Explore Spanish Florida at Fort Matanzas National Monument

A quick drive from St. Augustine brings you to Fort Matanzas National Monument, an 18th-century Spanish fort that offers a fascinating glimpse into Spanish Florida and has stunning views of the Matanzas River.

Words and Photographs by Sara Sheehy
Live Wildly Lead Adventurist

Fort Matanzas National Monument, now managed by the National Park Service, is a coquina rock fort built in 1792 to protect the Spanish settlement of St. Augustine. The fort, strategically placed on the edge of the Matanzas River, once served as a vigilant guardian of St. Augustine’s entrance and now provides a unique experience in wild Florida.

Things to Do at Fort Matanzas National Monument

It’ll only take you a couple of hours to explore Fort Matanzas, making this an easy stop to fit into a busy itinerary. After you’re done, be sure to swing by Washington Oaks Gardens State Park for a look at their formal gardens and coquina rock coastline.

Take a Free Ferry Ride

Take a free ferry ride across the Matanzas River to reach the fort. The ferry, managed by the National Park Service, runs every hour from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Tickets are available on a first-come-first-served basis, so plan to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays.

Explore Fort Matanzas

Once you arrive, a docent will guide you through the fort, sharing interesting historic and natural history stories. You’ll have about 20 minutes to explore on your own. Climb up a ladder through a hole in the roof to experience beautiful panoramic views of the Matanzas River and the surrounding protected area. The climb is steep and narrow, so it’s not for everyone, but the views are worth it.

Watch for Wildlife

Keep an eye out for local wildlife along the river and inland across the peninsula. On my visit, I saw a bald eagle perched on the fort walls as we arrived.

Check out the Visitor Center

Before or after your ferry ride, take some time to explore the small visitor center at the ferry departure port. There are restrooms available here, but no services at the fort itself.

Walk the Nature Trail

There is a short trail at the visitor center that takes you through the trees and on a boardwalk to the river. It’s a pretty and short trek, perfect for a leisurely stroll before or after your ferry trip to the fort.

The Details

Address: 8635 A1A South, St. Augustine, FL 32080
Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, except on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day
Entrance Fee: Free
Ferry: Free, first-come-first-served basis, no reservations

Accessibility: The ferry and fort grounds are accessible, but the fort itself is not.