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Fort Matanzas National MonumentSoldiers ponder a game of dominos during off-duty time.
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Fort Matanzas National Monument
Operating Hours & Seasons
The Matanzas Queen takes visiotrs to Fort Matanzas.

L. Chandler -- NPS Photo

The Matanzas Queen III takes visitors to the fort.

Fort Matanzas National Monument is open to the public from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM every day of the year except December 25.

Ferry times:
The ferry to the fort leaves the Visitor Center dock at the following times, weather permitting:

9:30 a.m.
1:30 p.m.
10:30 a.m.
2:30 p.m.
11:30 a.m.
3:30 p.m.
12:30 p.m.
4:30p.m.

There is no charge for the ferry service.


Weather and Climate:

Summers can be very hot with high humidity and frequent afternoon thundershowers. Sun protection, including sunscreen, a hat, and UV protective sunglasses, is highly recommended. Be sure to drink plenty of water. You may want insect repellent if walking the nature trail. 

Winters are generally cool to mild with occasional cold spells, especially with the wind off the water. The most temperate periods are the fall and spring seasons when temperatures regularly hover around 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 26 degrees Celsius). 

During thunderstorms, because of the danger of lightning, the fort will be closed to visitors, and ferry service will be suspended until the storm has moved out of the area. 

June through November is hurricane season so be sure to check for tropical storms before visiting.

Sailboats rest in calm waters of the Matanzas River the shelter of Anastasia Island.  

Did You Know?
The Gulf Stream's current moves between 30 and 85 million cubic feet of water per second, stronger than any other current on earth, and greater than all the streams and rivers in the world combined! Ft Matanzas National Monument, Florida

Last Updated: December 22, 2006 at 11:53 EST