Everything you need to know about boating with kids from the keys to Palm Beach

Boating with Kids in South Florida

From the Keys to Palm Beach – Where to Go, What to Pack, and How to Stay Safe

Boating with kids in South Florida isn’t just possible—it’s awesome. Sure, it takes a little more prep than a quick park visit, but the memories? Totally worth it. Whether you’re island hopping, anchoring at a sandbar, or cruising mangroves, these water adventures build confidence, curiosity, and a love for nature in our little ones.

Here’s your go-to guide to boating as a family—from where to go, to what to pack, and how to keep everyone safe + happy.

Top Boating Spots for Families (North to South)

Boating in Palm Beach County, peanut island

Palm Beach County

1. Peanut Island – Riviera Beach
Crystal clear, shallow water and an island full of trails, snorkeling, and picnic spots. Calm, protected, and perfect for young kids.

2. Munyon Island – North Palm Beach
A hidden gem just north of Palm Beach Inlet. Great for paddleboarding, exploring mangroves, and spotting wildlife. Best accessed by small boat or kayak.

3. Phil Foster Park / Blue Heron Bridge – Riviera Beach
Anchor nearby for some of the best shallow snorkeling in Florida. The man-made reef near the bridge is ideal for kids.

Broward Florida Boating, whisky creek

Broward County

4. Lake Boca (aka Boca Lake) – Boca Raton
Calm, shallow, and usually full of families floating on the weekends. Bring a float mat and plenty of snacks.

5. Whisky Creek – Dania Beach
Nestled in Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park, this is a calm mangrove creek that’s great for paddleboards, swimming, and relaxing in shade.

6. New River / Riverwalk – Fort Lauderdale
Take the scenic route through Fort Lauderdale’s historic downtown and “Millionaire’s Row.” Dock for a kid-friendly lunch stop or stretch at Esplanade Park.

7. Sunrise Bay – Fort Lauderdale
A hidden anchorage near the Intracoastal with calm water and space for paddle play. Close to Birch State Park.

Boating in Miami, Nixon sand bar

Miami-Dade County

8. Oleta River State Park – North Miami
Launch from the park or boat in to explore mangrove tunnels and protected lagoons. Calm, quiet, and nature-packed.

9. Nixon Sandbar – Key Biscayne
A classic South Florida sandbar that becomes a playground at low tide. Great for families on weekdays or early mornings.

10. Matheson Hammock Park – Coral Gables
A calm basin with boat ramp, natural beach lagoon, and a dockside restaurant. Relaxed and great for little ones.

11. Stiltsville – Biscayne Bay
An iconic series of stilt houses in the middle of the bay. You can’t go on them, but kids will be fascinated cruising past this slice of Miami history.

12. Boca Chita Key – Biscayne National Park
A boater's paradise with a small harbor, lighthouse, and space to run. The island has no services, so bring everything with you.

Boating in the Florida Keys

Florida Keys

13. Islamorada Sandbar – Islamorada
An offshore sandbar in turquoise waters. Very family-friendly during weekdays or mornings. Bring paddleboards and shade.

14. Indian Key Historic State Park – Islamorada
Reachable only by boat or kayak, this island has ruins, trails, and incredible snorkeling. A favorite with adventurous kids.

15. Lignumvitae Key – Islamorada
A nature preserve where you can anchor and take short hikes. Offers a ranger station and a window into “old Keys” life.

16. Marvin Key – Lower Keys
Remote, pristine, and totally unspoiled. Best for families comfortable with longer boat rides. Offers amazing beach and shallow wading.

17. Bahia Honda State Park – Big Pine Key
Boat-accessible beaches with top-notch snorkeling. Calm waters and facilities make this a great all-day spot.

18. Sandspur Island (Nixon Point) – North Bay Village
Technically a spoil island, but this “deserted” beach is popular with family boaters looking for a quick escape near Miami.

Boating Rules to Know for Kids in Florida

  • Life Jackets Are Mandatory: Kids under 6 must wear a life jacket at all times on a moving vessel in Florida.
  • Boater ID Cards Required: If you (or the boat driver) were born after January 1, 1988, a boating safety course and ID card are required.
  • Mind the Wake Zones: Many family-favorite areas are near manatee protection zones or docks—stay slow, stay alert.
  • Keep an Eye on the Weather: Afternoon storms in summer roll in fast. Always check the marine forecast before heading out.

Not a rule, but if you plan on boating in South Florida with kids, we recommend you enroll your kids in swim lessons. The earlier and more consistent the better.

What to Bring for a Safe + Happy Day

Safety Essentials

  • USCG-approved life jackets for every passenger
  • First aid kit (with jellyfish sting solution and seasickness tablets)
  • Fully charged phone in waterproof pouch
  • VHF marine radio for emergencies
  • Floating tow rope or throw cushion

Comfort & Protection

  • Play Outside bamboo sun shirts for breathable, UPF 50+ coverage
  • Hats with neck protection
  • Reef-safe sunscreen + lip balm
  • Plenty of water + kid-friendly electrolyte drinks
  • Shade source (like a bimini or pop-up)

Fun for the Kids

Buckets, nets, and mask/snorkel sets

Fishing rods for simple casting

Easy snacks: fruit, wraps, trail mix, string cheese

Waterproof speaker (keep the volume respectful)

Pro Tips from the Play Outside Crew

  • Pick spots with calm water and shallow entry for younger kids.
  • Start early to avoid crowds and beat the heat.
  • Create a rhythm: We started a weekly Outdoor Kids Club in our neighborhood. Some days we hike, some days we ride bikes, and sometimes we just pile into boats and find a sandbar. It keeps us consistent—and keeps the kids excited to go outside.
  • Don’t overschedule the day. The magic happens in the in-between moments—floating in silence, spotting a dolphin, or finding the perfect shell.