While there’s certainly a lot of options when it comes to beaches in Florida, many of us may want to sit on the sands of a secluded spot that isn’t packed with crowds. International travel site Love Exploring has recently published its list of the best hidden beaches in the country, “from little-known stretches of coast to quiet coves only reachable by boat,” and one of Florida’s sun-kissed spaces made it among the Top 5!
In their ranking of America’s lesser-known beaches, Bush Key in Dry Tortugas National Park comes in at No. 3.
“Seven islands make up Dry Tortugas National Park, a wildlife haven reachable by ferry from Key West,” the publication wrote. “The beaches here are rarely crowded, though for an even more remote experience, take a short boat ride (or walk at low tide) to secluded Bush Key. It’s only open for a portion of the year to protect the rare seabirds which flock here to breed – so check before you visit.”
About Bush Key
Located right on Dry Tortugas National Park, west of Key West, this small island is lined with sandy shores and blue ocean waters. It’s also among the least visited national parks, which should come as no surprise since it is accessible only by seaplane or a ferry ride from the Keys.
From enjoying a peaceful stroll along the 1-mile shoreline to spotting rare birds like sooty terns and brown noddies, it makes for the perfect escape from the city. However, the exploring doesn’t stop at Bush Key, one of multiple islands that make up the Dry Tortugas. Make sure to check out the 19th century fort residing at Garden Key or a shipwreck site at Loggerhead Key!
Of course, Bush Key is a protected area, so visitors are required to follow rules in place to protect the natural habitat and wildlife. This includes staying on marked trails to protect fragile plant life as well as leaving no trace behind during your visit. It sandy shores transition to coral rubble, so footwear is recommended for walking.
Learn more about the island on the official National Park Service website here!
NOTE: Bush Key is currently closed and will reopen in Fall of 2025.
Which other secret Florida beaches made the list?
If you’re looking for a perfect getaway to some of America’s best secret beaches, here are just 15 of the best secret beaches in the country by Love Exploring. Remember they are secret, so don’t be surprised if you don’t find South Beach or Coney Island!
- Secret Beach, Brookings, Oregon
- Kalalau Beach, Kauai, Hawaii
- Bush Key, Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
- Makua Beach, Ka’ena Point State Park, Hawaii
- Lifeguarded Beach, Ocracoke, North Carolina
- Shi Shi Beach, Makah Reservation, Washington
- Driftwood Beach, Jekyll Island, Georgia
- Indian Beach, Ecola State Park, Oregon
- Bishop’s Beach, Homer, Alaska
- Cape Henlopen State Park, Delaware
- Shell Island, St. Andrews State Park, Florida
- Black Beach, Silver Bay, Minnesota
- Mattole Beach, Petrolia, California
- Bound Brook Island Beach, Wellfleet, Massachusetts
- Perdido Key Beach, Perdido Key State Park, Florida