Nothing beats the adventure of cruising across the lakes and coastal waters with your family. Are you looking for a perfect boating getaway? The US has a range of popular boating destinations for families waiting to be discovered.
Picture this: sailing across the calm waters, kids having fun on deck, surrounded by elegant mountains or a coastal charm. In this article, let’s walk you through some of the top picks across the country that offer more than just adventure. Get set for an educational and rejuvenating time with your favorite people.
Best Boating Destinations for Families
1. Lake Tahoe, California
Nestled between California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is a favorite spot for boating. Whether your family loves fishing or simply appreciates nature, it has something for everyone.
- Offers boat rentals so families without boats can also explore.
- Known for its tranquil waters and beautiful mountain surroundings.
- There are plenty of spots perfect for enjoying a picnic or barbecue.
- Visit local towns such as South Lake Tahoe and Tahoe City for dining and good accommodations.
2. Tampa Bay and St. Petersburg, Florida
Visit the 40-mile-long Tampa Bay, where your loved ones can anchor for a whole day of sailing and surfing. Just relax along the side strips and try a bit of wakeboarding or dinghy boating for fun.
- Want to spend the whole day on the water? Explore Egmont Key and Fort De Soto.
- Top choice for dolphin watching, paddleboarding, or just having fun around the sandbar.
3. Florida Keys, Florida
The vibrant marine environments make the Florida Keys a top destination for boating adventures for all ages.
- Best opportunities for fishing, snorkeling, and viewing coral reefs with kids
- Watch stunning underwater views without getting wet with glass-bottom boat trips.
- Explore the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary to make your kids aware of the environment.
- Make offshore tours to find out the local culture and delicacies.
4. Lake Powell, Utah
Want to enjoy family time exploring the beautiful desert landscapes? Lake Powell is an ideal destination.
- Consider houseboat vacations, skiing, and kayaking through various coves.
- Backdropped by red canyons, the lake is a picture-perfect place to capture moments.
- Enjoy cruise tours perfect for travelers of all ages.
5. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
Top spot for families seeking Midwest boating adventure. Single or multi-day pontoon rentals and yacht charters available.
- Kid-friendly atmosphere makes it a must-visit boating destination.
- Indoor water park, bowling, and an arcade for kids.
- Mini-golf, parasailing, and go-karts for your children.
- Don’t miss the hiking trails, caves, and caverns.
6. Lake Cumberland, Kentucky
Kentucky, the “Houseboat Capital of the World”, offers more boat rentals than anywhere else! Rent a houseboat with a rooftop slip for a week or so this summer at Lake Cumberland. It’s time to make fun moments with your children.
- Explore the charming shoreline backdropped by the scenic views.
- Must-visit place for hiking and camping under the stars.
- These activities – skating, laser tag, and go-karting – are made with kids in mind
7. San Juan Islands, Washington
Explore the nature in “The Evergreen State” at this stunning destination. The San Juan Islands offer a perfect combination of beauty and adventure that your loved ones crave.
- Choose boat rentals to explore the islands.
- Experience the ocean while viewing the hilly areas and ancient island communities.
- Nothing matches the fusion of land and water-based offerings.
8. Lake Michigan
The huge expansion of Lake Michigan makes it a perfect destination for families across the country.
- Explore peaceful sailing from the shores of Chicago.
- Watch the evenings at the beautiful beach towns of Michigan.
- Visit Bear Dunes National Lake to boat while hiking through the dunes.
- Pick a boat rental or other watercraft to make your group adventure even more fun.
Overall, the best place for safe swimming, picnics, and educational tours.
9. Newport, Rhode Island
Sail across the breathtaking coastal areas and marinas of Newport. Dock your boat, click a few pictures, and experience a whole new boating adventure with your kin. This sailing capital of the US is calling you!
- Watch the popular Newport Regatta or enjoy the coastal charm.
- Best destination for sailors and yacht owners seeking an interesting boating getaway.
10. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
If your gang is adventurous enough to cover the coastline by boating, unwind and experience the charm of Cape Cod.
- Explore the charming coastal areas, beaches, and harbors.
- Visit seaside villages like Provincetown and Chatham, where you can dock, relish seafood, and shop.
Transform Your Vacation into Family Time
The United States is full of boating destinations that offer a range of interests and adventures for everyone.
- Be it the evergreen Western lakes or vibrant aquatic life, these destinations provide you with everything you need.
- A perfect combination of natural beauty and opportunity to make quality moments with your people.
Choose the right destination from the above-mentioned list to transform your vacation into a fun-filled family time.
Check Local Boating Guidelines for a Safe Adventure
As you plan your next boating trip with your gang, remember that various factors can make or break your boating experience. The United States Coastal guidelines state that each coastal region has its own rules about fishing, wakeboarding, or water sports. For instance,
- Commercial boating in California’s lakes requires a For-Hire Vessel Operator’s License.
- Arkansas requires anyone born on or after January 1, 1986, to complete a safety course.
- In Colorado, you need to buy an Aquatic Nuisance Species Stamp.
- Connecticut requires boaters to pass an approved basic boating safety course to obtain a certificate.
- Boaters born on or after January 1, 1988, in Florida must pass a boating education course or a certificate examination.
- In Indiana, you need a valid driver’s license to drive a personal boat with more than 10 horsepower.
- In Kentucky, boaters aged 12 to 17 must have a Kentucky Safe Boating Certificate or a NASBLA boater education certificate.
- Boaters aged between 16 and 17 need to pass a boating safety course in Maine.
Wherever you plan your next boating adventure, check local guidelines to ensure a safe experience for your whole crew.
Slip Stream – Your One-Stop Destination for Boating Adventures
Still confused about where to get started? Check out Slip Stream, the first site of its kind in the boating world.
As Travis Meadows quotes, “Peace is not found in a calmer storm; it’s found in a better boat.” At Slip Stream, we take note of that! We always make sure that you have the best boat for every family-friendly adventure.
Whether you want to rent a boat, join a club, find a marina, or connect with a dealer, it’s all here in one spot. It’s free to use, you deal directly with the business, and you’ll even find special offers you won’t get anywhere else.
Conclusion
The bottom line is that whether you are fond of sailing or discovering the open waters, welcome to the US. From the stunning shores of the Florida Keys to the rugged terrains of the San Juan Islands, these top picks have something for everyone. So, pack your bags and let the fun begin!
