Loggerhead Key

At about 49 acres, Loggerhead Key is the largest island in Dry Tortugas National Park, about three miles from Garden Key. Less than one percent of the park is dry ground, so this low strip of sand and vegetation is a rare chance to spend time ashore among the lighthouse and reef water. It is a day-use visit for people who can arrange their own vessel or kayak transfer; it is not another passenger stop on the park ferry. Pick it if you want an island visit away from the fort-centered day at Garden Key and the boat logistics fit your trip.

There is no public transportation to the island. Access is by private vessel or by a kayak or canoe brought to the park on the ferry, arranged ahead because space is limited. Private vessels cannot use Loggerhead's dock: land at the signed dinghy beach and stay on marked paths. The dock and all buildings are closed to visitors, and overnight stays are not allowed.

Dry Tortugas Light was built here in 1858 after shipwrecks around the earlier Garden Key light kept exposing the danger of these reefs. The new tower was taller and brighter, with a more modern optical lens to guide ships through the keys. It remains the island's landmark, but you see it from outside; visitors cannot enter the lighthouse.

The island's name refers to the abundance of loggerhead sea turtles in these waters. That is the name's history, not a promise of a turtle sighting. The Carnegie Marine Biological Laboratory operated at the island's north end from 1904 to 1939. Its researchers studied coral reefs and mangroves and used underwater photography, giving this remote island a scientific story as well as a maritime one.

Marked paths cross the island, and a designated area on the northwest side is set aside for swimming and snorkeling. The 261-foot Windjammer, also called Avanti, is a separate wreck about a mile southwest, not a stop on the island's shore walk. This 1875 three-masted ship sank in 1907; parts reach the surface, with the site dropping to about 21 feet. For a photo from shore, frame the lighthouse with some beach and palms so the tower reads against the island's low profile.

Loggerhead Key is day use only. Visitor information lists no public toilet, potable water or food service on the island, so bring what you need and do not count on Garden Key's facilities during your visit. The remote access is part of the appeal, but it takes more planning than a stop on Garden Key.