South Florida’s 10 Favorite Water Activities — According to Boatsetter Bookings
Last Updated on September 3, 2025 by Boatsetter Team
South Florida doesn’t just set the stage for sunny vacations — it’s where boating becomes a lifestyle. With 46% of all Boatsetter bookings happening in Miami and Fort Lauderdale alone, it’s safe to say this region is the heartbeat of America’s boating scene. But what do people really book when they get out on the water?
We dove into Boatsetter data to reveal the 10 most popular water activities in South Florida, giving you the insider list of how locals and travelers alike are spending their boat days. Spoiler: it’s more than just cruising the coastline.
1. Sandbar Parties
There’s nothing more South Florida than dropping anchor at Haulover or Nixon Sandbar, turning up the music, and hopping in the water with friends.
Boatsetter Insight: Pontoons dominate these trips, and their popularity has helped fuel a 350% increase in Boatsetter passengers since 2020.
👉 Book a Miami pontoon rental and see why sandbars are the ultimate floating party.
2. Island-Hopping the Florida Keys
From Key Biscayne to Islamorada, island-hopping is one of the most-booked adventures in South Florida.
Boatsetter Insight: Half of all trips are Captained, which means travelers can relax while local experts guide them to hidden islands and beachy escapes.
3. Fishing Charters
South Florida’s waters are legendary for sportfishing. From offshore sailfish to Biscayne Bay snook, fishing trips are a favorite for locals and tourists alike.
Boatsetter Insight: Gen Z is driving this category, with a 32% YoY increase in bookings. Younger groups are discovering fishing as an “experience-first” adventure — and posting trophy catches for the ‘gram.
4. Sunset Cruises
Few things compare to golden-hour views of Miami’s skyline or Fort Lauderdale’s shimmering canals.
Boatsetter Insight: 44% of Boatsetter trips are four hours long, making sunset sails the perfect half-day activity.
5. Watersports Adventures
Wakeboarding, tubing, and waterskiing are high-energy favorites.
Boatsetter Insight: Gen Z prefers larger group trips (8+ passengers) and spends more per booking, often choosing boats $150+ per hour for a mix of thrills and social vibes.
6. Luxury Yacht Charters
South Florida is the place to live like a celebrity for a day.
Boatsetter Insight: Yacht charters helped Boatsetter owners earn $32.5M in 2024 — with Miami luxury yachts leading the charge.
7. Snorkeling & Diving Trips
Key Largo and Biscayne National Park are world-famous for snorkeling and diving.
Boatsetter Insight: Boatsetter’s unmatched fleet (20,000+ unique makes and models) makes it easy for travelers to book the right boat for a reef adventure.
8. Wildlife Spotting Cruises
Manatees, dolphins, and seabirds make wildlife trips especially popular with families.
Boatsetter Insight: Larger groups average just $100 per passenger, making eco-adventures affordable and accessible.
9. Waterfront Dining by Boat
Why drive to dinner when you can dock? Waterfront dining is one of the fastest-growing ways to spend a half-day charter.
Boatsetter Insight: Short trips (3–4 hours) now make up nearly two-thirds of all Boatsetter bookings.
10. Scenic Intracoastal Tours
Sometimes, the best activity is simply cruising. Fort Lauderdale’s Intracoastal delivers with mansions, mega-yachts, and unforgettable views.
Why South Florida Keeps Winning on the Water
With year-round sunshine, diverse boat options, and a culture that embraces on-the-water living, it’s no surprise South Florida leads the nation in boating. More than 1.5M passengers have booked through Boatsetter to date — and nowhere is demand stronger than Miami and the Keys.
Ready to plan your South Florida adventure?
👉 Explore boat rentals in Miami & Fort Lauderdale and book your perfect trip today.
Boatsetter empowers people to explore with confidence by showing them a world of possibility on the water. Rent a boat, list your boat, or become a Boatsetter captain today.
