Located seventy miles west of Key West and surrounded entirely by the Gulf of Mexico, Dry Tortugas National Park feels like a world set apart from everything else. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the park is made up of seven small islands and the crystal-clear waters that surround them. White sand beaches, coral reefs, and shallow turquoise seas define this remote paradise. Above the water, the historic brick walls of Fort Jefferson rise from Garden Key, creating a striking contrast between human history and natural beauty. Below the surface, vibrant marine life thrives among coral heads, sea grass, and schools of colorful fish.
Dry Tortugas became a national park in 1992 to protect both its remarkable marine ecosystems and its significant cultural history. Fort Jefferson, one of the largest masonry structures in the Western Hemisphere, tells stories of nineteenth century military strategy and life on the frontier. The surrounding waters hold even older stories, marked by shipwrecks that once navigated these shallow reefs and treacherous passages. Together, the islands and reefs create a place where history, nature, and solitude come together in a way that feels timeless.
The park is a haven for snorkelers, divers, and anyone seeking an untouched marine world. Coral reefs flourish in the warm, clear water, providing habitat for angelfish, parrotfish, sea turtles, and countless other species. On land, migrating birds stop to rest on the islands, making the park an important site along the Atlantic Flyway. Visitors can explore the massive brick corridors of Fort Jefferson, relax on quiet beaches, or float above reefs that seem to glow in the sunlight. Every view in the Dry Tortugas feels like a glimpse into a tropical dream.
Conservation at Dry Tortugas National Park focuses on protecting its coral reefs, marine wildlife, and fragile island ecosystems. The National Park Service works with scientists and conservation groups to monitor reef health, protect breeding grounds for birds and turtles, and manage the effects of climate change on this delicate environment. Because the park is so remote, responsible visitation is essential. Guests are encouraged to pack out all belongings, avoid disturbing wildlife, and treat the land and water with respect. Dry Tortugas National Park is a testament to the beauty of isolation, the resilience of marine life, and the importance of preserving places that feel truly wild.
Our Experience
This is probably one of the most remote parks we've visited. To get there, you have to take a 3.5 hour boat ride from the southern most part of the US in the Florida Keys! Once you arrive to the island you can hike, snorkel and even kayak to other nearby islands. Some areas of the island are restricted because of the man o war nesting areas! There is also opportunity to stay overnight at the park, which we plan on doing one day!