Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park Beach
State park · Key West
601 Howard England Way, Key West, FL 33040
Highlights
Historic fort, beach, snorkeling, and sunsets await visitors
Historic fort, beach, snorkeling, and sunsets await visitors
"A historic coastal state park that combines scenic snorkeling spots and coastal fort ruins, ideal for couples who want a mix of beach time and light historical exploration." - Travel + Leisure Editors
"A circa-1860s Civil War-era fort set within a seaside park that pairs beach access with historical interpretation — offering hands-on history for kids and a chance to explore a preserved military structure." - Elizabeth Preske Elizabeth Preske Elizabeth Preske is an associate editor at TripSavvy and a former associate digital editor at Travel + Leisure. She writes and edits content about destinations around the world, covering everything from travel-related news and tips to stories about quirky destinations. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"The beach at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, on the southwest tip of the island, is considered one of the top beaches in all of the Florida Keys. Towering Norfolk pine trees lining the sand provide plenty of shade, and picnic tables beg you to pack lunch and settle in for the day. Look for colorful reef fish — parrot fish, sergeant majors, and more — along the rocky pilings of the park’s jetty. This is the best spot in all of Key West to snorkel right from the shore, and you can rent snorkel gear, beach chairs, and umbrellas from a nearby kiosk. The park’s historic fort dates to 1845 and was used to deter Confederate ships from coming ashore during the Civil War. Grab a hot dog and daiquiri from Cayo Hueso Cafe, a snack shack near the water with sweeping ocean views." - Travel + Leisure Editors
"The Keys played an important role in American history, and you can get a glimpse of that history at places like Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, a National Historic Landmark where you can take a narrated tour and see Civil War cannons." - Travel + Leisure Editors
"This natural beach feels like a hidden treasure, especially since you’ll need to snake your way along Key West’s narrow backstreets, then past Fort Zachary Taylor to get here."
