How You Can Escape to the Ocean in South Florida During Coronavirus Lockdowns

With no clear end in sight to beaches being closed, you can still enjoy the ocean and water in South Florida. Here’s how.

Need a breath of fresh air after months of lockdown? Us too.

As more and more parks begin to open in south Florida, one glaring entity remains closed: our beautiful beaches!

With no end in sight to beach closures in Broward and Miami-Dade, what’s an ocean lover to do? After all, why else would you be living here if not to enjoy the ocean and beach?

The good news: as businesses begin to reopen, we can still enjoy the ocean and the water!

Escape to the Ocean as Charters and Marinas begin to reopen.

Where’s the safest place to be during a pandemic? Isolated at the bottom of the ocean, of course! Or, at least, in the middle of the ocean!

Charters, marinas, dive shops, boat rentals, and outdoor centers are all reopening – giving you more than enough opportunity to get out on the water!

Is it safe to go on a boat during coronavirus lockdowns?

As more and more research shows coronavirus is rarely spread in the outdoors, outdoor recreation mixed with social distancing seems to be a recipe for a successful way to ease the psyche after months of doom and gloom.

As for a boat? Well, some unique challenges do exist. Most notably, boats have a limited area of movement – making quarters much closer than a park.

Have no fear though, boating companies are taking this into consideration. Capacities have significantly decreased to a maximum of 10 passengers (plus 2 crew), giving adequate space to socially distance aboard. Face masks are required, surfaces are frequently being disinfected, and most gear is not being resused (i.e. snorkels). Not to mention, sunlight may very well kill the virus rather quickly.

Our Recommendation: Risk assess and do what you feel comfortable with!

Where to go and what to do to escape to the ocean in South Florida

From Miami to Fort Lauderdale and beyond, many charters are getting back into gear to take you out on the water! And they need your support too!

Dive or Snorkel with a local shop:

Our scuba diving adventures were abruptly put on hold during the pandemic but are now, thankfully, starting to kick in again. Recently, we were fortunate to get on a boat with Sea Experience to snorkel in Fort Lauderdale.

The trip takes you to Twin Ledges, a shallow coral reef off the the beach in Fort Lauderdale – perfect for snorkeler’s of all levels! Passengers are currently being limited to 10 people max – plenty of space to move and socially distance on the boat!

Or discover other dive shops in the area!

Rent kayaks or SUPs at a local marina or park

Renting kayaks or SUPs for a paddling adventure through south Florida’s river and canal systems are a great way to enjoy the water!

Crandon Park and Marina on Key Biscayne are renting to the public to discover the nearby waters.

In Fort Lauderdale, check out our list of the 6 Best SUP or Kayak Routes to find an option best for you!

Book a fishing charter in south Florida

Reserve a sunset tour or rent a boat for the day

Sunset tours or booze cruises (or just regular cruises) are a great way to support some local businesses while you escape to the ocean in south Florida!

Crandon Marina on Key Biscayne and Bahia Mar in Fort Lauderdale are just a few locations to go, rent, and hop on a boat!

Escape to the Ocean in South Florida

It’s not perfect but it’s an option to be able to enjoy the water! As beaches continue to close with no end in sight, support a local business and escape to the ocean in South Florida!