Fort Matanzas National Monument
Explore an 18th-century Spanish coquina fort, accessible by a free ferry ride, guarding Florida's coast.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better ferry spots
Fort Matanzas National Monument
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better ferry spots
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore an 18th-century Spanish coquina fort, accessible by a free ferry ride, guarding Florida's coast.
"A fun, free historical adventure with an engaging ferry ride and informative rangers!"
🎟️ Get Ferry Tickets Early
Free ferry tickets are first-come, first-served. Arrive before the visitor center opens to snag yours!
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Don't skip the nature walks! They offer beautiful coastal scenery and a peaceful escape.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Fort
The island fort
Step back in time at this remarkably preserved 18th-century Spanish coquina fort, a testament to Florida's colonial past.
Scenic Ferry Ride
Matanzas River
Enjoy a short, complimentary ferry trip across the Matanzas River, offering beautiful views and a unique approach to the fort.
Coastal Nature Trails
Visitor Center area
Wander through peaceful trails showcasing the local flora and fauna, a serene contrast to the fort's history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry Tickets & Timing
Explore Beyond the Fort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Get Ferry Tickets Early
Free ferry tickets are first-come, first-served. Arrive before the visitor center opens to snag yours!
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Don't skip the nature walks! They offer beautiful coastal scenery and a peaceful escape.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Florida sun is strong! Bring hats, sunscreen, and water, especially for the ferry and fort exploration.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be walking on uneven surfaces and stairs inside the fort. Wear sturdy shoes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Get Ferry Tickets Early
Free ferry tickets are first-come, first-served. Arrive before the visitor center opens to snag yours!
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Don't skip the nature walks! They offer beautiful coastal scenery and a peaceful escape.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Florida sun is strong! Bring hats, sunscreen, and water, especially for the ferry and fort exploration.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be walking on uneven surfaces and stairs inside the fort. Wear sturdy shoes.
📸 Capture the Views
The ferry ride and fort offer great photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Fort Matanzas for its historical significance, engaging ranger tours, and the unique experience of reaching the fort via a free ferry ride. Many highlight it as a great, budget-friendly family outing. Some note the fort's small size, but appreciate its historical impact and the scenic nature trails.
"Very interesting, loved the history lesson and had no idea a fort could be so small! Loved Ranger Linda and our Captain was great as well. The nature walk was also pretty awesome and loved learning that the live oaks grow away from the salt water!"
Holly turner
"It was a fun little tour of the Fort. Small but mighty. Nice boat ride over to the island. Park Rangers were definitely into what they do for a living, very energetic about giving the history of the fort! Free tour but the spots go fast."
Jonathan Ellis
"Great morning out, the boat and fort are free and take about 50 mins. Even on a quiet day it filled up so get there a bit before. There is also a lovely loop hike to do by carpark of about 20 mins."
alejandra Rosela
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fort Matanzas National Monument is located south of St. Augustine. The visitor center is accessible by car, but to reach the fort itself, you must take a free ferry across the Matanzas River. Parking is available at the visitor center. 
Yes, there is parking available at the visitor center located on the mainland. From there, you'll catch the ferry to the fort.
No, you cannot drive directly to the fort. Access to the island fort is exclusively by the complimentary ferry service provided by the National Park Service.
The ferry typically runs every hour from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM, but it's crucial to check the official Fort Matanzas National Monument website or call ahead, as schedules can vary seasonally or due to weather.
Yes, admission to Fort Matanzas National Monument, including the ferry ride and guided tour of the fort, is completely free!
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While entry to the monument is free, you do need to obtain free ferry tickets from the visitor center to reach the fort. These are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Ferry tickets are available at the Fort Matanzas Visitor Center on the mainland. It's highly recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends or holidays, as they can run out.
The visitor center and grounds are generally open daily, but the ferry operates on a specific schedule. It's best to check the official NPS website for the most current hours of operation for both the visitor center and the ferry.
The primary way to access the fort is via the ranger-led ferry tour. This tour includes historical information and allows you to explore the fort.
