dry tortugas day trip from key west

• Skip to global NPS navigation
• Skip to this park navigation
• Skip to the main content
• Skip to this park information section
• Skip to the footer section

Exiting nps.gov

Alerts in effect, guided tours.

Last updated: June 13, 2024

Park footer

Contact info, mailing address:.

40001 SR-9336 Homestead, FL 33034

305 242-7700

Stay Connected

Dry Tortugas National Park: Day Trip, Snorkeling & Camping

Planning a vacation to Key West? Be sure to include a visit to Dry Tortugas, one of the least-visited U.S. National Parks. Located 70 miles from Key West, Dry Tortugas is over 100 square miles of small islands, coral reefs, and marine life. Learn everything you need for a Dry Tortugas National Park day trip or camping overnight!

A Dry Tortugas day trip from Key West checks a lot of boxes: secluded white sand beaches, spectacular snorkeling, and exploring history with stories of pirates and a 19th century fort. Visiting Dry Tortugas feels like a getaway to an undiscovered Caribbean Island. It also has the best snorkeling in the Florida Keys!

True adventurers can even camp at Dry Tortugas overnight to have its beaches and nighttime stars all to themselves after the day trip crowd heads back to Key West.

Ready to pack your towel and snorkel? Keep reading for the best tips on how to get there – ferry, private boat or seaplane – as well as history, what to bring along, and how to make the most of your Dry Tortugas day trip or camping overnight.

Short on time? Check out the top ways to visit Dry Tortugas:

• Cheapest option: The Yankee Freedom III Dry Tortugas Ferry
• Private Luxury Charter: Full Day Charter in Key West/Lower Keys

This article contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I might earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support in this way! Learn more in my Disclosure Policy .

Pin this Dry Tortugas day trip guide for later!

Haphazard Rating for Dry Tortugas National Park: (2 of 5).  Some areas recommended for experienced snorkelers; jellyfish spotted in the swimming area; bring Dramamine for the boat ride. To See: A 19th-century fort, amazing beaches, snorkeling, primitive camping, a million nighttime stars To Eat: Breakfast and lunch provided onboard the ferry or bring a picnic/cooler.  There are no restaurants on the island When to Visit: All year, but be sure to book in advance; and be aware of the Florida hurricane season June – October

Don’t miss my tips on the best things to do in the Florida Keys and the best Airbnbs in Key West , perfect for planning your Florida Keys getaway!

The Best Things to Do in the Keys from Key Largo to Key West

Looking for the best things to do in the Florida Keys? Plan the ultimate itinerary with the best snorkeling, beaches, sights, tours and more from Key Largo to Key West! Includes must-try foods and hidden gems to make the most of your Florida Keys vacation.

History of Dry Tortugas

The Dry Tortugas got their name when Juan Ponce de Leon, the first known European to see the islands, visited in 1513. He caught so many sea turtles that he referred to the islands just as “Tortugas.” The “dry” part was added later because of the lack of fresh surface water on the islands.

The 16th and 17th centuries were a “golden age” of piracy in the Florida Straits. Spanish treasure ships sailed this route between Cuba and the Keys, often meeting with pirates or hurricanes. Treasure hunting of shipwrecks continued for centuries, including a 1985 discovery of $450 million in silver and gold from a sunken 17th-century Spanish galleon.

In 1846, five years after Spain sold Florida to America, construction began on Fort Jefferson, still the largest masonry fort in the Western Hemisphere.

Today, Dry Tortugas National Park is 99% underwater! It encompasses 7 islands known for clear blue waters, nearly 300 species of birds, and some of the least-disturbed coral reefs in the Florida Keys.  This is due in part to its UNESCO designation as part of the Everglades and Dry Tortugas Biosphere Reserve. 

How to Get to Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas is accessible only by boat or seaplane. While the most spectacular views of the islands will be by seaplane, a charter boat or ferry are more budget options.

Cheapest Way to Get to Dry Tortugas: Yankee Freedom Ferry

The cheapest way to get to the Dry Tortugas is by The Yankee Freedom Ferry , an authorized concessionaire of the park.

The daily catamaran ferry to Dry Tortugas departs from Key West.  The ticket includes roundtrip transportation, both a buffet breakfast and lunch onboard, bathroom facilities, and showers where you can rinse off. Also included is snorkeling equipment and a guided tour of Fort Jefferson.

It takes 2 hours each way via ferry to Dry Tortugas, which leaves about 4-5 hours of time at the island.

The Dry Tortugas ferry drops passengers off at Garden Key but doesn’t provide transportation to other keys or areas of the park.  This is the one downside of taking the ferry.

Click here for ferry availability and for info on booking the Yankee Freedom Ferry online

Bringing Your Own Boat to Dry Tortugas

If you’re lucky enough to have your own boat, this will provide the best way to explore the Dry Tortugas. Get more information on boat permits here .

Dry Tortugas Seaplane Charter

For amazing views of the Dry Tortugas, consider booking a half-day or full-day excursion via seaplane private charter .

Dry Tortugas Boat Charters: Fishing, Snorkeling, Diving and Wildlife

There are many authorized concessionaires of the park that provide services such as snorkeling or diving tours, guide fishing, sailboat excursions, or wildlife tours. Check out the list of Dry Tortugas charters here .

If you have a group or want to experience a private charter, check out this full-day luxury charter trip with great reviews and online booking: Full Day Charter in Key West/Lower Keys . The charter can accommodate up to 12 guests, so if you have a group it can end up being a comparable price to the ferry. The booking is for a “bareboat charter,” which means that food and drink aren’t included; so be sure to inquire about bringing along a cooler with lunch, snacks, and drinks for the day.

What to Do At Dry Tortugas

There is more than enough to keep you busy for a full day at Dry Tortugas!

• On the way, you’ll get to see views of Boca Grande Key, the Marquesas Keys and the Rebecca Shoal Channel.
• After arrival, you can take a guided tour of the island, called Garden Key, and Fort Jefferson with a park ranger. You’ll learn about the history of the island and fort, including its use as a prison camp during the Civil War.
• Walk around the perimeter of the Fort along the wall that makes up the edge of the moat, but be careful! To preserve the history, there are no railings; the paths are wide, so just stay alert.

• Snorkel along the walls of the Fort, in the South Swimming Beach, out to see coral heads and (for more experienced snorkelers) the South Coaling Dock ruins. There is also good snorkeling in the North Beach area.
• Walk along the pristine beaches and look for shells. Since it’s a national park, you can’t take them with you, but it’s still fun to see what you can find.
• Explore Bush Key. During winter months, explore the shoreline of this uninhabited island. (It’s closed during spring and summer nesting season for birds not found elsewhere in the continental U.S.) Bush Key is generally accessible via a land bridge from Garden Key; but sometimes you can only reach it via kayak due to tides and shifting sands.
• Explore Loggerhead Key. Located 3 miles from Garden Key, Loggerhead is accessible by small crafts including kayaks. Due to time constraints, I recommend only venturing to this key if you camp overnight. Here you can find shipwrecks, a lighthouse, and where the historic Carnegie Laboratory for Marine Ecology once stood. Named for its abundance of loggerhead sea turtles, Loggerhead Key has long been a haven for wildlife.

Dry Tortugas Camping

To get the most out of your Dry Tortugas trip, I recommend camping! While the facilities are very basic, the gorgeous scenery far outweighs any negatives. During our day trip, we just didn’t have enough time to enjoy all the amazing snorkeling spots plus take a tour of Fort Jefferson with the park rangers.

To camp, you must bring everything needed for your stay.   There is no food service, water, fuel or charcoal. After the ferry departs, only portable toilets are available.   In short, you’ll have crunchy beach hair, but one of the most beautiful and remote beaches in the U.S. almost to yourself.

Find more camping information here and pack a stargazing tent to maximize your time under the stars.

