Matanzas Bay

Matanzas Bay Boating Guide

Matanzas Bay in St. Augustine offers recreational boaters an enticing blend of natural beauty and historical charm. Nestled about ten miles south of St. Augustine in Crescent Beach, Matanzas Inlet serves as a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts while also providing serene beaches and islands perfect for anchoring boats. When navigating the inlet, boaters can choose from three anchoring areas: along the shoreline of Rattlesnake Island, Matanzas Inlet Park, or the sandbar extending into the waterway. However, caution is advised, as some areas may pose challenges such as oyster-lined sections and rapidly dropping shorelines during low tide.

Boaters should be mindful of the tide’s significant fluctuations in Matanzas Bay, with a noticeable difference between high and low tide. This rapid tide swing underscores the importance of closely monitoring your boat’s position while anchored to avoid running aground. Against the backdrop of this scenic boating locale stands the historic Fort Matanzas, built in 1742 to safeguard the inlet from southern threats. For convenient boat launches, Devil’s Elbow Fishing Resort offers a nearby ramp, while Vilano Boat Ramp in Vilano Beach provides another option, albeit with potential parking challenges. While exploring Matanzas Bay, it’s essential to adhere to navigational advisories, as the inlet is closed to general navigation due to potential hazards.

Boating to Matanzas Bay

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