Palm Beach to Key Largo and Beyond

South Florida & Florida Keys Local Waters Guide

A boater's reference to 16 waterway categories, from the Intracoastal Waterway and Biscayne Bay sandbars to the backcountry flats of Florida Bay and the remote Dry Tortugas. Each section explains what the waterway is, what to watch for, and lists the named locations our crews know.

Coverage: Palm Beach County south through Broward and Miami-Dade, the Upper, Middle and Lower Florida Keys, Key West, the Marquesas Keys and Dry Tortugas.

Planning reference only

This guide is a planning aid, not a navigation source. Depths, shoals, markers, access rules and facilities change, so always consult current NOAA charts, local notices and the facility before you go. For bridge clearances, see our South Florida Bridge Clearance Guide.

Category 1 of 16

Intracoastal Waterway (ICW)

The Intracoastal Waterway is a connected route of protected coastal waterways, lagoons, channels and rivers running along much of Florida's Atlantic coast. It provides a major north–south boating corridor from Palm Beach through Broward and Miami-Dade, with connected routes into the Florida Keys.

The Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) is the primary north–south protected boating route through the urban coast. Its southern connections include Biscayne Bay and the interconnected waterways of the Upper Keys.

Notes, warnings & advice

  • Check bridge clearances, especially for sailboats, flybridge vessels and boats with antennas or towers.
  • Watch for commercial vessels, restricted channels, narrow bends and heavy weekend traffic.
  • Observe posted speed and manatee protection zones.
  • Check charted depths, shoaling reports and navigation markers rather than assuming the entire route is deep.
  • Plan around drawbridge schedules and local no-wake zones.
  • The ICW is not one uniform channel; some sections are natural waterways, dredged channels or connections between separate water bodies.

Planning a route under bridges? Check the South Florida Bridge Clearance Guide →

The ICW is a connected route rather than one uniform canal. Its route crosses natural lagoons, dredged channels, rivers, cuts and bays. Bridge clearances, commercial traffic, shoaling and marked channels matter along the entire corridor.

Category 2 of 16

Marinas

Marinas provide facilities such as transient slips, fuel, pump-out, water, electricity, repairs, haul-out services and access to local boating destinations.

This is a representative directory of major boating facilities, not every private dock, yacht club or dry-storage operation. Names and services can change, so confirm fuel, transient slips, draft limits and operating status before relying on a stop.

Notes, warnings & advice

  • Call ahead to confirm transient slip availability, operating hours, fuel availability and current rates.
  • Confirm maximum vessel length, beam, draft and bridge clearance on the approach.
  • Ask about current, wind exposure, dock assistance and overnight security.
  • Verify pump-out availability and any reservation or minimum-stay requirements.
  • Check whether a marina is open to visiting vessels or primarily serves permanent tenants.
  • In the Keys, marina locations may be far apart relative to your preferred cruising range. Plan fuel and overnight stops accordingly.

Palm Beach County

Broward County

Miami-Dade County

Upper and Middle Keys

Lower Keys and Key West

For a wider directory, the Florida Keys boating guide and Miami-Dade's marina information are useful starting points.

Category 3 of 16

Island Hangouts

Islands and waterfront destinations where boaters gather for swimming, picnicking, sightseeing, snorkeling, kayaking or socializing. Examples include Peanut Island, islands in Biscayne Bay and selected Florida Keys destinations.

These are islands and waterfront destinations associated with boating, swimming, picnicking, sightseeing or social gatherings. An island being a known hangout does not mean landing, anchoring or swimming is permitted everywhere around it.

Notes, warnings & advice

  • Confirm whether the island is public, privately owned, park-managed or subject to restricted access.
  • Do not assume that a beach, dock or shoreline is open to the public.
  • Check anchoring rules, mooring availability, park hours and overnight restrictions.
  • Watch for shallow shorelines, submerged rocks, coral, oyster beds and propeller hazards.
  • Avoid landing on nesting bird islands or disturbing protected wildlife.
  • Social boating areas can become crowded, noisy and hazardous during holidays and weekends.

