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 St.
Photo: NPS Photo / NPS
About 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 St. 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.
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Driving times from Fort Matanzas National Monument, one way, via road — a realistic day is 8–10 hours behind the wheel.
Entrance fees
Timed Entry Reservation - Location
FreeAll areas of the park are free of charge including the ferry to the fort. However, you must stop in the Fort Matanzas Visitor Center (NOT the St. Augustine city Visitor Center) to get your free boarding pass for the ferry. Family members of all ages must have a pass to board the ferry. Passes are Free
Hours
Operating Hours
- Mon
- 9:00AM - 5:30PM
- Tue
- 9:00AM - 5:30PM
- Wed
- 9:00AM - 5:30PM
- Thu
- 9:00AM - 5:30PM
- Fri
- 9:00AM - 5:30PM
- Sat
- 9:00AM - 5:30PM
- Sun
- 9:00AM - 5:30PM
Ferry Service to Fort Matanzas
- Mon
- 9:30AM - 3:30PM
- Tue
- Closed
- Wed
- Closed
- Thu
- 9:30AM - 3:30PM
- Fri
- 9:30AM - 3:30PM
- Sat
- 9:30AM - 3:30PM
- Sun
- 9:30AM - 3:30PM
Activities
Getting there
Summers are hot and humid with afternoon thundershowers. Sunscreen, a hat, UV protective sunglasses, and are recommended. Drink plenty of water. Winters are cool to mild with some cold spells, especially with wind from the north or off the water. Fall and spring are temperate with temperatures around 70F-80F (21C-26C). During danger of lightning, the fort will be closed and ferry service will be suspended. June-November is hurricane season so check for tropical storms before visiting.
Frequently asked questions
- How much does it cost to enter Fort Matanzas National Monument?
- Fort Matanzas National Monument has no entrance fee.
- What is there to do at Fort Matanzas National Monument?
- Popular activities include Fishing, Historic Weapons Demonstration, Junior Ranger Program, Living History, Museum Exhibits, Reenactments.
- Which national parks are within a day's drive of Fort Matanzas National Monument?
- Within about a day's drive you can reach Castillo de San Marcos National Monument (21 min), Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve (1 h 20 min), Fort Frederica National Monument (2 h 14 min), Fort Pulaski National Monument (3 h 15 min), Canaveral National Seashore (3 h 17 min), De Soto National Memorial (3 h 37 min).