The ferry boat is called the Yankee Freedom III, and its official website includes current pricing information and schedules. see our full Sun Protection article for suggestions, Our friend and trusted travel planner Jenn can help, Students 17+, Active Military, Senior 62+, Climb to the top of the wall and walk the perimeter, Enjoy a picnic lunch on the top of the fort, Get artsy with your photography, photographing the architecture and windows to the sea, Bird watch: magnificent frigate birds, osprey, cormorants, masked boobies and terns, Walk the moat wall it circles all of Fort Jefferson, but there is a small gap you cannot pass on the west side, Spend a few minutes at the Visitor Center watching the video and talking to the rangers, Ferry Departure 8:00 am / Return to Key West 5:30 pm, Seating on the ferry is indoors or out, lower or upper decks, During COVID pandemic, masks are required at all times onboard, Time at Fort Jefferson / Dry Tortugas NP is approximately 5 hours, There are no bathrooms for you to use on the island, must return to boat, Underwater camera / waterproof phone case, Snorkel gear (if you dont want to use whats provided). Ah man! For the ride back to Key West there are desserts and alcoholic drinks for purchase (really good ones! While this area is closed to swimming for the protection of the wildlife and habitat, you can still enjoy laying on the beach and exploring the sands. However, in order to transport a gas grill to the park, youll have to arrive on a personal vessel. It should be a bucket list must, especially for those who love exploring the ocean and wildlife. We are booked to go via ferry in June, and while much may change between now and then, I was wondering how strict they were about mask wearing once you're off the boat?
While Fort Jefferson was never fully completed, it still served a purpose, much like Fort Clinch in North Florida. I think that exploring the fort on you own is fine, especially since there are exhibits everywhere. The views from the plane are of the gorgeous turquoise waters of the Florida Keys, ending with a birds eye view of Fort Jefferson.. Were happy to help! Today, visiting Dry Tortugas National Park provides an opportunity to experience a rare desert island paradise just a day trip from the United States mainland. Inside Fort Jefferson, youll find long corridors or archways, spiral staircases in the dark, and overgrown ramparts. North Beach is also a great spot for snorkeling at Dry Tortugas National Park. Just hoping when we're outdoors and mostly away from others, they won't expect us to be masked thank you!!!
Categories Florida, Florida Keys, National Parks, Southeastern US, United States, Unique North Florida Vacation Plan: Jax, Daytona and the Springs, Favorite Things to Do in Savannah in Any Season. This unstable weather can make it difficult to get to Dry Tortugas, but winter is a good time to visit if your main goal is to beat the crowds. The seaplane is a huge expense for a family, and while it gives amazing views and is lots of fun, the ferry gets my vote. The weather is always pleasant to guests, though of course it is unbeatable during the early spring months, thanks to the lack of hot weather, rains, or heavy winds.
The half day trip is about 4 hours, with two and a half hours at the park. The two main seasons are the winter stormy season from December through March which is windier and sees slightly rougher seas, and the summertime tropical storm season from June through November where there is a higher chance of isolated storms (including tropical storms and hurricanes). There are a few ways visitors can get to Dry Tortugas on privately owned boats, the Yankee Freedom ferry, or a seaplane. Mating and hatching typically take place at night, and the beaches that see the greatest turtle activity are closed at crucial times to protect these endangered animals. While ideal conditions will make for a smooth trip out to For Jefferson, medium to large swells can occur making for a very nauseating trip. It is a full day experience and most of that will be spent on board the ferry. The summer months bring it to above 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes snorkeling and kayaking difficult and there is an increased chance of seasickness on the ferry. The ferry has space to roam around and as long as people don't get seasick and/or the seas are calm, it's not a bad journey at all. Copyright 2022 2TravelDads, St Augustine FL, Dry Tortugas Ferry: the Yankee Freedom III, Cost and Schedule for the Dry Tortugas Ferry, Things to Know about the Dry Tortugas Ferry, Things to do at Dry Tortugas National Park, Dive and Snorkeling Trips at Dry Tortugas National Park, Exploring Fort Jefferson, a Civil War Era Fortress, Things to do at Fort Jefferson, Dry Tortugas NP, Things to Know Before Visiting Dry Tortugas NP, Weather and Preparedness for Visiting DTNP. For the ultimate adventure in Dry Tortugas National Park, visit Loggerhead Key. 
