The 16 best sunsets in St. Augustine (2024)

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is a historic fort that offers self-guided tours, showcasing its drawbridge and gun deck, as well as providing stunning views of Matanzas Bay. This masonry fort, the oldest of its kind in the country, was constructed to safeguard Spain's territorial claims in Florida following pirate attacks during the late 1500s.

As cool as the first time I saw it as a kid. A great visit for fans of history and for kids! There are lots of ranger led activities around and all of them are a ton of fun while being very informative. Parking is difficult, but there is a lot of street parking along the waterfront if the lot by the fort is full.

Orion Maier — Google review

One of my favorite forts! This location has so many interesting places to walk around and check out throughout the whole fort as you learn so much from every place you look in! I managed to come in for free on National Park Day so definitely take advantage when it happens! Make sure to arrive on some days where they demonstrate a cannon launch! It’s an experience I would never forget! Definitely bring your national park stamp book if you have one to get the stamp!

Daniel Duran — Google review

This was amazing! The fort is so cool and preserved very nicely. The park rangers were happy to answer questions and sharing interesting tid bits. We have a park pass so we got in for free but I still think it would have been worth the price.Lighting was withing the 5 miles or whatever it is when we got in so we couldn't go to the top for a bit. We took our time on the ground level and read all the signs and explored the top as soon as it opened. I wish we could have gone on a night when they shoot the canons off. That would be such an amazing thing to see!I highly recommend going, you won't regret it.

Susan Pullan — Google review

This was quite an interesting place to visit. So much history here. We have a 4th grader so we we’re able to get in for free. You can get into any national park for free as part of a program for 4th graders nationwide. The displays were all very informative and the staff here was super friendly. There is a scavenger hunt game that is great for the kids. The views of the harbor and the Bridge of Lions were incredible. Parking here in the afternoon can get crazy. We had to drive around the parking lot a couple of times to catch someone leaving. You pay per hour to park but we took our time and we’re there just about 2 hours.

Jon H — Google review

As a point of historical significance, the reference and homage pair to this fort by the staff and local community is apparent from the ticket gate. The actors that interact with the public are very impressive with the attention to detail and period knowledge they exhibit and the cannon firing demonstration is a must see.Nearby parking is very limited, but the available public transit and flat walkways make for a quick commute from wherever you can find a spot. The first floor and exterior are accessible to most mobility disabilities; and while a very shallow staircase prevents wheeled access to the ramparts, those with limited mobility in their legs should find a fairly easy climb.

Kevin Childs — Google review

They were closing up when we got there but it was still pretty cool. It was a lot like Fort Independence in Boston so a lot cooler if you haven’t seen forts before. The grounds were very nice and people seemed to really enjoy the surrounding area as well. You can walk around the outside for free or get tickets and go in.

Brandon Polley — Google review

What a treasure! The National Park Service has done a fantastic job to maintain and develop this 300+ year old monument to colonization history. Parking on the grounds is really cheap at 2.50 per hour. It took us 3 hours to see and enjoy everything. The admission was 15.00 per person BUT I used my senior pass and got in for free. Well worth the one time charge to visit all 400 national parks. You can get into many restored rooms and listen to the excellent stories from the park rangers.

John Thompson — Google review

If you visit just one place in St. Augustine it has to be Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. The history, the architecture, the location. It's spectacular. There is so much to see in every room and a lot of information to read about the history and the lives of the soldiers, prisoners, settlers, etc. The cannons are a work of art. Just to be around something that has been built in 1500-1600's and is still around is incredible. You can easily spend a couple of hours there. There is also a cute gift shop. There are a lot of volunteers that will gladly answer any questions you might have. I wish we had our kids with us, they would have loved to tour it.

Ella Camaro — Google review

This was a very neat place to visit. It’s huge and there’s lots to do and see here. You can’t come to St. Augustine and skip this attraction. Do be prepared for lots of walking, and big crowds to be around. We weren’t there a single day that there wasn’t a massive crowd. I recommend getting there early in the morning to get in line for tickets.

Amy Justine — Google review

Stopped at this gem on the way back from Orlando. Ended up being my favorite thing on the trip by far.The ambiance of the landmark is spot on. The beautiful, light-blue water coupled with the local Florida wildlife makes for a great sight. In addition to that, the preservation and appreciation for history makes you feel like you’re in the time period. They even fly the Spanish flag - accurate to the period of its founding.The landmark also provides excellent information to truly educate about the fort’s history and founding. You also have quite a bit of freedom to explore; most rooms you can look around and (the best part) you can walk on top of the fortifications.

Noah Dickens — Google review

This place is awesome and great to see where it all started for Central and South America countries and Florida. It is a Federal Monument so Veterans are free along with 4 guests. Parking in Augustine can be a challenge, unless you park in the free public parking garage across the street and it is still within walking distance to everything. It's a tourist area but the shops and restaurants are really good and there are plenty of them. It is a beautiful area!!

