FORT MATANZAS NATIONAL MONUMENT

By  Mike Miller March 19, 2025

Fort Matanzas National Monument is located on the shores of the Matanzas River in St. Augustine. Built by the Spanish in the mid-18th century, this small but strategically significant fort once served as a vital defense post.

Today, it offers visitors an immersive glimpse into the past while showcasing the region's natural beauty. 

Fort Matanzas

Fort Matanzas was constructed in 1742 under Spanish rule to guard the southern approach to St. Augustine via the Matanzas Inlet. The inlet provided a backdoor route for enemy forces aiming to attack the city.

Built of coquina, a type of limestone abundant in the area, the fort successfully deterred British incursions. Its presence solidified Spanish dominance in the region until the British seized Florida in 1763 as part of the Treaty of Paris.

The fort’s name, "Matanzas," translates to "slaughters," a reference to the 1565 massacre of French Huguenots by Spanish forces under Pedro Menéndez de Avilés. 

Fort Matanzas National Monument is located at 8635 A1A South in St. Augustine, Florida. The park is open daily from 9 am to 5:30 pm, except on Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Admission is free, and visitors can take a short ferry ride to the fort, which is accessible only by water. The ferry ride, operated by the National Park Service, adds an adventurous touch to the experience.

Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and binoculars are recommended, as the area is also a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. 

• The fort is one of the smallest in the U.S., measuring just 50 feet by 50 feet. Despite its size, it played a significant role in coastal defense.  

• The coquina used to build the fort is remarkably durable and resistant to cannon fire, a feature that contributed to its longevity.  

• The surrounding area is a protected habitat for various wildlife, including gopher tortoises and the endangered Anastasia Island beach mouse.  

• The monument's trails and picnic areas provide stunning views of the river and estuarine ecosystems, making it a great destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

WEBSITE FOR FORT MATANZAS NATIONAL MONUMENT