Cedar Key derives its name from a 1542 Spanish map that named the area as “Las Islas Sabines,”, “The Cedar Islands.” The name “Cedar Islands” was in reference to the abundant growth of cedar trees that formerly covered all the barrier islands within the surrounding area.
About an hour's drive southwest of Gainesville, the tiny enclave of Cedar Key is a quaint, old-fashioned, Old Florida vacation spot – one that offers the most and best clams in Florida, productive fishing opportunities and lush natural preserves. It's a place that's short on traffic lights and long on relaxation.
