10 Stunning U.S. Beaches Perfect for a Boating Getaway This November

Last Updated on October 3, 2025 by Boatsetter Team

From coral reefs in the Keys to red rock canyons in the desert, alpine lakes in the Sierras, and the turquoise waters of Hawaii, November is all about warm days, fewer crowds, and wide-open horizons. Here are 10 U.S. beaches where boating in November delivers.

Key Largo, Florida

• Spend your November exploring coral reefs and soaking up endless sun

The Florida Keys are warm year-round, but November hits the sweet spot—after hurricane season, before peak winter crowds. In Key Largo, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the star, with reefs full of tropical fish.

Drop anchor at Cannon Beach, where remnants of a 1715 Spanish shipwreck sit just offshore, or cruise the mangroves at sunset for calm waters and golden skies.

Pensacola Beach, Florida

• Spend your November cruising emerald waters and anchoring on sugar-white sand

Pensacola Beach is a November standout on the Emerald Coast, offering mild temps, calm seas, and plenty of sunshine. Anchor off Opal Beach inside Gulf Islands National Seashore for wide-open shoreline, or head to Quietwater Beach, where shallow waters make for an easy, relaxed boat day.

For fishing and history, cruise toward Ft. Pickens Beach, where you’ll find excellent fishing grounds and views of a Civil War-era fort from the water.

Lake Powell, Arizona/Utah

• Spend your November boating through red rock canyons and sandy coves

Lake Powell in November is pure magic—cooler temps, glassy water, and dramatic sandstone cliffs glowing in fall light. Crowds vanish, leaving the lake’s hidden corners wide open.

Beach your boat at Lone Rock Beach, a sprawling sandy shoreline, or explore secluded coves like Warm Creek Bay. It’s the perfect mix of boating, hiking, and stargazing under desert skies.

Hilton Head, North Carolina 

• Spend your November boating tidal creeks and teeing up seaside golf

Hilton Head offers a blend of pristine beaches and Southern charm. In November, highs in the 60s and 70s make for comfortable, full days on the water.

Cruise Calibogue Sound to spot dolphins, then anchor at Daufuskie Island Beach for a laid-back afternoon. Back ashore, round out your trip with fresh oysters and world class golf.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

• Spend your November fishing remote shores and exploring wild island beaches

The Outer Banks are quieter in November, but that’s exactly the appeal. It’s prime surf-fishing season, and boating here gets you right where the action is.

Anchor at Ocracoke’s Lifeguard Beach, once ranked the best in America, or head to Cape Point Beach in Hatteras for legendary catches and endless ocean views.

San Diego, California

• Spend your November sailing sunny skies and enjoying coastal festivals

San Diego is one of the few U.S. cities where you can count on sunshine well into November. Launch from Mission Bay and boat toward Coronado Beach, wide and golden with the Hotel del Coronado as your backdrop.

Cruise to La Jolla for a more natural feel—calm surf and cliffs that rise dramatically from the water. Add in a waterfront festival or regatta, and you’ve got the best of both city and sea.

Lake Travis, Texas

• Spend your November cruising coves and soaking in Austin’s backyard lake scene

Just outside Austin, Lake Travis offers a lively boating culture that doesn’t quit, even in late fall. November brings cooler air, but the water stays inviting.

Beach your boat at Hippie Hollow Beach for big open shoreline, or anchor at Windy Point Park, a local favorite for swimming and lake views. Afterward, you’re only minutes from Austin’s live music and food scene.

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

• Spend your November cruising alpine waters and soaking up fall mountain views

Chilly? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely. Before winter snow takes over, Lake Tahoe offers crisp, clear boating days with unbeatable scenery.

Cruise into Sand Harbor Beach, known for its turquoise water and giant boulders, or anchor in Emerald Bay, where a sandy stretch at Vikingsholm makes for one of the most photogenic stops in the Sierra. Bundle up—the mountain air is brisk, but the views are unforgettable.

Clearwater Beach, Florida

• Spend your November anchoring off sugar-white sands and exploring nearby islands

Clearwater Beach stays in the 70s deep into November, with calm Gulf waters ideal for boating. Anchor off the main Clearwater stretch for easy access, or cruise north to Caladesi Island State Park, a pristine, boat-in-only beach that’s consistently ranked among the best in the country.

Stick around for sunset at Pier 60, where street performers and live music turn every evening into a mini festival.

Honolulu, Hawaii

• Spend your November cruising Waikiki and exploring hidden Oahu beaches

Honolulu pairs tropical warmth with city energy, making it an ideal boating destination in November. Start with Waikiki Beach, where Diamond Head looms over golden sand and buzzing shoreline.

For something quieter, cruise to Maunalua Bay Beach Park or Kailua Beach on Oahu’s windward side, where turquoise waters and powdery sand feel like a postcard come to life.

Insider tips for November boating

• Layer up: Warm days often cool quickly once the sun sets.

• Plan ahead: Thanksgiving week brings a holiday travel bump—book early.

• Mix it up: Lakes and coasts each offer unique November perks—don’t overlook one for the other.

• Gear check: Tahoe and Powell call for jackets and dry bags; Florida and Hawaii, just sunscreen.