Fort Zachary Taylor State Park

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Key West, Florida - December 4, 2019:  People tan and rest on the sunny beach of Fort Zachary Taylor State Park in tropical Key West Florida USA

‘America’s Southernmost State Park’ is home to an impressive fort, built in the mid-1800s, that played roles in the American Civil War and in the Spanish–American War. The beach here is the best one Key West has to offer – it has white sand to lounge on (but is rocky in parts), water deep enough to swim in and tropical fish under the waves. It's also a fine spot for sunset viewing. Learn more about the fort on free guided tours offered at 11am.

There's a fine cafe on-site, and you can hire lounge chairs and umbrellas, as well as snorkeling gear for aquatic activities. If coming by foot, it's about a half-mile walk (12 minutes) from the entrance to the beach.

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