If camping doesn’t fit into your schedule, you should still visit Dry Tortugas for a day trip! But for your beach camping fix, you can check out these other beach campgrounds in Florida .

Fort Jefferson History

Fort Jefferson is the largest masonry structure in the Americas, which is no small feat if you imagine that all of its 16 million bricks had to be hauled in by boat!  The U.S. purchased the land from Spain around 1820 and eventually built a fort there.  

During the Civil War, Fort Jefferson was used a a prison for court-martialed soldiers and others as a means of cheap labor to finish the construction. This later included four of the men convicted of Lincoln’s assassination. One of them, Dr. Samuel Mudd, became a hero for hygienic practices he put into place as the prison’s doctor during a yellow fever outbreak, earning him a pardon for his crimes and an early release.

 In 1935 Fort Jefferson was named a national monument, and in 1992 the fort and Dry Tortugas together were designated as a national park.

A Day at Dry Tortugas National Park

Upon your arrival at Dry Tortugas, the park rangers give guided tours of the fort (included in the ferry trip).  

When I visited, we wanted to spend most of our time in the water. So we walked the perimeter via walkways which separate the fort’s moat from the open water, and then headed to the beach.  

Dry Tortugas Swimming

The soft, white sand beaches at Dry Tortugas are perfect for relaxing. Since the park is more than 99% under water, you’ll definitely want to experience at least a quick swim! The South Swim Beach was especially calm during my visit.

Dry Tortugas National Park Snorkeling

The ferry provides a map of the best snorkeling spots.  Dry Tortugas is a great place for beginner snorkelers, since you can enter from the beach and snorkel in a calm area.

We stayed along the fort wall of the south swim beach and the south coaling dock ruins, where the pilings of the old dock are overgrown with corals.  To reach the pilings, you need to swim out from the beach and around large rocks.  I’d recommend that area for experienced snorkelers.  It’s a little bit of a swim, and the waves were stronger than in the protected beach cove.  

Beware the tarpon, but only because you might mistake the largest ones for small sharks.  (I only inhaled a teensy bit of water via my snorkel!)  We saw some jellyfish as well.  Bring dramamine if boats make you queasy, and of course reef-safe sunscreen and a towel. I’ve got more packing tips below.

Get info on all the snorkeling and diving sites of Dry Tortugas here .

Looking for more snorkeling adventures? Check out my guide to sailing in the Virgin Islands with a catamaran charter vacation or day trip!

Sailing the Virgin Islands: Airbnb & VRBO Catamaran Charters

Plan your best vacation ever with family or friends: sailing the Virgin Islands in a catamaran for beaches, snorkeling, and laid-back beach bars in the US Virgin Islands & British Virgin Islands!

Meals & Facilities at Dry Tortugas

If you visit Dry Tortugas via ferry, you’ll have breakfast and lunch on board the ferry. You can also use the restroom facilities on board at any time during your trip.

There are no other restaurants on the island. If you travel via seaplane or charter, your tour company will let you know what’s provided.

Dry Tortugas Packing & Gear List

In order to enjoy your time at Dry Tortugas, be sure to bring everything with you that you will need for your stay. You might be able to purchase some items on board the boat, but the price will be at a premium.

Dry Tortugas Day Trip – What To Bring/ Packing List

• Bathing suit and cover up or shirt and shorts
• Beach towel
• Underwater camera like a Go Pro or Olympus TG-6
• Hiking sandals are great for the boat and walking around the Fort (check out these options for women and also some for men – my favorites are by Keen )
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Sun hat for women , sun hat for men or a packable visor
• If you burn easily in Florida’s rays, try a UPF shirt with sun protection (here are some options for women and some for men ). I’ve even worn UPF capri pants for snorkeling to keep my backside from burning!
• The ferry will provide a snorkel, mask and flippers; but you can bring your own if you prefer. This Cressi kit is a good choice. If you wear glasses, consider a mask with the option of prescription lenses .
• I always wear a Buff UPF headband when I snorkel to keep my forehead from getting burnt and keep my hair out the seal of my mask
• A light sweatshirt or jacket for the trip back (can get a little chilly if you go on the deck)
• Wide-tooth comb and travel-size spray detangler and any basic toiletries you might need (you’ll be able to rinse off but not take a full shower)
• Dramamine or Bonine for seasickness, just in case
• A beach tote to carry everything in , or a dry bag is great for keeping water and sand out of your stuff
• If you burn easily or want some shade for kids, consider bringing a lightweight pop-up shelter

Dry Tortugas Camping Checklist & Info

If you camp, you will need to bring everything you need for your stay, including water.   You can download the Yankee Freedom’s camping checklist here.  The ferry will drop you off with all of your gear, but you have a weight limit of 60 lbs of gear per person, not including water.  

If you can fit it within your allowed weight limit, consider bringing along a kayak and life vests so that you can explore other nearby keys like Loggerhead Key. Check with the Yankee Freedom when booking, as space might be limited; or consider an inflatable kayak like this one .

Depending on how long you book a campsite, you’ll then return via ferry on one of their subsequent trips.  The campers I saw returning looked happy, sunburnt, and a little wild!  It’s definitely on my bucket list to camp there at least one night.

If you camp, you can even night snorkel along the Moat Wall! Get tips here .

Why You Should Visit Dry Tortugas National Park

Visiting Dry Tortugas was one of my favorite days in the Florida Keys, with easy beach-access snorkeling and a pristine setting.  Be sure to book early, as even the day trips sell out weeks in advance.  And consider overnight camping at Dry Tortugas to have the park and beach nearly to yourself!

Want to turn your vacay into an epic adventure? The best way to experience the Florida Keys is with a road trip from Miami to Key West! Get my ultimate itinerary planner!

Miami to Key West Drive: Ultimate Florida Keys Road Trip Guide!

Taking a Miami to Key West road trip is a classic U.S. adventure. Get ready for the open road with this ultimate Florida Keys itinerary planner including sights, stops, and hotels for your Miami to Key West drive!

Dry Tortugas National Park & Fort Jefferson Resource List

Booking/information.

• Book the Yankee Ferry excursion via Viator, a TripAdvisor partner
• Dry Tortugas National Park site
• Private charter list  of boats and seaplanes

Additional Resources

• Camping checklist  courtesy of Yankee Freedom
• Downloadable map  courtesy of Yankee Freedom
• TropicalSnorkeling.com  advice on Dry Tortugas

Where to Stay in Key West

• We loved our stay at the Southernmost Beach Resort , especially its location and nighttime dining on the beach
• Get my guide to the best Airbnbs in Key West
• Search more Key West hotels

Looking for more Florida travel ideas? Check out my post on how to swim with manatees in Crystal River, Florida! Love to snorkel? Grab my packing and gear list for snorkeling trips !

Save for later or share with a friend!

The Haphazard Traveler is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.  

I was a travel hot mess, but I got better! I kept the name and now blog my best tips for culture + adventure travel from around the globe. Follow along for travel advice, destination guides, and photography from faraway lands and at home in Washington, DC.

Travel Writer | Photographer | Licensed Drone Pilot Member, Society of American Travel Writers (SATW)

• Book Your Adventure

• 305-293-9300
• [email protected]

Seaplane Tours to Dry Tortugas & Fort Jefferson Morning, Afternoon or Full Day Tours

We are the only seaplane service to dry tortugas national park.

70 miles west of Key West, Florida lies one of North America's most inaccessible National Parks, the Dry Tortugas. The park is renowned for its marine life, pirate legends and sheer unspoiled beauty. It is dominated by its central feature, the majestic Fort Jefferson, the largest brick building in the western hemisphere.

Step back in time and explore the history that is Fort Jefferson. Sunbathe on a remote white sand beach or snorkel the living reef in the warm crystal clear waters.

