Summer Island Drive Sand Ramp #1

Summer Island Drive Sand Ramp #1 provides public access to the Matanzas River in St. Augustine, making it a convenient launching point for kayakers, canoeists, and small boaters. The sand ramp entry is ideal for hand-launching kayaks and canoes or launching smaller vessels. This location gives paddlers direct access to the scenic Matanzas River estuary system.

The Matanzas River is a tidal estuary characterized by salt marsh and mangrove wetlands, offering protected paddling conditions suitable for various skill levels. Paddlers should be aware of significant tidal swings in this river system, which can affect water levels and launch/retrieval conditions, particularly at low tide. The surrounding area features the extensive Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (approximately 55,000 acres), offering excellent paddling opportunities through salt marsh and tidal wetlands. Historic sites like Castillo de San Marcos National Monument are also nearby, making this a great base for exploring St. Augustine's waterfront heritage.