Kayak or Canoe Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

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Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most beautiful marine areas to explore in the National Park Service. The Trip to this park is a commitment of time and visitors should plan how best to experience this unique place. If you're one who enjoys getting out on the water and exploring - Consider bringing along your own canoe or kayak. (There are no rentals available at the park) Slipping along the water in a kayak or canoe is a great way to explore Garden Key, and weather depending, visit nearby Loggerhead Key as well. Recommendations/suggestions destinations: Garden Key – Garden Key is home to historic Fort Jefferson. An excellent paddle is to head out from the kayak/dingy beach and circumnavigate the island. Treat yourself to amazing views of massive Fort Jefferson, while gliding across crystal clear turquoises blue waters. Enjoy peering beneath the surface to discover colorful coral reefs and sunken cultural artifacts. At times Garden Key is joined to Bush Key and Long Key. If this is the case during your visit, expect your trip to take twice as long, or consider an out and back trip around 3/4s of Garden Key. Loggerhead Key – The largest of the islands in the Dry Tortugas, Loggerhead Key is located approximately 3 miles due west of Garden Key. On a calm day, at slack tide, this is an easy paddle for most experienced paddlers. However, don’t be fooled into heading out without checking the weather, tides, and speaking with a Park Ranger. Loggerhead Key is home to the historic Loggerhead lighthouse, “Little Africa” coral reef, and beautiful white sandy beaches. Heading out in the morning, having a picnic lunch on loggerhead, exploring the island, and heading back to Garden Key can make for a long fun filled adventure. Dry Tortugas National Park is very remote. Consider bringing along a VHF radio and an emergency rescue beacon, but do not “count on” someone rescuing you if you get tired. Plan your trip conservatively before heading out. Bring plenty of food, water, sun protection and warm layers. Check what the weather will be like for the entire day, paddling usually ends up taking longer than you anticipate. Check with a Park Ranger before heading out, Rangers are often able to provide you with information you may not be aware of. Source: NPS

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