Dry Tortugas National Park

• Fort Jefferson

  Tour the massive 19th-century coastal fortress and learn about its role as a Civil War prison.

• Moat Wall Walk

  Walk the perimeter of the fort to see the engineering of the sea wall and clear turquoise waters.

Allow 2.5 hours by ferry or 40 minutes by seaplane; maritime conditions vary.

There are no stores or water on the island; you must bring all food and drink.

• South Coaling Dock Ruins

  Snorkel around the submerged pilings to see vibrant corals and schools of tropical fish.

• Garden Key Beaches

  Swim in the protected shallow waters or relax on the remote white sands near the fort walls.

Walking only; the entire developed area of Garden Key is accessible on foot.

Use only reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine ecosystem.

• Bush Key

  Observe nesting Sooty Terns and Brown Noddies from the boundary line (seasonal closures apply).

• Fort Jefferson Ramparts

  Walk the upper level for bird's-eye views of the surrounding keys and the vast Gulf of Mexico.

Walking only; Bush Key access is strictly limited to the shoreline path when open.

Bush Key is seasonally closed for nesting; check current status at the Visitor Center.