Here is how to spend a day in Dry Tortugas, built from the hikes and activities the National Park Service lists and the time it says each takes. Times are for the activity itself; add time for driving, parking and shuttles between stops, and swap anything that is closed or out of season.
Day 1
Activity times are not listed for these stops.
Start at Garden Key Visitor Center for maps, current trail conditions and ranger advice.
Morning
- Viewing Wildlife in Dry Tortugas (time not listed). Viewing wildlife in Dry Tortugas (dogs OK)
Afternoon
- Paddle to Loggerhead Key (time not listed). Paddle to Loggerhead Key
- Snorkel Little Africa (time not listed). Snorkel Little Africa
Make it work
- When to go: January, February, November and December. See the best time to visit.
- Where to stay: 1 campground in the park; see camping and lodging.
- Before you go: check today’s alerts and read know before you go. More ideas: all things to do.
Today at Dry Tortugas
LiveLoading the forecast…
Checking park alerts…
Alerts: National Park Service, checked hourly. Forecast: National Weather Service, for the middle of the park. Always confirm on the official park site before you set out.
Sources
- National Park Service: things to do in Dry Tortugas National Park (Data API, public domain)
Last checked 1 November 2026.