Dry TortugasDescriptionSeven islands, called the Dry Tortugas, are located about 70 miles west of Key West. The islands are composed of coral reefs and sand, and famous for its diverse bird and marine life, and its legends of pirates and sunken gold.
The islands were first discovered by Ponce de Leon in 1513. There were a lot of sea turtles ("tortugas") on the islands, but there was no fresh water - the islands were dry. Due to the great number of reefs and shoals, the Dry Tortugas have always been a serious hazard to navigation and the site of hundreds of shipwrecks. In 1992 the islands, along with the surrounding shoals and waters, made up Dry Tortugas National Park. Fort Jefferson, one of the largest coastal forts, is a central attraction of the park.
Operating Hours & Seasons The park is open all year.
Fort Jefferson is open during daylight hours; closed at dark.
Entrance Fee$5 for 7 Days.
Getting ThereSeaplanes of Key West offers air service from Key West to the national park. There is a ferry from Key West to the park.
| 
; newWin.focus();)
; newWin.focus();)
; newWin.focus();)