Description

Atsena Otie Key, located just offshore from Cedar Key in Levy County, is a fascinating destination filled with rich history and natural beauty. First settled in the 1820s, this island was once the original Cedar Key, home to a pencil mill and a bustling community until the devastating hurricane of 1896 forced the settlement to move. Now part of Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge, Atsena Otie Key is open year-round for exploration by boat or kayak. Visitors can view remnants of old structures, concrete cisterns, and the historic cemetery from 1877, making it a rewarding visit for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.