St. Augustine to Fort Matanza

To travel from St. Augustine to Fort Matanzas, you'll navigate along the Matanzas River and Matanzas Inlet.

Depart from St. Augustine: Begin your journey from a suitable boat ramp or marina in St. Augustine, ensuring that your boat is properly fueled, equipped, and in good working condition.

Navigate south on the Matanzas River: Leave St. Augustine and head south on the Matanzas River. The Matanzas River is a tidal estuary that flows between the mainland and Anastasia Island.

Pass under the Bridge of Lions: As you travel south on the Matanzas River, you'll pass under the historic Bridge of Lions. Ensure that your boat clears the bridge's height restriction and watch for any boat traffic or bridge openings.

Approach Matanzas Inlet: Continue south on the Matanzas River until you reach Matanzas Inlet. Matanzas Inlet is a natural inlet where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean. Pay attention to the changing currents and tide conditions as you approach the inlet.

Navigate through Matanzas Inlet: Once you reach Matanzas Inlet, carefully navigate through the inlet and follow any navigational markers or buoys present. Matanzas Inlet can be subject to shifting sandbars, so it's important to stay within the marked channel.

Arrive at Fort Matanzas: After passing through Matanzas Inlet, you'll arrive at Fort Matanzas National Monument. This historic fort, managed by the National Park Service, is located on Rattlesnake Island and offers guided tours and scenic views of the surrounding area.

When taking a boat from St. Augustine to Fort Matanzas, located south of St. Augustine along the Matanzas River in Florida, there are several points of interest and landmarks to explore. Here are some notable highlights along the way:

St. Augustine Historic District: Begin your journey in the historic district of St. Augustine, known for its rich history, cobblestone streets, and charming architecture. Explore landmarks such as the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States, and the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, a beautiful Spanish-style church.

Bridge of Lions: As you leave St. Augustine, you'll pass under the iconic Bridge of Lions, a bascule bridge connecting the mainland with Anastasia Island. Admire the architecture of this historic bridge and enjoy the scenic views of the waterway.

Anastasia State Park: Located on Anastasia Island, Anastasia State Park offers a pristine beach, nature trails, and recreational activities. Consider making a stop at this coastal park to stretch your legs, have a picnic, or enjoy some beachcombing.

Matanzas Inlet: Matanzas Inlet is a natural inlet that connects the Matanzas River and the Atlantic Ocean. The inlet offers picturesque views and is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and wildlife watching. Take your time to navigate through the inlet and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Fort Matanzas National Monument: Your ultimate destination is Fort Matanzas National Monument, a historic Spanish fort that played a significant role in protecting St. Augustine during the colonial period. The fort is located on Rattlesnake Island and can be accessed by a free ferry service. Explore the fort's grounds, learn about its history, and enjoy the scenic views of the Matanzas River.

Matanzas River: The Matanzas River itself is a beautiful waterway that flows through a scenic coastal landscape. Take in the sights of marshes, mangroves, and abundant birdlife as you make your way to Fort Matanzas.

As you navigate from St. Augustine to Fort Matanzas, enjoy the historical significance, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities along the Matanzas River.