Hello travelers!

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, also known as Fort Zach, is the perfect place to spend the day relaxing at the beach. Here are my five favorite things to do there.

Go for a swim

The water is crystal clear and warm enough for year-round swimming. Swimming here on a hot summer’s day is glorious, and it reminds me of why I love Key West. Bring a mask or snorkel and swim near the rocks to see some fish and sea plants.

Swimming area

Explore the fort

Visit the historic fort and learn about Key West’s role in the Civil War. See canons used during the war and take in spectacular views of the park. If you’re unable to get tickets to the Dry Tortugas, this is a great alternative.

If you’re interested in visiting the Dry Tortugas, check out my blog post here.

Inside the fort

Ride a bike

There are bike trails all over the park. Visitors can bike through ‘the field’ – that’s what I call it – and see the historic fort on one side and the bright blue water on the other. A feast for the eyes!

Bike path along the water

Have a cookout

Fort Zach has several community grills in the shade near the beach. I have fond memories of going to BBQs and birthday parties at this park, and so can you! Just bring your meal of choice, some charcoal, a lighter, and enjoy!

Sunbathe at the ‘secret’ beach

I debated putting this one on here because now the secret’s out! But if you’re looking to get away from the throngs of people, you may be interested in the ‘secret’ beach. Park your car in the grassy area instead of the asphalt parking lot and then walk along the water towards the park’s edge. You’ll find a small rocky beach where locals like to lay out in the sun.

Tip: If you’re looking to avoid the crowds even further, visit the park first thing in the morning. It opens at 8 am.

Wading in the water at the ‘secret’ beach

What to Know Before You Go

  1. There may be a long line to get into the park. This can be avoided by going early or riding your bike to bypass the car traffic.
  1. Fort Zach is a state park and alcohol is prohibited.
  1. There is a small entrance fee, and all proceeds go towards the park. By visiting, you are supporting Florida’s state park system. Thank you!
  1. Garbage cans are few and far in between. Plan to bring a trash bag with you so you can ‘carry in, carry out’ your trash.
  1. Fort Zach has rocky beaches. Sometimes tourists come to Key West expecting pristine white sand beaches, but Key West is made of limestone, so our beaches are rocky, not sandy. This is why some locals affectionately refer to Key West as ‘the rock.’ I recommend wearing sturdy waterproof sandals or reef runners to protect your feet.
  1. The park is open 365 days a year. My family loves to have a picnic at the park on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.

Frolicking in the field

Have you been to Fort Zach? What is your favorite thing to do there? Let me know in the comments!

– Travel Alli