It’s winter, which means its prime season for snowbirds (and us slightly younger folk who need a break from the cold) to visit Florida. While all the state’s coastal cities see a big uptick in visitors, Miami is experiencing a particularly big boost right now. That’s because Super Bowl LIV takes place at Hard Rock Stadium on February 2, 2020.
Whether you’re heading to the big game, or you just want to experience boating in the Magic City, keep this guide in mind.
2020 Super Bowl LIV: Boating Guide for Visitors
Marinas
While there’s no shortage of marinas in Miami, there’s unfortunately a shortage of available slips for the football game. In fact, marinas started booking up fast and furious last summer, so if you don’t already have a reservation, you’re probably out of luck.
But, if you’re heading to town in the days after, several facilities are close to the stadium, as well as walking distance to shops and restaurants. Check out the ones we mention in this article for starters.
Drop Anchor on a Sandbar
For something completely different, skip the marinas in favor of a sandbar. You read that right: Miami’s sandbars are the go-to places for hanging on the hook, attracting hundreds of boaters especially on weekends. Nixon Beach sandbar in Key Biscayne is one of the most popular, as is the Haulover Sandbar in Miami Beach.
Water Activities & Boat Rentals
Because Miami sits on the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay, you can enjoy terrific deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, kayaking, parasailing, paddleboarding, and more. If you’re not taking your own boat, it’s no problem. Speedboat tours, more leisurely sightseeing tours of Millionaire’s Row, and airboat rides through the Everglades are just a few options—or find a boat rental in the area.
Learn More in our Boat Rentals Guide
Architectural Wonders
The Art Deco District is world-renowned, with nearly 1,000 buildings constructed between 1915 and 1940. You can dock in South Beach and walk north through this historic district. Among the most famous sites is on Ocean Drive. It’s Villa Casa Casuarina, now a hotel but built in 1930 as a private residence. It gained the most fame, though, decades later, as the mansion of the late Gianni Versace.
2020 Progressive Miami International Boat Show
Although it’s a few weeks after the Super Bowl, specifically February 13 to 17, the Miami International Boat Show is a hot ticket. Miami Marine Stadium transforms into a showcase of watersports and watercraft of every shape and size. You can sea trial many of them, plus your kids ages 13 to 17 can participate in the Junior Captains Program to learn basic seamanship. In addition, multiple park-and-ride options, free water taxis, and free shuttle buses make it easier to get to and from the show.
Read Next: Boatgating: Top 4 NFL Stadiums on the Water
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