Florida East Coast and Keys

Last updated: 24 March 2026

Overview

The Florida East Coast runs from the Georgia border to Miami. It has a long, low‑lying sandy shoreline backed by barrier islands and tidal rivers. This coast includes major urban areas and commercial ports. Beach communities, marinas, and other waterfront facilities create relatively dense shoreline development along much of this coast.

South past Miami, the Florida Keys form a curving chain of islands that runs from the end of the peninsula toward Key West. They are separated from the mainland by Florida Bay and bordered offshore by reef systems. The Keys feature shallow clear water, mangrove islands, and small towns and fishing communities scattered along the island chain.

Attractions

Several historic forts line this coast, many originating in the Spanish colonial period and later seeing use in conflicts such as the Anglo‑Spanish and Seminole wars. Castillo de San Marcos Fort, Fort Clinch, and Fort Matanzas each provide accessible examples of masonry coastal defenses and offer visiting crews a chance to link modern passages with the region’s long history of fortified seaways.

Navy Seal Museum (the National Navy UDT‑SEAL Museum) stands on the oceanfront section of State Road A1A, just outside the town, making it an easy shore excursion for yachts stopping in the area.

A fun day out for kids young and old can be had at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, with raised walkways, alligator and crocodile exhibits, and bird enclosures all within easy reach of yachts laying over in St. Augustine.

Notes for mariners

Restrictions along the Florida coasts and in the Keys can affect anchoring, mooring, speed, access to sensitive areas, discharges, and taking marine life. Crews should review local information and notices for planned stops.

Places to stay

Below are the most popular and highly rated places to stay, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Anchorages

Shell Key ★ 5.0
Shell Key features a calm anchorage with limited mooring ball availability, free of noisy speedboats. Multiple visitors highlight the spectacular sunsets, making it a tranquil destination for anchoring. Observing numerous crab pots may require caution.
Protection from winds is noted, with conditions remaining relatively calm despite gusts. Anchoring depths of 7ft are suitable for vessels with a draft of 3.7ft, though caution is advised at entry due to shallow areas. Visitors also appreciate the views of space launches.
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Anchoring near the pier allows access to a grocery store and various restaurants. Visitors report consistent depths between 8 to 10 feet and mention good protection from NW winds. The area is suitable for overnight stays and convenient for stocking supplies.
Calm and quiet, the anchorage provides good holding with ample swing room. Nearby amenities for food and fuel are accessible. Visitors should be cautious of sand bars and consult navigational charts.
This anchorage is well protected, making it suitable for peaceful stays. Depths can be shallow, particularly outside the channel, but total depths of 5-6 feet were reported. Clean water and a muddy/grassy bottom allow for secure anchoring.
Blount Island offers good holding in a well-protected anchorage with depths sufficient for larger vessels. Several visitors appreciated the helpful local family's hospitality, with options for grocery deliveries and assistance with shore access. Regular encounters with marine life, including dolphins and manatees, enhance the experience.
Pine Island 2 ★ 4.8
Accessing the anchorage requires careful navigation, especially for deeper drafts. The setting is notably quiet, providing shelter from ICW wakes and favorable holding conditions. Visitors reported calm waters and clean bottoms for anchoring.
Calm anchorage conditions were noted, with good holding even in 15 to 20 knot east winds. Dinghy access is convenient, and facilities such as docks, water, and trash removal were available. Depth concerns were mentioned for larger boats at low tide.
Mooring facilities are clean with convenient access. The area allows for easily walking to various amenities, but provisioning requires rideshare services to reach supermarkets. Visitors appreciate the supportive customer service and proximity to restaurants.
Mooring balls are available for $25, and easy dinghy access is provided to shore. The anchorage experiences calm conditions with good holding, and it's conveniently located near amenities, including a free bus service into town. Visitors have reported sufficient space and a pleasant environment for overnight stays.

