Site Search


Florida State Parks

NEW LISTINGS
 

Check For Deals

 
 

 

Indian Key Historic State Park

Indian Key, Florida

Contact Information
P.O. Box 1052
Islamorada, 33036
(305) 664-2540

Indian Key is located about three-fourths of a mile in a southeasterly direction from the north shore of Lower Matecumbe Key. Only slightly more than 10 acres in size and separated from the Overseas Highway by open water, it hardly looks like a place of historic significance. Yet Indian Key has had a colorful past which is very much a part of early Florida history. It dates from the time of prehistoric Indians to the 1830s, when this small key was the seat of newly created Dade County. The foundations of buildings and cisterns on the island date back to this prosperous time.

Hours of Operation
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.

Driving Directions
Indian Key is located on the ocean side of U.S. 1 at M.M. 78.5. It is accessible only by private boat or charter boats available at nearby marinas.

Park Activities
Boat Tours
Tour boat service to the island is available through "Robbie's Marina." For reservations and fees, please call (305) 664-9814. Tour boat departs 1/2-hour before listed tour times.

Boating
Visitors can rent powerboats and kayaks from "Robbie’s Marina" or a number of other local marinas. Knowledge of the channels is critical because of the surrounding shallow grass flats. Excursions outside of the channels can lead to boat damage, environmental damage, heavy fines and possibly a criminal record. Kayaks and canoes can float across most flats offering spectacular chances to see a variety of wildlife from dolphins and manatees to sharks and rays.

Fishing
Anglers can fish for a variety of species from Bonefish on the flats, to Tarpon in the channels. Snapper, Spanish Mackerel and Snook are also found in the area. Caribbean Spiny Lobster and Stone Crab are also found in the waters surrounding the park and can be harvested when in season. A Florida saltwater fishing license, with special stamps for Lobster and Snook, is required. All fishing must be conducted 100 feet from the dock.

Fishing
Anglers can fish for a variety of species from Bonefish on the flats, to Tarpon in the channels. Snapper, Spanish Mackerel and Snook are also found in the area. Caribbean Spiny Lobster and Stone Crab are also found in the waters surrounding the park and can be harvested when in season. A Florida saltwater fishing license, with special stamps for Lobster and Snook, is required.

Snorkeling
Some local marinas, as well as "Robbie’s Marina," offer Eco-tours that involve brief stops at the island and snorkeling in the area around the island and out on the reef. Remember, all snorkeling requires a diver down flag. All snorkeling must be conducted at least 100 feet from the dock at all times.