Palm Beach and Broward

Miami and Biscayne Bay

Upper, Middle and Lower Keys

For Miami's established boating destinations, the local visitor bureau identifies Monument Island, Stiltsville, Oleta River's islands and the islands of Biscayne National Park as notable destinations.

Category 4 of 16

Sandbars

Shallow areas of sand or sediment that may emerge or become accessible at lower tides. Some are popular swimming and social gathering spots, while others are navigation hazards.

Sandbars are especially tide-dependent. Many shift, appear only at lower water levels, or are locally named rather than formally charted. The following are well-known boating areas or recognized shallow banks.

Notes, warnings & advice

  • Sandbars change shape and depth because of tides, currents, storms and sediment movement.
  • A location that appears safe at high tide may leave a boat stranded at low tide.
  • Check tide predictions and charted depths before anchoring or beaching.
  • Keep propellers away from swimmers and use a designated tender or safe landing method where appropriate.
  • Never assume that a social-media pin represents a safe depth or an authorized anchoring location.
  • Maintain distance from marked channels, navigation aids and commercial traffic.
  • Watch for strong currents around inlets and narrow cuts.

Palm Beach and Broward

Miami-Dade

Florida Keys

Important: A sandbar shown in photographs or described by locals may be submerged at high tide, may be within a protected habitat, or may lie outside a safe anchoring area. Never rely on a social-media pin as a depth reference.

Category 5 of 16

Bays

Bays are broad bodies of coastal water that may include deep channels, sheltered anchorages, shallow flats, islands and mangrove shorelines. Important examples include Biscayne Bay, Lake Worth Lagoon, Card Sound, Florida Bay and the waters around Key West.

These are the major named bays and important smaller bay systems from Palm Beach to the remote Keys.

Notes, warnings & advice

  • Depth can vary sharply between a marked channel and adjacent shallow banks.
  • Wind can create short, steep chop, particularly in exposed sections of Biscayne Bay.
  • Florida Bay contains extensive shallow seagrass flats and narrow marked channels.
  • Watch for thunderstorms, sudden wind shifts and limited shelter in open areas.
  • Avoid cutting across unmarked shallows simply because the water looks clear.
  • Respect seagrass protection areas and avoid propeller scarring.
  • Identify safe refuge options before crossing large or exposed bays.

Palm Beach County

Broward County

Miami-Dade County

Upper and Middle Keys

Lower Keys and beyond

Category 6 of 16

Canals and Interconnected Waterways

Artificial canals, tidal channels, river branches and connecting passages link inland communities, the ICW, bays, harbors and other waterways. Examples include urban Fort Lauderdale canals, the Miami River, Jewfish Creek and channels throughout the Keys.

This category includes named navigation cuts, tidal canals, urban waterways and major connecting passages. It is particularly important for planning routes between the ICW, bays and Keys.

Notes, warnings & advice

  • Many canals are private, residential, industrial or intended primarily for drainage and flood control.
  • Verify that recreational navigation is permitted before entering an unfamiliar canal.
  • Check bridge clearances, overhead wires, locks, gates, depth restrictions and local speed limits.
  • Narrow canals may have limited room to turn around or pass other vessels.
  • Be courteous near waterfront homes and avoid excessive wake.
  • Watch for submerged debris, dock pilings, fishing lines and poorly marked obstructions.
  • Never assume that a visible canal provides a continuous navigable connection to another waterway.

Palm Beach County

Broward County

Miami-Dade County

Florida Keys

Many of the inland canals in Broward are primarily drainage or flood-control infrastructure, not recreational boating routes. Confirm vessel access, bridge clearances, depth and local restrictions before entering.

