Boating

Tranquil lakes, rushing rivers and an open Gulf paint Alabama’s landscape blue—highlighting waterways that were made for adventure. Set sail onto the horizon or ride off into the sunset with friends. No matter how you like to hit the water, boating in Alabama lets you explore the state in a whole new way.

Seasonality: Late spring to early fall
Optimal Skill Level: Licensed boaters
Photo: Billy Pope

Hit the Water

Motorboating

Feel the rush of the wind and water as you ride on Alabama’s lakes, rivers and coastline. Cruise the open waters with friends, venture out for a day of fishing or chart a course toward hidden coves and quiet beaches. With miles of open water and endless views, motorboating in Alabama is an adventure worth enjoying.

Discover the best places to boat in Alabama.

Guntersville Lake

Guntersville, AL

As Alabama’s largest lake, Guntersville Lake spans 69,100 acres of open water surrounded by breathtaking mountains and small-town charm. In the waters, boaters can explore coves, fish or travel to one of several waterfront restaurants.

Lake Martin

Lower-central Alabama

Known for its crystal-clear waters and more than 40,000 acres of surface to explore, Lake Martin is a motorboater’s dream. Whether exploring, visiting islands or swimming in the open water, this massive Central Alabama lake offers both lively gathering spots and hidden getaways.

Mobile-Tensaw River Delta

Baldwin and Mobile Counties

Located in Southwest Alabama, the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta—also known as “North America’s Amazon”—provides a unique boating experience through its winding rivers, marshlands and bayous. Boaters can ride out into the water and enjoy plenty of wildlife and adventure.

Tennessee River (Ditto Landing)

North Alabama

Flowing across North Alabama, the Tennessee River offers endless opportunities for boaters, especially around Huntsville’s Ditto Landing. Cruse past dramatic bluffs, dock at local marinas or set out for a day of fishing along this well-beloved waterway.

Lewis Smith Lake

North-central Alabama

Famous for its deep, clear water, Lewis Smith Lake is perfect for your next motorboating adventure. The lake is situated between Birmingham and Huntsville, making it a convenient place for boaters to hit the water. Whether tubing, water skiing or enjoying the water, this North Alabama lake is a favorite for all.

Set Sail

Sailing

Set sail on Alabama’s coastline. The Gulf of Mexico welcomes sailors of all skill levels to explore its beautiful blue waters. From the bays to the open waters, Alabama has endless sailing opportunities.

Find your next sailing adventure in the waters of Alabama.

Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

Gulf Shores, AL

Sail off into the coastal Alabama waters in Orange Beach or Gulf Shores. Bring your own boat or rent one from one of the area’s outfitters. For those wanting to sit back and enjoy the ride, outfitters also offer charters.

North Alabama Sailing Marina

Guntersville, AL

Located in Guntersville, the North Alabama Sailing Marina (NASM) is an open-water sailing haven on beautiful Lake Guntersville. With options for vacation rentals, lake houses, cabins and more, the NASM makes for a great place for a weekend getaway or a week-long stay.

Barber Marina

Elberta, AL

Barber Marina offers a great place to launch off your next sailing adventure. Located on the Intracoastal Waterway in Elberta, this world-class marina has options and amenities perfect for all kinds of sailboats.