Why do people visit Dry Tortugas?

The Tortugas are the only place in the continental United States where endangered sooty terns nest, and they're home to the only known nesting colony of frigate birds. In the summer, these magnificent creatures patrol the skies over Fort Jefferson, peering at the tourists below.



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Situated in the Gulf of Mexico, 70 miles west of Key West, the Dry Tortugas is known for its stunning natural beauty, wildlife, beaches, coral reefs, campgrounds and array of activities both in and out of the water.

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Established as a national park in 1992, Dry Tortugas is the third-largest coral barrier reef in the world and the only tropical reef in the continental United States. Despite the “dry” part of its name, the park is 99 percent underwater (bring a swimsuit).

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There are very few national parks where you only need a few hours to see the highlights, and Dry Tortugas National Park is one of them. In just a few hours, you can explore Fort Jefferson, walk around Bush Key (if it is open), and go snorkeling or swimming.

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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.

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Check-in time is at 7 am (6:30 am for campers). The ferry departs at 8:00 am and it takes 2.5 hours to get to Dry Tortugas National Park. You spend 4.5 hours in the park.

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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.

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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.

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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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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.

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Facilities at Dry Tortugas: No public restrooms are available, so you will have to return to the boat if you need to use the facilities. There are change rooms on the ferry dock and a hose to rinse off after snorkeling.

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Collecting is prohibited. Help protect the Dry Tortugas! Please do not remove seashells, coral, sand, brick, glass, stone, metal or any other natural or historic objects from the premises. If you find an artifact, please do not move or disturb it, and promptly call park staff.

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We did the half day trip by seaplane. We really enjoyed our time in the Dry Tortugas and wished we had more than two and a half hours. However, 6.5 hours is a long time to spend here. It's worth it, if you have that kind of money to spend, and if you want to take your time here.

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The campground is a self-service fee area with a nightly fee of: $15 per night, per individual site. $30 per night for the LARGE group site.

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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.

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