Cedar key If you are looking for a special hideaway for your next vacation, or even short day trip, look no farther than Cedar Key, Florida. Cedar Key is off the Florida mainland, in the clear, rich waters of the Gulf. Time rather stands still when you are surrounded by nature as it was intended to be. The unique quality of the local coastal environment gives you the opportunity to take in this beautiful area, unspoiled by the commercialization and hassle of everyday life. This is a special quiet place, a serene village set among the numerous tiny islands on the Gulf Coast of Florida. You might call it the “Old Florida”. In fact, it is one of the oldest ports in the state and along the old railway line that connected the east and western parts of Florida. Over time, the island became a major supplier of both seafood and timber to the northeast. Today, artists and writers come to settle in Cedar Key for its tranquil lifestyle and easy ambience.  Visitors come to the island to walk around its historic streets and savor the galleries and the world famous restaurants. Cedar Key is the USA's top producer of farm raised Clams. However, there are many activities within the close area.  Because the Cedar Key area is a protected nature preserve, this is definitely the place for bird watching. No less than seven protected sites are in the area, allowing visitors pristine nature walks and excursions. This is what is said about the area; “Federally protected sanctuaries around Cedar Key are ideally suited to a vast range of migratory and shore birds, including the elusive white pelican, roseate spoonbill, and bald eagle. The variety of natural habitats, from salt marshes to Indian shell mounds, makes this truly a nature lover's paradise”. No location on the water would be complete without fishing and boating, and this place is no exception. You can charter boats for pleasure or fishing or take along an experienced guide to show you the local sights. Visitors to Cedar Key are always impressed with the hospitality of the local people who are eager to share the wonder of this location as well as their special lifestyle. Canoes, kayaks, motorboats, as well as bicycles are available. There are several golf courses in the immediate area also. There are numerous places to stay in Cedar Key including motels, condominiums, bed-and-breakfast, cottages, and private homes.  Cedar Key is located 50 miles west of I-75 at Gainesville, Florida, via State Road 24, four miles out into the Gulf of Mexico, accessible by bridges and causeways. The average year-round temperature is 80 degrees and the population is approximately 1000.