Fort Jefferson ferries, snorkeling, and day-trip vs camping reservations are critical.
Almost 70 miles (113 km) west of Key West lies the remote Dry Tortugas National Park. This 100-square mile park is mostly open water with seven small islands. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the park is known the world over as the home of magnificent Fort Jefferson, picturesque blue waters, superlative coral reefs and marine life, and the vast assortment of bird life that frequents the area.
5 current NPS alerts
Park Closure: Seasonal Closure: Bush Key
Park Closure: Sections of moat wall closed until Winter 2026
The climate in the Dry Tortugas is subtropical, which basically means that it has warm and tropical weather in the range of 60°F to 90°F. The two main seasons are the winter stormy season from December through March which is windier and sees rougher seas, and the summertime tropical storm season from June through November where there is a higher chance of isolated storms. During the
Summer
it is hot and humid.
Winter
the temperature is milder and drier.
Entrance Fees
Entrance - Per Person
$15.00
The entrance fee for Dry Tortugas National Park is $15.00 per person and is good for 7 consecutive days. Any person 15 years old and under is exempt from paying an entrance fees (including international visitors).
Ferry tickets include the cost of entrance to the park, but NOT camping fees.
Seaplane will charge the entrance fee upon arrival. Plan to bring cash for each person aged 16-years of age and older.
Private boaters may purchase a digital pass in advance or pay cash/check at Garden Key main dock.
Operating Hours
The Dry Tortugas is open 24 hours, 7 days a week. This includes holidays.
MondayAll Day
TuesdayAll Day
WednesdayAll Day
ThursdayAll Day
FridayAll Day
SaturdayAll Day
SundayAll Day
Common questions
Planning Dry Tortugas
The summary above covers timing and highlights. These go deeper on reservations, crowds, and logistics — check Alerts for live updates.
No park-wide entry reservation is required for Dry Tortugas. Cave tours, campgrounds, or activity passes may still need advance booking — see Overview on this page for fees, hours, and what to book ahead.
