Are you looking for an off-the-beaten-path location in Florida? One that will allow you to enjoy the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean? Do you want to find a secluded hidden gem, where you can recharge your batteries and escape the busy city life? We have the perfect spot for you! Immerse yourself into an unforgettable journey this summer by visiting Fort Zachary Taylor Beach – Key West‘s Most Beautiful Beach!
Location of Fort Zachary Taylor State Park and Beach
Situated on the southern tip of Key West, Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is one of the most interesting and beautiful state parks in Florida that are totally worth the visit! Despite its location and remoteness, Key West is connected with the continental part of USA through the US 1 Road. Considered as one of the most scenic drives around America, even getting to Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is an unforgettable experience.
Full Address: 601 Howard England Way, Key West, Florida, 33040
Getting to Fort Zachary Taylor State Park and Beach
Despite being located on the island of Key West, getting to Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is relatively easy. Key West International Airport is the closest air hub to the park, and 4 miles and approximately 15 minutes later, you can be enjoying the stunning scenery and feeling the fresh ocean breeze. Check out the best flight deals.
You will first need to follow the A1A highway to reach Key West. The road continues down to First Street at the end of which, you will need to take a left down Roosevelt Blvd. The latter then continues onto Truman Avenue. As you reach the end of Truman Ave, you will need to turn right down Fort Street, which will take you directly to the park entrance. At this point you will just need to follow the sings.
Working Hours and Entrance Fee
While Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is operational all-year round, it is only open for visitors from 8AM until sunset every day. If you are planning on visiting the Fort as well, keep in mind that tours end at 5PM.
As a state park, accessing the Fort Zachary Taylor Beach and the area around it, requires you to pay an admission fee. If you are traveling as as single-occupant in your car, the cost is $4.50, whereas arriving by bike or on food costs $2.50. For those of your traveling as a group, you can expect to pay $6 per car and additional $0.50 per person for a Monroe County surcharge.
Staying Overnight at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park and Beach
Camping at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is actually not permitted, however, the entire Key West area offers different campgrounds that you might want to check out. Take a look at Boyd’s Key West Campground, the Sunshine Key RV Resort and Marina and Dry Tortugas National Park, which are all in close proximity and offer RV and tent campsites. Alternatively, you can book a room at Kitmpton Lighthouse Hotel, the Duval House or Douglas House that are all relatively close to the park’s entrance.
Facilities at Fort Zachary Taylor Beach and State Park
Spreading on a territory of around 87 acres, the park has all the necessary facilities to provide you with a relaxing day at the beach. Besides the basic amenities such as parking, restrooms and outdoor showers to rinse of the sand, the park has a convenient concession and restaurant area as well. Visitors can head to Cayo Hueso Cafe to grab some afternoon snack or even to indulge in delicious lunch, while admiring the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. For those that have planned on bringing their own food, numerous picnic tables and grills are also available. If you have forgotten some compulsory items when packing your luggage, do not worry. In the concession you can find a small shop, where you can get sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and towels from. Additionally, a small hut offers snorkel gear, umbrella and chair rentals.
Activities
Ready to experience the entire Fort Zachary Taylor State Park and make the most of your day. Keep reading and learn what are the best things to do!
Fort Zachary Taylor Beach
If you have visited Key West before, you might have already noticed that the beaches tend to have shallow and still water, which can lead to poor swimming conditions. This is not what you will find at Fort Zachary Taylor Beach – Key West’s Most Beautiful Beach. The crystal clear blue water is perfect for both swimming and snorkeling. Keep in mind that the beach is a combination of sand and corals, which makes it a bit rockier, so you might want to get water shoes. The beach is also lined with pine trees which provide pleasant shade under the picnic areas.
Fort Taylor
The history buffs would certainly want to take a step back in time by touring the historic Fort Taylor. Built in the 1850s, the fort served during the Civil War, World War I and II and the Spanish American War, protecting the Key West Harbour. It is quite interesting that with more than 160 guns, the fort has the biggest collection of seacoast guns, which have only been fired during practice. Every day at 11AM, visitors can take the guided tour of the fort and learn more about the history of Fort Zachary Taylor State Park.
What to do in Fort Taylor
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park offers more than just excellent snorkeling conditions and rich history. If you are looking for a place to try different outdoor activities, the park is the place for you. With various fish species, such as snapper, tarpon, grouper etc, fishing in the park is quite popular. Keep in mind that you will need a fishing license first. Home to a wide varierty of plants and trees, the state park also offers the Tropical Hammock Trail as a way to immerse yourself into the beautiful nature of this place. While hiking through the park, you can admire the beautiufl views of the fort and the stunning ocean views at the background. Sport enthusiasts can also choose between kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding and experience the park by water.
Crystal clear blue waters, rich intriguing history and peaceful untouched natural surrounding will greet you at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park. Would you like to visit this place? Do you want to recharge your batteries far away from the busy city life? Make sure that you add Fort Zachary Taylor Beach – Key West’s Most Beautiful Beach to your travel plans for this summer!
