Fort Matanzas National Monument, Florida: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know Fort Matanzas was built in just 6 months using coquina stone and slave labor to protect St. Augustine from southern attacks? This remarkable 1742 Spanish fortress, standing just 15 m (50 ft) on each side with a 9 m (30 ft) tower, successfully defended St. Augustine’s vulnerable southern approach with just five cannons and a handful of soldiers. Today, this compact yet fascinating National Monument offers visitors a rare glimpse into Florida’s colonial past while providing access to pristine natural habitats on a beautiful barrier island.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Fort Matanzas National Monument is located approximately 14 miles south of historic St. Augustine on Anastasia Island, easily accessible via Florida’s A1A scenic coastal highway. The monument’s address is 8635 A1A South, St. Augustine, Florida.

Nearest Airports

• Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) – 83 km (52 miles) north
• Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB) – 69 km (43 miles) south
• St. Augustine Regional Airport (UST) – 16 km (10 miles) north

From Jacksonville or Daytona Beach, follow I-95 to the St. Augustine exits and continue to A1A South. The monument is well-marked with National Park Service signage. Parking is free but limited, so arriving early during peak season is recommended.

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

Best Time to Visit Fort Matanzas

Spring (March-May) offers pleasant temperatures and blooming coastal vegetation. Fall (October-November) provides ideal conditions with fewer visitors. Winter (December-February) can occasionally see cooler temperatures but remains comfortable for exploring outdoor areas.

The fort is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM year-round, closed only on December 25th. The free ferry to the fort runs every 30-45 minutes from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, weather permitting.

Getting Around Locally

Accessing Fort Matanzas requires a short ferry ride across the Matanzas River. The National Park Service operates a free passenger ferry that departs from the visitor center dock. Important transportation details include:

• The ferry is the only way to access the fort itself
• Ferry tickets are free but must be obtained at the visitor center
• Boats depart approximately every 30-45 minutes
• The crossing takes about 5 minutes each way
• Ferry service may be canceled during inclement weather

For exploring the surrounding area, having your own vehicle is highly recommended as public transportation options are limited. The monument’s nature trail and visitor center are accessible without taking the ferry.

Where to Stay

While there are no accommodations within Fort Matanzas National Monument itself, several excellent options are available nearby in Crescent Beach, St. Augustine Beach, and historic St. Augustine.

For the best experience, consider staying in Crescent Beach (3-5 km/2-3 miles from the monument) for easy access or in St. Augustine’s historic district (22-24 km/14-15 miles) for additional cultural attractions.

Dining & Local Cuisine

While there are no dining facilities within Fort Matanzas National Monument, the surrounding area offers excellent culinary options featuring fresh Florida seafood and Spanish-influenced cuisine.

Nearby Dining Options

For picnicking, the monument offers several tables near the visitor center. Bringing water and snacks is recommended, especially if you plan to spend several hours exploring the fort and nature trails.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

Must-See Attractions at Fort Matanzas

• The Fort – Explore the historic coquina stone fortress with its soldier quarters, officer’s room, and gun deck
• Cannon Demonstrations – Seasonal ranger-led programs showcasing 18th-century weaponry
• Nature Boardwalk – A 0.5-mile accessible trail through maritime forest and coastal dunes
• Matanzas Inlet – Historic waterway with views of the Atlantic Ocean and Matanzas River
• Visitor Center – Exhibits on the fort’s history and the 1565 massacre of French Huguenots

Ranger-led tours of the fort provide fascinating insights into colonial Spanish military life and the strategic importance of this small but mighty outpost. Check at the visitor center for the daily schedule of programs.

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

Fort Matanzas itself serves as an open-air museum of Spanish colonial military architecture. The visitor center features exhibits on the fort’s construction, the 1565 massacre that gave the inlet its name, and the role of this outpost in defending St. Augustine.

Nearby Cultural Attractions

• Castillo de San Marcos – The larger Spanish fortress in downtown St. Augustine, operated in conjunction with Fort Matanzas
• Colonial Quarter – Living history museum showcasing Spanish colonial life
• Flagler College – Housed in the former Hotel Ponce de León, a masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance architecture
• St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum – Historic lighthouse with exhibits on coastal history

Annual Events

Throughout the year, Fort Matanzas hosts special events including:

• Colonial Night Watch (December) – Reenactment of colonial military traditions
• Militia Muster and Training (various dates) – Demonstrations of Spanish colonial military tactics
• National Park Week activities (April) – Special programs and extended tours

Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences

Beyond its historical significance, Fort Matanzas National Monument protects a diverse barrier island ecosystem with several distinct habitats. Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore:

The nature trail boardwalk provides an accessible way to explore the maritime forest and dune ecosystem. Interpretive signs along the route explain the unique plant and animal life found in this coastal environment.

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Visitor Safety Tips

• Wear sunscreen, a hat, and bring water, especially during summer months
• Be aware of potential rip currents when swimming in the ocean
• Watch for oyster shells and slippery rocks along the riverbank
• Stay on designated trails to protect fragile dune ecosystems
• Check ferry schedule in advance as service may be canceled during inclement weather

Park Etiquette

To preserve this historic site and natural area for future generations:

• Do not climb on or touch the fort walls to prevent damage
• Keep pets on leashes at all times and clean up after them
• Do not remove shells, plants, or artifacts from the monument
• Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance
• Pack out all trash and recyclables

The fort itself is not wheelchair accessible due to the ferry transportation and historic structure. However, the visitor center, restrooms, and portions of the nature trail are accessible to visitors with mobility limitations.

Visitor Comments About Fort Matanzas

Practical Travel Tips

Planning Your Visit

• Allow 2-3 hours for a complete visit including the ferry ride, fort tour, and nature trail
• Arrive early in the day, especially during peak tourist season (March-August)
• Check the official National Park Service website for current ferry schedule and any temporary closures
• Consider combining your visit with other St. Augustine attractions for a full day of exploration

Your Historic Adventure Awaits

Fort Matanzas National Monument offers a perfect blend of fascinating colonial history and natural Florida beauty. This compact fortress tells a compelling story of international rivalry, strategic defense, and the Spanish colonial experience in early America. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or family seeking educational experiences, Fort Matanzas delivers an authentic glimpse into Florida’s past while providing access to pristine coastal environments. As you stand on the gun deck where Spanish soldiers once kept watch over Matanzas Inlet, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the forces that shaped America’s oldest city and the nation beyond. Start planning your visit today to discover this remarkable historic treasure on Florida’s beautiful Atlantic coast.