Indian Key, Ghost town in Monroe County, United States

Indian Key is a ghost town in Monroe County, United States, located on a small island in the Florida Keys. The island covers about 10 acres (4 hectares) and holds the remains of a 19th-century settlement, including stone walls and a street grid.

Indian Key was settled in the 1820s and became a busy wrecking and trading center before being attacked in 1840 during the Second Seminole War. The settlement was abandoned after the attack, and the island later served as a quarantine station and a base for salvagers.

The island's name comes from its earlier use by Native Americans, and today visitors can see the layout of the old streets and the foundations of buildings. Local guides sometimes share stories of the settlement's rise and fall, adding a personal touch to the visit.

Access is by private boat, and the island has no facilities, so bring water and sun protection. The ruins are scattered and overgrown, making sturdy shoes and a keen eye for details useful.

Indian Key was once the county seat of Monroe County, a fact many visitors find surprising. The island also has a small cemetery where some of the original settlers are buried, offering a quiet link to the past.