Fort Matanzas National Monument

Fort Matanzas National Monument preserves the fortified coquina watchtower, completed in 1742, which defended the southern approach to the Spanish military settlement of Saint 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.

Ferry to the Fort

While there are many things to do at Fort Matanzas National Monument, there is only one way to get to the fort. Grab your ticket for the 9:30, 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, or 3:30, cruise at the visitor center and get ready for an interpretive ranger program and an adventure! No Ferry Service on Tuesdays or Wednesdays.

Picnic Area

Located in the main visitor center entrance and parking is a beautifully shaded picnic area. Shaded by an old oak canopy. Here you will find a public restroom facility, nature trailhead, and sidewalk to the visitor center. This gated area of the park is open 9:00am - 5:30pm daily.

Become a Junior Ranger

Earn a badge by completing the Junior Ranger program. Ask staff for a book upon arrival, or become a Virtual Ranger.

Discover the Marsh Trail

This unpaved sandy trail is north of the Visitor Center and takes you on walk under a mile through the park's natural filtration system, the marsh. These wetlands help prevent inland areas from flooding and provide habitat for many of the park's creatures. This trail is a favorite place for bird watchers and kayak launchers.

Experience the Nature Trail

From the main Visitor Center parking lot, access the boardwalk through the oldest and highest part of the barrier island covered with a forest called a hammock. This shaded trail is under a mile and gives you gorgeous views of a canopy of diverse trees and animal life in a maritime forest.

Engage with Park Rangers

Rangers and volunteers are eager to answer your questions and provide interpretive opportunities throughout the day on the nature and culture of the park. Program topics, locations, and times vary on the season, weather, and visitation. Please ask the staff upon arrival in the Visitor Center for the upcoming opportunities.

Recreational Fishing

An abundance of salt water fish species and a wide area to fish on both the river and ocean side provides a fun way to enjoy the outdoors with your family. To get started, you will need a salt water fishing license.You may fish anywhere along the shoreline in the park, with the exception of the posted area next to the ferryboat docks. Low tide provides the easiest access. Read More...

Be Inspired at the Beach

Relax and reflect. Take in St. Augustine's best beach views on the Matanzas River and Atlantic Ocean. To access the park's Visitor Center parking lot use the main park mailing address: 8635 A1A South, west of A1A. To access a second parking lot on the river: 8655 A1A South. To access the two ocean parking lots to the east of A1A S