Rattlesnake Beach

Near Rattlesnake Beach, there are several excellent dining options in St. Augustine. Beaches at Vilano offers a laid-back American grill experience with a focus on seafood. Sunset Grille is a local favorite known for its seafood and ocean views, providing a cozy atmosphere with TV sports and a great selection of drinks. Salt Life Food Shack is a lively spot with an eclectic seafood menu, including sushi and tacos, and offers a trendy vibe with rooftop seating. Cap's On the Water provides a more upscale dining experience with local seafood and sunset views from its wooden deck.

For accommodations near Rattlesnake Beach, St. Augustine offers a variety of hotels. The Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront provides a luxurious stay with Spanish Colonial-inspired rooms and an outdoor pool. The Courtyard St. Augustine Beach offers modern rooms and a contemporary atmosphere with a pool and gym. For a more intimate experience, The Saint Augustine Beach House provides beachfront quarters with kitchenettes and free hot breakfast.

Rattlesnake Beach itself does not have extensive amenities like restrooms or showers directly on the beach. However, nearby areas such as the Fort Matanzas National Monument offer picnic areas and nature trails. For beachgoers, nearby St. Augustine Beach provides facilities like restrooms, showers, and picnic tables at St. Johns County Ocean Pier Park. Rental equipment for activities like kayaking or paddleboarding can be found at local shops in St. Augustine.

Visitors to Rattlesnake Beach can enjoy a variety of activities. Swimming and sunbathing are popular, while the nearby Matanzas Inlet offers opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding. The area is also great for nature walks and birdwatching, with trails available at Fort Matanzas National Monument. For those interested in history, touring Fort Matanzas is a must-do activity, providing insights into the colonial past of Florida.

While Rattlesnake Beach itself may not have specific disability access features, nearby attractions like Fort Matanzas National Monument offer wheelchair-accessible trails and facilities. St. Johns County also provides free beach wheelchairs for use at St. Augustine Beach, which can be reserved in advance. Many of the local restaurants and hotels also offer wheelchair-accessible entrances and amenities.

Parking near Rattlesnake Beach is generally available in designated areas along the highway. However, for more developed beach experiences, St. Augustine Beach offers ample parking options, including free parking at St. Johns County Ocean Pier Park and designated areas where vehicles can be driven onto the beach with seasonal permits.

Rattlesnake Beach gets its name from Rattlesnake Island, which is home to eastern diamondback rattlesnakes. These snakes are the longest venomous snakes in North America and play a crucial role in the local ecosystem. The area is also rich in historical significance, with Fort Matanzas serving as a strategic defense point during the colonial era. The beach itself offers a serene and natural experience, with opportunities to spot dolphins and manatees in the waters.

One of the main attractions near Rattlesnake Beach is Fort Matanzas National Monument, located on Rattlesnake Island. This historic fort offers a glimpse into Florida's colonial past and provides stunning views of the surrounding waters. The nearby St. Augustine Beach is also a major draw, with its iconic pier and lively atmosphere. For nature enthusiasts, the Matanzas Inlet and surrounding coastal hammocks offer beautiful trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.