Where is Dry Tortugas National Park, Key West, Florida?

Written by | Updated On: December 03, 2025, 14:30 ET

Dry Tortugas National Park is located in Florida, USA. It lies between Key West and the Marquesas Keys and is situated about 70 miles (113 km) west of Key West in the Gulf of Mexico. The park is famous for its historic Fort Jefferson, coral reefs, clear waters, and abundant marine life.

Dry Tortugas National Park Location Map, Key West, Florida

Top Attractions Inside Dry Tortugas National Park

  • Fort Jefferson – Massive 19th-century coastal fortress with guided tours and historical exhibits.
  • Snorkeling & Diving Spots – Crystal-clear waters surrounding the islands with coral reefs, shipwrecks, and abundant marine life.
  • Loggerhead Key & Garden Key – Scenic islands ideal for birdwatching, hiking, and exploring the park’s natural environment.
  • Birdwatching – Prime location for observing migratory seabirds and native species.
  • Camping Facilities – Limited backcountry camping on select islands for an immersive wilderness experience.
  • Historic Lighthouse – Iconic lighthouse offering scenic views and insight into maritime history.
  • Kayaking & Paddleboarding – Explore shallow waters and nearby reefs for wildlife and nature observation.

Dry Tortugas National Park Facts

Official NameDry Tortugas National Park
LocationOff-shore from Key West, Florida, USA — in the Straits of Florida / Gulf of Mexico / Florida Keys
Latitude & Longitude≈ 24.6280° N, 82.8731° W
Total Area≈ 64,701 acres (≈ 262 km²) — Mostly marine area including islands, coral reefs & seascape
Established / OpenedOctober 26, 1992 (as National Park; previously Dry Tortugas National Monument since 1935)
Managed ByUnited States National Park Service (NPS)
RegionFlorida Keys / Gulf of Mexico coastal marine & island region
AddressDry Tortugas National Park, P.O. Box 440, Key West, FL 33041, USA
Zip Code33041
Area Code305 / 786
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD, $)
Time ZoneEastern Time (ET) – UTC−5 Standard / UTC−4 Daylight Saving (Florida)
Theme / ConceptHistoric fort, remote island & marine wilderness, coral reefs, tropical ecology, bird & marine life, snorkeling/diving, heritage preservation
Main Sections / AreasGarden Key (with Fort Jefferson), Loggerhead Key, Bush Key, Long-range reef & surrounding seascape, coral reef & marine zones
Famous AttractionsFort Jefferson historic fortress, coral reefs, snorkeling & diving sites, seabird colonies, pristine tropical-island beaches, remote-island wilderness, marine wildlife (fish, turtles, rays)
Annual VisitorsApprox. 110,000–130,000 visitors (varies)
Entry Fee TypePaid Admission – Park Entrance Fee (ferry or private boat required to access)
Ticket Price Range~ US $15 per person (for boat/ferry + entrance; varies by operator & season)
Ticket OptionsFerry or private-boat access, snorkeling/diving trips, day-use, overnight camping (limited, permit-based)
Best Time to VisitNovember–May for more comfortable weather & good water clarity; year-round diving & snorkeling possible (check marine & weather conditions)
Nearby AirportKey West International Airport (EYW) – ~70 mi (113 km) plus boat ride to the park
TransportationFerry boat or private boat / kayak / small-craft, limited small-plane access, snorkeling/diving gear, walking on islands / Fort Jefferson area
Official Websitehttps://www.nps.gov/drto/index.htm

Distances from Dry Tortugas National Park to Nearby Landmarks

  • Fort Jefferson – 0 km (0 mi)
  • Garden Key – 0 km (0 mi)
  • Loggerhead Key – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • Sand Key – 8 km (5 mi)
  • Garrison Bight – 70 km (43.5 mi)
  • Key West, FL – 70 km (43.5 mi)
  • Naval Air Station Key West – 72 km (44.7 mi)
  • Bahia Honda State Park – 130 km (80.8 mi)
  • Sombrero Beach, Marathon – 120 km (74.6 mi)
  • Marathon, FL – 120 km (74.6 mi)
  • Key Largo, FL – 250 km (155 mi)
  • Everglades National Park – 270 km (168 mi)
  • Big Pine Key – 90 km (56 mi)
  • Dry Tortugas Ferry Dock – 70 km (43.5 mi)
  • Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park – 68 km (42.3 mi)
  • Western Dry Rocks – 15 km (9.3 mi)
  • Sand Key Lighthouse – 8 km (5 mi)
  • Rebecca Shoal Light – 20 km (12.4 mi)
  • Alligator Reef – 60 km (37 mi)
  • Vaca Key – 120 km (74.6 mi)