Craig's Travels — Google review

A well preserved Spanish fort in St. Augustine, the oldest continuously inhabited city in the US. It's part of the National Park system, and for those with a National Park pass, entry to the inside of the fort is free. Also, access the the area all around the outside of the fort is free to everyone. Scenes of life in the fort is recreated in several areas. Various canons and other equipment/supplies are on display. There is a small gift/souvenir shop (National Parks stamps available) just inside the fort entrance. Great views of the city and waterfront can be seen from all around the upper level of the fort wall. Although there is a paid parking lot on the grounds ($2.50/hour) parking can be a little difficult to find at peak times. This isn't a large fort, so one to two hours is plenty of time to see the whole thing. The spaces are large enough for large camper vans and smaller (class C) RVs. Our 22' van fit within the space markings. There are several small spaces for motorcycles . There are no oversized spaces in this lot, but there is a free parking lot for all sizes of RVs just a few blocks to the west (No overnight camping allowed). Overall, if you are interested in military/colonial historical sites, this fort is definitely a place to visit.

Alan Marshall — Google review

My family had a fun time at Castillo to say it was not a planned trip. It was like getting a fun history lesson of the fort. We spent about 1.5 touring the rooms of the fort (this will vary person to person). I would recommend going on a cool day as we did. In summer I assume it can get hot and the crowds of people.

Cee — Google review

What an amazing piece of history! It is absolutely worth the visit. I recommend bringing the kids to so they can learn some history but also come alone because you can read all the info posted throughput the fort because you realize all this historic time capsule has been through. I am amazed every time I visit this place that it is open to the public and you can walk through such an incredible time capsule.

The McFarland Team — Google review

Wonderful place!A beautifully preserved antique, well-kept and authentic. The love and care of the staff is immediately visible.A very informative exhibition, we walked around for two hours, looked around and read the explanations, just wonderful.It’s good that there are many excursions for schoolchildren, children study real history using real buildings and exhibits, and this is wonderful!You are unlikely to see so many ancient cannons in one place anywhere else.A beautiful bay with Parisian trees and fresh sea air complete the picture.Thank you very much!

Igor — Google review

This past weekend my boyfriend and I decided to come to st.Augustine for the weekend so I could show him all my favorite places. The Castillo was number one on this list. We both love history, so I knew he’d fall in love with the place as soon as he saw it. I honestly think it exceeded his expectations. He’s already planning for our next trip back! Aside from it being a magnificent pierce of history, it also helped that all of the staff and the rangers at the fort were so kind and helpful, and it really made an impact on him. He was stunned at how informative everyone was and how genuine everyone seemed.. I explained to him that St.Augustine isn’t like all the other “touristy” places. Especially not the Castillo de San Marcos. People here genuinely love this town and it’s structures, and they are excited to show it off to whoever is willing to listen. So thank you so much to everyone at the Castillo for making this trip memorable one for us! We can’t wait to come back!!!

Amber Katelyn — Google review

Truly one of a kind. It’s a must-see in St. Augustine! The staff, dedicated volunteers and city have done an excellent job with preserving this jewel and making it fun and educational for all visitors! The view from the top part of the Fort is incredible. This was such an interesting attraction. After leaving this establishment you simply feel closer to history.I’ve visited as a child and now as an adult….and it’s always enjoyable!

TallyTastingTampa — Google review

I've come here many times since the late 1960's when my father first brought me. I remember having a souvenir Spanish cannon from here as a child and It's always worth the trip. St. Augustine itself is pretty touristy, but it's a pleasant way to spend an afternoon and send yourself back in time to the days of forts, castles, and dangerous adventures. Take your kids so they take away the memory of a lifetime and maybe a Spanish Cannon.

Jeffrey Morgan — Google review

Great historical site that is rather unique. It is $15 for adults while under 16 are free. Military and veterans can get a National Park pass for free with proof; that gets three adult guests in with you also. Nice views of St. Augustine from here. Parking is $2.50 per hour.

Stephen — Google review

Just an absolutely lovely place to visit.The site is steeped in a rich history.The views of the surrounding area and the city of Saint Augustine are beautiful.It’s worth a visit, even if you don’t pay for a tour; you can walk around the property.It’s especially nice at sunset.Grab some ice cream in town and walk the property and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city of Saint Augustine~

eric j — Google review

An amazing and historical monument in the original and oldest city of Florida. So much depth of history that you need to really take your time enjoying each section. The views are stunning. Park Rangers are very informative. Try visiting on a "cool" day if that's possible! The park also has parking but it's on a first-come first-serve basis. Bring a good pair of walking shoes and water and enjoy!

MannyG33309 — Google review

A truly exceptional monument. The graffiti in the barracks alone are world class social history - Spanish sailors and soldiers, then US, and imprisoned Apaches too! Views are great. Staff are helpful and knowledgeable. The Firearms display is very well done.

Mike Sweeting — Google review

Definitely recommend! Learned a lot out the fort and the history. Self guided tour spent about 2 hours here. Money well spent to help preserve such a national monument. We also bought the national park passport too and got our stamps.

