Dry Tortugas is a national park far off the beaten path. Way out in the Gulf of Mexico and comprised mostly of water, it contains just a handful of small islands. The allure is in the spectacle of these green keys in the blue ocean and the vibrant ecosystem that surrounds them. There’s not much for hiking, but water activities are abundant. At Dry Tortugas you can walk secluded beaches, tour the historic fort, swim and snorkel with sea life, and boat across the azure waves.

In most photos from Dry Tortugas National Park you’ll see Fort Jefferson, unmistakable with its brick walls rising starkly from the placid water. The best activity on Garden Key has to be snorkeling among the fish and corals, but walking around the island and the fort shouldn’t be missed, either. You’ll get to explore Florida Keys history as well as glimpse its vibrant natural ecosystem.

Garden Key and Bush Key are adjacent islands sometimes joined by a sandbar. You can walk the sand or wade the tide to reach Bush Key, but only during the part of the year when it’s open to the public. During most months it is closed for seabird nesting. Even when it is closed, however, you can paddle a kayak around its banks to witness the birds. You may also find marine life like sea turtles or nurse sharks swimming in the shallows.

Loggerhead Key is the largest island in Dry Tortugas National Park. It has a walking trail and miles of white-sand beach, plus a picturesque historic lighthouse. Once on the island you’re sure to find a solitary experience, because this place is so hard to reach. The ferry does not go there, so the only access is by private boat––crossing three miles of open water between Garden Key and Loggerhead.