Cedar Key and the surrounding region are home to beautiful beaches with breathtaking sunset views despite the predominance of coastal wetlands and other similar ecosystems in the northern section of Florida’s countryside.
Compared to the bustling beach towns of south Florida like Tampa and Miami, this spot stands out for its relative peace and quiet; it’s the perfect place to visit if you only intend to lie on the white sand and take in the sounds of the calm waves. So, what are you waiting for? Read on and grab your favourite gear!
6 Best Beaches in Cedar Key
Cedar Key Beach
Cedar Key Beach is a popular attraction for tourists in Cedar Key, although, unlike other beaches in the area, it is seldom crowded. There is a boat rental stand close by, and this beach is a great place to launch kayaks and explore the surrounding islands in search of wildlife.
The town of Cedar Key is home to one and only one beach, and that beach is Cedar Key Beach. While there are few areas to sprawl out and engage in beach games or other large-scale activities, this quiet location is lovely for lounging and taking in the sights in all directions while listening to the soothing sound of the waves.
Bahia Honda State Park
Located between Big Pine Key and Marathon, it is frequented by various birds, such as wood warblers, great white herons, sandpipers, and many more. Walk over the Old Bahia Honda Railroad Bridge for a bird’s-eye view of the area. Bahia Honda State Park is a popular destination along the Florida Birding Trail due to its abundance of species and best for viewing opportunities.
John Pennekamp State Park
The park provides several boat cruises all day, giving visitors a unique opportunity to see the sights. Choose the three daily departures of the year from the glass-bottom/crystal boat.
Then stop by the park’s visitor centre and a 30,000-gallon aquarium. Great barracudas, parrotfish, and other fish species frequent the coral reefs and marine life of John Pennekamp State Park, which spans almost 200 nautical square miles and is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Shired Island Beach
Many tourists pitch a tent or park an RV at the nearby campsite to get the most out of their trip. Shired Island Beach, a long and wide expanse of coastline with many gorgeous palm trees strewn along it, can be found near Old Town, a short drive north along the shoreline from Cedar Key.
With its proximity to the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge and plenty of exciting and unique plant and animal life, it’s no surprise that this Florida beach is a popular destination for ecotourists and wildlife watchers. Unfortunately, you’ll need to bring your gear if you want to do shore fishing here since there are only a few charters or fishing shops in the immediate area.
Fort Island Gulf Beach
Fort Island Gulf Beach is a picture-perfect tiny beach town that is perfect for bookworms. This is located only a short trip south down the coast from Cedar Key in Florida. This Florida beach is noted for its long fishing and viewing pier and the open space at its end, perfect for relaxing and taking in the breathtaking scenery. So whether you want to go fishing and collecting seashells near Cedar Key or relax on a large beach with your loved ones, this is the perfect spot for you.
Rainbow Springs State Park
The park is stunning and offers various activities like swimming, snorkeling, and watching migratory birds through binoculars. Although this park is a fair distance inland from Cedar Key, you’ll still find many beaches, water, and beautiful pathways for walking, biking, and paddling a kayak.
The park’s over 1,500 acres are home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including otters, turtles, alligators, and several species of birds, and provide enough opportunities to relax on the soft sand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Cedar Key have nice beaches?
Cedar Key is primarily a fishing community rather than a beach destination. However, t There’s still a tiny stretch of gorgeous sand and a swimming area.
Is there a beach at Cedar Key, Florida?
Cedar Key can be considered a beach. Although it is hardly the vast stretches of sand for which Florida is known, you can set up your beach umbrella on this short coastline of sand and enjoy the view.
Are Cedar Key beaches clear water?
The beaches and sea around Cedar Key are not what most locals call “inviting,” and the water is not as clear as those in Miami. Some locals and tourists likely visit these beaches, but Florida has many more options for anyone seeking a more picturesque experience. But if you’re particular in this area, the place is still nice and a great place to enjoy.
Why is the water brown in Cedar Key, Florida?
Tannin-rich soil water eventually travels to groundwater or flows into lakes and streams or sometimes the beach. However, this does not mean that the water is dirty.
