Throughout its history, the story of Fort Matanzas has been closely intertwined
with that of the city of St. Augustine and the Castillo de San Marcos.
This Spanish outpost fort was built in 1740-1742 to guard the Matanzas
Inlet and to warn St. Augustine of British or other enemies approaching
from the south. Fort Matanzas now serves as a reminder of the early Spanish
empire in the New World.
In addition, the park, which is located on barrier islands along the shores
of the Atlantic Ocean and the Matanzas estuary, provides a natural habitat
rich in wildlife with the salt marsh, scrub, and maritime hammock now
protecting endangered and threatened species like the historic Fort Matanzas
protected St. Augustine long ago.
Operating Hours & Seasons
Fort Matanzas National
Monument is open to the public from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. every day of
the year except December 25.
Communities
Surrounding Fort Matanzas National Monument
Note: The times listed below are approximate driving times to the park.
Throughout its history, the story of Fort Matanzas has been closely intertwined
with that of the city of St. Augustine and the Castillo de San Marcos.
This Spanish outpost fort was built in 1740-1742 to guard the Matanzas
Inlet and to warn St. Augustine of British or other enemies approaching
from the south. Fort Matanzas now serves as a reminder of the early Spanish
empire in the New World.