Heres the 2021 rates for reservations on the Dry Tortugas ferry (prices in USD not inclusive of taxes): The price of your ferry tickets for Dry Tortugas includes National Park admission. Entrance Fee: $15 per person, valid for 7 days. If you dont want to take the ranger guided tour, go snorkeling and swimming first, and visit Bush Key. Visitors can see parts of the fort where he was imprisoned. Explore Fort Jefferson first and then go for a stroll around Bush Key and visit one or two snorkeling spots. Both leave from Key West, Florida. Read More: How To Camp In The Rain And Not Be Miserable. HALF DAY BY SEAPLANE: If you choose the seaplane day trip option, you will only have 2.5 hours in the Dry Tortugas. If youve done the road trip through the Florida Keys and then done the boat all the way out here, beach time and exploring underwater is going to be so refreshing and wonderful! 
Read More: Review: Faver-Dykes State Park in St. Augustine. Dry Tortugas National Park is an underrated gem in the national park system. ineed to get down there. The summer season, from June to November, is considerably warmer and more stable, with clear skies and minimal wind, though occasional severe storms, including hurricanes, are a possibility. Youll want to make sure you pack a change of clothes if youll be getting in the water, sunscreen, a towel, snorkel equipment, sunglasses, a camera, and any special snacks. If you are camping, then definitely do it. October through January is one of the best times to visit Dry Tortugas National Park, when Bush Key is open. The best time to visit is during the summer time, which runs from May to October. Then tour the fort later in the day, when it is less crowded. And kids who complete their Junior Ranger program earn a special dessert for the ride back (see the Yankee Freedom ferry crew for the treat). During the winter months (November through April), brief periods of windy conditions can create large swells of water. 
Both breakfast and lunch are provided as a part of your passage on the Yankee Freedom III, but youre welcome to bring your own food. one of the best things to do on a visit to the Dry Tortugas. Learn about the national parks in the United States in our. Boating permits to be within the National Park boundaries are free, but you must register with the National Park Service once you arrive at the Fort. Tip: anti-nausea medicines are helpful for some people, but for others they can make them so tired that its difficult to move past. Its remote location has kept it a secret from most visitors to the Florida Keys, and even among National Park fiends its not a commonly visited park. There are several dive companies in the Florida Keys that can work with you to create a Dry Tortugas diving plan. Keep in mind that there arent any souvenir or convenience stores at the Park, so make sure you bring a few essentials with you. Go for a Swim. End the day with a stroll around Bush Key. Departure is at 8:00 am and then its a 2+ hour boat ride to the dock at Fort Jefferson in Dry Tortugas National Park. The Florida Keys have amazing weather year-round, save the few days where hurricanes or tropical storms pass by. From camping at Dry Tortugas to snorkeling, to the history of Fort Jefferson well answer all your questions here. Dry Tortugas National Park lies within a subtropical climate zone, with warm, humid weather and temperatures typically ranging from 60 to 90 degrees F. Two seasons dominate most of the year. Visit Fort Jefferson first, then go snorkeling and swimming.
By continuing to browse this website you are agreeing to our use of cookies. The Dry Tortugas ferry is a large catamaran called the Yankee Freedom III. Get your America The Beautiful National Park Pass here! Learn more on theNational Park Service website. There are two ways to get to the Dry Tortugas: Best US National Parks Month-By-Month series. Book passage to Dry Tortugas National Park here! There is a small primitive campground not far from the public dock with 11 individual campsites, most of which are only able to accommodate a two-person tent. That said, dont expect to see turtle nests or hatchling turtles. They are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Vegetation has taken over much of the interior of Fort Jefferson, and with that comes wildlife, particularly birds.