Marinas

Floating concrete docks are in good condition and provide protection from current and wakes. The staff is friendly and helpful, assisting with docking and ensuring safety. Availability of nearby ride services allows for convenient access to groceries and attractions.
Excellent floating docks are complemented by helpful staff and well-maintained facilities. Live music enhances the on-site restaurant experience. Nearby provisioning options contribute to the convenience of transient stays.
The yacht club features friendly staff, welcoming transients with various amenities. Facilities include free laundry, clean bathrooms, and a community atmosphere with regular dinners and social events. Many visitors appreciate the new floating docks and reasonable rates.
The marina features new floating docks and friendly staff. Visitors mention various nearby amenities including Publix and West Marine, making it accessible for those staying. Reasonable monthly rates are highlighted for those needing extended stays.
Accommodating staff and clean facilities are highlighted by visitors. Free bus service and convenient access to supplies contribute positively to the experience. Complaints about mooring ball markings were noted but do not overshadow the overall community appeal.

Moorings

Mooring balls are available at a rate of $30 per night. Careful navigation is advised due to blind corners and shallow depths; maintaining awareness of channel markers is crucial. Come prepared as limited services are offered within the area.
The mooring field accommodates vessels up to 40 feet. Facilities include a dinghy dock, clean restrooms, and security features. Staff are noted for being friendly and helpful, although special attention to tide conditions is required due to shallow areas.
Mooring balls at Lignumvitae State Park are in good condition, as noted in multiple reviews. Visitors reported enjoyable stays, protected from northeast winds, easy access to the park, and opportunities for recreational activities such as snorkeling and self-guided tours.
The marina features a strong community spirit among cruisers and has staff that are noted as helpful. Visitors can access facilities including laundry and showers. A free public transportation service to local areas adds to the convenience.
Mooring balls are available in the north San Marcos field, with easy booking via the website. Amenities include laundry and shower facilities, alongside a friendly staff. Visitors should anticipate a strong current and some noise from boats passing through the area.

Harbours

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The dock operates with suitable conditions for vessel mooring. Some reviews indicate challenges with water depth experienced near the dock, especially for boats with deeper drafts. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.
Strong currents are prevalent at this dock. Visitors should dock at slack tide for easier access and be cautious of a submerged boat marked by a buoy. Free water is available on-site, enhancing the docking experience.
Boca Chita Key ★ 4.0
Visitors appreciate the strong winds for kitesurfing, making the location favorable for those seeking such conditions. Accommodations include side-tie to the quay wall with a fee of $35 per night. The park can be noisy during weekends due to local boaters.
Limited cleats are found on the dock, causing challenges in tying up dinghies. The dock features a playground and picnic area, but access to nearby amenities is restricted. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.
Downtown Jacksonville's dock provides access to amenities like water and a pump-out station. Conditions may include wakes that can shift unsecured items. While some visitors reported encounters with homeless individuals nearby, safety concerns seem mixed, with no reported boarding incidents.

Boat services

Below are the most popular and highly rated boat services, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Boatyards

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Service at Oasis Boatyard includes accommodation for DIY projects and a commitment to cleanliness. The owner, John, is noted for his proactive support during repairs, including emergency services. Visitors mention friendly interactions with dogs on-site and access to necessary facilities.
Service includes handling repairs such as steering cable issues. Staff are noted for their quick response and reasonable pricing. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.
Safe Harbor ★ 5.0
Amenities include a restaurant and a laundry room, both noted for their modern features. Visitors appreciated the availability of a taxi service for grocery runs. The marina has a clean and inviting atmosphere.
Service includes haul-out options and access to professional contractors for repairs. Multiple reviews highlight the efficiency of work completed in short turnaround times. A variety of shops are available nearby for additional services and supplies.
Service for repairs and haul-outs is available, with staff known for being friendly and responsive. Visitors have highlighted staff's willingness to help, with positive remarks about fixing engines quickly. Shower facilities are basic and not geared toward transient boaters.
Services offered include haul-out and storage with good staff interactions. Expedient processes on haul-out were noted, along with easy access to shop supplies. Pricing for storage and services varies, with noted costs for hurricane blocking.
Service includes haul-out, engine installation, and rigging work. Communication issues were noted, with updates lacking throughout the process. While work quality received praise, some visitors expressed disappointment in the service interaction.
Navigating to this boat yard can be challenging, with multiple bridge passages required. Some visitors expressed dissatisfaction with rapid slip changes and inadequate facilities. Staff responsiveness varied, and there were concerns about debris and cleanliness during peak events.
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The boat yard offers catamaran haul-out services, and it is the only option in the area. Customers should be aware to make reservations early, especially before hurricane season. Some feedback indicates issues with staff accountability and concerns regarding damage to boats during service.

