Dry Tortugas National Park is 70 miles from Key West, Florida. It is home to one of the most unique and remote national parks in the country. The park consists of 99% water and seven small islands. It is one of the beautiful destinations that you should not miss.
The park also protects numerous species like sea turtles, colorful reef fish, spiny lobster, and many other marine creatures. Dry Tortugas is not an easy-to-reach park. There are only three ways to get to the park ferry, seaplane, or private boat.
Best Time To Visit Dry Tortugas National Park
The best time to visit Dry Tortugas National Park is summer when the sea is calm and perfect. During summer you also get a chance to see the sea turtles come on land and lay their eggs. If you don’t like hot weather you can go in October through January, but the wind will be stronger and you can’t go for ferry rides and diving.
Expense To Visit Dry Tortugas National Park
A 7-day entrance fee for Dry Tortugas National Park is $15 per person. For a person under the age of 16 is free.
Camping Fees
- Individual Campsites cost $15 per night.
- Group Campsite costs $30 per night. Need reservations.
- For children under 16 years old are free
Things To Do In Dry Tortugas National Park
Fishing at Dry Tortugas:
Fishing in Dry Tortugas is allowed except designated Research Natural Areas. is allowed everywhere in the Dry Tortugas except in the 46 percent of the park designated Research Natural Areas. When you go fishing you need to have a Florida fishing license and saltwater stamp. Spearfishing and lobstering are not allowed. You need to use only “circle” hooks “J” hooks are not permitted.
Tour Fort Jefferson
Fort Jefferson tour is one of the must-do activities in Dry Tortugas. The park provides a 45 to 60 minute guided tour led by expert naturalists. You can even download a self-guided tour of Fort Jefferson from the government website and view it on your cell phone. The fort was built to protect its eastern border and its largest masonry structure.
Diving
Diving is the most popular and adventurous activity to do in Dry Tortugas. The park has amazing marine life, you can get into the sea and see the beauty under the water. All coral, reef fish, and cultural artifacts are protected, make sure that you don’t touch them.
Birdwatching
Dry Tortugas is one of the top birding destinations in North America. The seven tiny islands of Dry Tortugas are layovers for migrating birds. The park has 299 bird species. You can spot frigate birds that feed the fish that swim around the reefs and even thousands of sooty terns nest here. If you are a bird lover you get to see spectacular scenery.
Boating
Dry Tortugas is the only national park where water sports are a major attraction. You can bring your own boat to Dry Tortugas and explore the beauty of the park.