Dry Tortugas National Park bear

If the world is Dry Tortugas National Park, and as such a nice place to have a funny name? About 70 miles off the coast of Key West, Dry Tortugas is a cluster of small islands known for the abundant marine life, including sea turtles. Tortugas is Spanish for turtles, and that explains part of its strange name.

But what makes dry, because the park is surrounded by crystal blue waters of the Caribbean? The name actually comes from the days when the Spanish settled the islands, and soon discovered that there are no sources of fresh water available. So the islands became known as the Dry Tortugas, or "dry turtles." Even now, as the islands are a popular tourist destination, visitors must bring their own water.

First designated a national monument since FDR, the islands were designated a National Park in 1992, towards the end of the term of George HW Bush. As the home of the unfinished Civil War was Fort Jefferson (a brick structure that has come to be used as a prison housing conspirators accused of assassination of Lincoln), the strip of sandy beaches and colorful reefs is now a destination for 80,000 visitors who visit each year.

All start with astonishment the intriguing story of the former basa originally conceived as a defense against - you guessed it - the (real) pirates of the Caribbean. Tourists can experience many interesting and fun activities in Dry Tortugas National Park, a fascinating tour of the historic Fort Jefferson, to sunbathe on sandy beaches, an unforgettable snorkeling trip to see various sea life.

Of course, the only access to the island is by boat or sea plane. So if you want to book a trip, you will need a card Dry Tortugas, which can cost up to $ 135 per person. It is advisable to check for discounts on charters Dry Tortugas .......