We love hearing from you! Over the past year, we’ve listened to boating buffs, enthusiasts and aficionados nation-wide tell us about their favorite boating destinations. Some well-known. Others, hidden gems. That’s why the crew at Snag-A-Slip decided to put together a list of our top 2021 boating destinations to share with you. These are this year’s favorite harbors and marinas – chosen by boaters like you!
We know this list is missing lots of remarkable destinations. And we’re sure they’ll make the list one day too. But this year, these are the spots that are H O T. Enjoy checking them out. But heed our warning, reading this may cause you to chart a course to an exciting new adventure.
Long Island’s North Fork
If you feel the need for a break from the busy and frenetic activity of the mainland, look no further than Long Island’s North Fork. Or simply “NoFo”, as the locals call it. Situated just across the Long Island Sound from the picturesque Connecticut coastline, our first stop on the top 2021 boating destinations list is a short cruise for anyone visiting Block Island, Martha’s Vineyard, or Montauk. The North Fork’s vibe is “laidback summer living”, but it’s great all year round! A visit to this part of Long Island is guaranteed to lower your stress and raise your pleasure.
And for you weekend explorers, take a ride (with a designated driver, of course) through Long Island Wine Country and visit some of the top wineries in the region! Whatever you choose to do, there’s no shortage of activities and history – not to mention a few ghost stories! Best of all, the residents are warm and gracious, and can’t wait to welcome you to their shores!
Where to Dock:
Townsend Manor Inn & Marina – Greenport, New York
Townsend Manor Inn & Marina is new to the Snag-A-Slip family and can’t wait to welcome you! Situated in the historic village of Greenport, the marina is close to many shops, restaurants, and bars. This is the perfect stop for boaters enjoying Shelter Island, the Peconic River, Long Island Sound, or Eastern Basin. While docked, enjoy the lodging on-site, the Olympic-sized swimming pool, and the on-site restaurant and lounge. If you’re looking to go beyond Greenport, the ferry to Shelter Island and to Sag Harbor, in the Hamptons, isn’t far!
Texas
We’re not going to give you that old cliché, that everything is bigger and better in Texas. Even though it’s true! Above and beyond the natural beauty of its 600 miles of coastline and the calm, warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Texas has more to offer than you might think.
The mouth-watering cookin’ alone will make you want to stay. Texas is home to BBQ, steak, Tex-Mex, chili, chicken fried steak (Ok, fried everything!), and pecan pie. And that’s the shortlist! Once your stomach is full, take in some of the rich history, from prehistoric rock art to the battleground where Texas won its freedom from Mexico. And, of course, Texas has more than its fair share of shopping districts, malls, nightlife, and theme parks.
Where to Dock:
HarborWalk Marina – Hitchcock, Texas
Whether you’re planning a family weekend getaway or a longer stay, HarborWalk Marina is an impressive resort-style facility with all the amenities. Situated on West Galveston Bay in Hitchcock, Texas, it offers easy access to both the flats of the bay system and the open waters of the Gulf Shores. And if your first mate has four legs, HarborWalk is a pet-friendly facility. Known for its first-class fishing and kayak-friendly waters, you can also take advantage of the local restaurants, bars, and shopping. Better yet, just enjoy the sun as you sip a frozen drink poolside!
Legend Point Marina – Clear Lake Shores, Texas
Legend Point Marina in Clear Lake Shores, Texas is perfectly nestled between Hoston and Galveston Island, on the south side of Clear Lake – minutes from Hwy 45 and the famous Kemah Boardwalk. With something for the young and the not-so-young, this quintessential boardwalk has it all: rollercoasters, boardwalk food, drinks, games, and more. But don’t stop there. Clear Lake offers museums, restaurants, parks, golf, nightlife, and shopping. Everyone on board will find something to love. Even your furriest crew member – Legend Point is also pet-friendly!
San Diego, California
Talk about a boater-friendly climate year-round! San Diego remains one of the favorite Pacific Coast boating stops in Southern California. What’s waiting there for you is protected dockage for all boaters to enjoy, breathtaking beaches, fishing, surfing, and just about every outdoor sport you can imagine.
San Diego’s coastline makes it an ideal destination for sun-seekers and adventurers alike. You can hike the sandstone cliffs of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, walk through the foamy surf of Coronado Beach and explore the many museums, theaters, and first-class restaurants – all in one day! This much-loved vacation destination was recently crowned the Craft Beer Capital of America and is also the home of the world-famous San Diego Zoo. If you want it, it’s here.
