

Best for beginner divers, 1-8m, shore entry, moderate current.
Fort Zachary Taylor features a series of rock breakwaters that serve as an artificial reef system. Located in Key West, this site is accessible directly from the shore, with entry recommended at the eastern end of the beach. The area is suitable for beginners, offering depths ranging from 1 to 8 metres with an average of 3 metres. Conditions vary, with visibility typically between 3 and 10 metres and moderate currents. Hazards include surf, sharp coral, sea urchins, jellyfish, and low visibility. Facilities available at the site include parking, toilets, showers, equipment rental, a cafe, and first aid.
24.54650, -81.81050
Use the current to your advantage by entering on the eastern side of the beach near a rock pile and swimming west.
Located at 601 Howard England Way, Key West, Florida. There is a fee per vehicle to enter the state park.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 8m
Visibility
3-10m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
23-31°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
45 min
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners.
The depth ranges from 1 to 8 metres, with an average depth of 3 metres.
This is a shore entry site.
Yes, the site is used for snorkeling and has a snorkel rating of 3 out of 5.
Hazards include surf, sharp coral, sea urchins, jellyfish, strong currents, and low visibility.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Fort Zachary Taylor (Rock Piles) in Key West. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Fort Zachary Taylor (Rock Piles) in Key West. Water temperatures range from 23°C to 31°C.
Expect moderate currents at Fort Zachary Taylor (Rock Piles) in Key West. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Fort Zachary Taylor (Rock Piles) in Key West typically ranges from 3 metres to 10 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.