Key West is an amazing place. There is so much to see in such a small area, and yet it manages to maintain a very relaxed vibe. It's easy to think you are down in the Caribbean islands.

Despite the limted space on such a small island, Key West has managed to fit a 54-acre state park into the mix. Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is a fantastic place for a picnic under the thick shade of tall Australian pines, with the sea breezes keeping the edge off of the heat. After a couple of hours of snorkeling in the beautiful clear waters, you'll be hungry. If you aren't prepared for cooking, just stop by the Cayo Hueso Cafe, just steps from the beach.

It's easy to be so distracted by the beautiful water and the sandy beach that you overlook the "other" main attraction in the park: Fort Zachary Taylor, a fort constructed in the Civil War era and used by the Union forces. Be sure to take a guided tour of this fabulous piece of our history.

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park features and activities:

• Swimming
• Excellent snorkeling
• Fishing in the Key West Shipping Channel
• Bike paths and short wooded trails for exploring
• Narrated tour of Fort Zachary Taylor
  
• Cayo Hueso Cafe serving food and drink
• Restrooms and outdoor showers
• Shaded picnic tables and grills
• Great place to watch the sunset
• Great place for a wedding
• Birding
• Beach equipment rental (chairs, umbrellas, rafts, snorkeling gear)

Other important details:

• Alcoholic beverages are not permitted in the park
• Pets are allowed in the park on a leash, but are NOT allowed on the park's beaches.
• The beaches do NOT have lifeguards.

For more information:

http://www.fortzacharytaylor.com/

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park Official web site