Dry Tortugas National Park
Best Time to Visit the Park
Every season has its own features in the park. In fact, there are pros and cons for every season to visit. Thus, it will be your preference to choose among them. Dry Tortugas is dry all year round due to its subtropical climate. The average temperature ranges from 60°F to 90°F.
Spring
Spring welcomes visitors with warm weather and cool water. The average temperature can be around 83°F. People also like to visit in March to watch the birds. However, spring is the busiest time with abundant visitors.
Summer
Though the weather is nice, the temperature can feel hot. The average temperature remains around 89°F. Summer starts in June and lasts until November. The skies are clear, and you may have a pleasant wind. At the same time, there is a possibility of storms like hurricanes or typhoons, which can sometimes cause trip cancellations. Bring plenty of water if you choose this season to visit.
It is the best time for snorkeling and diving as the water is warm and clear to observe marine life. This time of year, several species of sea turtles can be spotted.
Fall
If you want to avoid the crowd and the hot temperature of summer, you may choose fall. The temperature is warm but not as hot as in summer. The average temperature can be 84°F. This is also favorable for good accommodation pricing. Various bird species can be seen during this time. Overall, fall is beautiful and enjoyable.
Winter
Winter can be enjoyable if you can avoid the occurrence of storms. So, check the weather information before planning. Winter extends from December to April. The weather is mild but not cold. The average temperature remains around 79°F. The seas are rough sometimes with big swells, and the wind is strong. Snorkeling or kayaking is not a good idea in winter.
Except for that, this is the perfect time to visit the bird sanctuary at Bush Key, which is within walking distance from Garden Key. It closes from February to September as it is the nesting time for Sooty Terns.
Things to Know About
Dry Tortugas National Park is located in the Florida Keys in the Gulf of Mexico. It was established on October 26, 1992, and comprises an area of 64,700 acres. The beautiful features of the park include coral reefs, crystal clear water, a historic fort, and aquatic life. It protects seven keys: Garden, Loggerhead, Bush, Long, East, Hospital, and Middle in the Gulf of Mexico. Around 99% of the park is submerged underwater.
How to Get There
The park is located about 70 nautical miles west of Key West. From Key West to Fort Jefferson, you may take one of two options:
- Dry Tortugas National Park Ferry
- Seaplane
However, you will need a charter or boat to visit most areas of the park.
Where to Stay
Tent camping is the only option to stay in the park. Below are the facilities that the campground offers:
- Eight Individual Sites
- One Group Site (10-40 people)
- One Grassy Overflow Area
You may reach the campground by private boat or the ferry service, carrying your tent, water, ice, food, and fuel.
Entrance Fees: $15 per person (7-day validity)
Main Attractions of the Park
Historic Fort Jefferson
Fort Jefferson is the largest brick structure in the Western Hemisphere. There are ranger-guided tours available along with self-guided tours. Walking through the trails, you can explore more. The top of the fort is something adventurous.
The construction of the fort began in 1846 but was never completed. The reason behind this construction was that the U.S. wanted to control navigation to the Gulf of Mexico and protect trade headed to the Mississippi. During the Civil War, the fort was used as a military prison for captured deserters. It also held the four men convicted of complicity in President Lincoln’s assassination.
Bush Key
Bush Key is the bird nesting site located to the east of Garden Key. It is only open for visitors from October to January. The rest of the year, it remains closed due to the bird nesting season. Walking through the one-mile loop trail is beautiful, with views of the white sandy beach. You may spot both Fort Jefferson and Garden Key from there.
Wildlife Watching
- Bird Species (around 300 species)
- Sea Turtles
- Tropical Fish
- Sharks
- Octopus
- Lobsters
Garden Key
Garden Key is the only campground and one of the islands in the park. You can stay the night in a tent, and the stargazing is amazing. The sunset view from here is also soothing. However, the campground is not crowded due to the limited accessibility. As a result, you can enjoy the calm natural environment.
Garden Key is also a popular snorkeling site. There are four snorkeling sites:
- Moat Wall
- South Coaling Dock Ruins
- North Coaling Dock Ruins
- West of Garden Key
Loggerhead Key
It is the largest island in Dry Tortugas. It is 3 miles from Garden Key, so you can only reach there by boat. You may plan for scuba diving and visit the empty beaches.
Beaches in Dry Tortugas
- Fort Jefferson Beach
- South Swim Beach
- Seaplane Beach
- North Swim Beach
- Dinghy Beach
Things to Do
- Explore Fort Jefferson
- Boating
- Camping
- Charters and Permitted Tour Guides
- Fishing
- Paddlesports
- Snorkeling and Swimming
- Junior Ranger Program
- Discovering Wilderness
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Includes Seven Islands
- Scuba Diving
- Sea Turtles
Cons
- No Hotel within the Park
- Tropical Storms in Winter
Achievements
Dry Tortugas National Park is named after the sea turtles around the park. The park is characterized by crystal clear water all around, which is not running water. As a result, you need to roam around the park by boat. You can also swim and snorkel, which is an advantage. Moreover, there are two visitor centers; visit them for guided trips and other information. The weather is warm, but be cautious about the tropical storm season. Check the website before reservation or planning your vacation.
