Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Historic Civil War fort meets stunning Key West beach. Explore history, snorkel vibrant waters, and catch breathtaking sunsets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Civil War fort meets stunning Key West beach. Explore history, snorkel vibrant waters, and catch breathtaking sunsets.
"The perfect mix of history and stunning views, offering great snorkeling right off the beach!"
🥾 Water Shoes Essential
The beach is rocky; water shoes are a must for comfortable entry and exit.
🤿 Bring or Rent Snorkel Gear
Excellent snorkeling right off the beach! See fish and marine life.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Civil War-Era Fort
Within the park
Explore the largest cache of Civil War armament in the world. A must-see for history buffs!
Snorkeling Paradise
Beach area
Discover vibrant marine life just off the shore. Arguably the best snorkeling in Key West!
Sunset Views
Beachfront
Witness breathtaking sunsets over the water. A perfect way to end your day in Key West.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beach vs. Fort: Plan Your Visit
Rocky Shores & Snorkel Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Water Shoes Essential
The beach is rocky; water shoes are a must for comfortable entry and exit.
🤿 Bring or Rent Snorkel Gear
Excellent snorkeling right off the beach! See fish and marine life.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Shaded picnic tables and grills available. Great for a relaxed day.
⏰ Fort Closes Early
The fort itself closes at 5 PM, while the park stays open until sunset.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Water Shoes Essential
The beach is rocky; water shoes are a must for comfortable entry and exit.
🤿 Bring or Rent Snorkel Gear
Excellent snorkeling right off the beach! See fish and marine life.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Shaded picnic tables and grills available. Great for a relaxed day.
⏰ Fort Closes Early
The fort itself closes at 5 PM, while the park stays open until sunset.
🚗 Parking Fee
There's a reasonable fee for vehicles and pedestrians. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Fort Zachary Taylor for its dual appeal of a beautiful beach and a fascinating historic fort. The snorkeling is a major highlight, offering abundant marine life. While the rocky entry requires caution and water shoes, the overall experience is highly recommended for its natural beauty and historical significance.
"Great beach! A little rocky, but manageable. Bring a snorkel and a mask, you can see all kinds of fish. Decent amount of shade if you don't want to bring your umbrella. There are also concessions if you don't wanna pack a bunch of PB&Js. ; )"
Samantha Young
"I love visiting state parks, and this was my first time at Fort Zachary Taylor—it did not disappoint! I thoroughly enjoyed everything about it, from the shaded picnic areas to the beautiful beach. Be sure to bring water shoes, as it’s quite rocky when getting into the water. The fort itself was fascinating to explore, with lots of history to take in. It’s also a fantastic spot to watch the sunset. There was plenty of parking and the restrooms were clean and well-maintained. A peaceful, scenic place to spend the day in Key West!"
Maria Castillo
"I had a few hours in the afternoon and wanted to get some snorkeling in before sunset. This beach was less than 10 minutes away from my hotel on Duval by bike, and the gear rental crew in the beach had me in the water in no time. I had no idea that such a complete beach experience with fantastic snorkeling was so easily available. The site is complete with beach rentals (chairs, umbrellas, snorkel gear, etc), a food stand, picnic tables, souvenirs, bathrooms, and outdoor showers. There a fee for using the park, but it very reasonable ($2.50 for one in a bike).
In the water I saw arguably nearly as many fish on the rocks as in did scuba diving in the reef. As a matter of fact I only saw a shark and ray here as opposed to the reef. The bulk of the fish were found in the west rock pile which is close to the edge of the beach and nearer to the boat traffic and possibility of more current, so practice caution if you don’t have much experience in the water. The current can also force you into the rocks if you’re not careful, so better to stay to the east if there is any concern.
If you time your day right you can stroll over to the sunset beach when that time arrives, but that the park closes after the sun drops."
Aaron Carson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is located at 601 Howard England Way in Key West, FL. It's easily accessible by car, bike, or even on foot from many Key West locations. Many visitors opt to bike, as it's a scenic ride and parking is readily available.
Yes, there is ample parking available within the park. The fee is typically $6 per vehicle, with discounts for single-occupant vehicles and pedestrians/bicyclists.
While Key West has a public bus system, it might not directly service the park. Biking or using ride-sharing services are often more convenient options for reaching the park.
