A Reminder of an Earlier Time

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.

Profile of Fort Matanzas National Monument. Water in front and fort with cloudy sky in background.
Operating Hours & Schedule

Learn more about Fort Matanzas National Monument's hours of operation.

River in front of Rattlesnake Island.
Things To Do

Review the menu of opportunities awaiting you.

Cannon being fired surrounded by four soldiers.
Volunteer Opportunities

Click here to learn about the many volunteer opportunities

Image of the waterway from a drone.
Matanzas Videos

Explore the many stories of Fort Matanzas with these short videos.

Group of students with a ranger on the gun deck.
Education

Learn about field trips, curriculum, distance learning, and more.

Logo for the JR program.
Kids & Youth

Explore the Junior Ranger program, camps, online activities, and more.

Image of the ocean side boardwalk.
Safety

Be prepared for the natural environment and weather.

Wheelchair, service dog, and sign language interpreter.
Accessibility

Learn more about accessibility at Fort Matanzas

Image of wildflowers with vibrant colors, like red and yellow.
Plants

over 250 individual plant species have been identified here at Fort Matanzas National Monument

Map of park on park app.
Park Mobile App

Download the Official Park Mobile App.

Front page of park Brochure
Official Fort Matanzas Brochure

Click here for a high resolution image

Front Page of Castillo Brochure
Official Castillo de San Marcos Brochure

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Last updated: March 16, 2026

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

8635 A1A South
Saint Augustine, FL 32080

Phone:

904 471-0116

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