Long Key State Park is a 965-acre coastal park located in the Florida Keys. The park offers a variety of activities, including camping, fishing, swimming, kayaking, hiking, and birdwatching. One of the main attractions of the park is the exceptional snorkeling and diving opportunities in the clear waters surrounding the park.
Visitors to Long Key State Park can explore the park's diverse ecosystems, including seagrass beds, mangrove swamps, and hardwood hammocks. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including manatees, sea turtles, and numerous bird species.
Some of the specific points of interest within the park include the Long Key Natural Trail, which winds through a hardwood hammock and offers views of the ocean; the Layton Trail, which leads to a picturesque tidal lagoon; and the Golden Orb Trail, which offers panoramic views of the park and the surrounding ocean.
One interesting fact about Long Key State Park is that it was once a private resort owned by Henry Flagler, a wealthy businessman and developer who played a significant role in the development of Florida's east coast in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The best time of year to visit Long Key State Park is between November and April, when temperatures are mild and there is less rainfall. However, the park is open year-round and offers activities and attractions for visitors no matter the time of year.