THE DRY TORTUGAS NATIONAL PARK

If you love Key West snorkeling, then Dry Tortugas National Park offers some of the best snorkeling and skin diving in North America, just 70 miles from Key West and the Florida Keys. The shallow waters (5-15 feet) make snorkeling at the Dry Tortugas fun for everyone. Whether beginner or expert, you can enjoy an abundance of colorful tropical fish and living coral among the waters. Directly accessible from the brilliant white sand beach are the Fort Jefferson snorkeling areas. Look for majestic corals, many varieties of tropical fish, starfish, queen conchs, and much more in this protected marine sanctuary. Complimentary fins, mask and snorkel are provided. DOWNLOAD THE MAP

As you explore the fort, imagine life here during the hectic 1860s. At its height nearly 2,000 people lived within this remote city on the sea. Crowded onto the island were long walkways flanked by lush trees, impressive brick buildings, large wooden storehouses, and numerous tents. Soldiers marched and trained in the broiling sun. Laborers and prisoners hauled bricks and supplies to the masons who continued their never ending task of building the fort. Women and children, though fewer in number, were a welcome sight here. Surrounded by disease, death, and suffering, one wife described Fort Jefferson as “a dark, mean place.” DOWN LOAD SELF GUIDED TOUR

Nesting Season is here for the Sooty Terns and Brown Noddy Terns! Bush Key is temporarily closed through Sept. Click here to view map.

The seven tiny islands of Dry Tortugas are a vital layover for migrating birds traveling between South America and the United States making a staple in the Great Florida Birding Trail.

Here you may find a ruby–throated hummingbird, peregrine falcon, yellow billed cuckoo and white-eyed vireo all in one day! Over 300 species of birds have been spotted here. Spring is the optimal time to view birds, but any season offers the chance to see something unique at this exquisite Florida Keys Birding spot.

No Key West beach trip is complete without visiting the best beaches in the Florida Keys: Fort Jefferson Dry Tortugas National Park, located just 70 miles west of Key West. Whether swimming, sun bathing or just plain strolling, you will enjoy the crystal blue waters, swaying palm trees and soft, powdery sand of this island paradise. These beautiful, pristine beaches are a Key West attraction not to be missed.

Camping in the Dry Tortugas National Park is definitely an experience of a lifetime! Imagine sleeping under the stars, on an island 70 miles from civilization, with the warm tropical breezes blowing through palm trees and the rhythmic sound of the ocean waves playing in the background. Camping at the Dry Tortugas is very popular. Reservations on the ferry are limited and sell out months in advance so please plan ahead! DOWN LOAD CAMPING INFORMATION