• 3471 South Roosevelt Blvd.,     Key West, FL 33040
• Seaplane Tours in Miami
• Sightseeing Flights
• Great Snorkeling
• Amazing History
• Bird & Wildlife
• Things to Know
• Privacy Policy

My Itchy Travel Feet

The Baby Boomer's Guide To Travel

Best Dry Tortugas Day Trip From Key West

This article may contain referral links. Read our DISCLOSURE

Are you looking for the best Dry Tortugas day trip? Read our tips on about a national park adventure that departs from Key West. Florida travelers, you are going to enjoy this remote trip that includes sailing to an off-the-beaten-path national park .

Guest contributor, Erika Nelson, is here to share her tips for a Dry Tortugas day trip. It’s the perfect addition to a Florida Keys road trip .

And, yes, Dry Tortugas has recovered from 2022 Hurricane Ian enough for visitation, although there are some restrictions in place.

Table of Contents

Plan a Dry Tortugas day trip for adventure in Key West

After a couple of days enjoying the fun things to do in Key West , Florida, adventure was calling. My husband and I are big National Park people, and one of the more remote parks is the Dry Tortugas, about a two and a half hour boat trip from this southernmost U.S. city. 

If you’re visiting Key West and want a little adventure, a trip to day trip Dry Tortugas National Park might be the thing to do. The park is 70 miles west of Key West at the end of the Florida Keys in the Gulf of Mexico.

Dry Tortugas National Park ( official website ) is a haven for snorkeling, along with birding, and civil war history. If you’re looking for a quiet, remote escape, this fits the bill.

The Dry Tortugas are named for the turtles that early Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon found on the islands. Later, the English added the word Dry since there is no fresh water on the islands.

How to get to Dry Tortugas National Park

You can reach the islands either by buying tickets on the Yankee Freedom III, going by private charter or taking a sea plane trip . We went on the Yankee Freedom III—official ferry service to Dry Tortugas for the National Park Service—which added some adventure to the trip

The Yankee Freedom III leaves around 8 AM to reach the remote Garden Key. It is worth arriving ahead of time to get an early boarding number.

This is especially true if you want to sit on the open top deck. If you prefer sitting under cover, choose the inner deck.

Your ticket includes breakfast and lunch. Enjoy breakfast on the beautiful sail to Dry Tortugas.

After arriving at Garden Key, lunch is served and can be eaten on the boat or on the island. If you decide to enjoy lunch on the island, be aware that Garden Key is a carry in-carry out place so you’ll need to bring trash from lunch back to Yankee Freedom III.

The boat leaves around 3 p.m. for the sail back to Key West, Florida . At that time the bar opens for drinks (not included) and snacks.  

My husband and I enjoyed several hours at Fort Jefferson on Garden Key. A 5-hour sailing trip on a beautiful late February day, round-trip  from Key West, added to the fun.

Explore Civil War history on a Dry Tortugas tour

Fort Jefferson is an important Civil War fort built on Garden Key. Although it never saw any battle action, it was the fort where Dr. Samuel Mudd was imprisoned for his alleged part in the Lincoln assassination by John Wilkes Booth.

Dr. Mudd treated Booth for injuries sustained from jumping out of the Presidential box after shooting President Lincoln at Ford’s Theatre. This made Mudd a national traitor.

He was imprisoned on the island until 1869. After helping fight a yellow fever outbreak that infected the island, Dr. Mudd was released.

History fans, especially Civil War buffs, should take advantage of the full fort tour that’s offered daily. If you only want a bit of Fort Jefferson’s history, there is also a shorter tour available. Both tours work around the Yankee Freedom’s schedule.

The coral beaches around the fort make fantastic snorkeling if the weather is good. The Yankee Freedom III provides snorkeling equipment. If you come on your own, either by boat or seaplane, you may need to bring your own equipment . Check with your tour provider first.

Things to do on a Dry Tortugas National Park day trip if you don’t snorkel

If you don’t snorkel, you can walk around the fort and even see some fascinating sea creatures just by looking down into the water. One thing to remember is that coral beaches are made of rough coral, not smooth sand.

You’ll want some decent sandals or beach shoes for walking.  From the beaches you can even see some of the other keys across short stretches of the Gulf of Mexico.

One thing I discovered while cruising out to Garden Key was how many birders visited this park. This is the one place in the entire lower 48 states where you can see semi-tropical birds such as Magnificent Frigate bird, Brown and Black Noddies, as well as nesting Sooty Terns.

Sotty Terns spend more of their time out over the open waters, but up to 80,000 come here to nest on Bush Key from January through the summer. The key is closed to visitors during nesting season—March to September. If you bring binoculars, you may be able to spot them from Garden Key. 

Staying overnight on a Dry Tortugas trip

Since these islands are run by the National Park Service, limited primitive camping is available. The Dry Tortugas National Park website, recommends making reservations 8-12 months in advance. Also check for details about length of stay.

Campers should bring everything needed, including water —remember, these are the Dry Tortugas—as there is no food or drink service on Garden Key. Don’t forget equipment that you will need. Yankee Freedom III is your ride to this off-the-beaten-path camping experience.

If you’re looking for a boomer travel adventure in the Florida Keys, pack a bathing suit, sunscreen, towel and a camera for a fun national park experience like no other.

Save to Pinterest

Scratch those itchy travel feet!

Boomer travelers rely on our weekly email newsletter for fresh travel inspiration, tips, and advice. It's free! No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

You may also like

Pack your bags

Subscribe to my newsletter to get updates in your inbox!

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

Perfect Dry Tortugas Day Trip: What to Know and How to Get There

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you buy or book through one of these links, I may earn a small commission .

Are you looking to level up your Key West vacation, and experience something unforgettable? If so, a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park is about as epic as it gets – especially if you take the seaplane.

In fact, the Florida Keys do not actually end with the highway in Key West, but continue 70 miles west into the Gulf of Mexico. The ending point is the Dry Tortugas archipelago, where you can find Dry Tortugas National Park. Due to the close proximity to Key West, it is entirely possible to visit Dry Tortugas on a day trip.

The main draw of the national park is visiting hexagonal Fort Jefferson on Garden Key. As there is no accommodation in Dry Tortugas other than campsites, a day trip is the sole option for most visitors. That means the biggest decision is whether to travel by ferry or seaplane.

Below, I am covering everything to know for a Dry Tortugas day trip, whether by sea or air. As my hubby and I took the seaplane, I will also give a bit more detail on whether this pricier option is worth it.

Spoiler alert: spectacular views impending.

Note: This post was originally published in May 2021, and was last updated in December 2022.

The Ultimate Day Trip to Dry Tortugas National Park

Table of Contents

Dry tortugas quick facts, how to reach dry tortugas national park.

• Should You Take the Seaplane or Ferry?
• Should You do a Full Day or Half Day Trip?

Is the Seaplane to Dry Tortugas Worth it?

• What to do on a Dry Tortugas Day Trip

What to Bring on a Dry Tortugas Day Trip

From the moment I saw my first aerial photo of Fort Jefferson, I immediately added Dry Tortugas National Park to my bucket list. When Aaron and I eventually booked our Miami to Key West road trip , I finally had the chance to turn this dream into reality.

That said, I knew virtually nothing about this isolated national park. If you are starting from scratch like me, here are some quick facts to bring you up to speed:

• Fort Jefferson is located on Garden Key, and is the largest brick building in the western hemisphere.
• National Park entry is $15 per person; National Park Passes are also accepted
• Dry Tortugas is made up of seven islands: Garden Key, Loggerhead Key, Bush Key, Long Key, Hospital Key, Middle Key, and East Key
• The word tortugas is Spanish for turtles, due to the large amount that inhabit the surrounding waters. The word “dry” was later added to the name to indicate to other sailors the lack of fresh water on the islands.
• There are restrooms on Garden Key, but they close once the ferry arrives due to environmental concerns. After that, you must use the ferry’s restrooms, even if you traveled by seaplane.

