Known for being the U.S. boating capital, there are hundreds of reasons to go boating in Florida. Look past the beautiful waters, massive boats, and top-notch fishing and dive into this list.

If you’ve never boated in Florida before, we want to encourage you to grab your life jacket and head on the water for a day — especially if you live there! Here are five of our favorite reasons to boat in Florida.

People on a boat in Florida along the shore.

5 Reasons to Go Boating in Florida

Don’t miss out on the fun to be had on the waters in Florida! If you need a good reason to get on on a boat, here are a few.

1. The Weather

It’s always sunny in Florida! The “Sunshine” State speaks for itself.

You’re in the right spot if you’re into turquoise waters, boat parties, and fantastic fishing.

2. Boating Everywhere

Florida isn’t just about boating on the coast (as magnificent as it is); it’s also about exploring the 30,000+ lakes that hold huge fish and big adventures like Lake Okeechobee and Lake George.

Image of a group boating in Florida everglades.

3. An Abundance of Boating Services

No matter where you go in Florida, there’s almost always a boat launch, berth, gear shop, or marina within an hour of you! So, whether you need something for your boat, a place to launch, or you just want to browse new gear to add to your Christmas list this year, you’re never far from anything boat-related.

Florida was made for boating!

4. It’s a Boating Community

For some Floridians, having a boat is as common as having a car. You’ll always find people around the boat launch, at boating events, and on the water who love to talk boating.

5. It’s Easy to Get on the Water

It’s easier than you think. Floridians can take the approved Florida Boating Safety Course completely online and confidently hit the water a few hours later! Without a doubt, Florida makes it easy to get out on the water for a good (and safe) time.

Take Your Boating Safety Course Before Boating in Florida

Well, now we want to go boating. How could you not want to go boating in Florida?

Let’s do a recap just to make sure you’ve soaked in all that beneficial boating info: Sunny weather, magnificent boating all across the state, a community of awesome boaters, and all the services you could need to boat with ease — but don’t just take our word for it; get out there and see for yourself.

You won’t be disappointed! 

Before you head out, make sure you’ve taken and passed your boater education course for Florida. The knowledge you’ll gain from a BOATsmart! boating course will help you stay safe on the water and enjoy more boating outings this season.

Originally published June 2, 2020. Content most recently reviewed and updated for accuracy and relevancy August 21, 2024.