Category 7 of 16

Inlets

Inlets connect the Atlantic Ocean with coastal waterways, lagoons, bays and harbors. Examples include Jupiter Inlet, Lake Worth Inlet, Boynton Inlet, Hillsboro Inlet, Port Everglades Inlet, Haulover Inlet and Government Cut.

Inlets connect the Atlantic Ocean with the Intracoastal, lagoons, bays and Keys. Some have strong currents, breaking waves or shifting shoals. The major coastal inlets from north to south are:

Notes, warnings & advice

  • Inlets can be among the most hazardous locations in the region, particularly during outgoing tides, strong winds and large ocean swells.
  • Breaking waves may form where opposing currents meet shoals or offshore swell.
  • Shoaling and channel markers can change; check current notices and charts.
  • Commercial shipping channels require particular attention around Port Everglades and Government Cut.
  • Never follow another vessel blindly through an inlet.
  • If conditions are beyond your boat's capabilities or your experience, delay the crossing.
  • Check marine forecasts, tide/current information and daylight conditions before departure.

Palm Beach County

Broward County

Miami-Dade County

Florida Keys

Note: The Keys' cross-island channels are not all ocean inlets in the conventional sense. They are included here because they function as important waterway passages.

Category 8 of 16

Reefs and Wrecks

Natural coral reefs, hard-bottom habitats, historic shipwrecks and artificial reefs provide fishing, snorkeling and diving opportunities. Notable areas include the reefs off Palm Beach, Broward, Biscayne National Park and the Florida Keys.

South Florida and the Keys contain natural coral reefs, hard-bottom habitats, artificial reefs and historic shipwrecks. This list emphasizes notable named sites rather than every wreck or reef structure.

Notes, warnings & advice

  • Use accurate charted coordinates and current local information to locate wrecks and reefs.
  • Reef tops may lie in very shallow water and can be difficult to see in glare, chop or poor visibility.
  • Coral is fragile. Avoid grounding, anchoring on coral or damaging the bottom with propellers.
  • Use designated mooring buoys where available and permitted.
  • Do not assume all wrecks are safe for diving; currents, entanglement, depth and overhead structures can be dangerous.
  • Check sanctuary regulations, fishing restrictions and protected archaeological-site rules.
  • Divers may be difficult to see from a moving boat. Maintain a careful lookout and observe dive flags and applicable separation requirements.

Palm Beach County

Broward County

Miami-Dade County

Upper Keys

Middle and Lower Keys

For additional named wrecks and reef locations, the Florida Keys boating guides and regional shipwreck directories provide a much larger site-by-site inventory.

Category 9 of 16

Rivers

Rivers and estuaries carry freshwater toward coastal waters and often contain tidal reaches, marinas, canals and mangrove habitats. Examples include the Loxahatchee River, New River, Middle River, Miami River and selected Everglades waterways.

These include tidal rivers, river estuaries and important navigable river corridors.

Notes, warnings & advice

  • Tidal currents may be stronger near narrow bends, bridges and river mouths.
  • Expect commercial, recreational and small human-powered vessels to share some reaches.
  • Urban rivers may have restricted areas, industrial traffic, low bridges or submerged obstructions.
  • Heavy rain can increase freshwater flow and affect water quality.
  • Observe no-wake zones and protect waterfront properties from excessive wake.
  • Remote Everglades rivers may have limited communications, few facilities and difficult access for assistance.
  • Check whether the intended route is actually navigable by your vessel.

Palm Beach County

Broward County

Miami-Dade County

Florida Keys

No major natural freshwater rivers traverse the Keys themselves. Instead, the Keys have tidal creeks, channels and shallow estuarine passages.

Category 10 of 16

Coastal Harbors

Protected basins and port areas used for mooring, commercial shipping, marina access, anchoring and vessel services. Examples include Port of Palm Beach, Port Everglades, PortMiami, Boot Key Harbor and Key West Bight.

This category focuses on protected harbors, port basins, marina basins and recognizable harbor destinations.