Known for being home to Fort Jefferson, a former military fortification with a moat wall, it was used as a prison during the Civil War, the islands also serve as a nature preserve for various wildlife. So were sharing our favorite things to do and tips for getting the most out of your visit to Dry Tortugas National Park. It is also possible that the ferry may not run if the sea is very rough. On a road trip through the Florida Keys, not only can you visit Key West and Dry Tortugas National Park, but you can also visit two more national parks, Everglades and Biscayne. Since the seaplane and Yankee Freedom ferry leaves from Key West, most people visit the Dry Tortugas on a trip to Key West and the Florida Keys. Go snorkeling. Thats why Bush and Long Keys are both off limits to humans. Youll first have to check in at Fort Jefferson to get a free permit and be provided with information on where you may drop anchor and fish. This is where most visitors will spend their time. The highlight of exploring Fort Jefferson is either the walk around the top of the fort wall or the walk on the moat wall. Garden Key has a designated area for snorkeling thats great for beginners, as well as all skill levels. Spend the night on Garden Key. Others tell stories of rough waves and countess people vomiting off the back of the boat. Of the two seasons, summer is certainly the preferred time to visit Dry Tortugas, though a strong case could be made that the brief spring season late April to early June is the best time to experience the islands. There are also old coal docks to explore here, but the current is a bit stronger and the waves are larger on breezy days. The Yankee Freedom III ferry is the only boat that operates day trips down to Garden Key. I want to make sure we have time for everything! If youre visiting in the summer months, make sure to pack a rain poncho or rain jacket, as afternoon showers operate like clockwork in Florida during the summer. The winter times are milder in temperature and drier in general. In the wintertime, the average temperature is in the mid sixties. Youll definitely see a variety of tropical fish and perhaps nurse sharks. Remember that youre in a National Park, so removal of natural objects and harassing wildlife is not permitted. Richard Corrigan has been a full-time freelance writer since 2009, and has always considered himself lucky to be able to combine his passion for travel with his love of writing. The climate in the Dry Tortugas is subtropical, which basically means that it has warm and tropical weather in the range of 60F to 90F. Coral, tropical fish, and sea turtles can all be seen here. There are only two ways youll be able to transport your gear to the island, either through the ferry or a private boat. Im curious whats best if you want to have time to snorkel and explore. And no, theres no Key Lime Pie available at Fort Jefferson but I supposed you could make your own key lime pie to bring. They offer flights throughout the day, and you can choose between a half day visit and a full day visit. For more information on how to do this, take a look at our Florida Keys Itinerary.
For this reason, our charters that head out to the Dry Tortugas tend to be completely filled up during these months, making it more difficult to be able to get out to the Dry Tortugas during your visit. The Dry Tortugas are home to some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Florida. Dry Tortugas National Park is made up of seven islands: Garden Key, Loggerhead Key, Bush Key, Long Key, Hospital Key, Middle Key and East Key. Tip: be sure to get your National Park Passport stamp at the Dry Tortugas National Park Visitor Center inside Fort Jefferson. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you. The islands were discovered in 1513 by Ponce de Leon, who named them Las Tortugas after the giant sea turtles that abound in the surrounding waters. The only fire allowed is grilling with charcoal or propane. If you dont have all day to spend at Dry Tortugas and dont mind spending a little money, Key West Seaplane Adventure Chartercan get you down to the national park in about 40 minutes, each way. If you are on your own exploring, you're okay without your mask. Its great seeing you did this town two small kids! Even though the ferry does sell several items onboard, for example, food and drinks, T-shirts, sunscreen, towels, and hats, they dont have an endless supply. Beyond the two swimming beaches, there is also an incredible stretch of beach to walk along the isthmus towards Bush Key. Most of the park is water, but it is also home to coral reefs, bird nesting grounds, and historic Fort Jefferson. We were staying at the Laureate Key West hotel when we first did the Dry Tortugas ferry, so we had to park in the public lot. Fort Jefferson is the largest brick structure in the Western Hemisphere. The islands were later renamed the Dry Tortugas to let sailors know that there was no fresh water to be found here. Dry Tortugas is accessible only by water, making it one of Americas most remote national parks. Garden Key, which is the arrival point for the boats and the seaplanes, is also home to Fort Jefferson. The calm waters of summer make this season perfect for checking out the underwater portions of the park, with ideal swimming and snorkeling conditions. You can tour the fort on your own or take a ranger guided tour. They do offer dramamine for purchase on board, but if you have had success with the small anti-nausea patches, come prepared with them. We had calm weather while we were here. You cannot snorkel along Bush Key, which is attached to Garden Key (the main island) or the adjacent Long Key. People throw around the phrase pristine beaches like its a volleyball, but the beaches of Dry Tortugas National Park are actually pristine. Thank you so much! Since it is so remote, there is a good chance that you will have it all to yourself. Get your America The Beautiful National Park Pass here!
