Dry Tortugas National Park

Located about 70 miles west of Key West in the Gulf of Mexico, Dry Tortugas National Park is teeming with marine life, sunken shipwrecks, and thriving coral reefs. The park is also home to the majestic Fort Jefferson, making it a perfect mix of history and natural beauty.

History

Dry Tortugas National Park was established in 1935 to protect one of the largest 19th-century forts in the United States and an area noted for bird and marine life. The massive but unfinished coastal fortress Fort Jefferson is a testament to America’s efforts of protecting the country after the War of 1812.

How to Get There

Access to Dry Tortugas National Park is relatively limited due to its distant offshore location. Regular ferry and seaplane services are available from Key West. For the more adventurous, private boats or chartered snorkeling and diving excursions are other possibilities.

List of Attractions

Dry Tortugas National Park is a hotbed of natural and historical treasures:

• Famous Fort Jefferson, one of the nation’s largest 19th-century forts.
• Vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life.
• Shipwrecks and artifacts dating back to the 1600s.
• Bird watching, as the park is a hub for over 299 species of birds.
• Beautiful offshore islands perfect for camping and picnicking.

Ticket Information

The entrance fee for Dry Tortugas National Park is $15 per person and is valid for seven consecutive days. The fee doesn’t include transportation costs. As the park is located approximately 70 miles west of Key West, a separate fee is charged by the ferry or seaplane concessionaires.

Tips for Visiting

1. Plan your visit between November and April to avoid the hurricanes and tropical storms common in late summer and fall.
2. Since there are no services to purchase food or drinks in the park, bring your own water and food.
3. Protect yourself from the sun with high SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing.
4. Overnight camping is available but spots are limited, so book well in advance.
5. Make sure to take all garbage with you to keep the park clean for future generations.