Fort Zachary Taylor is a short distance from Duval Street. It's about a 10-minute bike ride or a slightly longer drive, making it an accessible destination for most Key West visitors.
The park is generally open from 8 AM until sundown. However, the historic fort itself has shorter hours and typically closes at 5 PM.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee. It's typically $6 per vehicle, $4.50 for a single-occupant vehicle, and $2.50 for pedestrians and bicyclists.
Advance booking is generally not required for park entry. You can pay the entrance fee upon arrival.
The entrance fee grants you access to the park grounds, beach, picnic areas, and the historic fort (during its operating hours).
Discounts may be available for single-occupant vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists. Check the park's official website or inquire at the entrance for current rates.
Yes, the park remains open until sundown, even after the fort closes at 5 PM. This allows visitors to enjoy the beach and sunset.
🎫 🏊 Beach & Water Activities
Yes, it's considered one of the best beaches in Key West for swimming and relaxing. The water is generally clear and inviting.
The beach is a mix of sand and rocky areas. Water shoes are highly recommended for comfortable access to the water.
Absolutely! It's renowned for its excellent snorkeling opportunities, with many fish visible near the rocky areas.
Yes, you can rent chairs, umbrellas, and snorkel gear from concessions available on-site.
Yes, the park provides restrooms and outdoor showers for visitors to use.
🎫 🏛️ History & Exploration
The fort is a pre-Civil War fortress, one of the largest in the United States, and played a significant role in American history. It houses the largest collection of Civil War armament in the world.
Guided tours of the fort are often available, offering insights into its history and significance. Check with park staff for tour schedules.
You can see a vast collection of Civil War-era cannons and armament, providing a tangible connection to the past.
While much of the fort is explorable, some areas may have uneven terrain or stairs. It's advisable to check accessibility details if needed.
Exploring the fort can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on your interest in history and the depth of your exploration.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Amenities
Yes, there is a cafe or concession stand on-site that offers snacks, drinks, and light meals.
Absolutely! The park has numerous shaded picnic tables with grills, making it a perfect spot for a family picnic.
Amenities include restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic areas with grills, a cafe, and beach rental services.
Yes, there is typically a gift shop or concession area where you can purchase souvenirs.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy in the picnic areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy at the shaded tables, and take advantage of the on-site concessions for snacks. The park's amenities, including restrooms and showers, make it convenient for families. It's a place where kids can burn off energy, learn something new, and create lasting memories.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1 You can save money by packing your own food and drinks for a picnic, utilizing the free picnic tables and grills available throughout the park. Instead of paying for expensive boat tours, you can enjoy fantastic snorkeling right off the beach for the cost of gear rental or by bringing your own. This provides a rich marine experience without the hefty price tag of offshore excursions.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The beach offers stunning opportunities for capturing the crystal-clear turquoise waters, sandy shores, and vibrant sunsets. +1Don't miss the chance to photograph the underwater world while snorkeling, where you can capture colorful fish and marine life. The natural beauty of the park, combined with its historical elements, provides endless creative possibilities for photographers of all levels.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Fort Zachary Taylor: History and Significance
Exploring the fort offers a tangible connection to America's past. You can see original cannons, learn about the fort's construction, and understand its strategic importance. Park rangers and interpretive signs provide valuable context, making the visit both educational and engaging. It's a stark contrast to the relaxed beach atmosphere, offering a well-rounded experience for those interested in more than just sun and sand.
Remember that the fort has specific operating hours, usually closing at 5 PM, while the park itself remains open until sunset. This means you might want to prioritize your fort exploration earlier in the day if you plan to stay for the sunset.
The Beach Experience: Rocky Shores and Underwater Wonders
Many visitors rave about the snorkeling opportunities, reporting sightings of a diverse array of fish, including sharks and rays, right off the shore. The rocky formations create natural habitats for marine life, offering an underwater spectacle that rivals some more distant reef excursions. You can rent snorkel gear on-site, making it easy to dive into this aquatic adventure.
Beyond snorkeling, the beach offers shaded picnic areas under the pines, perfect for a leisurely lunch or simply relaxing with a good book. You can also rent chairs and umbrellas for added comfort. The combination of a historic fort and a vibrant beach makes Fort Zachary Taylor a truly multifaceted destination.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit