EXTRAORDINARY LANDSCAPES. ENDURING STORIES.

Fort Matanzas National Monument

A small fort across the water
Florida
Scenic header: Fort Matanzas sits on Rattlesnake Island in the middle of the Matanzas River. · NPS Photo · Photo credits
TAKE TIME TO DISCOVER

A small fort across the water

A watchtower and marsh landscape tell a quieter chapter of Spanish coastal defense. Reaching the fort is a separate experience from exploring the mainland nature area.

Fort Matanzas, a fortified watch tower made form coquina.
Fort Matanzas sits on Rattlesnake Island in the middle of the Matanzas River.
NPS Photo · Photo credits
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.
NPS · Photo credits
BUILD A MEMORABLE VISIT

What to explore

  • 01Fort Matanzas
  • 02Rattlesnake Island setting
  • 03Mainland nature trail

Before you go

Fort access depends on the park’s ferry operation and available passes. Confirm current arrangements; a fort visit is not guaranteed by arrival alone.

Give the place time

Choose a manageable walk, viewpoint or tour, and allow time for interpretation. Gateway areas help orient the visit; they are not exact entrance directions.

Make the details easy

Confirm the specific facilities, walking surfaces and vehicle access your group needs. Tours, transport and special access may require separate arrangements.

Official visitor information ↗Plan your visit →

Check the official source for current access, hours, fees, reservations, permits and alerts. Photos may show earlier conditions. Suggested highlights are visit ideas, not a guarantee that every area is currently open.