Where
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is located at 601 Howard England Way, Key West FL 33040.
Vibe
Snorkeling and swimming amidst breathtaking tropical scenery. Key West’s favorite beach beckons you to splash into its turquoise, clear waters to enjoy a swim or a wade-in snorkeling expedition, while Fort Taylor’s magnificent natural beauty sets the stage for outdoor activities and offers a chance to immerse yourself in history.
See, feel
Bordered by swaying palms and fragrant pines, the much beloved ‘Rocky Beach’ promises a feast for the senses. Sailboats silently glide past on impossibly emerald-hued waters, while jet skiers challenge each other to a race.
The beach is manmade, a sprawling, narrow paradise of brown sand and pebbles. Sited next to the main shipping channel, with currents that keep the water clean and clear, this park boasts the best swimming and wade-in snorkeling on the island. Shallow, but deep enough to swim, the nearby breakwaters teem with parrot fish, schools of yellowtail snapper, lobster, and colorful corals.
Water shoes are recommended because of the rocky sea bottom.
On or near the beach
Beachgoers can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, paddling and fishing, while history comes to life with a stroll through the red brick corridors of Fort Taylor, a National Historic Monument housing the largest cache of Civil War armament in the world. Other park activities include birding, biking, Scuba diving, tours, events, walking and running.
Fuel the fun with a picnic, or visit the Cayo Hueso Café for refreshments on an umbrella-shaded deck.
Accessibility
Fort Zachary Taylor offers beach wheelchairs free of charge. Inquire on the beach at the Cayo Hueso Café or contact the park office for assistance.
Accessible amenities include parking; restrooms; shower stations; picnic facilities with tables and grills; ground-level areas of the fort; interpretive panels; and Cayo Hueso Café.
Service animals are welcome in all areas of Florida State Parks.
Facilities
At Fort Zachary Taylor, you’ll find a canoe/kayak launch; gardens; a Civil War era fort; an interpretative exhibit; a nature trail; restrooms; two shower stations; and a small gift shop where you can pick up sunscreen, towels and snorkel gear.
Cayo Hueso Café serves up food and refreshments, while a chickee hut rents chairs, umbrellas, snorkel gear and bikes.
Lifeguards
No lifeguards are on duty; swim at your own risk.
Parking
Parking is included with the park admittance fee.
