The pirates are gone, but the Dry Tortugas are still an unspoiled paradise rich in marine and bird species, making this island outpost popular for birders, scuba divers, and snorkelers. Excellent diving exists year-round with the waters at a warm 80 degrees Farenheit in the summer months, and dropping to the low 60s in the winter. The best time to dive these waters is in the spring, summer, and autumn months, when the Gulf Stream eddies in, the visibility is better than the usual 40- to 60-foot range, and the currents vary from very little to stiff. More than 200 shipwrecked vessels lie within the park's boundaries, making wreck diving a popular sport. The islands are located 70 miles west of Key West, Florida.

Camp in an Island Paradise
The Dry Tortugas don't exactly roll out the red carpet for visitors. They're reached only by boat or seaplane, and because no fresh water is available on the island, visitors must bring all of the water and food needed for their entire stay. All the trouble is worth it to settle into one of a dozen primitive campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. A policy of "pack it in, pack it out" is strictly enforced.

Dive for Wrecks
Between Key Largo and Dry Tortugas lies the only living barrier reef ecosystem in the continental United States. The reefs are typically shallow and constructed of hard elkhorn corals; boulder-size brain corals; tall, willowy sea whips; and giant purple sea fans. They're also a very popular and inexpensive spot for diving. Beginners should head for the City of Washington and the Benwood; advanced divers will want to explore Bibb and Duane.

Catch Dinner
Fish from the land or a charter boat at sea. Fishermen may catch grouper, amberjack, cobia, tarpon, mackerel, snook, red snapper, and other saltwater fish. Lobster taking is not allowed. Saltwater fishing licenses are available in Key West.

Patrol for Pelicans
The islands are famous for their birds and were designated a sanctuary to protect them. Some of the birds you're likely to see include pelicans; sooty terns, which nest on the islands between May and September; and many tropical species.

Move on to Dry Tortugas National Park Index

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