Dry Tortugas National Park can only be reached via boat or seaplane. There are two main companies to book through:

• Ferry: Yankee Freedom III
• Seaplane: Key West Seaplane Adventures

The more inexpensive option is the ferry, which offers a full day trip. Travel time is two and a half hours each way, leaving approximately four and a half hours to explore the island. 

The second alternative is the seaplane.  This cuts your travel time down to an exhilarating 40 minute journey each way.  For those unfamiliar with seaplanes, these bad boys can take off and land on the water, which is how they come and go from Dry Tortugas.

This is the option my husband and I opted for, since I can’t resist the idea of sea views from above.  The seaplane flies much lower than a commercial jet for even better sightseeing. We were able to pick out dozens of sea turtles in the water below.

Should you take the Ferry or Seaplane?

Here is a quick comparison of key differences between the ferry and seaplane for a Dry Tortugas day trip:

• Travel Time: Approx. 2.5 hours each way
• Tour options: Full day only
• Refreshments: Lunch provided, snacks and drinks available for purchase
• Cost: $200 per adult
• Time at Dry Tortugas: About 4.5 hours

Check in before your full day tour at 7 am at the Key West Ferry Terminal. Find it in the Historic Seaport at 100 Grinnell Street.

As this is right in downtown Key West, you may be able to walk or bike from your hotel. There is also a parking garage available across the street, but it comes a bit steep at $40/day.

Next, you will join 175 other passengers on this high-speed catamaran to Garden Key. During the ride, you have the option to sit in the cabin or on the deck, while getting an overview of the park and enjoying the scenery.

• Travel Time: 40 minutes each way
• Tour options: Full or half day
• Refreshments: Water and soft drinks provided, but must pack your own food
• Cost: $371 per adult for half day; $644 per adult for full day
• Time at Dry Tortugas: 2.5 hours for half day; 6.5 hours for full day

Check in a half hour before takeoff at Key West International Airport . Don’t worry – you will not need to pass through security.

You can pick your own seat on the plane, and might even end up being the copilot! Every seat has headphones to hear the pilot point out various sights during the flight, as well as music when he isn’t talking.

While there is limited free parking near the tour company’s office, it might be easier to Uber.  The airport is just a ten-minute drive from Duval Street.

Should you do a full or half day trip?

For the seaplane, you can choose either a full day or half day tour.  The half day tour is around half the price of the full day, and could be all you need if you’re not a big snorkeler.  Two and a half hours on the island is enough to enjoy the beach and tour the fort. 

The full day is twice the price, but gives you the chance to spend 6.5 hours relaxing on a remote island.  If you’re a snorkeling enthusiast, you’ll definitely want this extra time to explore all around Garden Key. 

If you do the full day tour, your day will start early for departure at 8 am. We woke up around 6:15 am to get ready in advance of our 7:30 am check-in at the airport.

Travel Savvy Tip

If you choose a half day on the seaplane, I highly recommend doing the tour that begins at 8 am.  You will have two hours on the island before the ferry arrives, giving you time to appreciate the beauty and solitude of your surroundings.  The beach gets packed once the ferry shows up, and shade spots virtually disappear. 

While the seaplane to Dry Tortugas is more expensive, there are several reasons why I found it to be totally worth it:

• The chance to explore Dry Tortugas before the ferry arrives
• Less time in transit and more time on the island
• Amazing views of the water, shipwrecks, and sea creatures below
• The unique opportunity to land and take off on water

Amazing views aside, there is nothing like the unique experience of taking off and landing on water.  Upon landing at Dry Tortugas, the plane pulls right up to the beach for the passengers to disembark.

For nervous flyers like myself, landing and takeoff was really smooth and didn’t feel much different than land.  The only difference I noticed was that it seemed to take a bit longer at sea to pick up speed for lift. While at Dry Tortugas, we actually did see one seaplane abort their initial takeoff, but it simply turned around and took off in the other direction.

What to Do on a Dry Tortugas Day Trip

There are plenty of experiences to have during a Dry Tortugas day trip, both en route and while you’re there.

First off, you will see some great scenery en route to Dry Tortugas. If you choose the seaplane, make sure you take a look at the beautiful view of Key West from above while departing. 

The trip to Dry Tortugas takes you through very shallow water, which is aqua with patches of dark blue and ribbons of sand dunes rippling in sections.  Even on the ferry, you may see dolphins and a couple shipwrecks along the way.

Upon arrival, there is nothing like the stunning approach from the seaplane, when the hexagonal shape of Dry Tortugas comes into view.  This is definitely a big photo moment.

While on Dry Tortugas, explore Fort Jefferson and be sure to walk along the top. That is where you will find the best views of the turquoise water below. Also, be sure to observe the seaplanes landing and taking off from the beach all day long.

Go to the beach

There are a couple small beaches on Garden Key with gentle waters for wading, swimming and snorkeling. Per our pilot’s advice, Aaron and I set up camp on the south beach due to the abundance of shade. 

The water and feeling of being somewhere so remote had an instant calming effect.  We could have been in the Caribbean if I didn’t know any better.  We soaked up every second of the hour and a half we had of this quiet island before the ferry arrived.

With more people, the beach filled up quickly and shade spots disappeared. The environment then became more of a party atmosphere with drinks, music , and games. 

Explore Fort Jefferson

Fort Jefferson is a huge, largely empty brick building that is stark, yet striking in appearance.  If you book the ferry , your ticket includes an optional forty-five minute tour of the fort. Otherwise, it is self-guided, and you basically have the run of the place.

Both the second floor and rooftop offer incredible views. Definitely watch your step if you choose to climb to the top, as there are no rails, but don’t forget to enjoy the cooling breeze.  Mind any signage blocking off sections from the public, as this is for your safety.

We loved exploring Fort Jefferson during the last hour and a half of our day. By this time, most visitors were at the beach, and the fort was not very busy at all. I recommend wearing sturdy sneakers for comfort and safety, as you’ll be trekking and climbing on hard, and sometimes uneven, surfaces.

Dry Tortugas is huge for snorkelers, with shallow waters full of vibrant sea life just a short ways from the beach. Our seaplane pilot kindly informed us of the best snorkel spots to check out upon dropping us off. 

I’ll be honest here – I did not have the best time snorkeling at Dry Tortugas. While the water is conducive to beginner and advanced snorkelers alike, I struggled with the gear the seaplane provided. 

My goggles kept fogging, and my snorkel kept filling with small amounts of water.  Since I did not feel comfortable getting too far from the beach while repeatedly fixing my gear, I cut my time short.  That said, I was able to see a small amount of sea life in the water near the fort.

If you visit Dry Tortugas between February and September, you are in for some good bird watching. During this time, approximately 100,000 Sooty Terns and Brown Noddy Terns descend onto Bush Key for nesting season. There are no other nesting colonies like this in North America.

While Bush Key is closed during these months, you won’t miss these birds during your visit. They can easily be seen flying around from neighboring Garden Key, though you may want to bring binoculars for a closer look. You’ll hear these birds as well, as they cause quite a racket!

Take Lots of Pictures

Be prepared to snap away during this trip! With the colors in the water changing throughout the day, there is always a new view to capture.  Every time I thought I’d taken enough photos, I’d see some other dreamy section of the water that I couldn’t resist photographing.

If you take the seaplane, the pilot will advise you to sit on the same side of the plane on the way back as you did coming. This allows you to see views of shipwrecks and islands that were opposite your seat earlier. Our pilot also graciously offered to take anyone’s picture in front of the seaplane who wanted one. 

As we approached Key West International Airport, I had unreal views over the beach at Ft. Zachary Taylor State Park , as well as Smathers Beach as we approached the runway. 

