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Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park [1] is a United States National Park that contains a cluster of islands about 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, USA on Garden Key.

Culture and History

History

Construction of Fort Jefferson was begun in 1846 but never completed. President Franklin Roosevelt declared it and the waters surrounding it a National Monument in 1935.

Landscape

Flora and fauna

Climate

The Dry Tortugas exist in a subtropical climate. Temperatures range from the mid-50s to mid-80s. April and May are often idyllic. There are essentially two seasons: The winter season (December-March), which can be windy with rough seas, and the tropical storm season (June-November) during which Dry Tortugas experiences both hot, humid weather and calm seas or severe weather events. Due to our ever-changing weather patterns, an accurate weather forecast is recommended before your visit.

Travel to Dry Tortugas National Park & Visa Requirements

Today, it is open year round during daylight hours, and is only accessible by boat or seaplane.

  • Key West Seaplane Service [2]
  • Sunny Days Catamaran Ferry [3]

Fees/Permits

A seven day pass is $5 for adults.

Tours & Getting around Dry Tortugas National Park

This is a cluster of 7 small islands. As such the only way to reach them (and travel between them) is by boat or seaplane.

The largest of the islands, Garden Key, hosts Fort Jefferson. Walking tours are provided and snorkeling is a must. All traffic is on foot.

Dry Tortugas National Park attractions and sightseeing