Best Boating Cities in the US for 2025
Whether it’s a sightseeing trip, an eco tour, or even a good old booze cruise, getting on the water can often turn into the highlight of your vacation. But what are the best destinations to enjoy this kind of fun? Well, that’s exactly what we’ll be diving into here!
From coast to coast, we’ve compiled a list of the 12 best boating cities in the US to visit in 2025. Each of these destinations features beautiful waters and plenty of different boat tours you can hop on. So if you’re the kind of person who plans their vacations around the water, read on!
Charleston, SC
Facing the Atlantic Ocean and sitting on four different rivers, Charleston is a city built for boating. It’s one of the few places where you can genuinely see most of the city just by navigating its sprawling network of rivers and canals. If you’re spending your holiday here, getting on a boat should be high on your list of activities to enjoy.
There are many types of boat-based adventures you can go on while in Charleston. Tour the harbor and learn a bit about the local history, dance the night away on a cocktail cruise, or watch the dolphins play as you ride past the beaches. If that’s not enough, Charleston is also an excellent place to go fishing, whether you’re near or far from shore.
As a large East Coast port, Charleston is a place of rich history. In its early days, it was often the haunt of famous pirates such as Blackbeard and Stede Bonnet, who would raid and besiege the city. The stories of this period, as well as the city’s significance after the age of the pirates, are all collected in the Charleston Museum.
But if you’re not a huge history buff, there are still many other venues to explore, starting with the city’s waterfront. It’s lined with many amazing restaurants, charming cobblestone streets, and more. All in all, there’s lots to experience in Charleston, both on and off a boat.
Ocean City, MD
Stretched across 10 miles of stunning coastline, Ocean City is Maryland’s premier vacation destination. It’s situated on a barrier island, with calm bay waters on one side and the open ocean on the other. With so much water, as well as absolutely stunning beaches, Ocean City is rightfully popular among vacationers.
As for boating, it’s what Ocean City is all about. Isle of Wight Bay features calm waters, making it the perfect place for a relaxing cruise. Or you can ride along the Atlantic coastline instead, where you’ll get a breathtaking view of the beaches. Of course, fishing is also big in Ocean City, with charters offering all kinds of adventures.
While you’re in Ocean City, make sure to take a stroll along its boardwalk and try the iconic Maryland crab cakes. If you have time for a quick detour, we heartily recommend going on a day trip to Assateague Island. Its salt marshes, coastal forests, sandy beaches, and the wild horses that roam them are sights to behold. Find a boat captain to take you there and thank us later!
Wilmington, NC
Positioned along the Cape Fear River, mere minutes from the Atlantic, Wilmington is a city that thrives on its connection to the water. Its waterways are as much a part of the city’s identity as its beautiful downtown, inviting you to chart your own course through its maritime charm.
From the serene river and its creeks to the expansive ocean, Wilmington features endless opportunities for eager boaters. Embark on a scenic cruise along the tree-lined river banks, or head to Masonboro Island, a pristine coastal reserve accessible only by boat. Watch the mischievous dolphins and gliding pelicans, delight in a romantic sunset cruise, or do some angling – it’s all possible in Wilmington.
Beyond its waters, Wilmington is a city with a deep history and vibrant culture. Among other sights, there’s the USS North Carolina Battleship – a WWII vessel that sits anchored along the Cape Fear River, offering a powerful glimpse into the city’s past.
Meanwhile, Wilmington’s downtown brims with art galleries, restaurants, boutiques, and more. It features a long boardwalk, lined with all kinds of attractions that’ll keep you occupied throughout the day. So if you’re visiting for a quick vacation, rest assured, there’ll be loads of activities to take part in.
St. Augustine, FL
As one of the oldest cities in America, St. Augustine blends its deep heritage with a modern charm, adding plenty of coastal beauty to the mix. It’s a city you’ll find interesting whether you’re visiting with your family, chasing adrenaline, or looking to brush up on your history knowledge. So including it on our list of the best boating cities in the US was a no-brainer.
For boaters, St. Augustine’s waterways offer up an incredibly diverse setting. The Matanzas River, which flows just off the coast of the city offers a tranquil experience. Its waters are perfect for a day out with the kids or a loved one. While you’re cruising the river, pay a visit to the Anastasia State Park. This is a stunning backdrop for kayaking, paddle boarding, or wildlife spotting.
Of course, there’s lots of fun to be had on the open ocean, too. Cruise along the beaches and search for dolphins. Or, pair up with a fishing guide and experience some of the finest angling Florida has on offer. You can even mix it all up and end your day on a sunset cruise, gazing upon the city’s skyline as it turns to shades of gold and orange.
Regarding other things to do, we’ve already mentioned St. Augustine’s lengthy history, which dates all the way back to 1650. For a glimpse into the early life in these parts, head to Castillo de San Marcos. This waterfront fortress has stood in St. Augustine since the 17th century.