• Food for lunch (if taking seaplane)
• Cell phone for photos (there is no service on the island)
• Sunscreen (we like this reef safe variety )
• Change of clothes for the trip home
• Good sneakers for exploring the fort
• $15 cash per person for national park fee (or National Park Pass) for seaplane; fee is built into ferry ticket, so Park Pass holders are entitled to a refund

Note that both the seaplane and ferry companies provide snorkel gear. The seaplane also provides a cooler for any food and drinks you bring. 

If a day trip to Dry Tortugas is not a bucket list worthy experience, then I don’t know what is. Whether you take the seaplane or ferry, you cannot pass up the chance to spend the day on a remote island full of history.  Especially if you are willing to spring for the seaplane – the views are so worth it!

Are you planning a visit to Dry Tortugas? Would you take the ferry or seaplane?

Related Posts

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Dry Tortugas National Park: A Delightful Day Trip from Key West

Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the least-visited, but surely one of the most unique, gems in the U.S. National Park tiara. For most, the highlight is a massive sentinel red brick redoubt, Fort Jefferson, that stands resolute and in stark contrast to the bright blue skies and crystalline Gulf of Mexico waters that surround it. 

Table of Contents

Visiting the Dry Tortugas on a Day Trip

The 100-square mile Dry Tortugas National Park as a whole is 98% water so the primary ways to access the fort are either via float plane or the more accessible Yankee Freedom III ferry from Key West . Experienced sailors can pilot their own vessels there too, or you could charter a boat. The ferry crosses the 70 miles to Fort Jefferson in just over two hours. During that time, a simple but hearty breakfast is served, and a guide preps the passengers with a history of the park’s evolution, from fort constructed between 1846 to 1875 to designation as a national park in 1992. 

For most of the ferry ride, you can see a 360-degree view of ocean all the way to the horizon. If you’re lucky, you might be treated to sightings of dolphins, floating turtles, or other sea life. There’s notable excitement among the passengers when the massive, six-sided, two-story fort—which is made of 16 million bricks and is noted as the largest masonry building in the western hemisphere—comes into view. 

The only land in the park is comprised of seven islands, the largest of which is Garden Key, some 70% of which is now consumed by Fort Jefferson. Ponce de Leon discovered these islands in 1513 and found them to be full of turtles, which at the time were an excellent, and self-replenishing, food source. They jotted ‘Las Tortugas’ on their maps to let future Spaniards know that these islands were that period’s equivalent of a modern fast-food drive-through. Later, British sailors found the islands but noted that there was no freshwater to be had. So, they added the word ‘dry’ to give the area its unique, multi-lingual name. 

Catching the Ferry from Key West

The ferry boards at 7:00 a.m. and returns to Key West at 5:15 p.m. Be sure to pack some diversions for your kids for the rides out and back. Our teens enjoyed playing a collaborative word game on a tablet, and we brought along a deck of cards as well. Note too that, assuming there are no issues with the passage out or back, you’ll only have about five hours to spend in the actual park. Be sure to make the most of your time! 

Pro Travel Tip : Have one of your party arrive early at the ferry to reserve your spot in line as seating is “first come, first served,” and the best seats go quickly

Touring the Dry Tortugas on a Day Trip

Once the Yankee Freedom III docks at Fort Jefferson, you have the option of joining a presentation by their guide. The ferry company offers an optional, short initial introduction to the island that’s a brisk 15 minutes. Our particular guide was excellent, being impassioned, very knowledgeable, and entertaining (even still our kids were bored by the presentation). You then have the option to join the guide on an extended tour of the fort itself, which lasts another 30 minutes. 

The fort is clearly a marvel of early logistics, as well as engineering. It was designed to be a massive gun platform, bristling with 420 cannons. Each of the 16 million bricks had to be shipped to the island, first from Pensacola and then, during the Civil War, all the way from Maine! Granite stones for staircases, iron ‘Totten’ shutters and curved tracks that supported the cannon, mountains of mortar, and everything that the workers needed to survive, including fresh water, had to be shipped in. 

While the fort never fired a shot in anger (it was actually never entirely finished—nor fully armed), its very presence may have been enough to deter both pirates and foreign governments from trying to restrict the prosperous Gulf shipping lanes that it guarded. The fort itself wasn’t the only deterrent, as it also watched over an excellent, deep-water harbor. While bandits or foreign navies might have been able to sail outside the range of the fort’s many guns, they couldn’t avoid the U.S. Naval ships that would harbor, refit, and resupply here. 

The fort is a delightful maze of spiral staircases, gun emplacements, and instructional interpretive signage and displays that any history buff will eat up. While care must be taken on the sometimes uneven or even crumbling infrastructure (which may be a challenge to anyone with mobility issues), a view from the grassy top of the structure is not to be missed. Care must be taken on any of the upper levels, as there are no railings to prevent falls and the compounding effects of time, the sea air, and natural erosion have made many of the bricks quite loose. Absolutely keep a close eye on small kids.

As you look out over the expansive parade ground, barracks ruins, and remaining structures, it’s easy for your mind to wander back into time and contemplate the spartan life of a soldier, laborer, or slave here. Untainted fresh water and good food was always in short supply while heat, humidity, mosquitos, and utter boredom were not. Scurvy was always a threat as was the dreaded Yellow Fever, on occasion. The fort’s population peaked at about 2,000 inhabitants, including more than 1,700 military personnel as well as officers’ families, laundresses, lighthouse keepers, a doctor, cooks, and other support staff. 

During the Civil War, while the Confederacy claimed the northern, populated, parts of Florida , the Union maintained its presence at Fort Jefferson (and in Key West as well). Throughout the conflict, northern warships used the fort’s harbor as they ran missions to maintain the blockade against the South. The isolated fortress was also used as a prison. It primarily housed Union deserters but its most famous resident was Dr. Samuel Mudd, who notoriously aided John Wilkes Booth by giving him medical attention for a broken leg after he had assassinated President Lincoln.

The military eventually abandoned the brick behemoth in 1874 but it was used as a coaling station for ships of the line for some time after. Fort Jefferson was actually the last stop of the USS Maine before it sailed on to Havana, Cuba and its explosive end there. 

Snorkeling in the Dry Tortugas

Once you’ve had your fill of the island’s history, it’s a good time to head back to the ferry for another simple but hearty meal at lunchtime. Then, it’s time to get into the water. Passage on the Yankee Freedom III includes the use of their own snorkel gear—and the snorkeling in the Dry Tortugas is fabulous. Among the national park’s coral reef and sea grasses, you might spot brilliant yellow Smallmouth Grunts, gray Angelfish, a variety of Groupers, Stoplight Parrotfish, and the appropriately named Sergeant Major fish. 

The fort is surrounded by a moat wall, which offers the rare opportunity for those who aren’t snorkeling to accompany those who are. While my daughters delighted in spotting fish and my wife motored along in the water, determined to circumnavigate the entire structure, I strolled along next to them, happy to stay dry while snapping photos of both my family and the fort as I moseyed along the wall. 

Wildlife Spotting Opportunities

Wildlife above water includes Sooty Terns (sometimes in masses), whose only regular nesting site in the entire U.S. is on nearby Bush Key, various Noodies, and magnificent Frigatebirds. Five turtle species visit Dry Tortugas, including Loggerheads and Leatherbacks. The turtles nest on Bush Key, which is often cordoned off from visitors during the nesting season. 

How do You Get to the Dry Tortugas?

Dry Tortugas National Park is located in the Florida Keys, off the coast of Key West. While the booking a day trip via the catamaran ferry is the most convenient, accessible, and the most affordable option to get to Dry Tortugas on a day trip (adult tickets are $180, children 4-16 are $125), it does limit your time there and those five hours go quickly. The return trip to Key West is a great opportunity to unwind as you might play board games, read, enjoy the ocean, or have a cocktail. 

Book the Tour: Dry Tortugas National Park Day Trip by Catamaran

By contrast, the transit with Key West Seaplane Adventures lasts only 45 minutes and provides about six-and-a-half hours on the island—it also offers beautiful views when landing. Cost for a full day is $625, or $500 for children 12 and under, and while snorkeling gear is included, meals are not. 

