Fort Matanzas National Monument

National Monument · FL · nps.gov page

Fort Matanzas, a fortified watch tower made form coquina. — Fort Matanzas sits on Rattlesnake Island in the middle of the Matanzas River.Photo: NPS Photo

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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News

Volunteer Fair at the Waterworks Offers Opportunities at Castillo de San Marcos 2026-09-28
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument invites the public to attend a volunteer fair on Oct. 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Waterworks, 184 San Marco Ave.
Castillo de San Marcos and Fort Matanzas National Monuments Welcome New Superintendent 2026-09-01
The National Park Service has selected Angelita Alvino as the new superintendent of Castillo de San Marcos and Fort Matanzas National Monuments. Alvino has served as superintendent of the national parks of St. Croix for nearly five years and brings more than 25 years of NPS experience. She started her official role as superintendent on Aug. 23.

Photos

Two story building with stone base and wood second floor, oak trees, grass, two signs. — Here you can find information about the fort tour, exhibits, park movie, passport stamp, and more.Photo: NPS

A nature trail boardwalk with seating area. — Follow an elevated boardwalk through some pristine Florida barrier island habitat.Photo: NPS Photo

Wooden bunks and uniform items in the soldier's quarters. — The few enlisted soldiers at Fort Matanzas shared a small, sparse room as living space.Photo: NPS Photo

The cannon of Fort Matanzas point toward the river's inlet. — Fort Matanzas protected the southern river approach to Saint Augustine.Photo: NPS Photo

People wading in the river and relaxing on the beach. — More the half-a-million people visit Fort Matanzas each year to enjoy both the river and ocean beaches.Photo: NPS Photo

Park information and photos come from the National Park Service. This is not an official NPS site.