For a more modern experience, simply make your way to St. Augustine’s downtown. Here, you’ll find unique shops, cozy cafes, excellent restaurants, and lots of other entertainment. With a blend of old and new, St. Augustine is a city that you’re sure to enjoy.
Austin, TX
When you think of Texas and boating, your mind likely drifts to one of the many destinations along the Gulf Coast. However, rather than telling you what you already know, we’ve decided to shine a light on Austin and its waterways instead. Between the Colorado River and several local lakes, this Texan city is a great place to spend a day on the water in an otherwise urban setting.
The Colorado River in the Austin area is divided into several reservoirs. So depending on which part of the river you cruise on, you might find yourself in a city environment or complete wilderness.
For example, touring Lady Bird Lake will put you in a nice position to see the downtown from the water. Meanwhile going to Lake Travis will feel more like a nature outing. And Lake Austin falls somewhere between the two! Another good spot for boating, jetskiing, as well as fishing is Lake Walter E. Long, found on the outskirts of the city.
If you’re wondering what kind of land-based activities Texas’s capital has to offer, the list is just about endless. Austin is famous for its live music scene, and many plan their visit around seeing their favorite artist. The food is, of course, off the charts, and there are numerous cultural attractions and museums to tour. In a nutshell, there’s something for everyone in Austin.
Boston, MA
For most, Boston conjures up an image of cobblestone streets, steeped in history and culture, paired with the buzz of city life. However, Boston’s waterways tell a different story, offering a peaceful yet thrilling perspective of the city. From its famous harbor to scenic rivers, and even open ocean, this coastal city is a prime destination for boating.
The best time to visit this part of the East Coast is from spring to mid-fall. It’s when the weather is at its most favorable, allowing you to revel in all the different tours on offer. The options are endless, and they include historical tours, sunset cruises, kayaking, jetskiing, angling, and more.
If you’re visiting for the first time, however, we’d recommend cruising the Boston Harbor Islands, the picturesque Charles River, or hopping on a local fishing charter. Fun is just about guaranteed on each of these adventures.
Back on land, Boston offers the most to those with a love of history and arts. The city is lined with landmarks! The most famous include the Freedom Trail, the Paul Revere House, and the USS Constitution, just to name a few. It’s also home to some of the finest museums in the world, such as the Boston Museum of Fine Arts. Boston is a city that’s easy to love – just don’t call it “Beantown” in front of the locals!
New York City, NY
Towering skyscrapers, bright lights, and the non-stop hustle and bustle have grown to symbolize the gargantuan New York City. But its rivers, bays, and channels will give you an entirely different view of the city – and, if you’re looking for it, a reprieve from the fast-paced nature of the “Big Apple.” This unique combination of thrilling streets and captivating waters is why we’ve included NYC on our list of the best boating cities in the US.
When it comes to places you should tour, we’ll start with the obvious – New York Harbor. Covering the entire Upper and a bit of the Lower Bay, the New York Harbor is the site of the city’s most famous landmark – the Statue of Liberty. See it from the water or take a ferry to the island to get a view up close. And if you have time, pay a visit to the Ellis and Governors Islands, both are great to wander and learn about the city’s – and country’s – rich history.
But what if you’ve already been to NY and seen Lady Liberty? We suggest you head on a cruise on the Hudson River or even a tour around the entirety of Manhattan Island. There’s also the option to fish and catch yourself some beautiful Striped Bass (known locally as Rockfish). The best period to head to New York if you’re in the mood to spend some time on the water is between mid-spring and mid-fall.
In terms of other activities, New York has it all, so it’s really a question of what can’t you do. You should tailor your adventure to your interests, all of which will surely be satisfied in New York. As for what you shouldn’t miss regardless of your itinerary, our vote goes to…pizza!
Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee is a city that blends its industrial roots with a vibrant cultural scene and plenty of natural appeal. It’s nestled along the western shore of Lake Michigan with several rivers intersecting the city. These waterways promise an experience during which you’ll get to witness the full charm of this Midwestern city.
Lake Michigan alone provides a setting in which there are endless possibilities for boating enthusiasts. From watching the crimson sunset envelop the city to boating along the scenic beaches, jetskiing, or fishing – it’s all possible.
But let us give you one tip right away. If touring Lake Michigan leaves you itching for more, hop on a journey along the Milwaukee River. Besides offering a great view of the city, you can also opt for specific experiences, such as a brewery tour. On such an outing, you’ll get to sip on some of the finest local beer while cruising the river.
Besides boating, Milwaukee naturally has lots of other attractions for you to check out. Some of the highlights include the Harley Davidson Museum, Milwaukee Art Museum, and the Pabst Mansion, the former home of the beer baron behind Pabst Blue Ribbon.
Chicago, IL
Famous for its architecture, music scene, and delectable deep dish pizza, Chicago is an extremely entertaining city to visit. But in spite of there being so much to do on land, you’ll still be missing out if you don’t take the chance to explore the local waters during your visit.
