While Cedar Key relieves you from the cares of the world, it is only 50 miles from Gainesville and I-75. Jacksonville, Tampa and Orlando are less than three hours away. Cedar Key is a haven for artists and writers, bird watchers and kayakers, fishermen and those just looking to "get away from it all". The area abounds with a remarkable variety of migratory and shore birds, and its surrounding waters are home to several species of grouper, spotted trout, redfish, Spanish and king mackerel, mullet and several types of sharks. Several local businesses offer rentals or, bring your own equipment.

 

In Cedar Key, you can enjoy a lifestyle of boating, exploring, entertaining, fishing, hunting, bird watching, swimming or just taking it easy. The fresh, clean smell of salt air and walks on the beach soon become a way of life. Each year, the Spring Sidewalk Art Festival and the Fall Seafood Festival attract thousands of visitors to the area, yet Cedar Key retains the charm of Old Florida. The Fourth of July brings a large number of coastal residents to the community for the best small town fireworks show you will ever see.