The Castillo de San Marcos served as an outpost of the Spanish Empire, protecting St. Augustine, the first permanent settlement by Europeans in the continental United States, and the primary sea route for ships returning to Spain from its completion in 1695 . In its history, the Castillo has served a number of nations, but it has never been taken through millitary force. During the 18th century, the Castillo went from Spanish control to British and back to the Spanish , who remained in power in Florida until the area was purchased by the United States in 1821. Made a National Monument in 1924, the Castillo became part of the National Park system in 1933. Th Park consists primarily of the cultural and historic site of the Castillo itself with its attendant grounds, some 25 total acres.
Summers can be very hot and bright with high humidity and afternoon thundershowers highly possible.
We suggest you have some kind of sun protection, and some type of easily carried raingear. Winters can be cooler than thought, and sudden cold snaps should be taken into account. The area is served by nearby Jacksonville and Daytona international airports. Park transportation includes bicycling, walking, personal vehical and tour trains. Senior U.S. citizens who have a National Park Service Golden Age Pass are admitted free, as are members of their immediate family as defined on the card's reverse side.