Notes, warnings & advice

  • Commercial ports have large vessels, tug operations, security zones and restricted areas.
  • Stay clear of ship channels, turning basins and vessels maneuvering under tug assistance.
  • Monitor applicable marine radio channels and follow port instructions.
  • Confirm anchoring restrictions, transient-slip procedures and local harbor regulations.
  • Wind direction can affect the safety of an anchorage or dock.
  • Check surge and severe-weather arrangements during tropical storm season.
  • Harbor entrances may be shallow, narrow or affected by current despite the apparent shelter inside.

Palm Beach County

Broward County

Miami-Dade County

Florida Keys

Category 11 of 16

Flats

Shallow areas that may consist of seagrass, sand, mud or mixed bottom. Flats are important for wildlife, fishing, wading and shallow-draft boating throughout Biscayne Bay and the Florida Keys.

Flats are shallow-water areas used for fishing, wildlife viewing, poling skiffs and exploring by kayak or shallow-draft boat. Many are seagrass habitats rather than sandy areas.

Notes, warnings & advice

  • Confirm depth using reliable charts, tide information and appropriate onboard depth equipment.
  • Seagrass beds are important habitats and can be damaged by propeller scarring.
  • A boat that floats comfortably at high tide may become grounded as the tide falls.
  • Use a suitable shallow-draft vessel and avoid forcing a route through unknown water.
  • Polarized sunglasses can help reveal bottom contours, but glare, wind and cloud cover can reduce visibility.
  • Watch for protected species, wildlife closures and no-motor or pole-and-troll zones.
  • If grounded, avoid aggressive throttle use that can worsen the damage or injury risk.

Palm Beach and Broward

Biscayne Bay and Miami-Dade

Florida Keys

Category 12 of 16

Backcountry Flats

Remote shallow-water areas among the mangrove islands, banks and channels of Florida Bay, the Everglades and the remote Florida Keys. These areas are popular for flats fishing, wildlife viewing and quiet exploration.

Backcountry flats are generally quieter, more remote shallow-water areas, often within mangrove islands, wildlife refuges and the Everglades–Florida Bay system. Some are best reached by shallow-draft boats or kayaks.

Notes, warnings & advice

  • Backcountry navigation requires careful planning because many routes are shallow, narrow, winding or poorly marked.
  • Carry current charts, reliable navigation equipment and a backup means of determining your position.
  • Plan around tides and wind; some routes may become impassable at low water.
  • Carry drinking water, sun protection, appropriate safety equipment and enough fuel for the full trip plus a reserve.
  • Cell coverage and access to assistance may be limited.
  • Check weather forecasts and establish a float plan with someone ashore.
  • Respect wildlife refuges, protected habitats, fishing rules and seasonal access restrictions.
  • Avoid attempting unfamiliar remote routes in poor visibility or worsening weather.

The National Park Service emphasizes that Biscayne National Park's seagrass flats and shallow channels are particularly vulnerable to propeller scarring and grounding. Tides and charted depths are essential when exploring these areas.

Category 13 of 16

Mangrove Creeks

Narrow tidal waterways lined with mangroves. They support fish, birds and other wildlife and offer sheltered paddling and shallow-draft exploration. Examples include Whiskey Creek, Oleta River's mangrove waterways and many creeks in the Upper and Lower Keys.

These are mangrove-lined tidal creeks and narrow waterways useful for paddling, wildlife observation and, where permitted, shallow-draft exploration.

Notes, warnings & advice

  • Many creeks are too shallow or narrow for larger powerboats.
  • Roots, fallen branches, submerged logs and tight bends can damage propellers or hulls.
  • Tidal flow can make an apparently easy route difficult on the return trip.
  • Watch for low branches and limited turning space.
  • Avoid cutting through mangrove roots or disturbing nesting wildlife.
  • Check access rules before entering protected lands or wildlife refuge waterways.
  • In remote creeks, carry insect protection, drinking water and communication equipment.
  • Avoid leaving a vessel where a falling tide could strand it in a narrow channel.

