Cedar Key
Cedar Key, FL
Cedar Key sits at the end of a long causeway into the Gulf, an old Florida fishing town built on stilts and short on actual sand but long on character, seafood, and sunset views. Atsena Otie Key, a short kayak or water taxi ride away, adds a real beach and the ruins of a 19th century pencil factory for anyone willing to make the crossing.
The old Florida character, real seafood, and the option to paddle out to a genuinely historic island make it a distinctive stop, though the town itself has little actual swimming beach to speak of.
How we score beachesPaddle or catch a water taxi out to Atsena Otie Key if an actual beach is the goal, the town's own waterfront is more working harbor than swimming beach. Leashed dogs are welcome both in town and out on Atsena Otie, genuinely dog friendly compared to many Gulf Coast towns.
Parking in town is free, with lots and street spots near the harbor and downtown. Atsena Otie Key has free parking at the Cedar Key launch point used to reach it by kayak or water taxi.
Downtown Cedar Key is flat and walkable. Atsena Otie Key has a dock, an interpretive kiosk, and a trail to the historic cemetery and factory ruins, natural ground the rest of the way.
Leashed dogs are welcome both in downtown Cedar Key and on Atsena Otie Key.
Spring and fall bring the mildest weather for exploring the town and paddling out to the key. Summer's heat and hurricane season, June through November, are the main things to plan around on this exposed stretch of coast.
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