Dry Tortugas National Park

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Top 2% of attractions in Key West
8 / 10

10 expert reviews

“Encompassing over 100sq mi in the Gulf of Mexico, the Dry Tortugas National Park protects the small cluster of reef islands known as the Dry Tortugas.”

– Michelin Guide

Concierge Concierge
"These seven islands 70 miles west of Key West are a snorkeler's dream."
Fodor's Fodor's
"This park, 70 miles off the shores of Key West, consists of seven small islands." Full review
Fodor's Fodor's
"If you can't make it out to see Fort Jefferson in Dry Tortugas National Park, this is the next best thing. Opened in 2013 by the national park's official ferry commissioner, this free..." Full review
Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
"If you've got enough time for a day trip, hop the ferry to the Dry Tortugas National Park; the seven islands, 70 miles west of Key West, are like a trip back in time to the earliest days of the Keys." Full review
Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
"It's 99% underwater, which means the beaches it does have across its seven islands provide a stunning contrast between the pristine turquoise of the ocean and the sun-bleached white of the sand."
i
The park is only accessible by seaplane or ferry, so you'll need to camp if you want more than a day trip to this gorgeous spot.
Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
"As travel trends come and go, national parks never lose their appeal. But a national park that’s 99 percent underwater, located 70 miles from civilization, and accessible only by seaplane..."
i
However, most visitors choose to spend only a day, filling their visit with diving, swimming, snorkeling, ranger-guided tours, wildlife spotting, and touring historic Fort Jefferson.
Lonely Planet Lonely Planet
"It rewards you for your effort in getting there with amazing snorkeling amid coral reefs full of marine life. You'll also get to tour a beautifully preserved 19th-century brick fort" Full review
Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
"Composed mostly of open seas and seven small islands. Garden Key is home to 19th century Fort Jefferson, its brick walls starkly contrasting the dazzling blue waters around it. "
Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
"70 miles from the mainland and 99 percent underwater. Its isolated and hard-to-reach location is part of the appeal, as are its incredible blue waters and historic fort."