Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge

Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge consists of 13 uninhabited islands just off the shore of Cedar Key, Florida. You can reach the islands either by private boat or by booking a tour.

Now there are 3 wild natural beaches in the refuge, with all of them being difficult to reach (see the details below) but really worth visiting:

• Atsena Otie Key Beach
• Seahorse Key Beach
• North Key Beach

Location

The refuge is located on the Gulf of Mexico in Levy County. Drive southwest along State Road 24 till the road ends. Leave your car on the parking lot, go to the nearest boat ramp, and sail to the refuge by boat.

Driving Time (till the end of State Road 24)

• 1 hour 10 minutes from Gainesville, FL
• 2 hours 20 minutes from Tampa, FL
• 2 hours 25 minutes from Jacksonville, FL

Hotels and rentals

If you're considering staying for one or even a few nights, there are plenty of options available near the beach. Chose your preferred accomodation type and your favourite room provider:

• Nearby rentals from VRBO.
• Nearby rooms and properties from Booking.com.

Beaches nearby

Additionally, there's a number of beaches near Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge which you can visit:

• Lil Shark Park Beach (1 mile)
• Atsena Otie Key Beach (Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge) (2 miles)
• Seahorse Key Beach (Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge) (4 miles)
• North Key Beach (Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge) (5 miles)
• Shired Island Campground Beach (20 miles)