Experiences & Amenities

Experiences

Bicycling

Biking is known as the best form of transportation in Key West. Here at Fort Zachary Taylor we accommodate bicyclists by providing plenty of bike racks, trails and even a dedicated entry lane for cyclists and walkers. Grab your picnic items, put them in your bike basket, and come enjoy a relaxing day under our shady hammock by the beach. When you are feeling energetic, just hop on your bike and try out one of our bike trails. 

Birding

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is proud to be a part of The Great Florida Birding Trail.  Come see the Fall and Spring bird migrations.  Bird lists are available at the ranger station.

Paddling

Bring your own canoe or kayak or paddleboard and use our launch on the east end of the beach.  All hard bottom floatation devices must remain outside swim buoys.

Fishing

Fishing is very popular in the Florida Keys and Fort Zachary Taylor is no exception. Try your skill, and luck, fishing off our rock jetty adjacent to the main shipping channel.  Grouper, snapper, jacks, tarpon and other local favorites can be challenged by anglers of all ages.  Don't forget to bring your fishing license and a camera.   

Geo-Seeking

Explore the park in a new and challenging way. Experienced Geocachers have requested permission to hide caches containing trinkets, treasures, or information in various places around the park.  Please check the Geocaching website for the most current and up-to-date information and clues to locate these caches. 

Hiking

Get back in touch with nature and come explore the Tropical Hammock Trail to learn about our native plants.  When you've finished, walk along the Fort View nature trail and take in the view of our 19th century fortification from the outside. 

Picnicking

Bring your fresh catch and cook it right here in our lovely shaded picnic area.  Picnic tables and charcoal grills are provided for your convenience, or you can bring your own.  This park is pack in pack out, so please bring your trash with you when you go. 

Scuba Diving

Come see the new coral reef being built right here in Key West. Please bring a dive flag if you plan on using scuba equipment, and always bring a partner.

Snorkeling

Bring your snorkel gear or rent some here.  Fort Zachary Taylor provides some of the best snorkeling from the beach in the Florida Keys.  Good for beginners and novices alike.

Swimming

Come and take advantage of the best swimming location in Key West.  The water is shallow, yet deep enough to swim and snorkel.  Water shoes are recommended.

Amenities

Beach

Spend your day swimming or snorkeling at Florida's southernmost state park. A sprawling beach of sand and pebbles, and nearby breakwaters teeming with tropical fish, ensure great fun in the sun for both beachcombers and snorkelers. Known by the locals as 'Fort Zach,' or 'rocky beach,' our park boasts the best swimming on the island. Situated next to the main shipping channel, the currents here keep the water clean and clear. Snorkeling equipment can be rented or purchased at the concession located in the picnic area. Showers are available to rinse off after a relaxing day in the sun. Water shoes are recommended because of the rocky sea bottom.

  • No lifeguards are on duty, swim at your own risk

Shower Station

Grab a clean water rinse before you leave the park at two different locations.  Please use water only - no soap products allowed.

Historic Site

Take a stroll through the 1800's in our Civil War era fort.  Built to guard the harbor of Key West, Fort Taylor was used in the Civil War, Spanish American War, WWI, WWII, and the Cuban Missile Crisis.  Come see the largest collection of seacoast guns and take the daily tour at 11 a.m.  You can also explore on your own following the self guided tour. 

Interpretive Exhibit

Visit historic Fort Taylor and see our new interpretive panels.  Used in addition to the self guided tour brochures, these new panels will take you deeper into the construction and use of this Third Tier System fort.

Concession and Restaurant

Food and refreshments are available at the Cayo Hueso Café, where you can taste the local cuisine while gazing at the ocean.  The concessionaire also operates a small gift shop where you can pick up last minute items such as sunscreen, towels and snorkel gear.  A chickee hut rents chairs, umbrellas and snorkel gear.  If you would like to get married at the most beautiful place in Key West, the concession will help you find the perfect location.  The concession is open from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily.