Is it safe to snorkel Dry Tortugas?

Dry Tortugas National Park offers some of the best snorkeling in North America. Whether you are a beginner or expert, you can enjoy a myriad of colorful tropical fish and living coral. Snorkeling is in only four to seven feet of water, straight off a brilliant white sand beach.



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Located off the north side of Loggerhead Key, this area is protected, shallow, and calm-a great place for snorkelers, and under most conditions, for children. Juvenile barracuda, lobsters, corals heads, soft corals, and tropical fish are usually visible.

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The Key West seas (both out on the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean) tend to be rougher and the winds stronger from October through January. Thus, the best time to come out to the Dry Tortugas is probably from February through April.

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Is It Safe To Go Snorkeling In The Florida Keys? Any water sport comes with some level of danger, and snorkeling is no different. The coral reefs are living, and house dangerous sea creatures, as well as other dangers that can be in that environment. But overall, snorkeling while in the Florida Keys is fairly safe.

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Yes, there are sharks in Dry Tortugas National Park.

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A definite yes! I wasn't sure as well if it was going to be worth the money and worth the money to stay in the party town of Key West for a couple of nights. But let me tell you not only is Dry Tortugas one of the best national parks i have been too, it is almost a life-changing experience!

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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.

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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.

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Sea turtles are often sighted around Dry Tortugas National Park. Originally named Las Tortugas (Spanish for The Turtles) by Ponce de Leon in 1513, this collection of small sand and coral islands is famous for the abundance of sea turtles that annually nest in the area.

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Where to Snorkel at Dry Tortugas National Park. There are two primary snorkeling areas at Dry Tortugas, both of which will be noted on your campground map. One is by the dock ruins on North Beach, and the others is by the dock ruins (and moat wall) on South Beach.

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Dry Tortugas National Park is near the southwestern edge of the Florida Platform. This broad, flat, carbonate platform is only partially exposed above sea level as the Florida peninsula. The submerged portion of the platform extends to water depths of about 300 feet (90 meters).

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Weather of Dry Tortugas National Park The 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.

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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.

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*Composting toilets are available for campers from 3:00 PM - 10:30 AM daily. At all other times, the bathrooms and fresh water rinse (no soap allowed), aboard the Yankee Freedom Ferry can be utilized.

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May will offer the best snorkeling in the Florida Keys. The weather is warm during May, and the waters are perfect for snorkeling – calm and clear!

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