Indian Key Dock

Indian Key Historic State Park

The forgotten shores and ancient relics tell of the storied past of this tiny piece of paradise

Know Before You Go

Effective August 25, 2025: An environmental restoration project will begin at Indian Key Historic State Park. For the safety of visitors, the park will remain closed while the project is active. The mooring buoys may still be used but no entry onto the island will be allowed. 

Hours

8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year

Fees

$2.50 per person

Location

Offshore Island
Islamorada FL 33036

Get directions

Contact Info

305-664-2540

Welcome to Indian Key Historic State Park

In 1836, Indian Key became the first county seat for Dade County.


At the time, the tiny island was the site of a lucrative business that salvaged cargo from shipwrecks in the Florida Keys. 

Accessible only by boat, the park welcomes visitors who come here to swim, sunbathe and hike. Kayak rentals are available from local charter companies.

Park fees can be paid in cash at the iron ranger near the kayak launch or in advance using the "Pay Online Single-Use Day Pass" link.

Kayak Rentals

Plan Your Visit

Picture of Lu Dodson Park Manager of Indian Key
Learn

Manager's Message

Immerse yourself in the long ago ways of the wrecking industry. This 11-acre island is deserted except for the ruins of a town that existed in the early 1800s, when folks made their living salvaging boats that ran aground on local reefs.
Kayaks at kayak Landing
Learn

Kayak Indian Key

Indian Key is located only a half-mile offshore but feels a world away. One of the best ways to reach the 11-acre island is by paddling over the shallow seagrass flats.
Field of turtle grass.
Learn

Protecting Seagrass Flats in the Florida Keys

Healthy seagrass communities are the most productive ecosystems the world. Biologist Becky Collins tells the story of how mooring buoys and channel markers help boaters protect the seagrass communities.

Experiences

Fishing
Fishing
Hiking
Hiking
Paddling
Paddling
Picnicking
Picnicking
Snorkeling
Snorkeling
Swimming
Swimming
Wildlife Viewing
Wildlife Viewing

Amenities

Canoe Kayak Launch
Canoe Kayak Launch
Historic Site
Historic Site
Interpretive Exhibit
Interpretive Exhibit
Nature Trail
Nature Trail

Indian Key Historic State Park Photo Gallery

Indian Key Shoreline
Indian Key Trail
Mooring Buoys at Indian Key
Seahare at Indian Key
a cormorant sits on a rock on the bank of Indian Key
shady spot under the trees in the Tamarind Grove
Beautiful Water at Indian Key
Variety of Birds using Bird Stakes
Learn

Seagrass Restoration at Indian Key

The island of Indian Key is surround by an incredibly healthy seagrass bed brimming with sea life. Bird stakes installed at injury sites along the boating channels help restore this beautiful resource.
Drawing of Indian Key during the 1830's
Learn

History of Wreckers on Indian Key

Explore Indian Key and you will find the remains of an 1830s wrecking community. Wrecking was a common profession in the Florida Keys in the early 19th century.

People Make the Parks

Ranger Chris Herald stands in front of greenery.

Staff Spotlight

Ranger Chris Herald has a passion for interpreting the natural and cultural resources of the Islamorada Area Parks.
Volunteer Peyton Kerry

Volunteer Spotlight

Peyton is interested in working in conservation for the Florida Park Service after college. Volunteering for the Florida State Parks is a great way to gain experience for her future career.
Friends of the Islamorada Area State Parks pose by a booth at the Holiday Festival

Friends of the Islamorada Area State Parks

Friends groups meet the critical needs of individual parks and the system of state parks. They share one thing in common – passion for parks.

This Park is Recognized by:

Native American Heritage Trail

Park Map

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