Dear reader: Thank you so much for being part of the I Love Cedar Key community — it truly means the world to have your support!

Whether you're a longtime local or just discovering the magic of our little island, I’m so glad you're here. If you enjoyed this week's edition, I'd love it if you forwarded it along to a friend or neighbor who might enjoy it too. The more, the merrier — after all, good things are always better when shared! And if someone forwarded this to you, welcome! You can subscribe to get the I Love Cedar Key newsletter delivered straight to your inbox every week.

Please hit reply and let me know what you think. Thank you for taking the time to read it! - Lisa in Cedar Key🌴

Meet Jerald Jr., the founder of Jerald’s Coastal Tours and Fishing Charters in Cedar Key.

If you want to understand the heartbeat of Cedar Key, you have to get out on the water. But for a true local experience, you need a guide who isn’t just navigating the tides—you need someone who has lived them.

When you step onto Jerald’s boat, you aren’t just hiring a captain; you’re stepping into a tradition. As a lifelong resident of Cedar Key, Jerald carries a local lineage that is hard to match. Both his father and his grandfathers were commercial fishermen in these very waters. He grew up learning the secret language of the Gulf, the shifting patterns of the grass flats, and the deep-rooted history that defines our coastal home.

Jerald’s tours offer something different than your average sightseeing cruise. While many focus solely on the catch of the day, Jerald provides a unique perspective on the entire Nature Coast area—one infused with a fascinating historical twist.

Whether you are navigating the intricate channels around the islands of Cedar Key or heading up the winding, prehistoric waters of the Withlacoochee River, Jerald shares the stories of the families, the industries, and the changes that have shaped our coast over the last century.

Whether you are a seasoned angler or a family looking for a memorable afternoon, Jerald’s offerings cover the best of the Gulf:

If you’re ready to see Cedar Key through the eyes of someone who truly knows it, it’s time to book a trip. Whether you're looking to reel in a prize catch or simply want to learn about the storied history of our waters, Jerald is ready to take you there.

Call (352) 214-5793 to book your experience today.

Visit http://www.jeraldcostaltours.com for more information.

Thank you to these Local Sponsors:

Before you head out, it’s always a good idea to double-check with the hosts to make sure the details haven't shifted. If there is no time listed, please check with the host! Submit events to me by messaging I Love Cedar Key on Facebook.

Click here for a full list of May 2026 events.

“Keep up the good work!!!  I love the newsletter…I live in Kentucky, but have come to Cedar Key for over 35 years. I am very glad to see CK coming back after the hurricanes…I need to visit there. Thanks for the newsletter!!!”

- Sheri H.

A Treasure for Every Cook This well sought after piece of Cedar Key history is now back in stock and available at the Cedar Keyhole on 2nd St. Verona was much more than just a talented chef; she was a lifelong resident, a gifted artist, and a foundational pillar of the Keyhole Artist Co-op. To open one of her cookbooks is to invite a bit of old-school Cedar Key magic into your own kitchen.

Why You Need a Copy Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking to connect more deeply with the flavors of our island, this book is a treasure trove of local recipes. Supplies are limited, so we encourage you to stop by the Keyhole Artist Co-op to grab yours before the current inventory disappears.

Read more about this cookbook at ILoveCedarKey.com.

Plan Your Visit

The news is out: the Cedar Key Market building is officially for sale and its future is a frequent topic of conversation around town.

As Cedar Key continues to balance its "Old Florida" charm with the realities of coastal living, the transition of properties like the Market building reminds us how much our physical landscape shapes our social fabric. It is a rare chance for a new steward to help preserve our character while looking toward a resilient future. Call 407-310-8019 for more info.