Exploring Georgia's Coast: Best Boat Docking Locations

Georgia's coast offers a wide range of options for boat docking. From the Golden Isles, surrounded by salt marshes, tidal creeks, and rivers, to the scenic beauty of Lake Burton in the North Georgia Mountains, boat lovers can find numerous marinas and docks to suit their needs. The state also boasts many lakes and rivers, as well as over 140 public boat ramps, providing ample opportunities for swimming and watersports. Georgia State Parks offer boat ramps, docks, rentals, and marinas, with some campgrounds having adjacent docks. Additionally, companies like EZ Dock provide customizable floating dock systems, catering to residential and commercial needs.

Georgia's Golden Isles marinas

Georgia's Golden Isles are a group of four islands—Little St. Simons, Sea Island, St. Simons, and Jekyll Island—known for their stunning natural beauty and rich history. The Isles are surrounded by salt marshes, tidal creeks, winding rivers, the Intracoastal Waterway, and the Atlantic Ocean, offering a plethora of options for boating enthusiasts.

The Golden Isles are a popular destination for boaters due to their protected waterways, serene environment, and Southern hospitality. The area boasts several award-winning marinas that cater to a range of boating needs, from dockage and fueling to complex repairs. Here is an overview of some of the notable marinas in Georgia's Golden Isles:

Brunswick Landing Marina

Brunswick Landing Marina, located in the heart of downtown Brunswick, is a full-service marina just five miles from the Intracoastal Waterway. It offers a wide range of amenities, including wet slips, dry slips, boat repair, concierge services, security, laundry, lounges, and propane grills on every dock. The marina has received accolades for its exceptional customer service, well-maintained facilities, and commitment to sustainability.

Morningstar Marinas Golden Isles

Morningstar Marinas Golden Isles, located on St. Simons Island, is a premier full-service marina. It offers boat storage options such as annual dry storage, boat slips, and transient dockage. Their amenities include a freshwater rinse for every boat, a full-service mechanic, an on-site restaurant, a ship's store, a pool, and complimentary concierge services. Morningstar Marinas is easily accessible and provides quick access to the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean, making it a convenient stop for yachts and sailboats.

Jekyll Harbor Marina

Jekyll Harbor Marina, located on Jekyll Island, is named one of the best small marinas in the United States. This 50-slip marina can accommodate vessels up to 150 feet in length. In addition to the marina store and fuel dock, Jekyll Harbor Marina provides a fish-cleaning station, a restaurant, and complimentary golf carts and bike rentals for exploring the island's scenic trails. Jekyll Island also offers exclusive resorts, pristine beaches, and a blend of rich history and laid-back atmosphere.

Other Notable Marinas

In addition to the three prominent marinas mentioned above, the Golden Isles are home to several other notable marinas and launching piers:

• Two Way Fish Camp & Marina
• St. Simons Marina (Morningstar Marinas)
• Hampton River Marina
• Mackay River Fishing Pier & Launch

Boat ramps in Georgia

Georgia has over 140 public boat ramps spread across the state. There are 17 large-capacity boat ramps with multiple lanes and extra-capacity parking lots. Many Georgia State Parks offer boat ramps, docks, rentals, and marinas. Some state park campgrounds and cabins even have adjacent docks. Water skiing, sailing, and personal watercraft are permitted on large lakes. However, some parks on smaller lakes have horsepower restrictions to preserve the tranquil setting and wildlife.

• Altamaha River – Jaycee Landing (Jesup), Altamaha Regional Park (Brunswick)
• Clarks Hill Lake – Wildwood Park (Appling)
• Lake Blackshear – Veterans Memorial State Park (Cordele)
• Lake Lanier – Laurel Park (Gainesville)
• Lake Hartwell – Gum Branch (Hartwell), Tugaloo State Park (Lavonia)
• Lake Russell – Earle May Boat Basin (Bainbridge), Reynolds Landing (Donalsonville)
• Lake Walter F. George – Pataula Park (Fort Gaines)
• Oconee River – Buckeye Landing (East Dublin)
• Savannah River – Burton's Ferry Landing (Sylvania), Houlahan Bridge (Port Wentworth), Robert Baurle Lock & Dam Ramp (Augusta), Tuckasee King (Rincon)
• West Point Lake – Pyne Road Park (LaGrange)

The Golden Isles of Georgia, surrounded by salt marshes, tidal creeks, gently winding rivers, Intracoastal Waterway, and the Atlantic Ocean, offer a wide variety of water-borne experiences. The Golden Isles have many marinas that offer services like dockage, fueling, and repair. Some of the marinas and launching piers in the Golden Isles include Brunswick Landing Marina, Two Way Fish Camp & Marina, St. Simons Marina, Hampton River Marina, and Jekyll Harbor Marina.

Docking solutions in Georgia

Georgia is home to several lakes and rivers, as well as a lengthy coastline, providing ample opportunities for boating and watersports. The state offers a range of docking solutions for both residents and tourists looking to enjoy its waterways.

