Dry Tortugas National Park
About 70 miles west of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park comprises seven islands made of coral reefs and sand, backdropped by spectacular shoals and clear waters. Outdoor enthusiasts will love camping, exploring, hiking, fishing, snorkeling and photographing in this preserve, which is famed for its bird and marine life, including the several varieties of turtles ("tortugas") for which it was named.
Dry Tortugas National Park
P.O. Box 6208
Key West, FL 33041
305-242-7700
Reelax Charters
Kayaking near Key West presents the outdoor enthusiast with myriad opportunities to explore and experience peaceful beaches, fascinating mangrove stands, and rare waterfowl. Visitors will likely see unusual flora and fauna endemic to the area, as well as dolphins and sea life such as turtles while enjoying a relaxing outing in one of Florida's most spectacular settings.
Reelax Kayaking Charters
Sugarloaf Key Marina
305-304-1392
The Florida Keys Shipwreck Heritage Trail
When visiting the Florida Keys, divers must list the Florida Keys Shipwreck Heritage Trail on their itinerary of things to do. Stretching from Key Largo to Key West, the undersea trail includes both wrecks of Spanish galleons along with newer, intentionally sunken cargo ships, all helping to preserve Florida's unique maritime heritage while encouraging the abundant and healthy growth of sea life. These federally-protected reefs give sanctuary to at least 55 types of coral and 500 fish species.
Article Written By Misty Murray
Misty Murray has been writing professionally since 1987. An award-winning, senior advertising copywriter, she's written for major clients in Southern California and Hawaii. As lead writer for a popular Big Island home magazine, she specializes in Hawaii homes and interior design. She has also written for national magazines. Murray holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of California, Los Angeles.
