Crossing a dry moat, this drawbridge was the only way into the Castillo.
Photo: NPS Photo
About
Built by the Spanish in St. Augustine to defend Florida and the Atlantic trade route, Castillo de San Marcos National Monument preserves the oldest masonry fortification in the continental United States and interprets more than 450 years of cultural intersections.
Activities
Living HistoryHistoric Weapons DemonstrationJunior Ranger ProgramPark Film
Directions
On State Route A1A overlooking Matanzas Bay in the heart of the historic district of Saint Augustine, the Castillo is approximately a five mile drive from Interstate 95.
Get directions →Weather
St. Augustine has a semi-tropical climate with over 300 days of sunshine each year. Summers (May-September) are hot, bright, and humid with afternoon thunderstorms common. Temperatures range from the lower 70s to the mid 90s F. Spring (March-mid-May) and Autumn (October-late November) can be pleasant with temperatures ranging from the upper 50s into the 80s F. The Winter months (December-March) are usually dry. Temperatures can be cool ranging from the upper 30s through the 60sF.
News
Jun 30, 2026
Castillo Visitor Parking Lot will Close to Vehicles on July 4 for Florida Freedom Tour
On July 4, Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and the city of St. Augustine will close vehicle access to the main visitor parking for the Florida Freedom Tour and Independence Day events.
Feb 19, 2026
Project to Raise and Rehabilitate the Fort’s Seawalls
Castillo de San Marcos issues “Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI)” for the project to Raise and Rehabilitate the Fort’s Seawalls
Entrance Fees
Entrance - Per Person$15.00