Pin this Dry Tortugas day trip guide for later!Some areas recommended for experienced snorkelers; jellyfish spotted in the swimming area; bring Dramamine for the boat ride.
People Also Ask
Located some 70 miles west of Key West, and consisting of wide-open water and a smattering of small islands, Dry Tortugas is actually the wettest national park in the country—one that necessitates swimming and snorkeling to really grasp its breadth.
The coral reefs and beaches at Dry Tortugas National Park are littered with derelict lobster and crab traps, rope and other debris. This debris harms seabirds, sea turtles and reef resources by crushing, breaking, smothering reef structures and organisms; obstructing nesting habitat; and interfering with foraging.
Dry Tortugas is a cluster of seven islands located about 70 miles west of the Florida Keys. Of course, one of the reasons for its low visitorship is that it's only accessible by boat or seaplane.
For nearly 14 years, one individual American Crocodile was a resident at Dry Tortugas. No other crocodiles have been recorded in this location for at least the past century. Until recently, this male crocodile spent most of its time in areas of Garden Key and Bush Key that were not heavily used by visitors.
If you normally do take it – you should really consider taking it before you get on. The boat ride for us was very rocky on the way there and not quite as bad on the way back but I wouldn't call it smooth. Tip 2: Bring Dramamine with you! Click here to buy your tickets for the Dry Tortugas.
Unfortunately, while the Dry Tortugas were an attractive destination for marauding pirates, they were also the site of some 200 shipwrecks before the construction of the lighthouse on Loggerhead Key.
Dry Tortugas National Park: 6It's a remote spot of seven small islands about 70 nautical miles west of Key West. It is, in fact, one of the least-visited national parks in the country.
Weather of Dry Tortugas National ParkThe Keys are hot and humid during the wet summer season and the insects bite and swarm. Be aware that seas are rough from October through January. Always wear sun screen whenever you visit.
There are no services available in the Dry Tortugas. Visitors must plan to bring everything they need for their trip with them. All garbage and waste must be packed out with you when you depart. All visitors should carefully monitor the weather before traveling to the park.
Located in the southwest corner of the Florida Keys reef system, Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote park that is more than 99% water. Its crystal clear ocean waters abound with incredible marine life.
If visiting the Florida Keys then be sure to continue on go all the way to the Dry Tortugas National Park! It is a paradise away from the crowds and deep into the Caribbean. Enjoy the stories of the past and the stunning blue waters of this tropical environment.