Public boat ramps and marinas are available throughout Georgia, with over 140 public boat ramps across the state. Many Georgia state parks with lakes also offer boat ramps, docks, rentals, and marinas. Campgrounds and cabins with adjacent docks can be found at parks such as Richard B. Russell, Tugaloo, Seminole, and George T. Bagby.

The Golden Isles of Georgia, surrounded by salt marshes, tidal creeks, rivers, and the Atlantic Ocean, offer a variety of water-based experiences. Local marinas in this area provide services including dockage, fueling, and repairs. Some of the marinas and launching piers in the Golden Isles include Brunswick Landing Marina, St. Simons Marina, Hampton River Marina, and Jekyll Harbor Marina.

Lake Burton, nestled in the North Georgia Mountains, is another popular boating destination. The Anchorage Boat Dock, a family-owned business, provides boat rentals, repairs, a marina store, boat sales, and both wet and dry slip rentals.

For those seeking a customised docking solution for their waterfront home or business, companies such as EZ Dock offer floating dock systems that are easy to maintain, durable, and customizable. EZ Dock's products are manufactured with strong materials that can withstand varying load capacities and fluctuating tidal conditions. Their docks are also eco-friendly and compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations.

Boat rentals in Georgia

Georgia offers a wide range of boat rental options, from kayaks to yachts, for those looking to explore its coastal waters or inland lakes. Here is a guide to boat rentals in Georgia:

Where to Dock on the Coast of Georgia

The Golden Isles of Georgia, surrounded by salt marshes, tidal creeks, winding rivers, Intracoastal Waterway, and the Atlantic Ocean, offer a diverse range of boating experiences. The area boasts many marinas, boat ramps, and launching piers, such as Brunswick Landing Marina, St. Simons Marina, Hampton River Marina, and Jekyll Harbor Marina.

Boat Rental Options in Georgia

Whether you're an experienced sailor or a novice, Georgia has boat rental options to suit your needs. Here are some popular choices:

• Lake Lanier Boat Rentals: Lake Lanier offers a variety of boat rental options, including luxury pontoon boats, powerboats, and jet skis. It is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for boating enthusiasts.
• Lake Allatoona Boat Rentals: Nestled in Red Top Mountain State Park, Lake Allatoona provides a picturesque setting for boating. Boat rentals are available for exploring this tranquil lake.
• Lake Oconee Boat Rentals: Lake Oconee is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, offering jet ski and boat rentals. It is also known for its scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere.
• Lake Chatuge Boat Rentals: Lake Chatuge is a favourite spot for boating, waterskiing, and jet skiing. Boat rentals are available, and the lake provides a unique blend of natural beauty and luxurious waterfront homes.
• Golden Isles Boat Rentals: The Golden Isles offer a range of boat rental options, including Hobie Cats, sailboats, kayaks, and casino cruise ships. The area's marinas provide convenient docking facilities for those exploring the coast by boat.
• Georgia State Parks Boat Rentals: Various Georgia State Parks offer boat rentals, including jon boats, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and aquacycles. These rentals are available at parks like A.H. Stephens, F.D. Roosevelt, George L. Smith, and Stephen C. Foster State Park, which offers guided boat tours through the Okefenokee Swamp.

Legal Requirements for Boating in Georgia

It is important to note that Georgia law requires registration for mechanically propelled vessels and sailboats over 12 feet in length used on "waters of this state." Additionally, as of July 1, 2014, individuals born on or after January 1, 1998, must complete a boat education course approved by the Department of Natural Resources before operating a motorized vessel on Georgia's waters.

Dock safety in Georgia

Georgia's coast offers a wide range of boating experiences, from the tranquil salt marshes and tidal creeks of the Golden Isles to the majestic mountains surrounding Lake Burton. To ensure a safe and enjoyable boating experience, it is important to follow certain dock safety guidelines.

Before embarking on your boating trip, familiarise yourself with the boating rules and regulations in Georgia. All mechanically propelled vessels and sailboats over a certain length used on "waters of this state" must be registered. Additionally, as of July 1, 2014, anyone born on or after January 1, 1998, operating a motorized vessel on Georgia's waters must have completed an approved boat education course.

When docking your boat, it is crucial to choose a safe and reputable marina. Marinas in Georgia, such as Brunswick Landing Marina, St. Simons Marina, and Jekyll Harbor Marina, offer a range of services, including dockage, fueling, and repairs. Look for marinas that maintain their docks properly and have a good safety record. Avoid overcrowding on docks, as it can lead to accidents and incidents, as seen in the tragic ferry dock collapse on Sapelo Island in 2024, which resulted in multiple fatalities.

Consider investing in a high-quality floating dock system, such as those offered by EZ Dock, which provides customizable, durable, and low-maintenance docking solutions. Their docks are designed to withstand varying load capacities and fluctuate with tidal conditions, making boat entry and exit safer and more accessible.

Always check local tide charts and weather information before heading out to the dock. Be mindful of any potential inclement weather conditions that could impact your docking experience. Additionally, ensure that you and your passengers know how to use life jackets properly and follow other safety protocols to prevent accidents.

By following these dock safety guidelines, you can help ensure that your boating experience in Georgia is both enjoyable and secure.

Frequently asked questions