I seem to be in Florida at least once or twice a year but never get down to the Keyes. Setting realistic expectations of your day and what youll encounter or need will ensure a fun trip. If you are lucky enough to have a boat or have a friend with a boat, and want to head down on your own, keep in mind that you cant just drop anchor anywhere you want. The white sandy beach is your walking trail and the views of Fort Jefferson and Garden Key are spectacular. Most people agree that the best time to visit the Dry Tortugas is from the months of November through April. To get here, you will kayak 3 miles one-way from Garden Key. There are three main snorkeling areas to explore: the north and south swim beaches, and the moat wall. I am working on a trip though to go right here! While you can sail out to the islands (Las Tortugas) on your own vessel, most people visit via the Dry Tortugas ferry. Also attached to South Beach is an outcropping of the old coal docks, which are now teeming with undersea life. Visiting Dry Tortugas, check the weather the day before to see what it should be like, and plan appropriately. Thus, the best time to come out to the Dry Tortugas is probably from February through April. Flying out of Key West, the travel time is about 40 minutes. These islands serve as the nesting site for nearly 300 species of birds. The Junior Ranger packet is not a crazy one (you should see the Yellowstone NP packet!) That is much more complex and technical, including food/water requirements. Then spend the rest of your time snorkeling, swimming, and walking around Bush Key. Thats why the coal docks are there. Its close to the camping area at Dry Tortugas. Annual Visitors: 84,000 in 2021, making it the 9th least visited park this year. The ferry service does not allow passengers to bring propane bottles onboard. Remember, you can only look and not touch as the coral and shells are protected by law. FULL DAY BY SEAPLANE: With a full day by seaplane, you now have 6.5 hours in the Dry Tortugas. These are the best things to do at Fort Jefferson: Its easy to get sucked into the wonder of Fort Jefferson and its history, so if you plan on snorkeling and relaxing, be sure to keep an eye on the time. Loggerhead Key sits about 3 miles from Garden Key, so you will need a boat to get here. When the weather is nice, its typically 70s and 80s, so not too bad at all. The star gazing is incredible and so are the sunsets. Tips for the United States Virgin Islands, National Park Service: Dry Tortugas National Park - Basic Information, National Park Service: Dry Tortugas National Park - Frequently Asked Questions, National Park Service: Dry Tortugas National Park - Weather, National Park Service: Dry Tortugas National Park - Wildlife Viewing, National Park Service: Dry Tortugas National Park - Sea Turtles, National Park Service: Dry Tortugas National Park - Things To Do, National Park Service: Dry Tortugas National Park - Goods & Services, Dry Tortugas Info: The Turtles of The Dry Tortugas, Yankee Freedom II: Dry Tortugas National Park Ferry, Key West Seaplane Adventures: Seaplane Tours of Dry Tortugas and Fort Jefferson, Information on Dry Tortugas National Park in Key West, Florida, Outdoor Activities in Isle of Palms, South Carolina, Privacy Notice/Your California Privacy Rights. Hurricane Season is all summer (June November) so keep an eye on reports and hurricane tracking. Our website uses cookies. The National Park Service website offers a wealth of additional information to help plan a visit, including maps of the islands and up-to-date weather reports. Beyond the pristine beaches and crystal clear waters, the iconic Fort Jefferson is the other attraction at Dry Tortugas National Park. They also offer special rates for students (ages 17 or older) with ID, active military, and senior citizens (ages 62 or older). There are two ways to get to the Dry Tortugas: by seaplane and by boat. And if you decide to snorkel outside the designated area, you must display an approved dive flag. The average temperature in the summer is in the mid 80s. Walking around this key was one of our favorite experiences in the park. Regardless of the season, be sure to check the weather forecast before visiting. Dry Tortugas is definitely in a category of its own when it comes to National Parks. Our recommendation is to book your spaceswell in advance if you plan on coming during these months.