Camping is allowed on the island, but space is very limited—and is reserved well in advance. There are only eight camping spots, one group spot, and a small ‘overflow’ area. It is primitive camping (so bring everything—including your own water) and you must take the ferry as the weight of the gear is problematic for the sea planes (note too that ferry check in for campers is an hour earlier, at 6 a.m.) It is recommended that you inquire about eight to twelve months in advance to check camping availability and attempt to make a reservation. If you can snag a spot though, you’ll be one of the few people inhabiting Dry Tortugas National Park that night, as the only overnight guests are campers, boaters staying on their vessels, and a handful of park rangers. 

However you get there and however long you might stay, be sure to put fascinating and truly unique Dry Tortugas National Park on your ‘must see’ list for your future travels!

Chez’ is a travel writer, tourism consultant and 15-year veteran of the travel industry. He focuses on adventure travel and family travel. He’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to some 35 countries but has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife and two daughters. His works have appeared in the Los Angeles Times, Good Housekeeping, Rachel Ray Every Day, Family Fun, Fatherly, Yahoo Travel, Family Vacation Critic, Elevation Outdoors, Everett Potter’s Travel Report, TheFamilyBackpack.com, CincinnatiRefined.com, Greenmatters.com, WorldFootprints.com, Mountain Gazette, TheActiveTimes.com, BoundRound.com ( Australia ), Family Travel (Australia), and Twist Travel Magazine. He also does regular travel segments for the morning show of his local FOX affiliate. You can find him online at Chez Connects , and on Instagram and on Twitter .

North America Chevron

United States Chevron

Florida Chevron

Key West Chevron

3 Best Day Trips from Key West: Islamorada, Dry Tortugas, & Key Largo

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

For most visitors to the Florida Keys , Key West is their ultimate destination. And while the southernmost point is undoubtedly the archipelago’s most popular, there are plenty of other places to see and things to do as you make your way up and down the Overseas Highway. Even if you want to rest your head in Key West each night, ferries and seaplanes shuttle visitors to the Dry Tortugas—a spectacular 19th-century military fort-turned-national park 70 miles west of Key West—each and every day. Or you can break up the three-and-a-half-hour drive to and from Miami with a stopover in one of the Keys’ other charming seaside villages, like Islamorada (where the tiki bar that gave birth to the Rum Runner is still standing—and still serving them up). Here, we've rounded up the three best day trips from Key West, so grab your sunscreen and get moving.

Click the link to read our complete Key West guide.

Islamorada, a collection of islands that includes Tea Table Key, Lower Matecumbe Key, Upper Matecumbe Key, Windley Key, and Plantation Key, is located midway between  Miami  and Key West (it’s a 90-minute drive to either location), making it the perfect stopping point if you want to break up your drive. But the village offers much more than just a place to sleep: it’s a seaside oasis that offers top-notch dining and accommodations (we recommend the intimate Casa Morada for a true hideaway, with just 16 romantic suites in a waterfront setting), and is also where you’ll find the Holiday Isle Tiki Bar, a stalwart tiki throwback.

Robbie's of Islamorada Arrow

If Islamorada is the sport fishing capital of the world, then Robbie’s Marina is the one-stop venue you need to experience all the area has to offer. Whatever your preferred mode of water-based transportation, it’s here for you to rent: kayaks, paddleboards, jet skis, and fishing boats. If you’d rather let someone else be the captain of your ship, fishing charters and partyboats depart all day (when the sun begins to drop toward the water, sunset cruises with Sundance Watersports offer an epic end to the day). But even land-dwellers will find ways to keep themselves occupied, whether that means shopping (there’s an open-air market onsite with artwork, nautical-inspired signs and the like) or grabbing a cocktail and a bite to eat at the Hungry Tarpon (the tuna tacos, shrimp burrito, cracked conch, and Thai-style mahi fish fingers are among their signature dishes). But the most popular thing to do—as long as you don’t mind a giant fish lunging up out of the water toward you—is to fork over $4 for a bucket of bait and help feed the hungry tarpon (yep, that’s where the name comes from) that surround the deck and are always ready for a snack.

History of Diving Museum Arrow

While nearby Key Largo is known as “The Diving Capital of the World,” the History of Diving Museum travels far beyond the Florida Keys —and even America—to trace humankind’s long love affair with the sea. It’s a surprisingly lengthy history, and one full of mesmerizing items that some people might not think would make for a memorable outing. The museum houses photographs, documents, suits, diving apparatus, and the world's largest collection of diving helmets—some of which look like they came straight from the set of Doctor Who . Because the museum is just a simple turn off the highway, it may seem like a few people just decided to stop to stretch their legs a bit. But once inside, the variety of things to do and see keeps them in place, perhaps for longer than they expected.

Holiday Isle Tiki Bar Arrow

The Holiday Isle Tiki Bar, which opened in 1969, is a bit like a time machine. Though it underwent a massive renovation (the establishment sustained a lot of damage following Hurricane Irma), it still maintains much of its original charm, and many of its original features—including floorboards with the names of some of its many visitors carved into them and a neon sign that serves as a sort of beacon to kitsch and cocktail fans. The space has all the requirements of a great tiki bar: soft lighting, beach views, a friendly, if raucous, crowd ( usually a mix of scuba divers, anglers, and hotel guests from the nearby Postcard Inn Beach Resort ); and a menu full of frozen drinks themselves seemingly frozen in time as the craft cocktail world has evolved around them. The bar is also supposedly the original home of the Rum Runner—rum, blackberry brandy, banana liqueur, lime juice, and grenadine—making it a destination for those with a cocktail bucket list.

Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar Arrow

You came to the Florida Keys for the water views and the sunsets, and Lorelei Restaurant has both, plus the freshest seafood around. The Florida Bay views are pristine and the menu is a perfect mix of tropical dishes (try the conch chowder and smoked fish dip). If colorful cocktails lure you, the rum punch (coconut and dark rums, grenadine, pineapple juice, and orange juice) and Bahama mama (silver, gold, coconut, and 151 rums with pineapple, orange, and Key lime juices) are solid choices.

Casa Morada Arrow

Is this the Keys or the Caribbean? The lines are blurred at this evocative hotel that conjures barefoot island living to a tee. Nightly rates include snorkeling gear, bikes for exploring Islamorada’s bike paths, and stand-up paddleboards—and there’s free yoga three days a week. You can also access the resort’s tiny but pretty private island via a footbridge from the “mainland” where the suites are located. There’s a freshwater pool on the island, as well as a hidden cabana and a pavilion where you can scope for passing manatees and dolphins and watch the sunset.

Florida Keys Brewing Company Arrow

The beautiful beer garden on the backside of this brewery has a Bavaria meets Islamorada aesthetic that's impossible not to love. Picnic tables sit under palms and flowering tropical trees, and bands often strum island tunes on the tiny outdoor stage. This is the Keys, so the beer is not exactly straight ahead. Only real fruit extracts like mango, passionfruit, and pineapple are used to season the brews. There are lagers, kolsch beers, browns, wheat ales, and IPAs on the menu. People love the Run Aground Brown.

DRY TORTUGAS

If you’re aching to explore something beyond Key West, but don’t want to stray too far, a two-hour-and-15-minute ferry ride will take you the approximately 70 miles from Key West to the Dry Tortugas, a small group of islands that once operated as a military fort and was re-designated as a national park in 1992. There are no luxury hotels to be found here (though you can spend the night if you don’t mind pitching a tent and camping), nor are there any quaint boutiques or cafes. This destination is for history lovers and outdoorsy types (but it's okay if your idea of “outdoorsy” is laying on the beach all day).

