Fort Matanzas sits on Rattlesnake Island in the middle of the Matanzas River.
Fort Matanzas National Monument
National Monument · FL
Fort Matanzas National Monument preserves the fortified coquina watchtower, completed in 1742, which defended the southern approach to the Spanish military settlement of St. Augustine. It also protects approximately 300 acres of Florida coastal environment containing dunes, marsh, maritime forest, and associated flora and fauna, including threatened and endangered species.
Park report
Alert: Information
How this is rated
Poor: closures/hazards · Fair: cautions/noticesFort Matanzas Only Accessible by Ferry Service
Hours Exceptions
NoteArea Closed
Fee: Timed Entry Reservation - Location
How this is rated
Good: free · Fair: ≤$20 · Low: >$20Free
Visitor Centers
Good1 visitor center
Activities Available
How this is rated
Good: many activities available7 activities
Park Name
InfoFort Matanzas National Monument
Designation
InfoNational Monument
State(s)
InfoFL
Phone
Info9044710116
CASA_Ranger_Activities@nps.gov
Operating Hours
InfoNO FERRY SERVICE TO FORT MATANZAS ON TUESDAYS OR WEDNESDAYS The outdoor areas at the Fort Matanzas Visitor Center Area are open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Public restrooms, nature trails, fishing access, and basic visitor information and orientation services are available. Fort tours are running Thursday through Monday with limited capacity. Boarding passes are available on a first come, first served basis. Tours may fill up early in the day. No oversized parking is available.
Campgrounds
InfoNo campgrounds listed
Visitor Center: Visitor Center
InfoSee park for hours
Themes & Topics
InfoArchitecture and Building, American Revolution, Archeology + 26 more
Weather Info
InfoSummers are hot and humid with afternoon thundershowers. Sunscreen, a hat, UV protective sunglasses, and are recommended. Drink plenty of water. Winters are cool to mild with some cold spells, especia
Getting There
InfoFort Matanzas is 14 miles south of Saint Augustine on State Route A1A.
Location
Info29.7121° N, -81.2357° W
Data from official federal recreation records. Updated periodically. Park conditions change — always verify with the park before visiting. Verify on official park website