Cedar Key, Florida - the Anti Disney World
This is my first try at a photo essay. I have enjoyed so many of yours that I thought I would give it a go.
All these pictures were made at the little town of Cedar Key, Florida. It is on the Gulf Coast probably 80 mies north of Tampa. It is small, only about 800 permanent residents, but lots of boaters and fisherpeople like to come on the weekends so there are plenty of motels and places to swill beer.
What there are not are ANY franchises. No McDonalds, Holiday Inn, or even a 7-11. Don't expect any real estate bargains though. Prices are still sky high if you wish permanent housing off the beaten path. A good amount of artist types seem to and they add to the charm of the place.
This ramshackle spot is the most photographed place in Cedar Key. It is called the "Honeymoon Cabin." A long ago hurricane just about brought it down and FEMA has not gotten to it yet.
This island part is tourist headquarters on the weekends. Some locals are not happy about loud music and motorcycles without adequate mufflers. Owners of establishments hold another view.
Kayaks are popular. While I was there for 3 days, I never saw a motorized personal water craft. Much of the area is bird sanctuary; maybe they are banned. i don't know.
The bird pictured has been coming to this restaurant for 15 years I was told.
Pretty sunsets are often available to view.
Looking for shells is enjoyed by young and old.
If want see some old Florida and are not partial to the crowds in Mouseville, you might like a couple days in Cedar Key. It is only about three hours from Orlando so you could do both if you were so inclined.
One last trivia fact - main industry currently seems to be clam farming. Did you know there was such a thing?
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Comments: 31
I've enjoyed some memorable vacations in Florida - and, I have to say, that includes Mouseville when the kids were younger! - but I've also toured around and discovered many places like Cedar Key. (Never been there, though.)
Your pics brought back some happy memories, especially the sunset. You might like to check out my sunset and moonlight on Loch Lomond photos (from my profile page.)
Thanks again, Elmo, definitely a 10!
On the East Coast of FLorida, rip tides can be killers. On the west coast, no such problem, but also not much of what you would call "beach" north of clearwater til you reach the Redneck Riviera."
Tracy - bet you can get a good deal - wonder who owns it
Holly - odd as it may seem - they do something like that - take little clams out in the gulf and then go back later and get big ones - obviously I have no clue.
Gather Broadcasting: Have it your way
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