Must-Try Watersports in Fort Lauderdale
In Fort Lauderdale, the question isn’t if you’ll get on the water—it’s how. With sunny skies, sparkling waterways, and miles of coastline, this is one of the best places in Florida to dive into watersports fun.
Want to paddle through quiet canals? Speed across the waves? Soar above the ocean? You can do it all here!
8 Fort Lauderdale Watersports to Try
From laid-back outings to full-on adventures, here are some of the top ways to enjoy watersports in Fort Lauderdale.
1. Rent a paddleboard for the day.
Fort Lauderdale’s calm canals and waterways make it a great place to try paddleboarding. It’s an easy, peaceful way to explore the area while getting a little exercise along the way.
Popular Fort Lauderdale paddleboard spots include:
Paddleboard rentals are not hard to come by near these locations.
2. Kayak among the mangroves.
If you’re hoping to spot wildlife or explore mangrove tunnels, kayaking is a fantastic way to experience Fort Lauderdale’s natural side. It’s calm, relaxing, and lets you see parts of the city that are only accessible by water.
Some of the best spots for kayaking include:
Like paddleboards, local parks and outfitters offer kayak rentals near these waterways. Guests at Yacht Haven Park & Marina can even rent kayaks right at the resort!
3. Rent a pontoon boat for a relaxing cruise.
Don’t feel like putting in the work? A pontoon boat is perfect for anyone looking to spend a laid-back day on the water. With plenty of space for family and friends, it’s a fun way to explore the Intracoastal Waterway or anchor at a local sandbar for swimming, lounging, or maybe even a little fishing.
Some of the best places to cruise by pontoon include:
- Intracoastal Waterway
- Lake Sylvia
- Fort Lauderdale sandbars
Pontoon boat rentals—both captained and non-captained— are available at several local marinas. Pontoon rentals are also available to Yacht Haven guests.
4. Zip along the water on a jetski.
Looking for something a little more thrilling? Jet skiing is a great way to add excitement to your day on the water. Zip across the waves, take in beautiful views of the coastline, and feel the wind in your hair.
Most visitors head to Fort Lauderdale Beach for jet ski rentals, with plenty of options right along the waterfront. You can rent by the hour or join a guided tour if you’d rather explore with a pro.
5. See the city from new heights with parasailing.
Parasailing offers a whole new way to see Fort Lauderdale—from high above the water! You’ll soar through the sky while enjoying incredible views of the ocean, beaches, and city skyline.
Most parasailing tours also take off right from Fort Lauderdale Beach, making it easy to add this adventure to your day by the shore.
6. Try a banana boat ride for laughs with friends.
If you’re looking for a fun group activity, a banana boat ride is a must. You’ll climb onto an inflatable banana-shaped raft and hold on tight as a boat pulls you across the water. Expect plenty of bouncing, splashing, and laughing along the way!
Banana boat rides are usually offered right from the beach and are a popular add-on to other watersport rentals.
7. Take adventure to a new level with flyboarding.
Want to feel like a superhero? Flyboarding lets you hover, dive, and spin above the water using jet-powered boots. It’s an exciting challenge for anyone looking to try something totally different.
Flyboarding lessons and rentals are available from local watersport companies, with instructors helping beginners get the hang of it in no time.
8. Go underwater with a scuba or snorkeling adventure.
There’s plenty to see beneath the surface in Fort Lauderdale, from colorful reefs to sunken shipwrecks. Whether you’re snorkeling or diving, you’ll get the chance to spot tropical fish, coral, and maybe even a sea turtle or two.
Some of the best places to snorkel or dive near Fort Lauderdale include:
Local tour operators offer boat trips to these spots, making it easy to experience the underwater world.
Stay Close to Fort Lauderdale Watersports
With so many ways to enjoy the water, Fort Lauderdale is the perfect place to dive into your next adventure. And one of the easiest ways to make the most of it all? Stay somewhere that puts the water right at your doorstep.
Guests at Yacht Haven Park & Marina can rent kayaks and pontoon boats right on-site—no extra planning required. And if you want to try other watersports like parasailing, jet skiing, or diving, you’re just a short drive from some of the best spots in town.
Book your stay and get ready to experience the best of Fort Lauderdale’s waterways!
