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Fort Matanzas, a fortified watch tower made form coquina.
Destinations › … › United States › Florida

Fort Matanzas National Monument

warningInformation1 warning calendar_monthNov–Aprbest time schedule1 dayplan for child_careYeswith kids confirmation_numberFreeentry
Fort Matanzas National MonumentYour own route Plan a trip here →
Information Fort Matanzas Only Accessible by Ferry Service

Fort Matanzas may only be accessed by our free ferry service. The boats operate Thursday through Monday; we do not operate the ferry on Tuesdays or Wednesdays. For more information about tickets and times, please visit the "Plan Your Visit" tab.

Straight from the US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

Fort Matanzas National Monument is a historic site located on the coast of Florida, protecting a 1742 Spanish fort. It serves as a reminder of the region's colonial history and the conflicts that shaped it.

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Visitors come to explore the fort's well-preserved structure and learn about its role in defending St. Augustine from British attacks. The site offers a glimpse into 18th-century military life and the strategic importance of the fort's location.

In pictures

Two story building with stone base and wood second floor, oak trees, grass, two signs.
Two story building with stone base and wood second floor, oak trees, grass, two signs.

Things to do

Ferry to Fort Matanzas
30-45 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Here's what you need to know, to take the Ferry ride to historic Fort Matanzas.
Junior Ranger Programs

This page describes how kids can download and participate in activities while at the park, or at home
Coastal Hammock nature trail

Take a few minutes to walk this half-mile boardwalk trail and discover some of the plants and animals who do f...
Fishing

Fishing options at Fort Matanzas National Monument
Virtual Tour

This page links you to a virtual tour of the historic watchtower.

Practical

At a glance

Opened
1742
Open
Daily 9:00AM - 5:30PM
Price
Free entry
Accessibility
limited accessibility, uneven paths
Address
8635 A1A South, Saint Augustine, FL 32080
Opening hours
Daily 9:00AM - 5:30PM
Phone
9044710116
Price
Free
Website
www.nps.gov

Things to know

Arrive early to avoid long wait times for the ferry to the fort.
Tickets are free but required for the ferry ride.
The fort is only accessible by boat, which operates on a limited schedule.
Dress for the weather, as much of the visit is outdoors.

Photo: NPS Photo