While Fort Jefferson was never fully completed, it still served a purpose, much like Fort Clinch in North Florida. I think that exploring the fort on you own is fine, especially since there are exhibits everywhere. The views from the plane are of the gorgeous turquoise waters of the Florida Keys, ending with a birds eye view of Fort Jefferson.. Were happy to help! Today, visiting Dry Tortugas National Park provides an opportunity to experience a rare desert island paradise just a day trip from the United States mainland. Inside Fort Jefferson, youll find long corridors or archways, spiral staircases in the dark, and overgrown ramparts. North Beach is also a great spot for snorkeling at Dry Tortugas National Park. Just hoping when we're outdoors and mostly away from others, they won't expect us to be masked thank you!!!
Categories Florida, Florida Keys, National Parks, Southeastern US, United States, Unique North Florida Vacation Plan: Jax, Daytona and the Springs, Favorite Things to Do in Savannah in Any Season. This unstable weather can make it difficult to get to Dry Tortugas, but winter is a good time to visit if your main goal is to beat the crowds. The seaplane is a huge expense for a family, and while it gives amazing views and is lots of fun, the ferry gets my vote. The weather is always pleasant to guests, though of course it is unbeatable during the early spring months, thanks to the lack of hot weather, rains, or heavy winds.
The half day trip is about 4 hours, with two and a half hours at the park. The two main seasons are the winter stormy season from December through March which is windier and sees slightly rougher seas, and the summertime tropical storm season from June through November where there is a higher chance of isolated storms (including tropical storms and hurricanes). There are a few ways visitors can get to Dry Tortugas on privately owned boats, the Yankee Freedom ferry, or a seaplane. Mating and hatching typically take place at night, and the beaches that see the greatest turtle activity are closed at crucial times to protect these endangered animals. While ideal conditions will make for a smooth trip out to For Jefferson, medium to large swells can occur making for a very nauseating trip. It is a full day experience and most of that will be spent on board the ferry. The summer months bring it to above 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes snorkeling and kayaking difficult and there is an increased chance of seasickness on the ferry. The ferry has space to roam around and as long as people don't get seasick and/or the seas are calm, it's not a bad journey at all. Copyright 2022 2TravelDads, St Augustine FL, Dry Tortugas Ferry: the Yankee Freedom III, Cost and Schedule for the Dry Tortugas Ferry, Things to Know about the Dry Tortugas Ferry, Things to do at Dry Tortugas National Park, Dive and Snorkeling Trips at Dry Tortugas National Park, Exploring Fort Jefferson, a Civil War Era Fortress, Things to do at Fort Jefferson, Dry Tortugas NP, Things to Know Before Visiting Dry Tortugas NP, Weather and Preparedness for Visiting DTNP. For the ultimate adventure in Dry Tortugas National Park, visit Loggerhead Key. Heres the 2021 rates for reservations on the Dry Tortugas ferry (prices in USD not inclusive of taxes): The price of your ferry tickets for Dry Tortugas includes National Park admission. Entrance Fee: $15 per person, valid for 7 days. If you dont want to take the ranger guided tour, go snorkeling and swimming first, and visit Bush Key. Visitors can see parts of the fort where he was imprisoned. Explore Fort Jefferson first and then go for a stroll around Bush Key and visit one or two snorkeling spots. Both leave from Key West, Florida. Read More: How To Camp In The