With the vast Lake Michigan stretching out from its shores, Chicago almost looks like an oceanside destination. It might as well be one thanks to its wealth of boating opportunities! There’s truly plenty to experience out here.
For an urban experience, we recommend a tour along the Chicago River. It’ll give a view of a good portion of the city, including some of its most famous architectural attractions. Meanwhile, back on Lake Michigan, you’ll get a breathtaking look at the beaches and the city skyline.
The lake is also suited for various water activities, including jet skiing, sailing, paddle boarding, and more. To add to the mix, Chicago is also an excellent starting point if you want to go fishing to discover what lies beneath these rich waters.
Minneapolis, MN
Minnesota is famous for its incredible number of lakes. So famous, in fact, that the state’s official nickname is the “Land of 10,000 Lakes.” And naturally, Minneapolis is no different. Just the city itself is home to over 20 lakes, in addition to the Mississippi River. With so much water around, putting Minneapolis on our list of the best boating cities was really a must.
The mighty Mississippi runs through the very heart of Minneapolis. So if you’re in the mood to get a water-based perspective of the city, cruising the river is a fantastic way to do so. Embark at sunset and watch the golden rays of sunlight spill over the waters and city skyline.
Of course, many of the local lakes are also prime spots for all kinds of water-based activities. We’ll name just a few because, let’s face it, you won’t be able to get to them all if you’re just visiting for a vacation! Check out the likes of Lake Minnetonka, Lake Nokomis, or the Chain of Lakes. Jetskiing, boating, kayaking, and fishing… All of these and more are possible in Minneapolis.
Besides boating, we recommend that you set aside some time to tour places such as the Sculpture Garden, Stone Arch Bridge, and Minnehaha Park and its waterfall. Fort Snelling is also a great site to visit, especially during summer, providing a pleasant setting for picnicking, swimming, biking, and more.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles is an iconic destination in every sense of the word. It’s a place built for thrill-seekers and it feels as if the waters off the city’s coast emulate that same energy. Out in LA, there’s adventure to be had whenever you turn, whether you’re on land or on a boat.
Picture taking an evening cruise along the golden beaches surrounded by sandstone cliffs. Watch the sunset paint the distant cityscape and share a unique experience with family and friends. Or, embark on a tour to Catalina Island (pictured above) and go diving in some of the most serene waters in the world!
The scenarios we just described are but a few among the endless ways to have fun boating in this city. Besides these, you can board a cruise down the Los Angeles River and learn about the urban history of the city while on the water. And don’t forget about fishing – the entirety of Southern California offers world-class action, especially in summertime.
Back on land, you’ll find the global mecca of celebrity culture. Visit Hollywood and its famous studios, go on a celebrity house tour, or walk the iconic Beverly Hills neighborhood. Whatever you do, the city is an ideal place to immerse yourself in the lives of the famous. Or, if you’re more of an artsy type, the Getty should be high on your list of venues to explore. Afterward, you can journey to the Fairfax District and the LACMA. Whatever you choose, you’re in for an unforgettable time.
Portland, OR
Sitting at the confluence of the Willamette and the legendary Columbia River, Portland has always held its waters close to its heart. And even though Portland is a major city – Oregon’s largest – it really feels less urban and more in touch with the surrounding wilderness than most other places of similar size. It’s this nature-oriented vibe of the city that’s earned it a spot on our list of the best boating destinations across the US.
We’ve already named the rivers you can cruise along in Portland. The Willamette River cuts through Portland downtown, so a tour along its waterways makes for a great option if you want to see the most lively part of the city. Meanwhile, the Columbia River separates Portland from Vancouver, meaning you’ll be traveling between the two cities catching a glimpse of both.
It’s kind of become a trend throughout this article, but where there’s good boating, there’s likely good fishing, too. And this certainly applies to Portland. The local waters are home to some of the best angling in the PNW. The only caveat is that you’ll have to time your trip for when the fish are biting, whereas if you’re simply in the mood for a cruise, you can visit anytime between spring and fall.
As we mentioned, Portland is a perfect match for those with a love of the great outdoors. There are numerous gardens, parks, and trails to check out throughout the city. If we had to pick two, we’d head to the Portland Japanese Garden and the Grotto. Alternatively, if you have time for a day trip, head west to the coast or east to the epic Columbia River Gorge.
Cruise Into Your Next Adventure!
And so, we’ve come to the end of our list of the top boating cities in the US – for this year, at least. From Charleston on the East Coast to Oregon in the Pacific Northwest, each spot in the article offers a unique experience. They all remind us that there’s no better way to explore the natural wonders of America than from the deck of a boat. So set course for one of these boating havens and fill your year with some adventure!
How did you enjoy our picks? Is there a city you’d like to see on the list? Let us know in the comments below!
