Murray On Travel

Cedar Key seems to be an uninspiring name, but this island is above-all considered a paradise to nature-lovers, fishers, and artists alike. However, it’s beautiful, lush landscape and peaceful nature makes it desirable to all who take a visit.

Located 130 miles, about 3 hours, from Jacksonville, Florida this old fishing town houses a quaint island community that where “time stands still.” This Gulf-Coast island is great for a day-trip, but even better for a vacation. There are motels and inns located on the island, but most housing comes in the forms of apartments, picturesque cottages, and colorful bed and breakfasts.

For the average traveler, The Island Place is a great choice, offering apartment style hotel rooms, great service, and beautiful views of the water and the nature preserve across the water. From within its secluded environment, one can watch dolphins and pelicans each morning from their own private balconies.

Although it is famous for its fresh clams, seafood lovers alike can be satisfied, as plenty of fresh catch comes in daily. Dining at Cedar Key almost always includes ocean or marina views. All one must do is walk down Dock Street to find all levels of dining. Be sure to stop in the local pizza parlor for the best pizza in town. In the non-peak seasons however, most restaurants on the island are closed on Mondays, so on those nights one might wish to run down to the local grocers and make an order for barbeque from their private smoker.

If nature is one’s passion, Cedar Key is the right place to be. The bird watching is high class and both bald eagles and ospreys are plentiful. The white pelican is also common along with egrets, the roseate spoonbill, herons, and the cormorant.

he most popular attraction here is the Cedar Key National Wildlife Refuge which consists of 13 islands from 1 to 120 acres. Seahorse Key offers one of the largest colonial bird nesting sites in northern Florida. The most accessible and popular Island is Atsena Otie Key, able to be seen from all over Cedar Key. Its individualistic beauty is something to be marveled at and its wildlife is spectacular whether you come to see the plants, animals, or birds.

The number one mode of transportation to Atsena Otie Key is kayak. The trip is anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour from Cedar Key and no experience is necessary. You can hire a guide, but most go adventuring on their own because the directions and techniques are very straightforward. Once you reach the island you can pull your boats ashore and take a hike or eat lunch on the beach and hunt for wildlife. Just remember to pack lots of sunscreen and watch the tides. Along the way, watch for marine turtles, bottlenose dolphins, and West Indian Manatees in the water.

If you love nature, but don’t think you are up to the kayak trip, take a guide tour on a private boat. We recommend Tidewater Tours, where you can view both the Island and the nearby Suwannee River.

Fishing at Cedar Key is a tremendous industry. Take a walk along the public marina and you can meet local captains and reserve charters for the days ahead. In the closer shallower waters trout, mackerel, redfish, and flounder are common. Farther out pompano, cobia, and grouper are found.

Another thing that Cedar Key is famous for is its art. The calm laid back attitude of the small town serves as inspiration for many artists along with the beautiful views and calm breezes. There are numerous galleries located in or near Cedar Key, especially on Second Street and Dock Street.

Websites: Cedar Key Chamber of Commerce - Wikipedia