Rain And Not Be Miserable. HALF DAY BY SEAPLANE: If you choose the seaplane day trip option, you will only have 2.5 hours in the Dry Tortugas. If youve done the road trip through the Florida Keys and then done the boat all the way out here, beach time and exploring underwater is going to be so refreshing and wonderful! Read More: Review: Faver-Dykes State Park in St. Augustine. Dry Tortugas National Park is an underrated gem in the national park system. ineed to get down there. The summer season, from June to November, is considerably warmer and more stable, with clear skies and minimal wind, though occasional severe storms, including hurricanes, are a possibility. Youll want to make sure you pack a change of clothes if youll be getting in the water, sunscreen, a towel, snorkel equipment, sunglasses, a camera, and any special snacks. If you are camping, then definitely do it. October through January is one of the best times to visit Dry Tortugas National Park, when Bush Key is open. The best time to visit is during the summer time, which runs from May to October. Then tour the fort later in the day, when it is less crowded. And kids who complete their Junior Ranger program earn a special dessert for the ride back (see the Yankee Freedom ferry crew for the treat). During the winter months (November through April), brief periods of windy conditions can create large swells of water. Both breakfast and lunch are provided as a part of your passage on the Yankee Freedom III, but youre welcome to bring your own food. one of the best things to do on a visit to the Dry Tortugas. Learn about the national parks in the United States in our. Boating permits to be within the National Park boundaries are free, but you must register with the National Park Service once you arrive at the Fort. Tip: anti-nausea medicines are helpful for some people, but for others they can make them so tired that its difficult to move past. Its remote location has kept it a secret from most visitors to the Florida Keys, and even among National Park fiends its not a commonly visited park. There are several dive companies in the Florida Keys that can work with you to create a Dry Tortugas diving plan. Keep in mind that there arent any souvenir or convenience stores at the Park, so make sure you bring a few essentials with you. Go for a Swim. End the day with a stroll around Bush Key. Departure is at 8:00 am and then its a 2+ hour boat ride to the dock at Fort Jefferson in Dry Tortugas National Park. The Florida Keys have amazing weather year-round, save the few days where hurricanes or tropical storms pass by. From camping at Dry Tortugas to snorkeling, to the history of Fort Jefferson well answer all your questions here. Dry Tortugas National Park lies within a subtropical climate zone, with warm, humid weather and temperatures typically ranging from 60 to 90 degrees F. Two seasons dominate most of the year. Visit Fort Jefferson first, then go snorkeling and swimming. By continuing to browse this website you are agreeing to our use of cookies. The Dry Tortugas ferry is a large catamaran called the Yankee Freedom III. Get your America The Beautiful National Park Pass here! Learn more on theNational Park Service website. There are two ways to get to the Dry Tortugas: Best US National Parks Month-By-Month series. Book passage to Dry Tortugas National Park here! There is a small primitive campground not far from the public dock with 11 individual campsites, most of which are only able to accommodate a two-person tent. That said, dont expect to see turtle nests or hatchling turtles. They are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Vegetation has taken over much of the interior of Fort Jefferson, and with that comes wildlife, particularly birds.
