Matanzas Inlet Florida
Pristine natural beaches and dynamic waters where the Atlantic meets the Intracoastal, offering wildlife, history, and a laid-back vibe.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Matanzas Inlet Florida
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Pristine natural beaches and dynamic waters where the Atlantic meets the Intracoastal, offering wildlife, history, and a laid-back vibe.
"A truly special place, mostly locals, not crowded, great surf fishing."
🚗 Park Smart, Arrive Early
Limited parking means getting there before 9 AM is key. Street parking is an option if you arrive later. :car:
🧳 Pack Your Own Provisions
No stores nearby! Bring plenty of water, snacks, and anything else you'll need for the day. :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ocean Beach Serenity
Atlantic Ocean side
Miles of undisturbed beaches, dunes, and trails perfect for a peaceful escape. Dogs are welcome here!
Inlet's Lively Waters
Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway side
Crystal clear shallows and calm pockets ideal for wading, boating, and jet skiing. A popular spot for locals.
Wildlife Encounters
Dunes and waters
Keep an eye out for sea turtles, dolphins, and various bird species in their natural habitat.
Fort Matanzas National Monument
Island accessible by boat
Explore this historic Spanish fort, a US National Monument offering a glimpse into Florida's past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Arrive Early for Prime Parking
Embrace the Natural Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Park Smart, Arrive Early
Limited parking means getting there before 9 AM is key. Street parking is an option if you arrive later. :car:
🧳 Pack Your Own Provisions
No stores nearby! Bring plenty of water, snacks, and anything else you'll need for the day. :water_wave:
🐾 Pet-Friendly Paradise
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, especially on the ocean side. A great spot for furry friends! :dog:
🐚 Shells & Treasures
Walk the beaches during low tide to find beautiful shells and other natural treasures. :shell:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Park Smart, Arrive Early
Limited parking means getting there before 9 AM is key. Street parking is an option if you arrive later. :car:
🧳 Pack Your Own Provisions
No stores nearby! Bring plenty of water, snacks, and anything else you'll need for the day. :water_wave:
🐾 Pet-Friendly Paradise
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, especially on the ocean side. A great spot for furry friends! :dog:
🐚 Shells & Treasures
Walk the beaches during low tide to find beautiful shells and other natural treasures. :shell:
📸 Photo Opportunities
The inlet and surrounding natural beauty make for stunning photos, especially at sunrise and sunset. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Matanzas Inlet is widely praised for its natural beauty, serene atmosphere, and abundant wildlife, offering a peaceful escape. Visitors appreciate the clean beaches, clear waters, and the laid-back, local vibe. While parking is a significant challenge, the opportunity to see sea turtles and dolphins, coupled with the historical significance of Fort Matanzas, makes it a highly recommended destination.
"Limited parking, get there early. Parking on both sides of road. There is a pedestrian crossing. Suggest visiting both the ocean and inlet beaches. Expect to spend 3 hours there. It can have a party side feel on the inlet side."
Lisa W
"Absolutely amazing and I got too see a sea turtle. People were very friendly. There was plenty of space! Kid friendly! There was no trash along our walks! If you get the chance to visit, definitely do💜"
kristina lowery
"Such a beautiful and serene place! I even saw dolphins swimming by! Not too crowded, plenty of space for everyone whether wading in shallow water, fishing off the bridge or under it, or laying out getting a tan. Can't wait to go back! It was hard to leave 😊"
Melanie Yates
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Matanzas Inlet is located south of St. Augustine, Florida. You can drive directly to the inlet area, where parking is available on both the ocean and Intracoastal Waterway sides. For Fort Matanzas National Monument, you'll need to take a free ferry from the visitor center.
Public transportation options directly to Matanzas Inlet are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to access the area. Consider ride-sharing services if you're coming from St. Augustine.
Fort Matanzas National Monument is only accessible by a free, 15-minute boat ride from the Fort Matanzas Visitor Center. Tickets are required and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Yes, you can walk from the St. Johns River (inlet) side under the bridge to the Atlantic Ocean side, which takes about 20 minutes. This allows you to experience both environments.
Matanzas Inlet itself is a public beach area and does not have an entrance fee. Fort Matanzas National Monument is also free to enter, though boat tickets are required.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Matanzas Inlet beach areas are public and free to access. You do not need tickets to enjoy the beaches or inlet.
Fort Matanzas boat tickets are free but required. They are available daily at the Fort Matanzas Visitor Center on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early to secure yours.
Fort Matanzas National Monument is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with the last ferry departing at 4:45 PM. Always check the official NPS website for the most current hours.
Parking at Matanzas Inlet is generally free, with both paved lots and legal street-side parking available. However, spaces are limited, so arriving early is highly recommended.
Yes, Matanzas Inlet is pet-friendly, especially on the ocean side. Ensure your dog is leashed and cleaned up after.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, wading in the shallow inlet waters, surf fishing, boating, jet skiing, paddleboarding, and wildlife viewing. Walking the pristine beaches is also a popular activity.
Absolutely! The shallow, calm waters of the inlet are perfect for children to play in safely. The beaches offer plenty of space for sandcastles and exploration.
Visitors often spot sea turtles (including baby turtles in season), dolphins, various shorebirds, and turtles in the dunes.
It can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays, with limited parking. Locals often frequent the inlet side. Arriving early or visiting on a weekday is recommended for a less crowded experience.
Amenities are minimal. There are no stores or restaurants directly at the inlet. Restrooms may be available at the Fort Matanzas Visitor Center. It's best to bring all your own supplies.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants or food vendors directly at Matanzas Inlet. Visitors are advised to bring their own food and drinks for the day.
The nearest dining options are a short drive away in St. Augustine or along A1A. You'll find a variety of seafood restaurants, casual eateries, and cafes.
Yes, picnicking is a great option! Pack your favorite foods and enjoy a meal with a view of the water. Remember to pack out all your trash.
📸 📸 Photography
The inlet itself, with its clear waters and boat activity, offers great shots. The ocean side beaches and dunes provide serene landscapes. The historic Fort Matanzas also makes for compelling photography.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the clear water can still yield great shots.
Look for wildlife like sea turtles and dolphins. The contrast between the natural landscape and the historic fort can also be very photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as amenities are scarce. The T.H. Stone Memorial State Park section offers a more natural, undisturbed beach experience where dogs are also welcome, making it a great option for families with pets.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Explorers
While pets are allowed, it's essential to keep them leashed and to clean up after them to maintain the pristine condition of the beaches.
🎣 Anglers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
For those seeking more adrenaline, the inlet is a playground for boaters, jet skiers, and paddleboarders.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Matanzas Inlet's Waters
For those interested in exploring the waterways, boat rentals and fishing charters are available in the surrounding areas, offering a chance to experience the inlet and nearby estuaries.
A Glimpse into History: Fort Matanzas
Accessing Fort Matanzas is an experience in itself. It's located on a small island and is only reachable by a complimentary ferry service operated by the National Park Service.
The Natural Beauty and Wildlife
The area is a haven for birdwatchers, with numerous shorebirds and migratory species frequenting the beaches and marshes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit