Boat Ramps In Miami: Opening Dates And Times

Boat ramps in Miami are open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, but hours may vary by location. Before visiting a boat ramp, it is advisable to check with local authorities or the relevant city government, as some boat ramps may be temporarily closed for repairs, special events, or weather conditions. Additionally, some cities within Miami-Dade County may have stricter rules or choose to keep their boat ramps closed.

Boat ramps in Miami typically charge a fee

Some boat ramps in Miami charge a seasonal fee, which can be around $40 for the entire season. Matheson Hammock Park Boat Ramp, for example, charges a launching fee. Crandon Park Boat Ramp also charges a fee to launch.

Boat ramps in other parts of Florida may not charge a fee. For instance, in Sarasota, Charlotte County, and Pompano Beach, boat ramps are free to use, and users only pay for parking. There are also some free freshwater ramps on canals and lakes.

It is important to note that boat ramp fees may change over time, and some ramps may introduce or remove fees. Additionally, some boat ramps may be temporarily closed due to special events, weather conditions, or repairs. Therefore, it is always a good idea to check with local authorities or the boat ramp operator for the most up-to-date information on fees and accessibility.

Some boat ramps are free to use

While some boat ramps in Miami do charge a fee, there are also several free options available. The fees for using boat ramps in Miami vary, with some charging per launch, while others charge a seasonal fee. However, there are a number of free boat ramps in the city and its surrounding areas.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has built several boat ramps across the state that are available to the public free of charge. These ramps are typically open 24 hours a day and offer convenient access to the water. In addition, there are some free freshwater ramps located on canals and lakes in the area.

For example, the Seminole boat ramp in Coconut Grove is free to use. This ramp is located at the Kenneth M. Meyers Bayside Park, and while parking fees may apply, there is no charge for launching your boat. However, it's worth noting that this ramp was closed for refurbishment as of January 2025.

Another free option is the public ramp in Pompano Beach, where there is no charge for launching, although you will have to pay for parking. Similarly, in Broward, many of the ramps only charge for parking, so if you have someone to drive your truck and trailer, you can launch your boat for free.

It's always a good idea to check with local authorities or visit the Boat Ramp Finder website before heading to a boat ramp, as some ramps may be temporarily closed for special events, weather conditions, or repairs.

Boat ramp opening times vary by location

Some boat ramps in Miami are open 24 hours a day, such as the Black Point Park Boat Ramp in Homestead and the Pelican Harbor Park Boat Ramp. The Barry Kutun Boat Ramp, adjacent to Maurice Gibbs Memorial Park along Biscayne Bay, does not specify its hours, but it does offer a range of amenities, including a two-lane ramp, courtesy docks, and 14 boat trailer parking spaces.

Boat ramp users in Miami should be aware of certain rules and restrictions that may be in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. These include requirements to wear facial coverings, limits on the number of people per launch ramp, and social distancing guidelines. It is recommended to check with local authorities or specific boat ramp locations for the most up-to-date information on opening times and any applicable rules.

Social distancing and face coverings are mandatory

Boat ramps in Miami are open, but there are strict rules in place to ensure social distancing and safety for all.

When preparing to launch your boat, only one boat is permitted per launch ramp at a time. Your boat must be ready to go with all safety equipment, provisions, and dock lines tied before you arrive at the ramp. Once your boat is in the water, all passengers must board immediately and remain on the boat until it is time to return to the marina. When you return, all passengers must stay on the boat until it is loaded onto the trailer, and then everyone must leave the facility immediately.

In addition to these measures, there are several other rules in place to ensure social distancing and safety. Groups of more than 10 people are not allowed to gather, and you cannot use playgrounds, picnic areas, or other communal spaces. These rules are in place to ensure the safety of everyone visiting the boat ramps and marinas, and it is important to follow them at all times.

By following these guidelines and maintaining social distancing and face coverings, you can help keep yourself and others safe while enjoying a day out on the water in Miami.

Only one boat per launch ramp is allowed at a time

Boat ramps in Miami are allowed to be open between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. daily, but hours may vary by location. If you're planning to visit a boat ramp in Miami, it's a good idea to check with local authorities or the specific ramp's website for the most up-to-date information on their operating hours.

Regarding the use of the boat ramps, only one boat per launch ramp is allowed at a time. This measure is in place to ensure social distancing and prevent the spread of COVID-19. Boat operators are expected to have their boats prepared ahead of time, with dock lines tied and safety equipment, as well as provisions such as food and water, already on board and ready before launch.

Once the boat is in the water, all passengers will be required to board. When returning to the ramp, all passengers must remain on the boat until it is ready to be loaded onto the trailer. After the boat is loaded, all passengers must leave the facility immediately.

These rules are in place to ensure the safety of everyone using the boat ramps and to facilitate social distancing. By having the boat prepared ahead of time and minimizing the time spent at the ramp, the flow of traffic is improved, and the risk of close contact with other boaters is reduced.

It is important to note that these rules are subject to change based on the evolving situation with COVID-19 and the decisions made by local authorities. Therefore, it is always advisable to stay informed about the latest guidelines and restrictions before heading out to the boat ramps.

Frequently asked questions