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.

Fort Matanzas

Fort Matanzas sits on Rattlesnake Island in the middle of the Matanzas River.

Fort Matanzas, a fortified watch tower made form coquina.

Visitor Center

Here you can find information about the fort tour, exhibits, park movie, passport stamp, and more.

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

Nature Trail

Follow an elevated boardwalk through some pristine Florida barrier island habitat.

A nature trail boardwalk with seating area.

Soldier's Quarters

The few enlisted soldiers at Fort Matanzas shared a small, sparse room as living space.

Wooden bunks and uniform items in the soldier's quarters.

Protecting the riverway

Fort Matanzas protected the southern river approach to Saint Augustine.

The cannon of Fort Matanzas point toward the river's inlet.

Recreational Opportunities

More the half-a-million people visit Fort Matanzas each year to enjoy both the river and ocean beaches.

People wading in the river and relaxing on the beach.