Popular Marinas » From the Carolinas to the Keys
By Alexa Zizzi, Managing Editor, Marinalife Magazine
As you cruise the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway from the Carolinas to the Florida Keys, the changes in topography reveal breathtaking landscapes. From marshlands and rivers that lead out to the ocean to tropical waters and coral reefs, the Atlantic Coast is lined with stunning scenery, charming towns and top-notch marinas. Check out the following destinations that exude southern hospitality from North Carolina to Key West — several of which are bookable via Snag-A-Slip via their website or the mobile app.
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Albemarle Plantation Marina — Hertford
Nestled in North Carolina’s Inner Banks off the Yeopim River and Albemarle Sound, this full-service destination blends the perfect mix of a quiet getaway with a marina community full of fun activities. The 166-slip facility accommodates boats up to 60 feet, offers fuel service and a dockside café, and hosts fishing tournaments and sailboat races.
River Dunes — Oriental
Secluded in a protected basin off Pamlico Sound, this destination boasts luxury accommodations, dining and shopping within a charming coastal community. Stroll through Harbor Village for provisions, shop the retail hub for marine gear or explore the Red Rickshaw’s showroom displaying furnishings from Southern Living interior designers. Amenities include a 500-foot fuel dock, on-site spa, café and harborside cottages.
Port City Marina — Wilmington
This protected marina in the heart of historic downtown Wilmington sits along a two-mile scenic Riverwalk on the Cape Fear River. The superyacht-friendly facility offers 200+ state-of-the-art floating docks and can accommodate vessels up to 250 feet with drafts up to 25 feet.
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Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina — Charleston
Situated between Shem Creek and the historic USS Yorktown docked along the banks of the Cooper River, this spacious marina offers 459 slips accommodating vessels from 33 to 60 feet, plus over 17,000 feet of lineal floating docks for vessels up to 120 feet. Enjoy luxury lodging at The Beach Club with amenities such as a spa, marina store, tropical pools and private beach.
Windmill Harbour Marina — Hilton Head Island
On the northwest coast of Hilton Head Island, Windmill’s 15.5-acre harbor is another Lowcountry favorite. Easily accessible from the ICW in a tide-free haven protected by a lock system, the marina features 258 slips, on-call maintenance services and easy access to attractions. Transient slipholders are welcome to use South Carolina Yacht Club’s on-site amenities such as the pool, sauna, showers, tennis court, as well as dine at the restaurant, open Tuesday-Saturday.
Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina — Hilton Head Island
Experience true Lowcountry charm at this premier resort. Nestled within a hidden grove, the 178-slip marina sits along a lively promenade with seven waterfront restaurants, more than 15 shops and family-friendly attractions. Boaters can enjoy complimentary bikes to explore the island’s nature paths, as well as shuttle service to the neighboring Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort for upscale lodging.
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Isle of Hope Marina — Savannah
Just minutes from the Savannah Historic District, Isle of Hope Marina offers full-service dockage and Southern hospitality along the Intracoastal Waterway. Founded in 1926 and recently renovated, the marina features 4,000 feet of concrete docks, including 600 feet of deep-water face dock and a megayacht dock for vessels up to 200 feet. Transient slips are available with 30/50/100amp power, high-speed Wi-Fi, fuel and access to mechanical and detailing services.
IGY Savannah Marina — Savannah
New marina alert! This summer celebrates the grand opening of the highly anticipated, purpose-built, 100-slip marina located in the heart of Savannah’s Historic River District. The facility can accommodate all vessel types with virtually no depth or air draft restrictions, comfortably welcoming superyachts, great loopers or any transient cruiser.
Brunswick Landing Marina — Brunswick
The city of Brunswick is small, but this spacious, 387-slip marina is made up of a thriving boating community full of camaraderie. Voted first place winner in the Best Overall Marina category of Marinalife’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards, Brunswick Landing offers a fun atmosphere with annual events and weekly happy hours — completely free of charge. Nestled on the East River along Georgia’s gorgeous Golden Isles, guests can enjoy complimentary bike rentals, a newly built half-acre dog park and a playground for the kids.
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Fernandina Harbor Marina — Fernandina Beach
Just across the Florida-Georgia line on charming Amelia Island, this full-service marina offers 4,000 feet of side dockage, mooring balls, a fuel dock, on-site restaurant, boaters’ lounge, plus bait and tackle.
Boynton Harbor Marina — Boynton Beach
Located just half-mile south of the Boynton Inlet, this full-service recreational marina offers a beachside paradise for boaters. Guests can enjoy exciting activities from jet ski rentals and parasailing to fishing and scuba diving charters. Marina amenities include a fuel dock, ship store, fish cleaning station and waterfront restaurants.
Venetian Marina & Yacht Club — Miami
Home of the larger-than-life Miami International Boat Show, this upscale marina offers 222 wet slips along breathtaking Biscayne Bay. The property is located north of downtown Miami and minutes from Miami Beach, and boasts recently upgraded amenities including a fuel dock, lift slips and a ship store.
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Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club — Marathon
Heading south, just before crossing the famous Seven Mile Bridge — the longest in the Keys— you arrive at Faro Blanco’s stunning resort. The marina boasts state-of-the-art floating docks, on-site dining at Lighthouse Kitchen + Bar, and amenities such as a pool, Jeep rentals, fuel and pump out services.
Stock Island Marina — Stock Island
Situated along the scenic Boca Chica Channel, this first-class facility offers 101 wet slips, 192 dry slips and exceptional service. Relax with a cocktail at Jack’s Pool Bar or embark on a snorkeling excursion to explore the region’s vibrant coral reefs. Amenities include a fuel dock, ship store and boat service.
The Perry Hotel & Marina — Key West
This resort marina is one of the largest in the Keys, offering 288 wet slips and moorings for vessels over 300 feet. Enjoy on-site amenities including a dog park, Captain’s Lounge, pool bar and three restaurants, or take a shuttle downtown to feel the funky vibe of Key West. The Perry Hotel boasts 100 guest rooms with luxury accommodations.
For more great marinas from the Carolinas to the Keys and beyond, visit marinalife.com for travel tips, destination guides, and boating resources.
