Message from the Manager

During the early 1900s, Henry Flagler began quarrying activities along the Florida Keys and his impression upon the landscape can still be seen today. The remnants of these activities are eight-foot tall cross-sectional views of fossilized coral, called Key Largo limestone. You can actually walk along the quarried walls at Windley Key and view numerous specimens of fossilized Montastrea, Porites and Diploria, all remnants to an ancient inner-shelf reef margin. An extensive hammock trail system also provides opportunities to spot native and migrating birds, such as the White-crowned Pigeon or Black-whiskered Vireo.

Typically, weather conditions from December through March provide the ideal setting for self or ranger-guided tours of Windley Key. If lunch is the order of the day, then pick a bench under one of the sprawling native trees or choose a sunnier spot to gain that golden Florida tan. The winter months in Florida are some of the most enjoyable found throughout the country. It is no wonder why visitors flock by the thousands to bask in the warm sunshine!

Pat Wells, Park Manager

Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park is located on the bayside at Mile Marker 85.5, just south of the Snake Creek drawbridge. Purchased by Henry Flagler in 1908 to quarry limestone rock for the Overseas Railroad bed and bridge approaches, the park offers visitors the unique opportunity to “look inside” an ancient coral reef formation and view the historic remains of Flagler’s quarrying activities.

The 32-acre site has three quarries and approximately 1.5 miles of trails that wind through a tropical hardwood hammock. Walking the trails offers visitors the chance to see over 40 species of trees and plants that are native to the Florida Keys. With the aid of a guidebook, numbered trail stops, and interpretive markers, it is easy for visitors to learn about the natural and cultural resources of the site.

Hours of Operation

Park is open Thursday-Monday, 8:00a.m. - 5:00p.m.

Driving Directions

Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park is located on Windley Key at Mile Marker 85.5 near Islamorada.

Park Fees

Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park P.O. Box 1052 Islamorada, Florida 33036 Phone: 305-664-2540 Fax: Contact Park for Number Park Manager: Patrick Wells