The Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve

The Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (GTMNERR) protects 76,000 acres of Florida's northeast coast, stretching from Ponte Vedra Beach to the Palm Coast. The GTM Reserve is divided geographically into a northern component in St. Johns County and a southern component, which is primarily in Flagler County.

The northern component is associated with the Tolomato and Guana River estuaries and features more than 10 miles of trails through various preserved habitats, as well as scenic boardwalks along A1A that provide three separate beach access points.

The GTM Visitor Center is located at the northern entrance as well. The driveway to the Visitor Center is before the parking fee station—the Visitor Center and its museum are free. While inside, you'll see displays that define estuaries and outline their importance for people and wildlife in Florida. Weekly programs highlight plants and animals that live in the Reserve, along with the tools and techniques that scientists use to study them. There are tanks with live fish, turtles, and snakes, as well as fossils, models of large sea creatures, and items found on local archaeological digs.

The southern component of the GTMNERR is associated with the Matanzas River and contains several state parks — Pellicer Creek Aquatic Preserve, Faver-Dykes State Park, Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, and the River to Sea Preserve at Marineland. A small field office is maintained at the Marineland facility, where guided hikes and lectures are available through monthly programs.

The GTM Research Reserve is one of 28 national estuarine research reserves throughout the nation, all focused on researching, educating the public, and protecting the natural biodiversity/cultural resources within the estuary.

Amenities at GTMNERR

• Visitor Center and Museum
• Hiking trails
• Biking trails
• Fishing
• Kayaking docks
• Wildlife viewing
• Restroom facilities

Visit GTMNERR

Admission: Free to go in the Visitor Center. $3.00 per vehicle to enter the park.

Address: 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida 32082

Parking: There is parking available on site.

Other Parks Near GTMNERR

The GTM Guana River South Beach, GTM Research Reserve, and the Guana State Park Boat Ramp are all close by to each other. Check our local Parks Directory, and articles Exploring Nature from River to Sea or Saltwater & Freshwater Fishing.