Whether you live in the Miami area or are simply there for a couple of days as a tourist, one of the facts you have to know about it is that it’s one of the best places in the world to go boating. The location is magical, the weather is great, and the locals are friendly, too. For beach lovers, Miami is truly a place to visit.

There are many ways to enjoy Miami, such as staying in one place or resort alone or moving from one area to another. If time permits it, the latter is actually quite a good idea, topped off with renting your very chartered boat. You can skip the crowds of tourists and enjoy the sandy beaches with your own itinerary, plus delicious food specially prepared for you.

Boating is truly an experience like no other, whether it’s for a fun and peaceful family or solo trip, and even if you want to turn into reality some ideas for bachelorette party on a boat. Explore this list of some of the best boating destinations below, so you can start planning your Miami boating itinerary immediately. 

Caladesi Island State Park

This little piece of paradise is usually labeled as one of the best beaches in the USA. Well, it’s not called that way for nothing! Sitting on the Gulf Coast, it may not be as well-known as other beach destinations, but that fact contributes to its charm. It’s this one place where you can have some peace, quiet, and a lot of privacy. Kids and adults alike will have fun spending a day by the shore, feeling the fine, crystal-like white sand.

Haulover Sandbar, North Miami

If you happen to visit Miami when the tide is low, then a boating trip to Haulover Sandbar is definitely called for. After all, it’s visible only during the low tide season.

While visiting with your family and kids is still a good idea, a trip to the Haulover Sandbar is best enjoyed by adults. Weekends, in particular, are a lot of fun with beer-and-bikini blowouts. You don’t have to worry about the food, as there are floating food trucks that come to the shore for food.

Jacksonville/St. Augustine

The state’s major interior waterway is the St. John’s River, of which the gateway is Jacksonville. This is another top boating destination in Miami that isn’t a beach but a river. Here, you can spend the day fishing on your boat or enjoying walks by the marina when you dock. In Jacksonville, you’ll be welcomed into shops, five-star restaurants, and quite a wide selection of fine hotels.

Once you decide to include Jacksonville in your itinerary, it’s rather recommended to spend at least a few days here, so you can really enjoy what it has to offer. If you love history, just a few miles down south, you’ll also get to see St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city and first seaport.

Lake Okeechobee

Well-known as one of the most beautiful lakes in Florida, Lake Okeechobee is a site to marvel upon, whichever way you look. It’s as vast as it is spectacular, but it’s not for everyone. A trip to this lake is best for those who love jungles and fishing.

A trip to Lake Okeechobee will take you on 450,000 acres of water. This connects four counties and also joins the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.

Biscayne Bay

Dolphins love it at Biscayne Bay, so it’s a bonus for you to come face-to-face with some here. Boating is the main activity, but you can also opt to go snorkeling, fishing, or camping, or you can simply relax by the shore and bask in the sun and the view.

If you think that’s all that Biscayne Bay has for you, you’re wrong. There’s more, as it’s also known to be a rich historical attraction. 

Florida Keys

The Florida Keys, also known as ‘The Keys’, is also known as ‘diversity in paradise.’ This accolade is rightly earned, as it truly is a piece of paradise, coming with a very diverse set of activities for the entire family: snorkeling, offshore and inshore fishing, and diving. There are wharfs, reefs, and tropical sandbars for you to choose what you fancy.

Whether you like some peace and quiet, or you’re the type who loves to go out at night for a party, there’s something in the Florida Keys for you. There are several waterfront dining and drinking places to choose from, so you’ll never run out of ideas.

Pensacola

Pensacola is located on the Emerald Coast, looking over to the Gulf of Mexico. Here, you’ll be welcomed into the long-standing history and tradition of sailing.

Pensacola is actually one of the trios identified as the ‘World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,’ completed by Destin and Fort Walton. And, it truly is lucky, as deep-sea fishing is quite excellent in Pensacola. You’re sure to have a catch or two and even more after you finish your boating trip.

Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay is, perhaps, one of the more popular places on this list. Boaters love Tampa Bay due to its many other sites to see, like Beer Can Island, Davis Island Dog Park (if you’re traveling with your furry friend), and Weedon Island Sandbar.

Miami Beach Architectural District (Art Deco)

If you’re after having great photos, then a trip to the Miami Beach Architectural District (Art Deco) is truly a must-do. But, beyond the photos, take a half day walking around the district once the boat lands. It’s like you’re transported to another place outside of the USA.

The Art Deco is a very charming place. Those who appreciate classical architecture will truly enjoy the buildings and homes in this district. In fact, such structures represent the world’s most extensive collection of Art Deco Architecture. 

Coconut Grove

Coconut Grove is a quaint and historical nautical town. Taking a day boat cruise at the Coconut Grove allows you to visit another boating destination on this list, Biscayne Bay. But, more than the stunning sights, you’re also up for some unforgettable gastronomic experiences! Once you dock for lunch, you’ll be served some freshly-caught fish and seafood, prepared to the nines. You can then also enjoy a few hours of walking around the town, looking at the shops and interacting with the friendly locals.

Top 10 Boating Destinations In Miami – Final Thoughts

Surely there’s no debating this: Miami is one of the best boating destinations in the world, not to mention one of the best places this planet has to offer. The party is great, the weather is warm, and the sights are picturesque, but amidst all those, tourists and locals can’t miss out on one of its top activities—boating.

In fact, Miami is usually a good port or starting point for a sea adventure. You can be out on a day trip or two—the choice is really up to you. Also, you can go on a solo trip, with family or friends, or with a special someone. But, regardless of your company or the lack thereof, rest assured that your journey will be one for the books. A great place to start would be to consider exploring a few of the destinations above.