Matanzas Inlet

8655 A1A S, St. Augustine, FL 32080

Hours

Open daily from sunrise to sundown

Cost

Admission is FREE

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About

Grab a kayak, hiking shoes, or fishing equipment and head to the picturesque Matanzas Inlet!

Matanzas Inlet is located between St. Augustine and Flagler Beach. It gives you access to the Atlantic Ocean and the Matanzas River. The entire park, which encompasses 300 acres, is comprised of 4 separate ecosystems. More specifically, the 4 ecosystems are the Atlantic Ocean, the coastal scrub, maritime forest, and estuary.

History of Matanzas Inlet

It comes as no surprise that there is a lot of history behind this Inlet -just like the rest of Palm Coast. In 1565, an estimated 300 French soldiers were massacred by the Spaniards here. Hence the Spanish name, "Matanzas" which translates to "massacre."

French ships were driven ashore by a storm. They intended to attack St. Augustine. Consequently, this stroke of luck for the Spanish ultimately led to the French demise.

This victory allowed the Spaniards to secure control of Florida for the next 235 years! Quite a bleak history lesson, right? Nonetheless, it is important in understanding Palm Coast and St. Augustine's history.

The Inlet Today

Presently, this popular inlet is used for various activities and water sports! Additionally, many visitors flock here year-round just to appreciate nature. You can also enjoy boating, fishing, surfing, and shelling!

These are the most popular activities at Matanzas Inlet

Salt Air Farmer's Market

Located next to Marineland is the Salt Air Farmer's Market. This is a bustling, year-round gathering. Every Sunday from 10AM-2PM join the locals, farmers, artisans, artists, and pets in the fun! Pick up freshly baked bread and pastries, organic produce, and art.

Unfortunately, the market may be paused until further notice due to Covid. Check their Facebook or Instagram pages for updates. (Dec 2021)

Rent a Kayak or Jet Ski

Don't have any water vessels of your own to bring? No problem. Rent one of the convenient kayaks or jet skis at the inlet.

On the other hand, if you'd rather slow down or you're on a budget you can take a stroll down the scenic coast. In addition, there are numerous lush hiking trails you can explore!

Local Tips

On Sundays the inlet hosts the Salt Air Farmer's Market

Location

8655 A1A S, St. Augustine, FL 32080

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best way to get to Palm Coast, FL?

Palm Coast is located between Jacksonville and Daytona Beach. When traveling by car, Palm Coast is just off the I-95 and the closest exist from the Interstate to Florida’s beaches. Palm Coast’s central location makes it ideal to plan side trips to the neighboring cities, as well as to historic St. Augustine, or inland to Orlando.

The nearest airports to Palm Coast include Daytona Beach (DAB) at about 30 miles and Jacksonville (JAX) at 70 miles.

When is the best time to visit Palm Coast, FL?

The best time to visit is March through May when temperatures are ideal for beach days, kayaking, festivals, and eco-touring. October is another favorite, especially for events like Biketober Fest and Creekside Music & Arts Festival, with fewer crowds and crisp coastal air. Visitors often describe this time of year as “perfect Florida”—scenic, quiet, and comfortably warm.

What's the weather like in Palm Coast, FL?

Any time of the year is the perfect time to plan a vacation getaway to Palm Coast! You can expect fantastic weather in Palm Coast year-round, with the warmest months being June through September, along with higher humidity. In the cooler months, from December through March, daily average high temps hover just below 70. August tends to be the hottest month, while best water temps stretch from May through October.

Are the beaches in Palm Coast family- and pet-friendly?

Yes! Spots like Bay Drive Park and Old Salt Park are great for kids and leashed dogs. Most beaches have easy access and nearby parking.

Where can I go kayaking or take an ecotour in Palm Coast, FL?

Princess Place Preserve and the River to Sea Preserve are top picks for wildlife-rich paddling trails and guided tours.

What are must-see festivals or events in Palm Coast, FL?

Events like the Palm Coast Songwriters Festival (May), Strawberry Festival (March), and Creekside Music Fest (October) are local highlights worth planning a trip around.

The biggest event is the Palm Coast Songwriters Festival in May. This multi-ticketed event includes concerts by acclaimed Nashville and Florida-based artists.

What is a good one-day itinerary in Palm Coast, FL?

Specializing in breakfasts, Rodie’s Place along Palm Coast’s scenic and historic coastal byway is a bright way to start your day. The family-style restaurant is near local parks and beaches, making it a perfect morning destination. On the lighter side, be sure to check breakfast options at Tropical Smoothie, including breakfast flatbreads, tropic bowls, and smoothies. They say breakfast is served all day in the tropics!

To fully embrace Palm Coast’s outdoor lifestyle, visit one of the many parks and beaches lining the shore. Near Rodie’s, Jungle Hut Park offers easy beach access for a day soaking up the Florida sun. Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is definitely worth a visit as home to formal gardens and the second-largest outcropping of coquina rock on the Atlantic Coast. The 425-acre park provides plenty of hiking trails and a chance to explore tidal pools, as well as biking, fishing, or bird watching.

For lunch, head to the quaint surroundings of Palm Coast’s European Village. In addition to several dining options, the European Village offers shopping and entertainment for the whole family. If visiting on a Sunday, you may even catch the local Palm Coast Farmers Market.

For golf aficionados, book a tee time at Palm Harbor Golf Club. Or, if looking to spend more time in nature, be sure to add Bing’s Landing to your itinerary. The 8-acre intracoastal waterway park provides the opportunity for hiking, kayaks, boating, and more.

Finish the day with an exquisite shore-to-table meal at Atlantic Grille with stunning ocean views from the terrace. Delight in one of the restaurant’s award-winning dishes to wrap up a phenomenal Palm Coast experience.