Dry Tortugas National Park Arrow

From a distance, the 65,000-acre Dry Tortugas National Park looks like what could be one of the world’s most stunning private islands: the sand is powdery and white, the water is a stunning shade of blue, and an impressive brick fortress overlooks this island utopia. But there's more. Get a little closer and you’ll see that the brick structure is actually a historic military fort, and that the cluster of islands’ only full-time residents are the diverse range of marine and wildlife. There are no hotels (unless you count a small campsite), nor are there are any bars, boutiques, or restaurants…though there is a tiny gift shop). If you're an outdoor enthusiast, you can choose to plant yourself on the beach and not move until your boat or seaplane (the only possible modes of transportation) is ready to take you back to the mainland, or actually get up and explore.

Cuban Coffee Queen Arrow

Cuban Coffee Queen is a lively counter-service joint with three locations (all within one square mile of each other in the heart of town), any one of which makes an ideal spot for enjoying a bit of sunshine with your morning coffee. But don’t let the name fool you: Sure, they serve one of the best cups of joe in town—break away from your same-old caffeine fix and opt for one of their classic Cuban specialties, like a café con leche—but they serve up a whole lot more. Give the pressed Cuban bread with guava and cream cheese or one of their homemade sammies a try.

Yankee Freedom III Dry Tortugas Ferry Arrow

If you want to get out to the Dry Tortugas, you’re either going to need a boat or a seaplane—and if you don't happen to have a spare of either, the Yankee Freedom III is your next best choice. The ferry makes the two-hour journey to and from the Dry Tortugas each day, and the price of a ticket ($180 for adults, $125 for kids 16 and under) includes a comfortable boat ride, plus breakfast and lunch, complimentary snorkeling equipment, admittance to Dry Tortugas National Park , and entry to Fort Jefferson, a massive, though unfinished, military fortress that dates to the Civil War. For those who want to take a guided tour of the 16-acre facility, that’s included, too. Just know that there are no shops here, so you’ll want to remember to bring a beach towel and some sunscreen. (The ferry itself serves up drinks and snacks.)

Key Largo may be the title of one of Humphrey Bogart’s most famous movies, but the town itself—which is the first one you’ll reach while driving onto the Keys—has a link to one of Bogart’s other films: the boat that ferried around Bogey and Katharine Hepburn in The African Queen (it’s been restored to take guests on day trips as well as sunset dinner cruises). If you’d rather be in the water than on top of it, the town is also where you’ll find John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park—the country’s first underwater park, which is a must-see for scuba enthusiasts. Grab your sunscreen and get moving.

Baker’s Cay Resort Key Largo, Curio Collection by Hilton Arrow

Open since February 2019 in Key Largo, Baker’s Cay Resort has been a hit with Traveler readers from the jump . It spans 15 tropical acres that were once a pineapple plantation tucked away off the busy Overseas Highway. The resort has 200 rooms but manages to maintain a boutique and intimate feel with winding nature trails throughout leading to quiet beaches. Rooms—including lavish suites with views of Florida Bay—have handcrafted wood furnishings, custom tile work in the bathrooms, and hardwood floors. On-site dining includes waterfront taqueria Dry Rocks, and Caribbean-Creole cuisine with bay views at the more upscale (but still Florida Keys casual) Calusa restaurant. Other amenities include a kids’ camp, two swimming pools with a waterfall grotto, and hammocks everywhere. The resort is super pet-friendly, too: dogs can swim in the water, walk on the beach, escape the sun in dedicated dog tikis, and even enjoy “yappy hour” specials.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Arrow

The country's first underwater park, John Pennekamp is a scuba diver's dream—there are more than 250 species of tropical fish and 85 types of coral within its nearly 200 square nautical miles. Which means you’re going to want to plan an itinerary ahead of time: throughout the day, the park runs a number of snorkeling and scuba diving tours, and kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes are also available for rent. For less active types, a glass-bottomed boat tour will let you experience the park’s majestic underwater wonderland—all from a comfy, seated position. But the park’s most impressive, must-see feature is right there in its name: its coral reefs (they’re part of the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States, and the park was established in part to protect that). The park’s snorkeling and scuba tours are the best way to get an up-close view of these marine wonders, but the glass-bottom boat is a nice option for guests who are less inclined to get wet.

The African Queen – Canal Cruise Arrow

Classic movie lovers will feel transported to Hollywood's golden age while being chauffeured around the Port Largo Canal aboard the steam engine-powered boat from The African Queen , the 1951 Oscar-winning film starring Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn. Because the boat only holds about half a dozen people, a tour on board will feel quite intimate. Chat up your captain during the 90-minute trip to get the lowdown on Key Largo and its history. A heads-up: there's no bathroom on board, so be sure to make a pre-departure pit stop.

Florida Keys Wild Bird Center Arrow

Spread across seven acres of mangrove wetlands that lead visitors on a boardwalk past rescued bird habitats to the open bay, this facility blends in with its surrounds. It feels wild, not manicured at all, but still safe and comfortable as you walk the boardwalk pathway to the area where it opens to mangrove fringed bay views of the undeveloped shoreline. Some 1,000 birds are rescued and rehabilitated by the facility every year, with many released back into the wild. Barn owls, pelicans, broad-winged hawks, great horned owls, and all manner of shore birds and pelicans are some of the characters you'll see. 

Key Largo Conch House Arrow

The Keys is a place for seafood , and the Conch House is no exception. The food is simple here but exceedingly fresh, and serves as a nice departure from the usual abundance of fritters, fish, and fries found throughout the Keys. The emphasis is on healthy cooking, with the freshest possible fish prepared blackened or grilled with seasonal vegetables (or fries if you must). The must-try is huge portion of conch, and lobster ceviche.

Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder Arrow

This nonprofit organization is dedicated to rescuing dolphins, manatees, and other sea mammals, and visitors to the sanctuary can assist by doing anything from observing their resident animals from the dock and watching the team at work, to shadowing a trainer for the day. But the highlight for most will be getting to take a swim with the dolphins. Some of the other programming here shows visitors how to care for the animals; depending on the day and dolphin, you might see how a dolphin ultrasound is performed, or how to brush a dolphin’s teeth.

Snappers Oceanfront Restaurant & Bar Arrow

While Snappers has long been a Key Largo icon, it’s also a popular stopping point for travelers making their way from Miami to Key West (it’s about a 90-minute drive from South Beach), so prepare for a crowd and plan your trip accordingly. The waterfront setting, old-school décor, and history of the place make it rather boisterous regardless of whether you stop in for lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch (which runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and features live jazz plus a build-your-own-Bloody Mary bar). The food leans Caribbean, and the menu changes slightly each day based on what's fresh—the hallmark of any great seafood joint—but you can't miss if you order the gator bites (lest there be any confusion, made from actual gator). If you’ve spent the day doing some fishing of your own, they’ll also cook up your personal catch of the day.

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• Updated Terms of Use
• New Privacy Policy
• Your Privacy Choices
• Closed Captioning Policy

Quotes displayed in real-time or delayed by at least 15 minutes. Market data provided by  Factset . Powered and implemented by  FactSet Digital Solutions .  Legal Statement .

This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. ©2024 FOX News Network, LLC. All rights reserved. FAQ - New Privacy Policy

SpaceX crew returns to Earth after 5-day trip, world’s first commercial spacewalk

Spacex's dragon capsule dropped in the gulf of mexico near florida's dry tortugas.

SpaceX Polaris Dawn conducts first private spacewalk with billionaire Jared Isaacman

Jared Isaacman, CEO of Shift4 integrated payment processing solutions, participated in the first ever private spacewalk on Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (Credit: @SpaceX via X)

A four-person SpaceX crew on the Polaris Dawn mission returned to Earth early Sunday after a five-day historic trip in Space that included the world’s first commercial spacewalk.

SpaceX's Dragon capsule splashed down in the Gulf of Mexico near Florida's Dry Tortugas, according to The Associated Press. The returning crew included billionaire tech entrepreneur Jared Isaacman, two SpaceX engineers and a former Air Force Thunderbird pilot.

