Unlock the Secrets of Fort Matanzas: A Perfect St Augustine Family Day Trip

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 visitor center

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.

Fort matanzas ferry

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.

See also  Your Quick Guide to Making the Most of Rainbow Springs

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.

fort matanzas in st augustine

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!

Fort Matanzas in Saint Augustine
Fort Matanzas River, view from the observation deck of the fort

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.

fort matanzas

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

📍Get Directions


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Yanitza Ninett
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Yanitza is an avid adventurer with 15+ years of hiking experience and outdoor travel. As a PADI-certified scuba diver, she's also passionate about ocean conservation. When she's not exploring the great outdoors, Yanitza obsesses over The Vampire Diaries and dreams of traveling to Mallorca, Spain.

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