Gulf Coast Cruising Guide: Top Marinas in North FL
It’s that time of year again, 80-degree weather and constant sunshine, the perfect combination for cruising. Florida’s Gulf Coast is a great place to start your cruising venture, with over 550 nautical miles from Destin all the way down to the keys. You’re bound to fall in love with Florida’s Gulf Coast waterways and top marinas along the way. Below we’ve outlined the top hot spots and marinas along North Florida’s Gulf Coast for you to enjoy while on your venture. These marinas will compliment your cruising experience with excitement, fun, and entertainment.
Starting Point- Orange Beach, Alabama: The Wharf Marina
Experience exhilarating shopping, dining, and entertainment in Orange Beach, Alabama. When your done cruising the waterways, dock your yacht at the Wharf Marina and experience boating re-imagined. The Wharf Marina is home to some of the top tournaments and boat show events in the marine industry, including the Wharf Boat & Yacht Show, the Blue Marlin Grand Championship and the Gulf Coast Triple Crown Championship Series. Aside from that, this resort-style destination features an amphitheater for some big entertainment, Ferris Wheel, AMC theatre, zip line course, and the “Oasis” pool that includes a lazy river, wave pool, obstacle course, and bar & grill. Fun for the whole family, the Wharf Marina in Orange Beach is a must stop. While you’re there be sure to swing by our Orange Beach office located at the Marina.
Pensacola, Florida: Palafox Pier & Yacht Harbour Marina
This city is said to be one of the earliest landing sites of the Spaniards in the New World in the 1500s. Also known as the Cradle of Aviation with one of the top naval museums in the US. And, home to the Blue Angels. Boasting 30 miles of direct gulf views with the least building obstructions within hours. Pensacola, Florida is home to one of the top 5 beaches in the nation voted by TripAdvisor and also features a deep water harbor capable of accommodating ships with deep drafts.
When you’re ready to dock and explore this fascinating town head over to Palafox Pier and Yacht Harbour. Located in the heart of downtown Pensacola at the southernmost tip of Palafox St. This floating dock facility can accommodate vessels up to 175 feet. The marina is walking distance from downtown Pensacola which features an array of boutiques and shops, dining options, live entertainment, museums, and an amazing night scene. One of the most popular events is Gallery Nights held every other Friday where art and music fill the streets creating a fair-like atmosphere.
Destin, FL: Sandestin Marina
People travel from all over the map to visit what is considered “the most beautiful beaches in America” right in our own backyard. A little fishing town called Destin, Florida. Destin has 13 beach access points, multiple shopping areas, and to-die-for restaurants. All between strips of stunning beach on the port side and bays and bayous on the starboard. It would be surprising to fit all of the attractions into one weekend. But what is truly unique to this tiny Florida town is the boating lifestyle that allows you to experience Destin from the ocean in.
Docking is available at this Marina in North Florida — Sandestin’s Golf & Beach Resort Marina — an amenity-rich resort that extends from the gulf to the bay. The beach and The Village of Baytowne Wharf are only a short walk or golf cart drive away. The Village features an array of boutiques, eateries, galleries, and nightlife. Not to mention, a jam-packed schedule of outdoor festivals and special events for the entire family
Panama City Beach, FL: Point South Marina Bay Point
Emerald water, white sandy beaches, and an average of 320 days of sunshine is the epitome of Panama City Beach. Not only is Panama known as a boater’s paradise and famous for its white sand beaches, but it is also bordered by two state parks. St Andrews and Camp Helen bring in people from around the world every year. Docking is available at Point South Marina Bay Point. The premier “jumping off” point along the Gulf Coast for yachts heading across the Gulf. Bay Point Marina tucks away along the Grand Lagoon, located just five minutes from the gulf and 15 minutes from the Intracoastal Waterway. Experience world famous fishing with catches that include Blue Marlin, Red Snapper, Mackerel, Pompano and more! Off water attractions include top-notch amenities at Bay Point, tons of waterfront restaurants, family-friendly activities along Front Beach Drive and so much more.
Apalachicola, FL: Scipio Creek Marina
This charming fishing town is a must stop on your summer cruise along the gulf coast. With miles of pristine beaches, amazing seafood, city splash parks, and southern city charm, Apalachicola is a city you’ll fall in love with. Miles of protected bays, national parks, and state forests accompany this town. Experience the Florida panhandles oyster timber and excellent fishing while in the area. Docking is available at the Scipio Creek Marina. This marina in North Florida is the largest marina and boat storage facility in the area. Not to mention, they are also a full-service marina. The marina is a short walking distance to historic downtown famous shops, dining, and attractions. The Scipio marina also provides easy access to the intercostal waterway, Apalachicola Bay, River System, and the Gulf.
Gulf Coast Yacht Specialists
This wraps up our summer cruising guide along North Florida’s Gulf Coast. If you are looking for a vessel, let the team at Galati Yacht Sales help you out. Whether you’re looking for a pre-owned or new cruising yacht, sportfishing yacht, or custom yacht our specialized team can help you find the perfect vessel for you; all while providing you world class customer service. View all yachts for sale.
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