Indian Key Historic State Park

When Dade County was first being organized in 1836, Indian Key became the first county seat. In those days the island was the site of a thriving business salvaging shipwrecks found in the Florida Keys. Today, Indian Key Historic State Park is accessible only by tour boat, charter boat, private boat and canoe or kayak. Indian Key Historic State Park takes up the entire 11-acre island and preserves what's left of the town of Indian Key.

The ocean around Indian Key is shallow and the island is essentially surrounded by shallow grass flats. This is critical habitat for a number of marine species and offers a spectacular opportunity to see dolphins, sharks, manatees and rays in their natural element. The island area also attracts a lot of sport fish and migratory birds. Fishing is allowed but not within 100 feet of any dock. Scuba diving and snorkeling are also favorite pastimes in the surrounding waters. Several local operators offer tour boats and Eco-tours geared toward exploring the island and the underwater world around it.

Visitors will find the Indian Key village street system has been recreated and there is a series of interpretive plaques along the "streets" explaining what you're looking at.

Indian Key Historic State Park is open for day use only from 8 am until sunset every day of the year.To get there: Indian Key is located on the ocean side of US Highway 1 at mile marker 78.5.