Known for being home to Fort Jefferson, a former military fortification with a moat wall, it was used as a prison during the Civil War, the islands also serve as a nature preserve for various wildlife. So were sharing our favorite things to do and tips for getting the most out of your visit to Dry Tortugas National Park. It is also possible that the ferry may not run if the sea is very rough. On a road trip through the Florida Keys, not only can you visit Key West and Dry Tortugas National Park, but you can also visit two more national parks, Everglades and Biscayne. Since the seaplane and Yankee Freedom ferry leaves from Key West, most people visit the Dry Tortugas on a trip to Key West and the Florida Keys. Go snorkeling. Thats why Bush and Long Keys are both off limits to humans. Youll first have to check in at Fort Jefferson to get a free permit and be provided with information on where you may drop anchor and fish. This is where most visitors will spend their time. The highlight of exploring Fort Jefferson is either the walk around the top of the fort wall or the walk on the moat wall. Garden Key has a designated area for snorkeling thats great for beginners, as well as all skill levels. Spend the night on Garden Key. Others tell stories of rough waves and countess people vomiting off the back of the boat. Of the two seasons, summer is certainly the preferred time to visit Dry Tortugas, though a strong case could be made that the brief spring season late April to early June is the best time to experience the islands. There are also old coal docks to explore here, but the current is a bit stronger and the waves are larger on breezy days. The Yankee Freedom III ferry is the only boat that operates day trips down to Garden Key. I want to make sure we have time for everything! If youre visiting in the summer months, make sure to pack a rain poncho or rain jacket, as afternoon showers operate like clockwork in Florida during the summer. The winter times are milder in temperature and drier in general. In the wintertime, the average temperature is in the mid sixties. Youll definitely see a variety of tropical fish and perhaps nurse sharks. Remember that youre in a National Park, so removal of natural objects and harassing wildlife is not permitted. Richard Corrigan has been a full-time freelance writer since 2009, and has always considered himself lucky to be able to combine his passion for travel with his love of writing. The climate in the Dry Tortugas is subtropical, which basically means that it has warm and tropical weather in the range of 60F to 90F. Coral, tropical fish, and sea turtles can all be seen here. There are only two ways youll be able to transport your gear to the island, either through the ferry or a private boat. Im curious whats best if you want to have time to snorkel and explore. And no, theres no Key Lime Pie available at Fort Jefferson but I supposed you could make your own key lime pie to bring. They offer flights throughout the day, and you can choose between a half day visit and a full day visit. For more information on how to do this, take a look at our Florida Keys Itinerary.
For this reason, our charters that head out to the Dry Tortugas tend to be completely filled up during these months, making it more difficult to be able to get out to the Dry Tortugas during your visit. The Dry Tortugas are home to some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Florida. Dry Tortugas National Park is made up of seven islands: Garden Key, Loggerhead Key, Bush Key, Long Key, Hospital Key, Middle Key and East Key. Tip: be sure to get your National Park Passport stamp at the Dry Tortugas National Park Visitor Center inside Fort Jefferson. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you. The islands were discovered in 1513 by Ponce de Leon, who named them Las Tortugas after the giant sea turtles that abound in the surrounding waters. The only fire allowed is grilling with charcoal or propane. If you dont have all day to spend at Dry Tortugas and dont mind spending a little money, Key West Seaplane Adventure Chartercan get you down to the national park in about 40 minutes, each way. If you are on your own exploring, you're okay without your mask. Its great seeing you did this town two small kids! Even though the ferry does sell several items onboard, for example, food and drinks, T-shirts, sunscreen, towels, and hats, they dont have an endless supply. Beyond the two swimming beaches, there is also an incredible stretch of beach to walk along the isthmus towards Bush Key. Most of the park is water, but it is also home to coral reefs, bird nesting grounds, and historic Fort Jefferson. We were staying at the Laureate Key West hotel when we first did the Dry Tortugas ferry, so we had to park in the public lot. Fort Jefferson is the largest brick structure in the Western Hemisphere. The islands were later renamed the Dry Tortugas to let sailors know that there was no fresh water to be found here. Dry Tortugas is accessible only by water, making it one of Americas most remote national parks. Garden Key, which is the arrival point for the boats and the seaplanes, is also home to Fort Jefferson. The calm waters of summer make this season perfect for checking out the underwater portions of the park, with ideal swimming and snorkeling conditions. You can tour the fort on your own or take a ranger guided tour. They do offer dramamine for purchase on board, but if you have had success with the small anti-nausea patches, come prepared with them. We had calm weather while we were here. You cannot snorkel along Bush Key, which is attached to Garden Key (the main island) or the adjacent Long Key. People throw around the phrase pristine beaches like its a volleyball, but the beaches of Dry Tortugas National Park are actually pristine. Thank you so much! Since it is so remote, there is a good chance that you will have it all to yourself. Get your America The Beautiful National Park Pass here!
