Dry Tortugas - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

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About Dry Tortugas

The Dry Tortugas is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. It is made up of seven small islands and has been a national monument since 1908. It offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities, with beautiful reefs teeming with hundreds of fish species and colorful coral. The surrounding waters are filled with colorful sponges and other marine life, as well as several shipwrecks that attract divers from around the globe.

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Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park

4.46km from Dry Tortugas

The park preserves Fort Jefferson and the seven Dry Tortugas islands, the westernmost and most isolated of the Florida Keys. The archipelago's coral reefs are the least disturbed of the Florida Keys reefs. The park is noted for abundant sea life, tropical bird breeding grounds, colorful coral reefs, and legends of shipwrecks and sunken treasures. The park's centerpiece is Fort Jefferson, a massive but unfinished coastal fortress.

Loggerhead Key

Loggerhead Key

7.64km from Dry Tortugas

Loggerhead Key, is a tropical paradise full of coastal scenery and endless activities. The island's most popular attraction is its seven miles of pristine beaches along its western shoreline, with crystal blue waters that are perfect for swimming or snorkeling. Visitors can also go fishing or kayaking around the island for an exciting adventure. Loggerhead Key Marine Sanctuary is also nearby, offering guided tours to explore the shallow waters full of sea life like green turtles and dolphins.

Sand Key Lighthouse

Sand Key Lighthouse

101.65km from Dry Tortugas

The Sand Key Lighthouse is a unique and iconic location. Standing 21 feet tall, it was built on Sand Key island in 1852 to guide ships into the Key West harbor. Since then, it has undergone multiple renovations and remains a favorite stop for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can take in magnificent views of the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico from the base of the lighthouse as well as hike along walking trails on the island.

Sunset Key

Sunset Key

105.94km from Dry Tortugas

Sunset Key is a small island,with beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets. You can go snorkeling and explore miles of coral reef or enjoy water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding. On Sunset Key, you will also find luxurious beachfront villas, perfect for relaxing and taking in the views. The island also has a marine laboratory and an outdoor classroom to gain knowledge on the local ecosystem. With its abundant activities, stunning sunset views, and peaceful atmosphere.

Fort Zachary Taylor

Fort Zachary Taylor

106.46km from Dry Tortugas

A Florida State Park and National Historic Landmark centered on a Civil War-era fort located near the southern tip of Key West, Florida. In 1968, volunteers led by Howard S. England excavated Civil War guns and ammunition buried in long-abandoned parts of the fort, which was soon discovered to house the nation's largest collection of Civil War cannons.

Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square

Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square

106.56km from Dry Tortugas

Every evening around sunset, Monroe County’s Mallory Square gathers many tourists and locals alike for the vibrant Sunset Celebration. Here you can experience a wide variety of vendors offering art and craft items, enjoy tasty snacks from food carts, and watch thrilling street performers including daredevil jugglers and fire eaters. As the sun sets, feel the energy build until its full glory is reached with crowd cheers. This event is a fantastic way to end each day in beautiful Monroe County.

Discover More Attractions in Monroe County, Home of Dry Tortugas

Monroe County

Monroe County

66 attractions

Monroe County includes the islands of the Florida Keys. Although 87% of the county's land area is on the mainland, that region is part of the Everglades and is virtually uninhabited. Over 99% of the county's population lives on the Florida Keys.

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For more information about Dry Tortugas, visit: https://www.britannica.com/place/Dry-Tortugas