Get ready for an adventure!
Don't let the "West Coast, Best Coast" rhetoric fool you. The "East Coast, Beast Coast" has it all— whether you want to escape civilization, or live the high life, Boat Trader's list of 8 Bucket-List-Worthy Boating Destinations will curb the cravings of anyone with the need for relaxation, or with the need for a thrill. This Summer, check off each amazing destination from your bucket list. It's time to explore!
1. Westhampton, New York
A two-hour train ride from Manhattan, this secluded atmosphere that also holds an abundance of surf clubs, sailing schools, beaches, and seafood that will surely be one of the favorites to check off. Water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, wind surfing, surfing, and paddle boarding will break up your beach days while crabbing, and fishing are always an option for the outdoor thrill-seeker.
2. Annapolis, Maryland
Located on Chesapeake Bay, Annapolis is a boaters dream and the perfect spot for families. With nearby state parks, and an a list of things to do like fishing, watersports, swimming, hiking, crabbing, fishing, boat racing, boating clubs, social events— the Chesapeake Bay is the perfect spot for boater and their family.
3. Newport, Rhode Island
One of the most well-known boating towns set in New England, Newport is the perfect place to experience the quaint charm of a small NE town with all the opportunities of a big yacht-town. Filled with amazing seafood restaurants that are just a short trip from the docks, this visit will be one unforgettable and will be sure to fill your seafood fix.
4. Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Surrounded by 23 miles of beaches, the life of Fort Lauderdale revolves around water, making it an amazing destination to check off your bucket list.The sunny city is the yachting capital of the world and the annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is one of the largest in the world. Activities galore, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, this stop might be in the race for your favorite.
5. Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts
Located on the southern coast of Cape Cod, MA, this 100 square miles of island is the perfect summer destination for anyone looking for a luxurious stay in NE. Think tanning on the beach, art-house cinemas, film festivals, fine dining, and all things relaxing. Though small, this island is booming during the summer season so you'll be sure to be in good company.
6. Charleston, South Carolina
A city on the water, Charleston is another destination where water is a way of life. Inlets, harbors, marinas— you name it, Charleston has the perfect place for your boating adventures. There are tons of boating clubs and sailing schools for every boat-lover, and various shops, restaurants, and history to see in the city while visiting.
7. Virginia Beach, Virginia
Located near the ocean, the bay, rivers, lakes— Virginia Beach has it all for boaters and their families. Dock up and head over to the many restaurants, ride your bike along the famous boardwalk, and relax as you watch the sunset along the pier with the many other friendly boaters in the area. Summer, here we come!
8. Tybee Island, Georgia
Located just a half an hour from historic Savannah, Tybee island usually attracts boaters who love the sea as much as the love the sand. With white sand beaches, room for sunbathers galore, swimmers (alongside Tybee's resident dolphins), beach volleyball, outdoor lovers will rejoice. This is the perfect check off your bucket list, as the weather is still warm in the fall, during their weekend-long Pirate Fest.