Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park, Florida: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Tucked away in the crystalline waters of the Florida Keys lies one of America’s most extraordinary botanical treasures. Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park preserves the last untouched tropical hardwood hammock in the United States, home to over 1,000 lignum vitae trees, some estimated to be more than 2,000 years old. This 280-acre (113-hectare) island paradise has remained virtually unchanged since it was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1968, offering visitors a rare glimpse into prehistoric Florida.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Unlike most Florida state parks, Lignumvitae Key is only accessible by boat, adding to its secluded charm. The island sits approximately 1.6 km (1 mile) west of U.S. 1 (Overseas Highway) at mile marker 78.5 near Islamorada. There are no bridges connecting it to the mainland, preserving its pristine environment.

Access Options:

• Ferry service: Available Friday through Sunday from Robbie’s Marina at the north end of Lower Matecumbe Key. Tours run at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM during winter months (December through April).
• Private boat: If you have access to your own vessel, you can dock at the island’s small harbor.
• Kayak: Adventurous visitors can paddle to the island from nearby launch points. The shallow waters surrounding the key make for an enjoyable excursion for experienced paddlers.

The park is open Thursday through Monday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays). Entrance fee is $2.50 per person, with guided tours available for an additional $2 per person.

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

The ideal time to visit Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park is during the dry season from November through April. During these months, temperatures range from a pleasant 21°C to 27°C (70°F to 80°F), and the notorious mosquito population is somewhat less aggressive.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

The Matheson House

Built in the 1930s, this coral rock house serves as the visitor center and offers a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century life in the Florida Keys. Originally owned by wealthy Miami chemist William John Matheson, the house features period furnishings and exhibits about the island’s natural and cultural history.

Guided Nature Trails

The highlight of any visit is the ranger-led tour through the tropical hardwood hammock. This 0.8 km (0.5 mile) trail takes you through one of the rarest ecosystems in the United States, featuring ancient lignum vitae trees with their distinctive blue-purple flowers and crisscrossing branches.

Other notable species you’ll encounter include gumbo limbo, poisonwood, pigeon plum, and strangler figs. The hammock is also home to rare Florida purplewing butterflies and delicate Liguus tree snails.

Water Activities

The waters surrounding Lignumvitae Key are part of the park’s protected aquatic preserve, offering excellent opportunities for:

• Snorkeling: Explore the shallow waters around the island to spot tropical fish, rays, and other marine life.
• Kayaking: Paddle around the island’s 10,818 acres (43.78 km²) of protected submerged lands.
• Wildlife viewing: Watch for wading birds, shore birds, and migratory species that frequent the area.

Where to Stay

While camping is not permitted on Lignumvitae Key itself, the nearby areas of Islamorada and Lower Matecumbe Key offer a variety of accommodation options:

Dining & Local Cuisine

There are no dining facilities on Lignumvitae Key, so visitors should bring water and snacks for their visit. However, the surrounding area of Islamorada is known as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World” and offers excellent seafood dining options:

• Waterfront restaurants: Enjoy fresh-caught fish while watching the sunset over Florida Bay.
• Casual fish shacks: Sample local specialties like conch fritters, smoked fish dip, and key lime pie.
• Food markets: Pick up supplies for a picnic lunch to bring on your boat trip to the island.

Practical Travel Tips

Visitor Comments About Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park

Nearby Attractions

While in the area, consider visiting these complementary attractions:

• Indian Key Historic State Park: Explore the ruins of a 19th-century settlement on this nearby island.
• Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park: See exposed coral formations from an ancient reef.
• Florida Keys History & Discovery Center: Learn about the rich history of the Keys region.
• Theater of the Sea: Interact with dolphins, sea lions, and other marine life at this conservation-focused attraction.

A Window to Florida’s Primeval Past

Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park offers a rare opportunity to step back in time and experience the Florida Keys as they existed for thousands of years before human development. The island’s protected status ensures that future generations will continue to marvel at its ancient trees, diverse ecosystem, and glimpse of Old Florida charm.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking a unique adventure off the beaten path, this hidden gem of the Florida Keys promises an unforgettable experience that connects you with both natural history and the pioneering spirit of the region’s early settlers.