near Cedar Key

  • Greyhound Station in Ocala

Other Options

  • Rental Cars

How to Get Around in Cedar Key

Cedar Key is a small island and can be easily navigated on foot or by bike. Additionally, golf carts and rental cars are available for those who want to explore the island further.

Where to Go Next from Cedar Key: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Gainesville, Florida
  • Ocala, Florida
  • Crystal River, Florida
  • Homosassa, Florida

Conclusion

Cedar Key is a charming destination in Florida that offers beautiful landscapes, cultural attractions, delicious seafood, outdoor activities, and more. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip to Cedar Key.

Cedar Key Historical Society Museum Cedar Key Historical Society Museum Tony's Seafood Restaurant, at the west end of the building next to SR 24 Tony's Seafood Restaurant, at the west end of the building next to SR 24 Island Hotel Island Hotel