Top new things to do are always exploring, sandbars, and restaurants. Boating is a fantastic way to escape the Florida heat, but doing the same thing over and over can get repetitive. Whether you’re boating solo, with friends, or with family, here are some great tips for making the most of your time on the water in Northeast Florida.
Fishing
One of the best things is all the different fishing locations you can go to. In Northeast Florida, particularly along the Intracoastal Waterway by St. Augustine Inlet, there are plenty of great fishing spots. From shallow marshes and creeks to deep channels near bridges, you’ll have the opportunity to catch redfish, black drum, trout, and flounder. If you’re launching from Camachee Cove, excellent nearby fishing spots include the docks off Matanzas, the Bridge of Lions, Robinson Creek, and Vilano Bridge.
Wildlife Watching
For wildlife enthusiasts, Northeast Florida offers excellent spots along the Intracoastal Waterway and St. Johns River. These waters are perfect for spotting dolphins, manatees, bald eagles, and falcons. A great way to enjoy wildlife watching is to anchor in a scenic spot, have a picnic or snack on board, and take in the natural beauty at a relaxed pace.
Watersports
Watersports like tubing and ZUP boarding are a hit with kids and adults alike, and the St. Johns River is perfect for these activities. Popular areas like Doctor’s Lake and Julington Creek are great spots for family fun. While some families do enjoy watersports in the Matanzas River, it’s not recommended due to the busier and narrower channels in that area. Also don’t forget some water shoes, the ground in St. Johns River can get pretty muddy.
Swimming
For families that love swimming, Northeast Florida is home to plenty of sandbars that make for great stops. Salt Run, located just south of the St. Augustine Inlet, is a favorite. Another excellent spot is the sandbar near Robinson Creek, which emerges during low tide and offers a perfect beach opportunity for swimming and exploring. These sandbars are often quieter during weekdays, offering a great beach day for the family. Just be mindful of the tides if you beach your boat, low tide could leave you stuck for hours.
Picnic
A picnic on the water is a must, especially with kids on board. After hours of swimming and watersports, everyone will be ready for a break and some food. Bring along a packed lunch, and if it’s an especially hot day, find a shady spot under a bridge to anchor and cool off while you eat. Have a nice cooler for keeping food and drinks cold, remember to bring utensils.
Dock and Dine
Dock-and-dine experiences add a special touch to any boating day. In Northeast Florida, there are many great waterfront restaurants with docks, making it easy to pull up for a meal. Popular choices like Cap’s on the Water and Kingfish Grill offer delicious food and a fun, memorable dining experience on the water. Prices can vary and get really expensive so have a look at the menus first and see what’s in your budget.
Floats
For a laid-back and relaxing time, floats are a game-changer. Anchor your boat in a quiet spot on the St. Johns River or a nearby lake, bring out floats with cupholders, and drift while the kids swim and play. Make sure to bring water shoes if you’re in the St. Johns River, as the bottom can be a bit muddy. For added fun, consider connecting floats into a circle or chain so everyone can float together.
Exploring
Exploring is one of the best ways to break out of your routine and discover something new in Northeast Florida. With access to the Matanzas River, St. Johns River, and the Atlantic Ocean, there are countless areas to explore. If the ocean is calm, try fishing at the Nine Mile Reef. Alternatively, explore the Intracoastal, which offers miles of waterways, or head down one of the creeks off the St. Johns River for a quieter adventure.
Tips for a Better Boating Experience
• Sunscreen: Always bring sunscreen and reapply throughout the day. Florida’s sun can be intense, and the risk of sunburn is high, especially in the summer.
• Boat Bag: Keep a boat bag packed with essentials like sunscreen, a first-aid kit, snacks, headache medicine, charging cables, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Accessories: Enhance your boating experience with accessories like floating Bluetooth speakers, portable grills, or binoculars for wildlife watching.
• Tides: Always check the tides before setting out, especially in areas like the Intracoastal Waterway. Low tides can leave you stranded or limit access to certain spots, so plan your trip wisely.
Conclusion
Whether you’re boating solo or with family, Northeast Florida offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. From quiet fishing spots and wildlife watching to tubing, swimming, and dining on the water, there’s something for everyone. Solo boaters can enjoy the peaceful freedom of the open water, while families can bond over shared experiences and create lasting memories. No matter what type of boating experience you’re seeking, there’s always something to do and somewhere new to explore along Florida’s diverse waterways.