I seem to be in Florida at least once or twice a year but never get down to the Keyes. Setting realistic expectations of your day and what youll encounter or need will ensure a fun trip. If you are lucky enough to have a boat or have a friend with a boat, and want to head down on your own, keep in mind that you cant just drop anchor anywhere you want. The white sandy beach is your walking trail and the views of Fort Jefferson and Garden Key are spectacular. Most people agree that the best time to visit the Dry Tortugas is from the months of November through April. To get here, you will kayak 3 miles one-way from Garden Key. There are three main snorkeling areas to explore: the north and south swim beaches, and the moat wall. I am working on a trip though to go right here! While you can sail out to the islands (Las Tortugas) on your own vessel, most people visit via the Dry Tortugas ferry. Also attached to South Beach is an outcropping of the old coal docks, which are now teeming with undersea life. Visiting Dry Tortugas, check the weather the day before to see what it should be like, and plan appropriately. Thus, the best time to come out to the Dry Tortugas is probably from February through April. Flying out of Key West, the travel time is about 40 minutes. These islands serve as the nesting site for nearly 300 species of birds. The Junior Ranger packet is not a crazy one (you should see the Yellowstone NP packet!) That is much more complex and technical, including food/water requirements. Then spend the rest of your time snorkeling, swimming, and walking around Bush Key. Thats why the coal docks are there. Its close to the camping area at Dry Tortugas. Annual Visitors: 84,000 in 2021, making it the 9th least visited park this year. The ferry service does not allow passengers to bring propane bottles onboard. Remember, you can only look and not touch as the coral and shells are protected by law. FULL DAY BY SEAPLANE: With a full day by seaplane, you now have 6.5 hours in the Dry Tortugas. These are the best things to do at Fort Jefferson: Its easy to get sucked into the wonder of Fort Jefferson and its history, so if you plan on snorkeling and relaxing, be sure to keep an eye on the time. Loggerhead Key sits about 3 miles from Garden Key, so you will need a boat to get here. When the weather is nice, its typically 70s and 80s, so not too bad at all. The star gazing is incredible and so are the sunsets. Tips for the United States Virgin Islands, National Park Service: Dry Tortugas National Park - Basic Information, National Park Service: Dry Tortugas National Park - Frequently Asked Questions, National Park Service: Dry Tortugas National Park - Weather, National Park Service: Dry Tortugas National Park - Wildlife Viewing, National Park Service: Dry Tortugas National Park - Sea Turtles, National Park Service: Dry Tortugas National Park - Things To Do, National Park Service: Dry Tortugas National Park - Goods & Services, Dry Tortugas Info: The Turtles of The Dry Tortugas, Yankee Freedom II: Dry Tortugas National Park Ferry, Key West Seaplane Adventures: Seaplane Tours of Dry Tortugas and Fort Jefferson, Information on Dry Tortugas National Park in Key West, Florida, Outdoor Activities in Isle of Palms, South Carolina, Privacy Notice/Your California Privacy Rights. Hurricane Season is all summer (June November) so keep an eye on reports and hurricane tracking. Our website uses cookies. The National Park Service website offers a wealth of additional information to help plan a visit, including maps of the islands and up-to-date weather reports. Beyond the pristine beaches and crystal clear waters, the iconic Fort Jefferson is the other attraction at Dry Tortugas National Park. They also offer special rates for students (ages 17 or older) with ID, active military, and senior citizens (ages 62 or older). There are two ways to get to the Dry Tortugas: by seaplane and by boat. And if you decide to snorkel outside the designated area, you must display an approved dive flag. The average temperature in the summer is in the mid 80s. Walking around this key was one of our favorite experiences in the park. Regardless of the season, be sure to check the weather forecast before visiting. Dry Tortugas is definitely in a category of its own when it comes to National Parks. Our recommendation is to book your spaceswell in advance if you plan on coming during these months.