Best Things to Do in Key West

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Dry Tortugas National Park

Type: Beaches, Day Trips, Historic Sites, Parks, Scuba Diving and Snorkeling, Tours and Excursions

10Best Says

Take a seaplane 70 miles from Key West to the Dry Tortugas where it's easy to pretend you're castaways in paradise. These seven islands straddle the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea, and the Atlantic Ocean. The shallow waters surrounding the islands are perfect for snorkeling amid the ruins of Fort Jefferson. Tour the fort to learn about its construction and Civil War prisoners like Samuel Mudd--the doctor who assisted John Wilkes Booth after his injury. These remote islands are only accessible by seaplane of the ferry. A half-day trip by plane runs $329 per adult but offers a stunning bird's eye view. The Yankee Freedom II is the only ferry to the park, starting from $175, which covers entrance, meals, snorkeling and the tour of Fort Jefferson. Visit the Dry Tortugas Park website for rules, regulations, and what to bring.

Address:

Dry Tortugas Islands
Florida Keys, FL

Phone:

305-242-7700

Website:

nps.gov

Hours:

Daily Sunrise-Sunset

Admissions:

7-day park pass Adult (16+) $15; Child (1-15) Free

EXPERT TIPS BY: Claudia Miller
Key West Local Expert

Romantic Things to Do: "Book the afternoon trip on the seaplane, and you'll be treated to a spectacular Key West sunset."
Best Attractions & Activities: "Before you go, visit the Dry Tortugas Park website for a list of do's and don'ts, as well as what to bring."
Beaches: "Before you go, visit the Dry Tortugas Park website for a list of do's and don'ts as well as what to bring."

Best for Romantic Things to Do, Beaches Because: Take a seaplane to the Dry Tortugas where it's easy to pretend you're castaways in paradise.
Recommended as Best Attractions & Activities Because: A lesser-known national wonder, the Dry Tortugas make for a fascinating day trip filled with snorkeling, nature and history.