Palm Beach County

Broward County

Miami-Dade County

Florida Keys and Everglades

Many small creeks have no reliable public name. Where access is allowed, shallow-draft craft and paddling are generally more appropriate than deep-draft powerboats.

Category 14 of 16

Lakes

Lakes in South Florida include freshwater lakes, coastal lagoons, managed basins and enclosed water bodies. Examples include Lake Osborne, Lake Ida, Lake Clarke, Lake Santa Barbara and Lake Surprise.

South Florida's coastal boating corridor has relatively few natural freshwater lakes that are directly connected to saltwater boating routes. This category includes notable lakes, urban basins and larger named lake systems, with a distinction between navigable water and freshwater recreation.

Notes, warnings & advice

  • Determine whether a lake is freshwater, brackish or saltwater-connected before planning a route.
  • Many inland lakes have no navigable connection to the ICW or the coast.
  • Check public launch access, permitted vessel types, horsepower restrictions and local boating rules.
  • Shallow shorelines, submerged vegetation and debris may present hazards.
  • Some lakes are private, protected or used for flood control and may not permit boating.
  • Check water-quality advisories and local restrictions where swimming or fishing is planned.
  • Do not assume a lake's name or appearance means it is suitable for a powerboat.

Palm Beach County

Broward County

Miami-Dade County

Florida Keys

Navigation note: Some of these lakes are freshwater, privately controlled, environmentally protected or separated from the saltwater network. Their inclusion does not imply access for powerboats.

Category 15 of 16

Keys

The Florida Keys are a chain of islands extending from Key Largo through Islamorada, Marathon, the Lower Keys and Key West, with remote island groups extending west toward the Marquesas Keys and Dry Tortugas.

This section lists named islands and island groups that are part of, or associated with, the Florida Keys chain. Several overlap with the island-hangout list; they appear here because they are geographically significant.

Notes, warnings & advice

  • The Atlantic side and Florida Bay side can have very different depths, wave conditions and navigation hazards.
  • Offshore reefs, shallow banks and narrow cross-Keys channels require careful route selection.
  • Check bridge clearances along the Overseas Highway corridor where relevant to your intended route.
  • Some islands are private, military-controlled or part of national parks and wildlife refuges.
  • Verify landing, camping, anchoring and fishing regulations before visiting an island.
  • Fuel, repair facilities and emergency services may be widely spaced in remote areas.
  • Tropical weather can rapidly change the safety of an offshore crossing.
  • The Marquesas Keys and Dry Tortugas are remote destinations requiring substantially more planning than the populated Keys.

Northern Keys and Biscayne National Park

Upper Keys

Middle Keys

Lower Keys

Remote Keys and offshore island groups

Category 16 of 16

Additional Connected Waterways and Special Navigation Areas

This category covers important passages, cuts, bridge channels, shipping approaches and remote offshore routes that connect the other categories. Examples include Government Cut, Card Sound, Jewfish Creek, Channel Five, Moser Channel, Hawk Channel and the approaches to the Dry Tortugas.

These are useful to include separately because they do not fit neatly into a single category but are important to route planning.

Notes, warnings & advice

  • Confirm the exact charted name and location of each passage; similar names can refer to different features.
  • Check channel markers, depths, bridge clearances, tidal currents and any current navigation notices.
  • Cross-Keys passages may have strong currents or shoaling, while offshore approaches may be exposed to swell and wind.
  • Keep clear of commercial shipping lanes and restricted military or port areas.
  • Do not assume an inside passage remains navigable for your vessel throughout all tide conditions.
  • For long passages, plan fuel reserves, alternate routes, weather windows and safe stopping points.
  • For remote passages, carry appropriate safety equipment, navigation backups and reliable communication methods.

Crowd-Sourced Captain's Logs

Liability notice: User comments are crowd-sourced opinions and do not constitute official navigational data. Cap: 1,000 characters. Always consult active NOAA charts.