Dry Tortugas: One of the Most Underrated and Captivating National Parks in the U.S.

Prepare to be astonished by one of the most overlooked national parks in the United States upon your arrival at Dry Tortugas National Park. Located about 70 miles west of Key West in the Gulf of Mexico, over 99 percent of this park is water. It serves primarily as a marine sanctuary, hosting a diverse array of species, including angelfish, tarpon, and barracuda.

Only 40 acres of the park are above sea level, featuring seven islands vital for bird species such as warblers, vireos, and flycatchers, along with larger birds like frigatebirds and masked boobies. This park is also recognized as the most active sea turtle nesting site in the Florida Keys, with substantial populations of green and loggerhead sea turtles.

Among the natural wonders in this remote area, Fort Jefferson stands out as the park’s architectural and historical centerpiece. This former U.S. military coastal fort, constructed from 16 million bricks brought in from the mainland in 1847, sprawls across Garden Key, the second-largest island in the Dry Tortugas.

Equipped with a mask, fins, and snorkel, refer to this guide to enhance your visit.

Getting to Dry Tortugas National Park

The majority of visitors reach Dry Tortugas National Park via the 250-passenger Yankee Freedom ferry, a high-speed catamaran that travels the approximately 70 miles from the Key West Terminal Ferry located in the Historic Seaport on Grinnell Street, operating daily. The ferry departs Key West at 8 a.m. and takes around two hours and 15 minutes to arrive at the Dry Tortugas and Fort Jefferson.

Alternatively, the park can be accessed through private boat charters and seaplane services from Key West. Other travel options to Dry Tortugas include private fishing charters provided by companies like Majestic Sea Charters, Delph Fishing, and others listed on the NPS website. Reservations for these services typically fill up weeks, often months, in advance, so be sure to plan ahead.

Entrance Fees

The entry fee for Dry Tortugas National Park is $15 per person, valid for seven consecutive days. This fee is included for ferry passengers, but seaplane passengers will need to pay separately. Admission is free for children aged 15 and under.

Optimal Times to Visit Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park is open year-round, but the most enjoyable weather typically occurs from winter to early spring, leading to a surge in visitors (especially campers) from February to April.

Birdwatchers flock to the park from April to mid-May, as spring migration enhances the chances of sightings, while May and June are ideal months for snorkeling enthusiasts hoping to catch glimpses of sea turtles.

Although winter weather is generally mild in this region, be aware that the seas may become rougher and winds stronger, potentially resulting in uncomfortable ferry rides and a higher likelihood of seaplane cancellations.

What to Do If You Have Just One Day in Dry Tortugas National Park

There are two popular ways to maximize a brief yet enjoyable visit to this stunning park.

The Yankee Freedom offers a day-trip package that includes several perks, such as a buffet breakfast on board, a packed lunch for your time on land, a 45-minute guided tour of Fort Jefferson, and ample free time to snorkel (with complimentary gear provided) and relax on the beach. Great snorkeling spots include the moat wall of Fort Jefferson, where you can spot parrot fish and sergeant majors, as well as the nearby small patch reefs where large tarpon may swim by. Additionally, the remnants of the island's old wharf pilings create a perfect habitat for reef fish. (Day trips start at $220).

Guests aboard the ferry can enjoy freshwater showers to rinse off after a fun-filled day in the sun and sand.

For an exhilarating way to experience Dry Tortugas National Park, consider taking a flight with Key West Seaplane Adventures. You can opt for either half-day or full-day trips that depart from Key West and land right on the water near Fort Jefferson, allowing for 2.5 to 6.5 hours of exploration, respectively. The 40-minute flights take off in the morning, ensuring that every passenger enjoys a window seat to capture stunning views of the turquoise waters, coral reefs, and underwater landscapes. Headsets are provided for all guests, allowing you to hear the pilot’s commentary while you look out for turtles, sharks, and shipwrecks below. (Half-day excursions start at $466.)

When you arrive at the park, the plane performs a low flyover of Fort Jefferson for breathtaking views before landing on the water nearby. The company operates two 10-passenger seaplanes, and flights usually fill up two weeks ahead of time, so it’s wise to book early. Note that the seaplane cannot drop off passengers for camping at the park; if you plan to camp, you’ll need to arrive via ferry or private boat. While soft drinks and water are provided, be sure to bring your own lunch. Snorkeling gear is also included with the seaplane tour.

Tip: Remember, there’s no cell phone service in the Dry Tortugas—this is perfect for enjoying your time away from the digital world.

Dining Options in Dry Tortugas National Park

Unless you’re coming by ferry, you’ll need to bring all your food and drinks with you (and take any leftovers back). There are no restaurants, shops, water sources, fuel, or any other supplies available for purchase on any of the islands within Dry Tortugas National Park.

Campers planning to spend the night on the island need to bring all their supplies, including safe drinking water. The National Park Service suggests that each camper pack two gallons of water per person per day, along with enough food to cover their entire stay.

Accommodation Options in Dry Tortugas National Park

If you’re not arriving on a private boat with liveaboard facilities, camping is your only option for an overnight stay within Dry Tortugas National Park.

The only authorized camping area in Dry Tortugas National Park is on Garden Key, home to Fort Jefferson. There are eight designated campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis, plus an overflow area to accommodate late arrivals. Each campsite costs $15 per night, payable through a self-service box on site. While they are basic and lack electricity and running water, they do feature picnic tables and elevated grills.

If you're bringing camping gear, the ferry is your only public transport option, as the seaplane does not carry such equipment. It's crucial to pack all necessary supplies—including a freestanding tent, drinking water, ice, food, and fuel for cooking (either a gas stove or charcoal for grilling)—and remember to take all your trash with you when you leave.

Tip: The restrooms are compost toilets and are closed from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. During these hours, anyone needing to use the facilities must go aboard the commercial ferry at the dock.