Top Florida Boating Spots

Florida is the boating capital of the world, due to its peninsular status that allows it to have an extremely long coastline with access to the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. The interior of the state is dotted with lakes, swamps, and rivers that are all excellent for boating. With so many great locations, which ones should you visit? Keep reading to find out!

St. John’s River

As Florida’s longest river, St. John’s River clocks in at over 300 miles in length.  This north-flowing, swamp-fed river is one of the best rivers in Florida to take your swamp boat for a leisurely cruise. You can admire some of the state’s natural beauty, and you might even spot an alligator! Whether you choose to explore the upper basin or the lower basin, you’ll have a great time with all of the nature around you and the interesting docks that you pass along the way.

Lake Okeechobee

This freshwater lake is the second largest lake in the continental United States— contained entirely within the border. Lake Okeechobee is also known as Florida’s Inland Sea because of its massive size! Fishing is so plentiful here that there are frequent bass fishing tournaments taking place on the water. In addition to bass, you can also catch sunfish, bluegills, and many other types of fish. With all the extensive nature reserves existing around the 738 square feet of this shallow lake, you are sure to have a wonderful time. 

Lake Kissimmee

This 40,000-acre lake is the largest in Polk County and is conveniently located just south of Orlando. Lake Kissimmee is great for boating and has several marinas and boat launch ramps around its perimeter. On Lake Kissimmee, you can observe the wildlife and take in the stunning views of the surrounding swampy areas. Fishing is an extremely popular pastime here, especially for largemouth bass that lurk along the shoreline.

Lake George

This brackish lake is a mix of freshwater and saltwater, and it is located near the Ocala National Forest. You’ll find an ecosystem that’s teeming with life here, with all kinds of different fish to catch and birds to view. The open waters are shallow, with an average depth of only 12 feet, which makes Lake George ideal for a swamp boat to coast across.

Blue Cypress Lake

This beautiful lake is filled with many varieties of fish and other types of wildlife. Here on Blue Cypress Lake, you might see alligators, eagles, or even ospreys. A public boat ramp at Vero Beach allows you access to this freshwater lake, and Blue Cypress Lake also forms the headwaters of the St. John’s River.

While these aren’t the only places you can take a boat in the Sunshine State, they are excellent jumping-off points for your boating adventures. Ready to purchase a boat and go out and explore the state for yourself? Visit Nobles' Marine in Leesburg or Crystal River, Florida. We proudly serve those in Ocala and surrounding areas.