Southwest Florida offers some of the most memorable boating in the state. From Tampa Bay and Sarasota to Pine Island Sound, Marco Island and the Ten Thousand Islands, boaters can explore mangrove shorelines, sandy passes, grass flats, and protected bays.
Read more “Understanding Southwest Florida Tides: What Every Boater Should Know”
If you have friends who don’t boat, don’t be hesitant to invite them along. They may not know what to expect, what to bring, or how things work on the water, but that’s part of the opportunity. A relaxed, welcoming day aboard can introduce them to an entirely new way to enjoy Southwest Florida.
Read more “Share the Boating Life: Tips for Hosting Non-Boating Friends”
Southwest Florida is beautiful from the shore, but some places are simply better when you arrive by boat.
That is the idea behind Go Boating Florida’s Better by Boat campaign, a growing destination series created to inspire boaters to explore more of the incredible waterways, islands, sandbars, restaurants, and coastal communities that make this region so special.
Read more “Better by Boat: Discover Southwest Florida from the Water”
Spring is one of the best times of year to enjoy a Southwest Florida sandbar. The weather is beautiful, the water is inviting, and more boaters are heading out to relax and socialize.
That also means sandbars can get crowded, and a little courtesy goes a long way.
Read more “Sandbar Etiquette: Sharing the Water Respectfully”
Spring is one of the best times of year to boat in Southwest Florida. Temperatures are comfortable, skies are often clear, and the water invites exploration from Tampa Bay to Marco Island. But as many experienced boaters know, spring also brings changing wind patterns that can affect conditions on the water throughout the day.
Understanding how these seasonal winds behave can help you plan safer, more enjoyable trips.
Read more “Understanding Spring Wind Patterns in Southwest Florida”
February 26 – March 1, 2026 | Bonita Springs Poker Room
As Southwest Florida heads into prime boating weather, the annual Bonita Springs Boat Show once again offers the perfect opportunity to get ready for the season. Now in its 37th year, the show brings together boats, gear, and local expertise in one convenient location, making it an ideal stop for both experienced boaters and anyone considering getting on the water for the first time.
Read more “Bonita Springs Boat Show Opens Thursday!”
If you boat in Southwest Florida, you’ve seen them: Idle Speed, No Wake, Slow Speed, Minimum Wake, and seasonal manatee protection zones. These wake zones aren’t random; they’re carefully established to protect people, property, wildlife, and waterways.
Understanding what they mean (and why they matter) helps keep everyone safer and makes your time on the water more enjoyable.
Perfect Weather for Full Days on the Water
December brings mild temperatures, lower humidity, and calm mornings—ideal for fishing, cruising, and sightseeing. You can comfortably stay out all day without battling the typical summer heat or afternoon thunderstorms.