Cedar Key FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Cedar Key, Florida.
1. Cedar Key Public Beach
RELAXING SMALL BEACH
Cedar Key Public Beach is the only official swimming beach in the town, offering a small, calm area perfect for swimming and relaxing. It features a designated swimming zone roped off by buoys for safety and has amenities such as bathrooms, showers, benches, and picnic tables. Visitors can enjoy watching boats, local wildlife, and the peaceful Gulf waters in a quaint city park setting.
2. Cedar Key City Park Beach
FAMILY FRIENDLY WATERFRONT
The beach at Cedar Key City Park offers picnic tables, a playground, and pavilion facilities next to a city swimming and sunbathing area. It provides a safe and inviting environment for families and visitors to enjoy water recreation and relaxation by the Gulf. Nearby, restaurants and raw bars on Dock Street enhance the waterfront experience with fresh local seafood and a charming atmosphere.
3. Cedar Keys Wildlife Refuge
ISLAND AND WILDLIFE ESCAPE
The Cedar Keys Wildlife Refuge encompasses numerous islands around Cedar Key, providing sheltered waters ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and wildlife observation. Visitors can enjoy close encounters with dolphins, birds, and other native animals while exploring the scenic waterways. It's a pristine natural area perfect for eco-tourism and waterfront adventures amid Florida's Gulf Coast islands.
4. Island Tours Boat Rides
DOLPHIN AND ISLAND TOURS
Island Tours offers narrated boat rides around the Cedar Key islands, giving visitors a chance to see dolphins up close and experience the unique island landscapes. The tours highlight wildlife and the natural beauty of the Gulf waters, making it a popular waterfront recreational activity. It combines sightseeing with opportunities for wildlife photography and observation in a peaceful marine environment.
5. Suwannee River State Park
RIVERFRONT NATURE PARK
Suwannee River State Park, located near Live Oak, offers a scenic riverfront setting with opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating along the Suwannee River. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and campsites, providing a tranquil environment for water recreation and nature exploration. Its peaceful atmosphere and clear river waters attract families and outdoor enthusiasts.
6. Manatee Springs State Park
FRESHWATER SPRING SWIMMING
Manatee Springs State Park is known for its crystal-clear freshwater spring, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and tubing during warmer months. The park's riverfront location on the Suwannee River also offers fishing, canoeing, and abundant wildlife viewing, including manatees in cooler seasons. Its calm, natural setting provides a refreshing escape from coastal waters with unique spring-fed experiences.
7. Henderson Beach State Park
WHITE SAND GULF BEACH
Henderson Beach State Park features pristine white sand beaches along the Gulf of Mexico with ample space for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The park's natural dunes and coastal habitats offer scenic walking trails and birdwatching opportunities amid stunning beachfront views. Its well-maintained facilities and tranquil atmosphere make it a premier destination for beach recreation near Cedar Key.
8. Keaton Beach
FISHING AND WATER ACCESS
Keaton Beach is a popular waterfront escape known for fishing, boating, and easy access to the Gulf waters. The area offers a laid-back atmosphere with picnic facilities and a pier for anglers and swimmers alike. It provides a great spot for families and visitors seeking casual beach and water recreation close to nature.
9. Horseshoe Beach
SECLUDED GULF BEACH
Horseshoe Beach is a quiet, secluded beach destination on the Gulf Coast, favored for shelling, fishing, and beachcombing. Its small-town charm and natural surroundings offer a peaceful retreat with access to calm waters ideal for swimming and kayaking. This waterfront location is cherished for its low crowds and authentic Florida coastal ambiance.
10. Anclote Key Preserve State Park
REMOTE ISLAND BEACH
Anclote Key Preserve State Park is a remote island accessible only by boat, featuring pristine natural beaches, bird nesting sites, and clear Gulf waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The park's undeveloped setting offers visitors a rare opportunity to enjoy Florida's coastal ecosystems in a serene, unspoiled environment. It is popular for day trips focused on wildlife observation and beach recreation.