Welcome to the ultimate guide for embarking on an unforgettable adventure to Dry Tortugas National Park! I’ve got you covered from transportation options to exciting activities and insider tips. Whether you are seeking history, relaxation, or natural beauty, Dry Tortugas offers it all. Join me as we dive into everything this remote paradise has to offer!
Why Visit Dry Tortugas National Park?
Dry Tortugas National Park stands as one of the most secluded gems among the National Parks. Roughly 70 miles off the coast of Key West, Florida, the park predominantly consists of water, offering an idyllic retreat for enthusiasts of both national parks and ocean wonders. Dry Tortugas holds a special place as my personal favorite among Florida’s National Parks!
Not only is it surrounded by beautiful turquoise waters, but Dry Tortugas National Park also has significant historical importance, as Fort Jefferson is one of the largest 19th-century forts in the United States. Situated on Garden Key, the fort played a pivotal role during the Civil War, serving as a Union military prison. Additionally, the park’s remote location made it an ideal spot for pirates in centuries past, adding to its rich history. Today, visitors like you and me can explore the fort’s impressive structure and learn about its fascinating past.
Getting to Dry Tortugas National Park
Transportation Options
There are only two ways to get to Dry Tortugas National Park: by boat or by seaplane.
The Yankee Freedom is the only ferry option, this is what my family and I did. It’s a 2.5-hour ride each way, leaving at 8 AM and returning around 5:30 PM. There is plenty of seating and 3 different decks for you to experience the ride outdoors. While at Dry Tortugas National Park, you are able to freely get on and off the ferry. The ferry provides breakfast, lunch, and snorkel equipment, plus there are even freshwater rinse showers for you to use after swimming. For more information about the Yankee Freedom Ferry, click here.
For those seeking a quicker mode of transportation, seaplanes offer a thrilling alternative. Taking off from Key West, these small aircrafts offer bird’s-eye views of the stunning ocean below. Offering both half-day and full-day reservations, seaplanes are a great option for those looking to spend more time at Garden Key. To learn more about seaplanes to Dry Tortugas National Park, click here.
Whether you opt for the leisurely pace of the ferry or the excitement of a seaplane ride, the journey to Dry Tortugas is an adventure in itself.
If you have access to a private boat, that is another option for getting to Dry Tortugas National Park. Learn more about private boat restrictions and permits here.
Departing From Key West
Both the ferry and seaplanes depart from Key West. I recommend having accommodations in Key West or nearby on Stock Island. Another pro tip if you are taking the ferry: stop at Cuban Coffee Queen for a morning pick-me-up! It’s just a 5-minute walk from the ferry terminal and opens early enough for you to grab a coffee or energizing breakfast before checking into the ferry.
Tips for Planning Your Trip to Dry Tortugas National Park
- Plan in advance- ferry and seaplane spots can fill up quickly, so it’s best to make arrangements as soon as you know when you want to go.
- Arrive early- if you want to be one of the first people on the ferry to claim a good spot for the 2.5-hour ride, you’ll need to be one of the first people to check in too!
- Pack lightly- while you’ll want to make sure you are fully prepared for the journey, don’t overdo it. You won’t want to carry around too much bulk while traveling to or exploring Dry Tortugas National Park.
Exciting Activities and Things to Do
Snorkeling in Dry Tortugas National Park
There’s no better way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the ocean than snorkeling. We snorkeled against the wall of the moat, where we saw tons of fish, and my mom even saw a stingray. Fish love structures, so areas that are safe yet also have underwater structures are the best places in the park to snorkel. The ferry provided snorkel gear for us, and the crew helped recommend what areas to snorkel in.
Exploring Fort Jefferson
If you are a history buff, you will love exploring Fort Jefferson. Made with over 16 million bricks, this structure is packed full of history and has ample room to explore. If you take the ferry, a free guided tour of the fort is an option for you during your visit. My family and I chose to listen to the first introduction to the history of the fort, and then explore it on our own. You can walk around the roof of the fort, offering great views into the fort and out across the ocean!
Relaxing on Pristine Beaches
Personally, there’s nothing I love more than unwinding in the sun and reading a good book. Dry Tortugas has multiple beaches for you to secure a seaside setup. Relax, eat lunch, and enjoy a dip in the ocean, the time is yours!
Camping in Dry Tortugas National Park
Want to spend a night under the stars in one of the most remote National Parks? Campsites are available on Garden Key, and you can make reservations through the Yankee Freedom Ferry. Campers must bring all their own supplies, including a tent, fresh water, ice, and food. To learn more about camping options, click here.
Insider Tips for Your Dry Tortugas National Park Adventure
Best Times to Visit
The best times to visit Dry Tortugas National Park are typically during the dry season, which spans from late fall through early spring. This period, from November to April, offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and fewer chances of rain, making outdoor activities more enjoyable. We visited in early March, and while the water was cooler than I expected, it was a sunny day with temperatures in the high 70s. It’s advisable to avoid visiting during the peak hurricane season, from June to November, when the weather can be unpredictable and potentially hazardous.
What to Bring
You’ll want to pack lightly to avoid lugging around a heavy bag, but it’s also important to be prepared as Dry Tortugas National Park is super remote. Here’s my recommended packing list:
- Swimsuit
- Shoes you can walk around in (I was fine in my Birkenstocks)
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Towel
- Snacks
- Big water bottle
- Change of dry clothes for the journey back
- Cards if you want to play a game on the ferry to pass the time
- Underwater camera
I was able to leave my backpack on a picnic table while we explored the area, which was easy and felt safe.
What to Eat
There are no restaurants, shops, water, or food on the islands of Dry Tortugas National Park, so plan accordingly. If you take the ferry, breakfast and lunch are provided, which is super convenient. We had bagels for breakfast and Jersey Mike subs with chips for lunch. They also offered yogurt, fruit, and cookies, as well as lemonade and iced tea during lunch. In addition to these offerings, there are snacks and soft drinks available for purchase on the ferry. With the warm weather, I recommend packing snacks that won’t melt. My go-to’s are Nature Valley granola bars, mixed nuts, and fruit snacks. Rice Krispy Treats are also great for a little treat.
My Personal Experience in Dry Tortugas National Park
As I mentioned, Dry Tortugas tops my list of Florida’s National Parks. The excitement of reaching this remote spot is unbeatable, and the stunning ocean vistas only add to the allure. With a solid 4-hour window at the park, I savored every moment, from strolling the walking path on top of the fort’s structure to snorkeling among schools of fish. After lunch and a wander around the moat, my family and I explored deeper into the fort, finding hidden gems like the dungeon in which Dr. Mudd was imprisoned. Thanks to the ferry’s freshwater showers, I rinsed off and changed into dry clothes before the journey back to Key West.
To make the most of your visit, decide which activities you want to do ahead of time, take a look at a map, and keep a close eye on the weather forecast as your trip approaches.
Exploring Dry Tortugas National Park is an unforgettable adventure, blending rich history with breathtaking natural beauty. From snorkeling against the moat’s wall to uncovering the secrets of Fort Jefferson, every moment is truly a treasure. Don’t miss the chance to relax on pristine beaches or even camp under the stars. With careful planning and an enthusiasm for discovery, your trip to Dry Tortugas National Park will be nothing short of extraordinary!