Where to Dock:
Sunroad Resort Marina – San Diego, California
If you’re looking for the ultimate resort experience, Sunroad Resort Marina, a premier California boating destination, has it. Ideally located in the safe harbor of North San Diego Bay, visitors enjoy stunning views of the city and the water. Along with all the amenities you’d expect from a Snag-A-Slip marina, Sunroad also boasts a spa, and a fitness center. Conveniently located in the middle of the city, you have easy and quick access to shops, restaurants, bars, grocery and more. We think this will quickly become a must-stop when you’re cruising the West Coast.
Sun Harbor Marina – San Diego, California
Sun Harbor Marina has or is near all the activities, on land and sea, this incredible destination has to offer. And eco-friendly boaters will be pleased to learn that Sun Harbor is the first-ever certified green marina in the world. It’s the perfect home-away-from-home for boaters looking to explore the waterfront as well as the water. It’s convenient to the Scott St. maritime district businesses, shops, and restaurants. It’s also located a short five minutes from the San Diego International airport, 10 minutes from downtown San Diego and 20 minutes from The San Diego Zoo.
San Juan Islands, Washington
Sprinkled along the border of British Columbia, Canada, the San Juan Islands are a dream destination for boaters. For that matter, the Pacific Northwest boasts a boating experience unlike any other. It’s said that it hosts more pleasure boaters per capita than any other local. Some go so far as to name it the boating capital of the world. That’s some accolade!
From Seattle up to the San Juan Islands, the acquatic explorer will find there’s no shortage of interesting harbors and sightseeing. The surrounding Cascade Range and glaciers create an imposing landscape you won’t tire of. It’s no wonder Travel & Leisure ranked the San Juan Islands as “one of the top 10 island destinations in the U.S.”. They are a must-see for boaters from around the globe!
Where to Dock:
Point Roberts Marina – Point Roberts, Washington
Point Roberts Marina is located on the shores of the Pacific Northwest, near the San Juan Islands. True explorers will be happy to know that Point Roberts is also close to the Canadian Gulf Islands, Victoria, and bustling downtown Vancouver. You could spend a year enjoying this one destination alone! Actually, with all there is to do at Point Roberts, and in the beautiful nearby town, you may have to add a few more days, or weeks, to your vacation.
Semiahmoo Marina – Blaine, Washington
At the tip of the US Pacific Northwest in Blaine, Washington, Semiahmoo Marina is a hidden gem. This resort marina combines the luxury of a resort with the convenience of a full-service marina. And if you’re looking for some exercise and recreation, nearby are first-rate tennis courts and golf courses. When it comes to breakfast, lunch, dinner, or just a snack, you’ll have plenty to choose from both onsite and nearby. From oyster bars to snack bars, you’ll never go hungry.
Lake Ontario
Last, but not least, of our Top 2021 Boating Destinations is Lake Ontario! The easternmost of the five Great Lakes, Lake Ontario sits directly between the United States and Canada – with its water boundaries meeting right in the middle of the lake. Because of its unique location, many boaters enjoy traveling between the two countries, exploring the harbors and cities along the lake’s perimeter. Although well known for its many beautiful harbors, Lake Ontario is also famous for its scores of picturesque lighthouses and small islands you’ll discover throughout the lake.
If you’ve never cruised Lake Ontario’s crystal waters, you’re missing out. When you reach the shore for the first time and look back on the water, you will experience true awe. The sheer vastness of open and uninterrupted water is captivating. From most vantage points, it disappears off into the horizon as if it never ends. This great lake offers more beauty and activities than you could possibly squeeze into one season – you’ll just have to come back again!
Where to Dock:
Harbourview Marina Cafe – Brighton, Ontario
On the North shore of Lake Ontario in Brighton, boaters have discovered and come to love the hidden gem known as Harbourview Marina Cafe. With whole-hearted hospitality and home-cooked food from an on-site restaurant, Harborview feels like coming home – even if you’ve never been there before. This pet-friendly facility may feel relaxed and laid back, but it has all the amenities you could ever want including private bath facilities, laundry, and complimentary WiFi. If needed, you’ll have the on-site service center and fuel dock to make sure you’re ready to head to your next destination. Don’t forget to come back again, though!
Port Dalhousie Pier Marina – St. Catharines, Ontario
The amazing scenery alone will make this stop at the Port Dalhousie Pier Marina, adjacent to a beautiful old town, a memorable one! Located just 9 miles west of the Niagara River, this marina is considered one of the most popular destination marinas on the south shore of Lake Ontario. It has amazing panoramic views of Toronto to the north, the historical town of Niagara-on-the-Lake to the east, and magnificent sunsets to the west. It’s also minutes from the exquisite Lakeside Park beach if you’d like a perfect day under the sun. And, of course, you’ll find bars, restaurants and great shopping nearby.
