Fort Matanzas is a 1740 Spanish fort built from Coquina that is located 14 miles south of Saint Augustine. This is the second National Monument located in St. Augustine —the oldest city in America.
It’s also one of the best places to visit along Florida’s Historic Coast! Being here was definitely a great adventure, which we enjoyed with our nieces and nephews.
What to Expect When Visiting Fort Matanzas
Your first stop should be the Visitor Center. This is where you get your boarding pass for the ferry that takes you to Fort Matanzas. The pass is required for all visitors who wish to go to the fort.
Additionally, you will also be able to see some exhibits on natural and historic features. Before the pandemic, they would also show an 8-minute film about the history of the Fort.
Fort Matanzas— one of the most incredible things in St Augustine, can only be visited via a ferry, and in groups led by the park ranger. Several trips happen throughout the day but the tickets can go out fast, especially during the weekends.
The ferry carries up to 35 people per trip. If it’s already full when you get there, feel free to explore the nature trails in the park and the beautiful surrounding areas.
Nature Trails in the Park
Marsh trail —a sandy, unpaved trail that is less than a mile and takes you through the wetlands of the park.
Nature trail —a boardwalk trail, also less than a mile, with gorgeous views through a canopy of beautiful trees.
Inside Fort Matanzas
Once you go inside the Fort, you’ll find plenty of interesting history that dates back to the 1700s when it was built. You can explore the gun deck, soldier’s quarters, officer’s quarters, and powder magazine.
For those of you more curious and adventurous, you can climb up a steep and narrow wooden ladder that leads to the observation deck.
When you get to the deck, you’ll be able to enjoy the most spectacular view of the Matanzas River!
Beach Access
There is beach access near the park’s Visitor Center but rip currents in this area tend to be very dangerous.
Therefore, caution when swimming is advised and there is no lifeguard on duty.
When planning your visit to Fort Matanzas, keep in mind that the weather here is very hot and humid. Bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and keep an eye out for the weather.
All in all, this great Fort is an awesome place to visit for the whole family, and for lovers of nature and historic places. If you haven’t yet been to Fort Matanzas, try and make it this year!
Plan Your Visit to Fort Matanzas National Monument
Hours: Open daily, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm.
Ferry: Operates from Wednesday to Sunday only, a boarding pass is required
Fees: Free admission
Location: 8635 A1A South, St. Augustine, FL 32080
Hey, adventurer! 👋 I’m Yanitza, a hidden-gem hunter and adventure seeker who’s been helping travelers discover authentic experiences off the beaten path for over 8 years. When I’m not crafting detailed travel guides or exploring historic towns, you’ll find me underwater – I’m a PADI-certified scuba diver with a passion for ocean conservation and marine life. A firm believer that the best stories happen when you venture beyond tourist hotspots, I balance my wanderlust with guilty-pleasure binges of The Vampire Diaries and dreaming up future adventures in Mallorca, Spain. Through my guides and travel tips, I hope to inspire others to explore deeper, travel slower, and discover the magic of unexpected places.
Fort Matanzas is among the best places to visit with friends and loved ones. Nature admirers will definitely get more out of it. Thanks for the guide!
We completely agree!! Thank you for reading 😃
Love that there are trails to explore while waiting for the ferry! Love the view and that’s awesome that it’s free!!
We agree! It’s nice to enjoy the trails while waiting 😊