LONG KEY, FLORIDA
and Layton

Long Key is in the middle Florida Keys about halfway between Islamorada and Marathon.

It is home to a small village, Layton (population about 200), and Long Key State Park, a popular camping destination if you are lucky enough to get a campsite.

Zane Grey Doing What He Loved

During the early days of Henry Flagler's construction of the Key West extension of the Florida East Coast Railway, Long Key became the location of lodging for many of the railroad workers and also had a railroad station.

Long Key, Florida

Long Key might have remained largely unknown except for its fishing camp known as the Long Key Fishing Club.

The most prominent member of this club was novelist Zane Grey, famous for his 1912 novel "Riders Of The Purple Sage".

Riders of the Purple Sage Movie Poster

Henry Flagler had built the fishing camp in 1908 to serve tourists arriving by train in the Florida Keys.

Other members of the fishing club included Herbert Hoover, Andrew Mellon, Franklin Roosevelt, William Randolph Hearst and many other famous people.

The Hurricane of 1935

The awful hurricane of 1935 destroyed Flagler's railroad and the Long Key fishing camp.

For years after the hurricane, Long Key was a lonely place.

Things changed when the village of Layton was developed in the 1960s and Long Key State Park was created.

A popular restaurant in the Long Key area is Lazy Days Restaurant in Islamorada.

Long Key State Park

Long Key State Park

This beautiful state park is on 965 acres and is a popular camping location.  All of Long Key's campsites are oceanfront with great views and nice breezes. 

The park opened in 1969, and getting a site is difficult because it is so popular.  It's easier to get a site in the summer, but the bugs can be real bad about that time.

LONG KEY STATE PARK WEBSITE

THINGS TO DO IN LONG KEY, FLORIDA

Lazy Days Restaurant
79867 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036 | (305) 664-5256

Lazy Days Restaurant, mentioned earlier, in nearby Islamorada is a favorite spot for fresh seafood and stunning ocean views. We enjoy the relaxed, beachfront atmosphere and the delicious menu options.

Visitors appreciate the "you hook it, we cook it" service, where you can bring your catch and have it prepared by the chefs. The outdoor seating area provides a perfect setting for a leisurely meal.

Anne's Beach
73500 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036

Anne’s Beach is a lovely, laid-back beach known for its shallow, warm waters and scenic boardwalk. We enjoy the calm and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for families and those looking to unwind.

Visitors like the picnic areas and the convenient amenities, including restrooms and parking. The beach’s clear waters make it ideal for swimming and wading. The boardwalk winds through mangroves and offers beautiful views of the coastline.

It’s a great spot for a peaceful walk or a leisurely day by the sea. There are two parking lots approximately 1/4 mile apart on US-1 at Mile Marker 73.

Long Key Viaduct
Long Key, FL 33001

The Long Key Viaduct is a historic bridge offering stunning views of the ocean and surrounding keys. We enjoy walking or biking along the old bridge, taking in the panoramic scenery.

Visitors appreciate the opportunity to learn about the bridge’s history and its role in the development of the Overseas Highway. The viaduct is a great spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.

The clear waters below are often teeming with marine life, adding to the experience. This is the second-longest bridge in the Keys at almost two and a half miles.

Layton Trail
Long Key State Park, Long Key, FL 33001

The Layton Trail offers a peaceful hiking experience through a beautiful natural area. The tranquil, less-frequented area of Long Key State Park is the bay side, featuring a largely untouched and undeveloped stretch of mangroves and tropical hammocks along Florida Bay.

The Layton Trail offers a quarter-mile journey through these natural habitats, culminating at a picturesque location on the bay. The trail is great for birdwatching and spotting other wildlife. It’s a perfect place for a quiet walk or a nature study.

Fiesta Key RV Resort & Marina
70001 Overseas Hwy, Layton, FL 33001 | (305) 249-1035

Fiesta Key RV Resort & Marina is a fantastic spot for a fun and relaxing getaway. We enjoy the waterfront views and the variety of activities available. Visitors like the well-equipped RV sites and the cozy rental cottages.

The resort offers amenities such as a pool, a restaurant, and a marina. It’s great for fishing, boating, and kayaking. The friendly staff and lively atmosphere make it a popular choice for families and groups.

Theater of the Sea
84721 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036 | (305) 664-2431

Theater of the Sea, established in 1946, is a fun and educational marine park where visitors can interact with dolphins, sea lions, and stingrays. We enjoy the live shows and the chance to swim with these amazing animals.

Visitors appreciate the beautiful botanical gardens and the informative exhibits about marine life. The park also offers guided tours and snorkeling adventures.

It’s a great place for families and animal lovers to learn and have fun. The friendly staff and engaging programs make it a memorable visit.

Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park
77200 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036 | (305) 664-2540

Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park is a Florida State Park consisting of Lignumvitae Key, Shell Key, surrounding submerged lands, and land at the northern end of Lower Matecumbe Key.

The islands are located one mile west of US-1 at mile marker 78.5, and can be reached only by private boat or tour boat. We enjoy exploring the island’s untouched tropical hardwood hammock and learning about the early settlers.

Visitors appreciate the guided tours that provide insights into the unique plant species and the history of the island. It’s a great place for nature walks and picnics.

Read more at Florida Keys Travel