Perhaps, the lyrics of iconic singer Jimmy Buffett said it best: “Shells sink, dreams float, life’s good on our boat.”
Let’s be totally honest; boating here in the United States is spectacular when you consider that the nation boasts some 95,000 miles of coastline and thousands of lakes for setting out on an amazing adventure. Our boating experts are sharing a few of their absolute favorite boating spots to explore in this beautiful country, so kick back, and let these pros kick it up a few “knots.”
1. Newport, Rhode Island
Talk about a rich boating history that stretches back to colonial times! Newport Harbor is one of the very best New England has to offer with direct access to Narragansett Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.
Newport has long been revered as a prime yachting center and includes many picturesque sites to see along the rugged New England coastline. In fact, most people will tell you that the best way to explore Newport, R.I., is by boat.
2. Knoxville, Tennessee
Here’s another awesome cruising destination for boat lovers around the nation. Knoxville serves up a handsome waterfront city not far from the Smoky Mountains where friends and family have fun navigating the many miles of lakes, rivers, ponds, inlets, and coves.
Chattanooga boat dealers make it easy for folks to enjoy their favorite water activities in the watercraft of their choice. Powerboat, pontoon, wake boat, or any other kind, it’s time to get out on the water!
3. San Francisco Bay
It’s got a little bit of everything and never disappoints. San Francisco Bay is one of the top boating spots with powerful summer sea breezes, thick rolling fog, mirror-calm waters, and plenty of natural beauty to take in.
The bay is joined by a thousand miles of inland waterways, marshy rivers, and more.
Sausalito is a fab place to visit along the Bay. There’s a wonderful view of Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge on the way over.
4. Maui, Hawaii
Say no more. Maui exudes the ultimate in tropical charm with Hawaii sitting pretty in the heart of the Pacific Ocean.
Recreational boating is a blast as strong winds kick in, and exotic scenery leaves room for hours of enjoyment. If you’re on the lookout for sea life, Maui waters offer an abundance of magnificent whales, dolphins, turtles, tropical fish, and more.
The pros recommend aiming for early morning excursions because the weather is usually calmer and the visibility clearer. Also, most marine animals are up and about bright and early, so you get to see a burst of activity.
5. The Florida Keys
Many call the sparkling clear waters of the famous Florida Keys a boating paradise and with good reason. Thanks to the naturally formed Hawk Channel, the Keys are easy to navigate in all kinds of weather, daytime or nighttime.
Imagine some 6,000 reefs and 800 barely-above-water islands. What a tropical utopia for boating, sailing, and watersport enthusiasts!
When you head to Key West, for instance, you can take in amazing historical landmarks such as Mallory Square, The Historic Seaport, and The Southernmost Point.
That’s not all. Key West happens to be home to some incredible wildlife, including key deer, iguanas, sharks, dolphins, sea turtles, tropical fish, and spiny lobsters.
Bird watching is also a popular event, and you are bound to see these fine feathered creatures take flight such as pelicans, cranes, flamingoes, kingfishers, and more.
6. Lake Havasu, Arizona
Ask around Lake Havasu, and people will tell you that the beautiful resort spot is a sport boat magnet. The location is just about perfect sitting on the border between Southern California and Arizona.
Did you know that Lake Havasu was created by the Hoover Dam?
Havasu is on an awesome 60-mile network of waterways which include the Colorado River. It is also rated as one of the top 100 best bass fishing lakes in America.
Boating will always be one of America’s favorite past-times, and there are so many exquisite boating spots here in the country to visit for people of all ages. Isn’t it time to plan your next excursion?
See you on the water!