Fort Matanzas National Monument

Fort Matanzas National Monument Beach

The construction of Fort Matanzas in 1740-42 was Spain's last effort to ward off British encroachments on St. Augustine. Ferry boat rides to the fort are free!

There are a lot of things for kids to do at Fort Matanzas National Monument. From the main Visitor Center entrance, you can take the ferry boat to Rattlesnake Island and explore the old Spanish fort. There is also a half-mile boardwalk nature trail through the woods, and a picnic area set among the old, spreading live oak trees. Children also enjoy walking along the river shore and watching the wading birds and crabs. There are also other entrances and parking lots to enter the beach areas along the Matanzas River and the Atlantic Ocean.

Education:
From field trips to online programs, Fort Matanzas provides learning adventures for students and teachers throughout the world.