Make a splash: Exploring the top water-based activities across the Southeast United States
There are few better places to hop in the water, set sail, and soak up the sun than in the Southeast United States. Whether you choose the winding rivers of Tennessee, the calm coast of Maine, or the energetic beaches of Florida, the water baby in you will feel complete in this region. Here are some of the best places to go for water activities in the southeast, with some ideas for what to do there.
Outer Banks, North Carolina: Stretching along North Carolina's coastline, the Outer Banks is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Surfing is particularly popular here, with world-class waves at spots like Cape Hatteras and Kitty Hawk. Additionally, visitors can enjoy kayaking, kiteboarding, paddleboarding, and fishing in the calm waters of the sound or the Atlantic Ocean.
Charleston Harbor, South Carolina: Charleston Harbor offers a picturesque backdrop for water activities, including sailing, boating, and stand-up paddleboarding. Visitors can explore historic sites like Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie or embark on sunset cruises to take in the city's skyline. Kayaking and paddleboarding tours also provide opportunities to spot dolphins and other marine wildlife.
Savannah River, Georgia: Flowing through the heart of Savannah, the Savannah River offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding amidst the city's historic landmarks. Sightings of dolphins and bald eagles are common along the way. Fishing enthusiasts can also try their luck at catching bass, perch, trout, and crappie in the river's waters.
Florida Keys, Florida: The Florida Keys are a paradise for water enthusiasts, offering world-class snorkeling, diving, and fishing opportunities. Visitors can explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Water sport lovers can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing in the crystal-clear waters of the Keys.
Gulf Islands National Seashore, Mississippi: 160 miles of variety awaits in this collection of beaches on the border between Mississippi and Alabama. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and beachcomb along the shorelines of barrier islands like Ship Island and Horn Island or explore underwater ecosystems while snorkeling or scuba diving. Fishing, birdwatching, and kayaking are also popular activities in this coastal paradise.
Gulf Shores, Alabama: This long strip of sand along Alabama's Gulf Coast is a popular destination for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts alike. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and build sandcastles on the area's pristine beaches or try their hand at surfing, paddleboarding, and parasailing in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Buffalo National River, Arkansas: Designated as America's first national river, the Buffalo National River offers scenic beauty and recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Canoeing and kayaking are popular activities along its glittering waters, with opportunities to spot deer, elk, and river otters along the way. Fishing, camping, and hiking are also favorite pastimes in the river's surrounding wilderness.
Bayou Lafourche, Louisiana: Flowing through the heart of Cajun Country, Bayou Lafourche offers a unique setting for water-based adventures. The waters reflect the skies above as visitors explore the bayou's meandering channels by kayak or boat, taking in views of cypress swamps and moss-draped trees along the way.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee: While Tennessee may not have a coastline, it offers plenty of opportunities for water-based activities amid its scenic landscapes. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park boasts numerous rivers and streams, providing excellent conditions for fishing, tubing, rafting, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Visitors can also hike to explore cascading waterfalls and tranquil lakes here.
Lake Cumberland, Kentucky: With its crystal-clear waters and picturesque shoreline, Lake Cumberland is a premier destination for water sports and recreation in Kentucky. Boating enthusiasts, anglers, swimmers, rafters, and even surfers will find something to do in the lake’s open water areas and protected coves.
Whether you're seeking adventure on the open ocean, tranquility on a scenic river, or relaxation on a sandy beach, the southeastern United States offers a diverse array of destinations for water-based activities. So pack your swimsuit, grab your gear, and embark on a journey to explore the natural beauty and recreational opportunities in this vibrant region.
Practicing safety on the water is just as important as practicing safety in a vehicle. Just like you would wear a life jacket when on a boat or swimming in deep water, make sure you wear a seat belt when driving to all of these aquatic destinations. Buckling up saves lives!