Chillin in Florida

One of our favorite Florida destinations is a small island on the Gulf Coast called Cedar Key. This place is a hidden jewel if you don't like crowds, but want to enjoy spectacular sunsets and amazing seafood.

My time at Cedar Key began as a child when the place had a bit less to offer. You see, this is the home of my mom's side of the family as my grandmother was born there in 1904. Back then it was the oyster and clam capital of Florida. My great aunt once took me there to visit during a hurricane. Floridians don't let things like hurricanes stop them from a little site seeing.

Last year Sherrie and I decided to pay a visit to the old family spot and we were blown away by the island renovations, history and quaint lifestyle. We even located the old family home that had been beautifully restored. There's not a lot to do at Cedar Key except chill out, eat fresh seafood, fish, watch gorgeous sunsets and explore the island on golf cars. It's the perfect vacation for nurturing the chill life.

We stayed at the Cedar Key Bed and Breakfast which was fantastic. The house is very old with lots of history, but it was extremely clean. The owner and manager treated us like family and the home cooked breakfast was delicious every single morning.

The beautifully manicured grounds offered plenty of quaint little porches and shady spots to curl up with a book, or relax with friends. The house is located a block away from the water, pier and those sunsets. They rent golf cars which we highly recommend. They were so convenient to cruise to dinner and explore the island.

Speaking of dinner, there is a strip of restaurants and bars that sit over the water and offer some of the best seafood in Florida. There are plenty of delicious tropical rum drinks to compliment your meals and to entice your inner swashbuckler.

You can also find some great restaurants in the old downtown main street district. In conclusion, Cedar Key is a super laid back vacation spot. It doesn't offer much for children which is good for those of us who really just want to chillax in a tropical climate, enjoy fresh seafood and find some warm peace and quiet.