Beaches
Swimming
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Key West's best swimming beach, with genuine snorkelling off the rocks and a Civil War fort full of seacoast cannon to explore between swims.
Ages
4–18+
Cost
Paid
Duration
~3h
Difficulty
Easy
Setting
On the water
Key West is short on good beaches and this is the one locals use. The water drops off quickly compared to Bahia Honda, which makes it less suited to toddlers but much better for snorkelling - the rocky edges hold parrotfish, sergeant majors and the occasional small barracuda within a short swim of the sand. Behind the beach sits the Civil War fort itself, with the largest collection of seacoast cannon in the country and cool brick casemates that make a good hour out of the sun. Water shoes matter here; the entry is rocky.
Pricing
$6 per vehicle (verify)
Common Questions
- How much does Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park cost?
- Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park charges admission. $6 per vehicle (verify)
- What ages is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park good for?
- Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is best for kids ages 4 to 18+.
- Is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park stroller friendly?
- No, Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is not considered stroller friendly.
- Can I bring my dog to Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park?
- No, dogs are not allowed at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park.
- How hard is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park?
- The difficulty level is easy. Plan for about 3 hours.
- Is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park free?
- No, there is a cost to visit Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. $6 per vehicle (verify)
- What should I bring to Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park?
- Water shoes are essential, mask and snorkel, reef-safe sunscreen
- How long does Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park take?
- Most families spend about 3 hours at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park.
- When is the best time to visit Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park?
- Afternoon for the sunset; morning for the calmest snorkelling.