Crystal River, Florida

Known for its river that bears the same name and the manatees that make the river their home much of the year, Crystal River, Florida is a peaceful town on the Florida Nature Coast. Tampa is located just about 90 miles to the southeast. Natural and recreation areas found around the river and the coast, and the area has resorts and lovely golf courses as well as a good variety of restaurants. Crystal River frequently receives visitors who enjoy a quiet coastal resort, who are interested in fishing and who want to see or even swim with the manatees.

Crystal River FloridaA small city, the area on which the town stands covers less than 7 miles and the population is approximately 4,000. Still, some people of note have called Crystal River their home such as the baseball players Mike Hampton who went to high school in the town and Ted Williams who lived in the town before he died.

Then before recorded history, indigenous people came to the natural springs of Crystal River. Mounds of past civilizations are found along the river and at what now is the State Archaeological Site, where the public can see what has been found of ancient peoples. Evidences point to cultures dating as far back as 500 BC.

Today, the river is one of Crystal River's most popular attractions. Fed by up to 50 area springs, this winding stream flows for six miles before emptying into Kings Bay that opens into the Gulf of Mexico. Florida native wildlife lives along and in the river like otter, birds and deer as well as alligators, crocodiles and numerous fish. Then, the West Indian Manatee is a large sea creature. Up to around 400 manatees make Crystal River their winter home because they prefer the warmer springs, river and bay to the cooler temperatures of the Gulf of Mexico. In this region, the public can legally get close to these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Besides wildlife watching and fishing, Crystal River has much to offer visitors. The climate is subtropical with temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit from March to November. Naturally, the water is a good way to cool off. Kayaking, hiking and golfing are other outdoor activities. Naber Kids Doll Factory is fun to tour. Of course, having a relaxing day on the beach and a barbecue are also excellent for enjoying the best of Crystal River.

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Cedar Key, Florida

A visit to Cedar Key, Florida brings the best of the Sunshine State. Cedar Key is located on Way Key, the largest of the Cedar Key Islands. The island sits three miles out in the Gulf of Mexico and is about 50 miles southwest of Gainesville, Florida.

Cedar Key is located in Florida's Coastal Region which is known as Florida’s Nature Coast. It is home to a number of federally protected waterways and bird sanctuaries. Bird watching is a popular activity for locals and visitors alike. Those taking a walk along Cedar Key’s nature trails can spot bald eagles, the rare and elusive white pelican, and roseate spoonbills.
Kayaks await paddlers on the beach at Cedar Key, Florida on the Gulf of Mexico.
Fishing can also be done along the Gulf and in the many waterways within the island. Those casting a lure are sure to catch the ample sea bass, grouper, and mackerel in the area. The Annual Seafood Festival, now in its 43rd year, celebrates the delicacies of the Gulf with a number of cooking competitions for amateurs and professionals alike. Visitors can sample a variety of dishes celebrating the local coastal cuisine while listening to local bands jamming lack-back island tunes.

Cedar Key is one of the oldest sea ports in Florida and is a major supplier of seafood and timber to the north. Its rich, abundant supply of quality seafood has made it a haven for a number of popular and world-renowned seafood restaurants. Tony’s Seafood has been serving up their award-winning clam chowder to visitors since 2005. They have won three world championship cooking contests for their chowder and have been featured on a number of Food Network Specials. Another popular dining destination is Kona Joe’s Café. This café is famous for its version of the Florida dessert staple – the Key Lime Pie.

Cedar Key also has a rich history in the arts. Painters, writers, photographers, and sculptors have long visited the island to get inspiration from the breathtaking sunsets, wildlife, and sandy beaches that Cedar Key has to offer. The island is now a haven for artists, artisans, and musicians who have set up a permanent home on the island. The annual Old Florida Celebration of the Arts Festival celebrates this bohemian lifestyle, where artists and craftsmen display and sell their talents. The artists compete for a 10,000 prize. The festival draws an average of 20,000 attendees and has been going on for nearly 50 years. With annual average temperatures around 85 degrees (F), visitors to Cedar Key can enjoy, year-round, all that it has to offer.

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