Pros & cons
PROS
- Large, wild island with true boat-in solitude
- Rich habitats for birding and wildlife viewing
CONS
- Boat-only access with no docks or facilities
- Mosquitoes can be intense in the wet season
Overview
Old Rhodes Key is a big, undeveloped island in the northernmost stretch of the Florida Keys within the park. Roughly 660 acres of mangrove fringes and hardwood hammock sit atop exposed coral limestone—remote, rugged, and blissfully quiet.
What You'll See
Expect a fringe of mangroves leading into dense subtropical hardwoods (think gumbo limbo, mahogany, ironwood, torchwood, satinleaf) with patches of coral rock underfoot. The setting is wild and natural—no piers, no shelters, no manicured trails—just you, the trees, and turquoise water all around.
Wildlife
This is prime habitat for wading and migratory birds along the shorelines. On land, marsh rabbits and raccoons roam the hammock, with lizards and the occasional crocodile around the edges. In bug season, mosquitoes are notorious; you might also spot dragonflies and even the endangered Schaus’ swallowtail butterfly if you’re lucky.
Access & Amenities
Access is strictly by boat, and there are no docks or developed visitor facilities. Plan to be fully self-sufficient—no restrooms, potable water, or shelters. If you want conveniences, aim for developed islands like Elliott Key instead; Old Rhodes Key is all about the backcountry feel.
History Snapshot
In 1898, Bahamian immigrant Israel Jones purchased Old Rhodes Key and cleared portions of the hammock for a successful pineapple and lime operation—once among the largest on Florida’s east coast. Today, the landscape has returned to wild, but the island’s agricultural past still shapes its story.
Best Time to Visit
The drier months are the sweet spot to avoid the worst of the mosquitoes. Crowds are rarely an issue here—solitude is the norm year-round—so timing is more about comfort than avoiding people.
Planning Tips
- Bring robust insect repellent, long sleeves, and sun protection.
- Carry all the water and food you’ll need; there’s nothing to buy or refill.
- Wear sturdy footwear—coral limestone and underbrush can be rough on sandals.
- Practice strict Leave No Trace; this is a sensitive, undeveloped island.
Where it is
25.3595, -80.2516Tips for Old Rhodes Key
- 01Only accessible by private boat; there are no docks to tie up to.
- 02Pack all the water, food, and first aid you’ll need—there are no services.
- 03Bring serious bug protection, especially in the wet season.
- 04Wear closed-toe shoes for coral rock and brushy hammock terrain.
- 05Leave no trace; this is a fragile island with zero facilities.
Near Old Rhodes Key
All places →All trails →
0.8 mi awayJones LagoonMangrove maze for quiet SUP paddles and clear‑water wildlife peeks
1.3 mi awayTotten KeyRemote mangrove island beside a motor-free paddling lagoon
3 mi awayAdams KeyQuiet day-use island with pavilion, short trail, and boat-only accessTrailhead · Restroom
3 mi awayAdams Key Loop TrailQuick shaded loop for boat-in picnickers—mosquitoes are fierceEasy · 0.5 mi · 15 min
6.4 mi awayElliott KeyRemote boating-and-camping island with clear water and tropical hammockRestroom · Picnic Table
7.3 mi awaySpite HighwayStraight, flat island traverse with history—and relentless mosquitoes.Easy · 7 mi · 4.5 hr
7.4 mi awayElliott Key Nature TrailShort, shady loop with interpretive signs—worth it if you’re on ElliottEasy · 1.1 mi · 18 min
8.9 mi awayJetty TrailEasy shoreline stroll from the visitor center with wildlife and viewsEasy · 0.5 mi · 30 min