Chandlers

A variety of inventory is available at reasonable prices. For example, plastic hose is priced at $1.60 per foot, significantly lower than the $3.80 per foot charged by another provider. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.
This chandler features an extensive selection of new and used boat parts. Visitors consistently mention the friendly and helpful staff. Prices are noted to be better than a comparable local establishment.
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Service includes boat parts procurement in Marathon. Reviews highlight knowledgeable staff and high-quality offerings, particularly in rigging. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.
Stuart Plastics ★ 5.0
Service includes custom fabrications, such as helm dash panels and acrylic pieces. Reviews indicate reasonable pricing, quick service, and helpful staff. Visitors have noted high satisfaction with finished products.
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A wide selection of marine parts and hardware is available. Staff interactions are reported positively, enhancing the experience for visitors seeking to stock up. It is advisable to go with a parts list, as inventory may not cover every possible need.

Boat services

Delivery of ordered products is noted as fast in two instances, particularly for rigging parts in Brazil and Panama. One visitor emphasized helpful customer service, specifically in securing a correct shackle for a mainsail outhaul. Personal assistance was appreciated when a staff member brought the needed part directly to the boat.
Just Catamarans ★ 5.0
Service capabilities for electrical work are highlighted, especially in solar and lithium battery upgrades. Pricing is reliable, with projects completed as quoted. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.
Thorough boat cleaning service is available at a competitive rate, with reviews highlighting excellent attention to detail. Sam performs the service effectively around critical areas, making it a recommended option before major passages. Typical pricing noted was under $4 per foot.
Service capabilities include rigging, electronics, and chain plate replacement. Multiple visitors experienced quality support for Island Packet boats, particularly after hurricane Ian. Customer care is reported as excellent.
MAZ Ocean ★ 5.0
Maz Ocean provides a variety of boat services including lithium installations and project assistance. They have slips available at Harbourtowne marina, noted for competitive pricing. Visitors appreciate the reliability and prompt service following installations.
Custom Marine Canvas offers services for full enclosures and reupholstery of interior cushions. One Review highlights responsive communication and creativity in problem-solving, while another indicates unfriendly service. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.

Yacht clearance links

Useful yacht clearance links:

Customs & Border Protection: CBP ROAM app
https://www.cbp.gov/about/mobile-apps-directory
Customs & Border Protection: DTOPS website - Private Vessel Decal (Annual User Fee)
https://dtops.cbp.dhs.gov/home
Customs & Border Protection: Report CBP of boat movements
https://www.cbp.gov/about/contact/ports/mayaguez-puerto-rico-4907
Noonsite: Verified clearance procedures, processes and fees.
https://www.noonsite.com/place/usa/

Yacht clearance reviews

The following lists summarize noforeignland user reviews for clearing in at ports of entry and when using clearance agents in United States of America:

Ports of entry offices

CBP Key West ★ 5.0
Friendly officers and door staff facilitate an easy check-in process. The clearance service is reported to be efficient. Visitors have expressed positive experiences with the staff interactions.
Place details mention: opening hours.
Check-in procedures involve presenting passports and boat papers. The officials are reported to be friendly, contributing to a positive interaction during the clearance process. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.
Place details mention: opening hours.
Check-in processing at this port of entry office is available from 9 AM to 4 PM, Monday to Friday. Multiple visitors have found the officers to be friendly and helpful, taking time to answer questions thoroughly.
St. Augustine ★ 3.7
Check-in processes at this office are managed by a single officer, who is responsive via phone and email. Visitors are advised to make an appointment before arriving, and procedures can be confusing, especially for non-U.S. citizens. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.
Place details mention: opening hours.
Checking in involves standard procedures, including verification of documentation. Staff were noted to be polite and efficient in handling the foreign flagged vessel clearance process. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.
Service capability includes issuing cruising permits manually. Long waiting times for clearance have been reported, with one visitor experiencing 45 minutes of interrogation. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.
Place details mention: cruising permits.
Check-in is available at Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale. The office closes at 4 PM and is not open on weekends. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.
Place details mention: check in steps and opening hours.
This page was compiled from noforeignland community content and other publicly available sources.
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