An overhead view of Garden Key in the Dry Tortugas reveals a picturesque and historic landscape surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Here's a vivid description of Garden Key from an aerial perspective:

**Island Shape and Size:**
- **Hexagonal Fort Structure:** The most prominent feature on Garden Key is the hexagonal fortress, Fort Jefferson, located at its center. The fort's walls create a distinctive pattern, and its layout is evident from above.

- **Compact Island:** Garden Key is relatively small and compact, with Fort Jefferson occupying a significant portion of its interior. The fort's shape, characterized by six protruding walls, forms a hexagon that encapsulates the historical and architectural essence of the island.

**Coastline and Shoreline:**
- **White Sandy Beaches:** Surrounding Garden Key are pristine, white sandy beaches that extend like a ribbon along the shoreline. These beaches provide a striking contrast to the vibrant turquoise waters of the Gulf.

- **Coral Reefs:** Coral reefs fringe the island's edges, creating intricate patterns and adding hues of blue and green to the water. The reefs serve as a testament to the thriving marine ecosystem surrounding the key.

**Vegetation and Greenery:**
- **Sparse Vegetation:** The island's interior, outside the fort's walls, features sparse vegetation, including low shrubs and coastal plants. Palm trees dot the landscape, swaying gently in the tropical breeze.

- **Courtyard Greenery:** Within Fort Jefferson, a central courtyard showcases a more organized and maintained green space, offering a refreshing oasis within the historical structure.

**Historical Structures:**
- **Fort Jefferson Walls:** The fort's walls, constructed from weathered bricks, stand as a visual reminder of the historical significance of the island. The hexagonal design of the fort is evident from above, with bastions at each corner.

- **Parade Ground:** The parade ground within the fort's interior is distinguishable, providing a glimpse into the daily life of soldiers who once inhabited the island.

**Loggerhead Key and Lighthouse:**
- **Southwest Horizon:** Beyond Garden Key, Loggerhead Key lies to the southwest. The Loggerhead Key Lighthouse, a slender tower, is visible, standing as a sentinel against the horizon.

**Surrounding Waters:**
- **Clear Blue Waters:** The Gulf of Mexico surrounding Garden Key is characterized by clear, blue waters that reveal the shallow sandbars and coral formations beneath the surface.

- **Boat Anchorage:** Near the island, boats may be anchored, creating small clusters in strategic locations. The boats showcase the accessibility of Garden Key by sea.

**Emotional Essence:**
- **Remote Serenity:** From above, Garden Key exudes a sense of remote serenity. The isolation of the island, surrounded by endless ocean, creates a tranquil and untouched ambiance.

- **Historical Aura:** The combination of historical structures, natural beauty, and the island's strategic location contributes to an aura that is both historically significant and visually captivating.

An overhead view of Garden Key captures the harmonious blend of history, nature, and the vibrant marine environment that defines this unique island in the Dry Tortugas.