South Florida Parks
Three national parks in the subtropics: coral reefs, the river of grass and a remote island fort.
Best time to visit · Florida
Best Time to Visit Dry Tortugas National Park
A massive 19th-century fort on a remote island 70 miles off Key West.
The best time to visit Dry Tortugas National Park is March–May. For great conditions with fewer people, aim for May. It's busiest in March and April. Avoid September, when hurricane or storm risk peaks.
Month by month
Best monthsMar–May
Best valueMay
BusiestMar and Apr
Established1992
Dry Tortugas by season
Winter Good
Comfortable temperatures, but cold fronts can bring rough seas and choppy crossings.
Spring Prime
Excellent. Calmer seas, clear water and spring bird migration, with huge colonies of sooty terns nesting.
Summer Fair
Hot, with flat calm seas that are often ideal for snorkeling. Afternoon storms are common.
Fall Fair
Hurricane season peaks in September. Trips can be cancelled.
What to do
- Explore Fort Jefferson
- Snorkel the moat wall
- Swim at the beaches of Garden Key
- Camp overnight on the island
- Watch migrating birds in spring
Local tip
The Yankee Freedom ferry sells out months ahead. Camping spots are very limited and require a ferry reservation too.
Good to know
Dry Tortugas is 70 miles west of Key West and centered on Fort Jefferson, one of the largest masonry forts in the Americas.
Before you go: Access is only by ferry, seaplane or private boat. Check current conditions on nps.gov.
Getting there
Closest major airport: Key West (EYW), then a 2.5-hour ferry or a seaplane.
Nearby national parks
Approximate driving distance. Check a map for exact routes.
Where to stay
Dry Tortugas month-by-month ratings
Road trips with Dry Tortugas
Questions about visiting Dry Tortugas
When is the best time to visit Dry Tortugas National Park?
The best time to visit Dry Tortugas National Park is March–May. For great conditions with fewer people, aim for May. It's busiest in March and April. Avoid September, when hurricane or storm risk peaks.
What is the worst time to visit Dry Tortugas National Park?
September is the weakest time, when hurricane or storm risk peaks.
When is Dry Tortugas National Park most crowded?
Crowds peak in March and April. May offers the best balance of good conditions and fewer people.
Is Dry Tortugas National Park worth visiting in winter?
Comfortable temperatures, but cold fronts can bring rough seas and choppy crossings.
Do you need a reservation for Dry Tortugas National Park?
Access is only by ferry, seaplane or private boat. Always check the official NPS page for the current year's rules.
What is the closest airport to Dry Tortugas National Park?
The most convenient airport is Key West (EYW), then a 2.5-hour ferry or a seaplane.
How many days do you need at Dry Tortugas National Park?
Most road trips spend 1 to 2 days here.
More in Southeast · National parks in Florida · Season calendar
Last reviewed October 4, 2026. Ratings are editorial. Rules and road openings change each year, so confirm on the official NPS site before you go.