Crane Point Hammock is a 63-acre nature preserve, museum and historic site on the Overseas Highway in Marathon. Shaded trails wind through tropical hardwood forest, with signs about local wildlife and history, butterfly gardens and views of the water. The museum covers the Florida Keys’ natural and human history, while Adderley House preserves a Bahamian-style home from the early 20th century. You can also visit the Marathon Wild Bird Center and join a complimentary golf cart tour. Leave time to explore: a full visit can take several hours.
A hardwood hammock in Marathon
Crane Point Hammock covers 63 acres in Marathon, where trails pass through tropical hardwood forest and varied coastal habitats. The preserve protects plants and wildlife, including some hardwood species found nowhere else in the United States. Signs along the paths explain the area’s ecology and history, so a walk also gives you context for the landscape around you.
The trails are shaded and have benches, with a route leading to a point overlooking the water. Bring water and insect repellent, especially if you plan to explore beyond a short stroll. Birdwatchers can look for seabirds near Rachael Key, wading birds along Rachael Creek and songbirds in the hammock. Binoculars are available to borrow at the nature center.
Adderley House and the Keys’ past
The preserve includes evidence of pre-Columbian life and was once the site of a Bahamian village. Its historic Adderley House is a Bahamian-style home built in the early 20th century by a family with roots in the Bahamas. It is among the oldest surviving houses in the Florida Keys outside Key West.
A visit to the house adds a domestic setting to the area’s broader story of settlement. The museum covers the earliest inhabitants, explorers and history of the Keys, alongside natural history exhibits. There is also a children’s activity area. The displays bring together different parts of the region’s past and environment, so allow time to browse at your own pace.
Birds, butterflies and a guided tour
The Marathon Wild Bird Center, located within Crane Point, rescues and rehabilitates wild birds, including pelicans, osprey and great egrets. The butterfly gardens add another stop along the trails. Children can also dip their feet into tidal pools, where small fish may nibble away dead skin.
A complimentary golf cart tour gives an overview of the grounds and local history, including stories about the Crane family and George Adderley. One tour lasts about 1.5 hours, and a guide may also take visitors to Adderley House. If you prefer to walk, the marked trails let you explore at your own pace. Set aside several hours if you want to combine the tour, museum and outdoor paths.
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How long should I spend at Crane Point Hammock?
Plan on several hours to explore the museum, trails and other areas. The complimentary golf cart tour lasts about 1.5 hours.
Is there a guided tour at Crane Point Hammock?
A complimentary golf cart tour is available and covers the park’s highlights and local history. One tour lasts about 1.5 hours.
What can you see at Crane Point Hammock?
The preserve has shaded trails, butterfly gardens, a natural history museum, the Marathon Wild Bird Center and historic Adderley House.
Can you watch birds at Crane Point Hammock?
Yes. The Marathon Wild Bird Center rescues and rehabilitates wild birds, and the preserve’s coastal and woodland habitats support a range of bird species.