There are no specific age restrictions, but visitors should be able to navigate stairs within the fort and be comfortable on a boat ride.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can take a free ferry ride to the historic 18th-century Spanish fort, explore its rooms, learn about its history from park rangers, and walk the nature trails around the visitor center.
The entire experience, including the ferry ride and guided tour of the fort, typically takes about 45-50 minutes. You can spend additional time on the nature trails.
The visitor center and nature trails are generally accessible. However, the fort itself has stairs and uneven surfaces, making it challenging for those with significant mobility issues. The ferry ride also involves boarding and disembarking.
Yes, restrooms are available at the visitor center on the mainland. There are no facilities on the island fort itself.
You can bring drinks and snacks, and there are picnic tables available at the visitor center. Vending machines with cold drinks are also on-site.
📸 📸 Photography
Great photo opportunities include the ferry ride with the fort in the background, the coquina walls of the fort itself, and the scenic views from the top of the fort. The nature trails also offer picturesque coastal scenes.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the fort, but always be respectful of other visitors and the historical integrity of the site.
Late afternoons often provide beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the historical textures of the fort. Mornings can also be lovely with softer light.
Drone operations are restricted in National Parks and Monuments. It's best to check the official NPS guidelines for Fort Matanzas specifically before attempting to fly a drone.
While there aren't dedicated photography tours, the ranger-led tours provide historical context that can enhance your understanding and appreciation for photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Arrive early for ferry tickets, as they go fast. Pack snacks and drinks, as vending machines are available but options are limited. Ensure kids wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for exploring the fort's stairs and uneven surfaces. The nature trails offer a chance for kids to burn off energy in a safe environment.
💰 Budget Travelers
+2Save more: Pack your own picnic to enjoy at the designated tables, saving money on dining out. Since it's a shorter activity, it pairs well with other free or low-cost attractions in the St. Augustine area, allowing you to maximize your exploration without breaking the bank.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Best shots: Aim for the golden hour light in the late afternoon for dramatic shadows and warm tones. The ferry ride itself provides a unique perspective of the fort from the water. Don't forget to explore the surrounding natural areas for coastal landscapes and wildlife shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Fort Matanzas
+1The fort played a crucial role in defending the Spanish territory from various threats, including British incursions and pirate attacks. Although it saw limited direct combat, its presence served as a vital deterrent. The fort was eventually ceded to the United States in 1821 and later became a National Monument in 1924. Today, it stands as a remarkably intact example of 18th-century Spanish military architecture, offering visitors a tangible connection to the past.
+1Park rangers provide engaging historical narratives during the ferry tours, bringing the fort's past to life. Visitors can explore the various rooms within the tower, imagining the lives of the soldiers stationed there. The preservation efforts ensure that the fort remains a compelling historical site, allowing future generations to learn from its strategic importance and the stories it holds.
Navigating the Ferry and Fort Access
+1It's crucial to understand that ferry tickets are free but limited and are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis from the visitor center. Many visitors recommend arriving well before the visitor center opens, especially during busy periods, to ensure you secure a spot. The ferry typically runs hourly, but it's always wise to confirm the schedule with the park staff or on the official website, as it can be subject to change due to weather or operational reasons.
Once on the island, visitors can explore the fort. Be aware that the fort is a historic structure with original features, meaning it has stairs and uneven surfaces. While rangers are enthusiastic and informative, visitors should be prepared for some physical activity to fully experience the fort. The ferry and fort are generally not recommended for individuals with significant mobility challenges.
Nature and Wildlife at Fort Matanzas
Visitors can spot various bird species, including wading birds and shorebirds, that inhabit the estuarine environment. The trails are also a good place to learn about the local plant life, such as the resilient live oaks that grow away from the salt water. Keep an eye out for other small wildlife that call this coastal habitat home.
While the focus is often on the fort, taking time to explore these natural areas offers a different perspective on the monument's value. It's a chance to appreciate the ecological importance of the salt marsh ecosystem and enjoy a peaceful walk amidst nature. Remember to stay on marked trails to protect the environment.
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