Deziree Rosbeck — Google review

Samantha Brown's Places to Love was spot on with this feature attraction. Make sure to add to your list of things to do. Well kept by the National Parks and Recreation. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water. It's very scenic. Park staff is very friendly. Must see if you're in the area. Active and retired military discount. They will register you in the database for Gold Star and military membership to visit ALL National Parks.

Brian Lawson — Google review

Definitely worth the admission especially if you can time it around the cannons being fired. But, there are plenty of historical markers if you just want to walk around it. Also a beautiful place to sit and watch the sailboats or picnic on the large lawn. There is limited parking, but a large paid garage is across the street. They have nice restrooms and a small museum.

Burgess Adventures — Google review

There is a dizzying number of tour options in St. Augustine, and you can quickly part with a ton of $$ because there’s an entry fee for just about everything. The Castillo is one of two historical attractions that I think are a must see** because of its uniqueness and its long history.Built in the 1700s by the Spanish, it is the largest and oldest “concrete” fort in the US, and it is almost entirely intact. It is fascinating to think about the fact that the fort has been utilized by Spanish, British and American military forces over the centuries, reflecting Florida’s unique and varied history.There is a decent self-guided tour inside the fort, and if you’re there at the right time, you can hear “first-hand” accounts from actors dressed as Spanish soldiers. This believe they also fire cannons on Saturdays, but we were there during the week.You can also walk around the outside of the fort and go on top of the fort to see the cannons in place, as well as capture beautiful water views. This is a truly unique glimpse into one facet of history in our country’s oldest (continuously inhabited) city.(**The lighthouse and museum is the other attraction that I would give 5 stars to.)

Angi Semler Welch — Google review

My family loved visiting the fort! The history is great and the exhibits inside are informative. We enjoyed seeing how the soldiers lived (my teenage son especially liked the explanation of the toilet system) 🤣The sights of the water and city from on top the castle walls are neat to see. If you have a chance to hang out, make sure to see the cannon fire demonstration. Parking might be tough if the lot fills up, but it’s not a far walk from the parking garage at the visitor center.

Chaplain Chris Linzey — Google review

Me and my family went here it was amazing. this is my second time here. We got to bring my parents this time for Arkansas they came to visit so we took them here to the oldest city in the United States of America to see the most prettiest fort and Georgetown Road. We got to see some amazing stuff and learn amazing history about this fort. We also got to watch them fire the Cannons at the ships which was pretty cool. It's amazing what people went through. This place is a a must see if you love history.

Samantha Halderson — Google review

It was amazing. If you love History it is an amazing place. With it being the oldest military fort in the United States. That's in amazing condition. It's a National Park , So I use my senior lifetime pass to get in. So I'm not sure of the cost.

Randy Bullock — Google review

Amazing!Must see. Well worth the drive.The scenario is Great.Easy accessibility and we'll lit.Parking down the street.Part of historyKid friendlyHighly recommended

JESSE JAMES CRISCIONE — Google review

Old fort, cool to see they used all natural resources to build it. Go in and out of rooms with all kinds of facts and things ,take your time and read the signs to understand everything that went on there. Climb steps to the top---no elevator watch little kids there is no handrails and the upper walls are low they have signs posted do not sit on walls but there are benches to sit. Price is $14.95 adults kids are less get a coupon book and museums have great discounts

jean espina — Google review

Had family members come to visit us from California, we took them to Saint Augustine—the oldest city of USA. They were so happy to see the fort and to know some history of our country…we got there around 10:00am during the weekday, plenty parking spaces, but saw people were waiting for the spot to park when we got out of the fort, city needs to build more parking spaces. Thanks to the people who manage the monument and keep it nice.

Emily C. — Google review

St. Augustine is a charming old town with a plethora of culinary delights. The Castillo de San Marcos is an incredible sight to behold, steeped in history and architectural beauty. One tip I highly recommend is to thoroughly research and plan your visits, ensuring the places you want to explore are open. The castle closes after 5 p.m., so it's essential to schedule your visit accordingly.Visiting during the Christmas season adds an extra layer of magic, as the town is adorned with festive decorations, enhancing the overall experience. Exploring the Castillo de San Marcos during this time truly captures the spirit of the holidays and the rich history of the area. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this fascinating destination!

Jose Ampueda — Google review

I loved it. The architecture is beautiful, and as someone coming from Chicago, I’ve never seen this technique before in building with sea shells in the walls. The museum does not take long to be seen but totally worth supporting this location. Staff is very friendly as well.

Oana Tamas — Google review

Fascinating history with great displays. Blistering hot day - just like when we visited Fort Ticonderoga in NY a couple of years ago - we seem to pick 'em for those fort tours! Would have been nice to have a guided tour - was tempted to listen in on the guides for the kids' field trip tours.

Mitzi Romano — Google review

The 16 best sunsets in St. Augustine (2024)
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