"Polaris Dawn, we are mission complete," operators could be heard announcing as the capsule safely made contact with the nighttime sea.

The spacecraft hit a peak altitude of 875 miles following Tuesday's liftoff from NASA's Kennedy Space Center Press Site in Florida, per the report.

BILLIONAIRE ON SPACEX POLARIS DAWN MISSION CONDUCTS FIRST PRIVATE SPACEWALK

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket lifts off with Polaris Dawn, a private human spaceflight mission with two crew members expected to attempt the first-ever private spacewalk, at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida, U.S. September 10, 2024.  (REUTERS/Joe Skipper      / Reuters)

Isaacman, founder and CEO of the Shift4 credit card-processing company, became the 264th person to perform a spacewalk since the former Soviet Union was the first in 1965, The Associated Press reported. SpaceX's Sarah Gillis became the 265th to perform a spacewalk. SpaceX's Anna Menon and former Air Force Pilot Scott "Kidd" Poteet ultimately joined that list.

Before this crew's mission, all spacewalks were done by professional astronauts.

Anna Menon, Scott Poteet, commander Jared Isaacman and Sarah Gillis, crew members of Polaris Dawn, a private human spaceflight mission, attend a press conference at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida, U.S. August 19, 2024. Launch abo (REUTERS/Joe Skipper / Reuters)

This was the first time SpaceX targeted a splashdown near the Dry Tortugas, a cluster of islands 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, according to The Associated Press. 

SpaceX's Polaris Dawn mission will include the testing of a new extravehicular activity (EVA) suit during a spacewalk three-times the distance from Earth than the International Space Station. (Photo credit: SpaceX / Fox News)

POLARIS DAWN LAUNCHES FROM NASA'S KENNEDY SPACE CENTER ON MISSION INTO EARTH'S RADIATION BELTS

The Dragon capsule's hatch was open for about a half-hour during Thursday's commercial spacewalk , which was livestreamed by SpaceX — and millions of viewers watched on X.

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket is shown as it is prepared for another launch attempt for Polaris Dawn, a private human spaceflight mission, at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida, U.S. September 9, 2024. Two crew members are expected to att (REUTERS/Joe Skipper / Reuters)

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ON FOX BUSINESS

The spacewalk lasted less than two hours, which was shorter than spacewalks at the International Space Station, the outlet reported. Most of that time was needed to depressurize the entire capsule and restore the cabin air.

SpaceX believes the brief mission to be a starting point to test spacesuit technology for longer missions in the future, including to Mars, per its website.

Recommended

Breaking news, tech billionaire jared isaacman returns to earth after conducting first private spacewalk.

A billionaire spacewalker returned to Earth with his crew on Sunday, ending a five-day trip that lifted them higher than anyone has traveled since NASA’s moonwalkers.

SpaceX’s capsule splashed down in the Gulf of Mexico near Florida’s Dry Tortugas in the predawn darkness, carrying tech entrepreneur Jared Isaacman, two SpaceX engineers and a former Air Force Thunderbird pilot.

They pulled off the first private spacewalk while orbiting nearly 460 miles above Earth, higher than the International Space Station and Hubble Space Telescope. Their spacecraft hit a peak altitude of 875 miles following Tuesday’s liftoff.

Isaacman became only the 264th person to perform a spacewalk since the former Soviet Union scored the first in 1965, and SpaceX’s Sarah Gillis the 265th. Until now, all spacewalks were done by professional astronauts.

“We are mission complete,” Isaacman radioed as the capsule bobbed in the water, awaiting the recovery team. Within an hour, all four were out of their spacecraft, pumping their fists with joy as they emerged onto the ship’s deck.

It was the first time SpaceX aimed for a splashdown near the Dry Tortugas, a cluster of islands 70 miles west of Key West. To celebrate the new location, SpaceX employees brought a big, green turtle balloon to Mission Control at company headquarters in Hawthorne, California. The company usually targets closer to the Florida coast, but two weeks of poor weather forecasts prompted SpaceX to look elsewhere.

During Thursday’s commercial spacewalk, the Dragon capsule’s hatch was open barely a half-hour . Isaacman emerged only up to his waist to briefly test SpaceX’s brand new spacesuit followed by Gillis, who was knee high as she flexed her arms and legs for several minutes.

Gillis, a classically trained violinist, also held a performance in orbit earlier in the week.

The spacewalk lasted less than two hours, considerably shorter than those at the International Space Station. Most of that time was needed to depressurize the entire capsule and then restore the cabin air. Even SpaceX’s Anna Menon and Scott “Kidd” Poteet, who remained strapped in, wore spacesuits.

SpaceX considers the brief exercise a starting point to test spacesuit technology for future, longer missions to Mars.

This was Isaacman’s second chartered flight with SpaceX, with two more still ahead under his personally financed space exploration program named Polaris after the North Star.

He paid an undisclosed sum for his first spaceflight in 2021, taking along contest winners and a pediatric cancer survivor while raising more than $250 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

For the just completed so-called Polaris Dawn mission, the founder and CEO of the Shift4 credit card-processing company shared the cost with SpaceX. Isaacman won’t divulge how much he spent.

Advertisement

Limited time offer: Up To 40% off on tickets

Rates & Reservations

2717 reviews

Yankee Freedom Dry Tortugas Ferry 4.7

A luxurious, state-of-the-art catamaran, docked in Key West, the Yankee Freedom will transport you to the famous Dry Tortugas and Fort Jefferson National Park.

• Large, fully air-conditioned main cabin
• Comfortable seats, three large restrooms and fresh water rinse showers
• A full galley where you can purchase snacks, drinks and souvenirs
• Upper deck open to the sea-air and sights and sounds of marine life
• Spacious shaded and un-shaded sundeck seating
• Included with trip:
• Breakfast snack and box lunch
• Complimentary snorkeling equipment
• Entrance fee to Dry Tortugas National Park and Fort Jefferson
• Fully narrated 45-minute tour of the fort
• Beach walking, snorkeling, swimming, or just relaxing in the sun
• RESERVE EARLY! This is a very popular trip that will sell out weeks in advance.

Camping in the Dry Tortugas National Park is definitely an experience of a lifetime! Imagine sleeping under the stars, on an island 70 miles from civilization, with the warm tropical breezes blowing through palm trees and the rhythmic sound of the ocean waves playing in the background. Camping at the Dry Tortugas is very popular. Reservations on the ferry are limited and sell out 9-12 months in advance so please plan ahead! Camping at Fort Jefferson is PRIMITIVE CAMPING! In other words, you must bring everything (water included) with you.

• Breakfast Snack and Box Lunch (arrival day only)
• Complimentary Snorkeling Equipment
• Fully Narrated 45-min. tour of the Fort
• Beach walking, snorkel, swim, or just relax in the sun
• No Hidden Fees. Ticket includes entrance fee to Dry Tortugas National Park and Fort Jefferson.

Campers at Dry Tortugas National Park are allowed to bring kayaks, subject to certain restrictions and availability of transport space on board the Yankee Freedom ferry. Because of these special requirements, you will need to speak with a reservation agent to determine availability of kayak transport for your dates of interest. NOTE: we do not provide the kayaks, only transportation. Before calling please check the camping availability calendar to determine a selection of available camping dates that will work for you, then call 305-294-7009 to speak with a reservation agent to check kayak space availability.

To see the National Park Service’s requirements for using kayaks in the park, click here .

*The Park Service will collect a campsite fee of $15 to $30 per night based on the size of your party. This will be collected by Park Rangers during your stay. Campers should confirm their return dates at the time of ticket purchase and with the captain on the outbound trip. Due to space constraints, the Yankee Freedom is happy to accommodate campers wishing to stay up to 4 days (3 nights).