The visitor center at Fort Matanzas National Monument is open from 9 AM to 5:30 PM every day, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
There is no entrance fee to visit Fort Matanzas National Monument, including the ferry to the fort. Admission is free for all visitors.
From St. Augustine, follow Highway A1A south for 15 miles, immersed in the historic coastal scenery, to reach this 18th-century fortification.
Parking at Fort Matanzas is limited, primarily for cars, with no space for RVs or buses. Parking is free, but fills up quickly; no overnight parking. Motorcycles can park in the lot. Park on the west side of A1A for the fort and trails.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
Fort Matanzas National Monument, situated on the northern Atlantic coast of Florida, is a testament to the region’s rich historical and natural heritage. This 227-acre site, designated a national monument in 1924, encompasses a 1740 Spanish fort and a verdant expanse of salt marsh and barrier islands along the Matanzas River.
As you approach the fort, a free ferry ride across the Matanzas Inlet sets the tone for an immersive experience. The fort itself, constructed from the resilient coquina stone, stands as a resilient sentinel, its walls bearing witness to the tumultuous past of Spanish St. Augustine. The surrounding landscape is a tapestry of dunes, marsh, and maritime forest, hosting a diverse array of flora and fauna.
Nature trails winding through the monument offer glimpses of wildlife, including dolphins and sea turtles, while the salt marshes are home to a myriad of bird species. The area’s historical significance is palpable, particularly at the site where Pedro Menéndez de Aviles and his men confronted French Huguenots in 1565, an event that gave the fort and inlet their name, Matanzas, meaning slaughters.
During the summer, reenactors bring the fort’s history to life with daily living history demonstrations and occasional weapon firing displays. Visitors can also explore the nearby city of St. Augustine, with its colonial architecture, historic landmarks like Castillo de San Marcos, and artisan shops.
For those seeking a deeper connection with the natural beauty of the area, guided tours and nature walks are available. The monument’s family-friendly amenities, including a gift shop, picnic area, and restrooms, ensure a comfortable and enriching visit. Whether you are drawn to the area’s historical depth or its natural splendor, Fort Matanzas National Monument is a destination that effortlessly blends the past with the present, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in its unique character.
- Area (mi²)
- 1
- Annual visitors
- 593 789
- Established year
- 1740
Top 3 Facts about Fort Matanzas National Monument
The fort, built using coquina stone, is part of a preserve that includes about 100 acres of salt marsh and barrier islands along the Matanzas River, providing a habitat for endangered and threatened species.
This coastal sanctuary is a haven for diverse wildlife and flora. Maritime hammocks and salt marshes host migratory warblers, vireos, and tanagers, while the shore is home to Black Skimmers, Least Terns, and Piping Plovers. Dolphins and manatees frequent the waters, alongside sea turtles and fish like the Striped Burrfish. The area is also a nesting ground for beach-nesting birds, and the marshes are inhabited by Wood Storks and Roseate Spoonbills. Tortoises, snakes, and armadillos inhabit the land, amidst a backdrop of vibrant flora and intricate orb weaver spider webs.
Surrounded by the serene waters of the Matanzas River, this historic outpost sits amidst 100 acres of salt marsh and barrier islands. The inlet’s tranquil waters, often a soft turquoise, are guarded by a fortified coquina watchtower standing 30 feet high, its foundation stabilized by pine pilings in the marshy terrain.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Virtual Junior Activities
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Arrive early to secure ferry tickets, especially during spring school visits. Wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen and insect repellent. Picnic under live oaks before or after your visit. Avoid Tuesdays and thunderstorms.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable weather, sturdy hiking boots, and a waterproof jacket. Bring a tent, sleeping bag, and headlamp for overnight stays. Don’t forget a multi-tool, matches, and a refillable water dispenser. Check seasonal amenities before you go.
Respect Wildlife
Respect nesting birds by avoiding beach areas from April to August. Stay on designated trails and boardwalks to protect fragile ecosystems and wildlife habitats. Be mindful of seasonal closures and guided tours to minimize impact. Leave nothing behind but footprints.
Stay Informed
Watch for uneven surfaces, slippery rocks, and sharp oyster shells. Avoid ledges and water during storms. Wear sunscreen, stay hydrated, and respect wildlife. Check weather forecasts and park rules. For emergencies, call (904) 471-0116.
Seasons
In spring, with temperatures in the 70s and mild weather, experience historic demonstrations and a treasure chest hunt during the Earth Day Celebration in April. Enjoy nature walks and colonial life exhibits amidst blooming coastal flora. Ideal time for outdoor enthusiasts.
Explore summer’s warmth (80s-90s°F) amidst maritime forests and coastal trails. Join Winged Wonders birding events in July and August, or participate in a Trash Bash beach clean-up. Humid but vibrant, summer offers unique outdoor experiences.
Visit in fall for mild temperatures (70-80°F) and the Centennial Celebration, featuring living historians on select Saturdays and Sundays from September to November. Avoid hurricane season, but enjoy crisp weather and historic reenactments.
Visit in winter for mild temperatures, 50s-70s Fahrenheit, and fewer crowds. Cool, occasionally crisp days make for ideal historical tours and nature walks, though cold spells and wind can occur. A jacket is recommended.【National Geographic Magazine】
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Fort Matanzas National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to Fort Matanzas is St. Augustine, Florida, which is located about 14 miles to the north. St. Augustine is on Florida’s Northeastern Atlantic coast, midway between Jacksonville and Daytona Beach.
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Dogs are allowed on the grounds, beach, and trails as long as they are on a leash no longer than 6 feet. However, they are not permitted in the visitor center, on the boat, or inside the fort, except for service animals.
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Parking is free at the site, with designated areas on the west side of A1A for the fort, river, and trails, and on the east side of A1A for the beach.
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Visit the fortified coquina watchtower via ferry rides, explore the nature trails through the maritime forest and marsh, and enjoy fishing on the river and ocean. Participate in reenactments and demonstrations, or take guided tours of the fort, which are available from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Use the picnic facilities and restrooms near the visitor center.