Fort Zachary Taylor State Park: Beach, History & Snorkeling Guide 2025

Most travel brochures will tell you that Fort Zachary Taylor State Park has the "best beach in Key West." While that is true, there is a crucial detail they often leave out: it is not a soft, sandy paradise.

• Location: 601 Howard England Way, Key West, FL
• Best Time to Visit: Morning (for calm water) or Sunset
• Entrance Fee: $6.00 per vehicle (2-8 people)
• Water Shoes: Highly Recommended (Rocky bottom)
• Amenities: Café, Showers, Chair Rentals, Grills

If you visit expecting to walk barefoot into the waves, you might leave with cut feet. But if you come prepared with the right gear and knowledge, you will discover the clearest water, the best snorkeling, and the most fascinating history on the island. This honest guide covers everything you need to know before you go, from the real beach conditions to the Civil War fortress that guards it.

The Honest Truth About the Beach (Read This First)

Let’s set the record straight: The beach at Fort Zachary Taylor is composed of ground coral and rock, not soft silica sand. While the shoreline looks white and inviting from a distance, the terrain under the water is rocky and can be slippery.

The shoreline at Fort Zachary Taylor consists of coral rocks and jetties, making water shoes essential for a safe swim.

This rocky bottom is actually a blessing in disguise. Because there is no fine sand to cloud the water, "Fort Zach" has the clearest water in Key West. This makes it the premier spot for snorkeling. However, water shoes are absolute necessities here. Do not rely on flip-flops; you need secure footwear to enter the ocean comfortably.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

Since the water is crystal clear, you don't need a boat to see amazing marine life. You can snorkel right off the beach. The best spots are around the rock jetties (breakwaters) on the left and right sides of the swimming area.

• What you can see: Parrotfish, yellowtail snapper, lobster, and schools of hardhead silversides.
• Gear Rental: If you didn't pack gear, you can rent a mask, snorkel, and fins from the Cayo Hueso Café located directly on the beach.
• Safety: Be careful of currents near the channel markers. Always swim with a buddy.

Exploring the Historic Fortress

Before or after your swim, you must explore the massive brick fortress that gives the park its name. Built between 1845 and 1866, Fort Zachary Taylor played a critical role in the Civil War and the Spanish-American War.

Interior view of Fort Zachary Taylor showing the brick archways and Civil War-era cannons.

Interestingly, during the Civil War, this fort remained under Union control, blocking Confederate ships from using the vital Key West port. This blockade was a major factor in the Union's eventual victory.

• Daily Tours: The park rangers offer guided tours, usually at 11:00 AM. These are included with your park entry and are highly recommended if you want to understand the strategic importance of the cannons and architecture.
• Self-Guided: You can also wander through the cool brick archways and gun casemates at your own pace. It provides a nice break from the sun.

The spacious green courtyard inside Fort Zachary Taylor, where soldiers once drilled.

Amenities: Food, Showers, and Rentals

You can easily spend a full day here because the park is well-equipped.

• Cayo Hueso Café: This on-site concession stand serves burgers, sandwiches (usually under $12), ice cream, and cold drinks. It is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
• Rentals: You can rent beach chairs and umbrellas if you want to relax in style. Expect to pay around $15-$20 for a chair or umbrella rental.
• Picnic Areas: There are plenty of pine trees providing natural shade, along with picnic tables and charcoal grills. It is a popular spot for locals to have a barbecue, so feel free to bring your own charcoal and food.
• Facilities: There are restrooms and outdoor showers to rinse off the salt water before you leave.

Nearby Camping Options

A common misconception is that you can camp inside the park. Camping is not permitted at Fort Zachary Taylor; it is for day-use only. The park closes at sundown.

If you are looking for a place to park your RV or pitch a tent near the water, check out our guide to the best waterfront RV parks in Key West. Spots like Boyd’s Key West Campground offer the closest experience to sleeping by the ocean.

Essential Visitor Information 2025

• Entrance Fees:

• Opening Hours: The park is open from 8:00 AM to Sundown, 365 days a year. However, the Fort itself closes at 5:00 PM.
• Parking: There is ample parking available near the beach and the fort.
• Accessibility: The park offers a beach wheelchair (inquire at the entrance station) and accessible restrooms.