Episode 18: The Best Places to Explore in Miami - Tips and Tricks for Sailors

Miami . A dazzling, tropical paradise that envelops you with its sultry ocean air, rhythmic sounds of Latin America, the Caribbean and American hip hop, and satiates your taste buds with spicy, rich flavors. The third most populous city on the East coast of the United States, and the seventh largest in the country. Miami is well known for its beaches and lively nightlife but we're exploring a different side of the city, the sailors side. There are hundreds of marinas and anchorages in Miami and Miami Beach, which are two different cities. We’ll cover three different anchorages; one just off of Rickenbacker Marina, another by #NoNameHarbor and the last just off #DinnerKeyMarina. The anchorage off of Rickenbacker Marina is the northernmost spot. It’s well protected and with the marina right next door, you may be able to tie your dinghy to the dock. There are a couple restaurants within walking distance with a great view of the city. There aren’t many other amenities within walking distance so you’ll need to bike or take an Uber or Lyft. Once the boat is settled, head south to Key Biscayne or cross the William Powell Bridge to go into the city. Brickell is Miami and South Florida's major financial district but it’s also home to Mary Brickell Village, Brickell City shopping mecca, and home to innumerable young professionals. An assortment of popular restaurants & boutiques make-up Mary Brickell Village, a development designed after a French-style village; it’s a hub for social gatherings and entertainment. Just a bit further south, No Name Harbor is located on the southern tip of Key Biscayne, in Bill Baggs State Park. This anchorage is a frequent stop before jumping over to the Bahamas and the Caribbean since it’s somewhat protected but not too far up the channel. There are showers and bathrooms nearby, as well as Boaters Grill restaurant and a boating supply store. Hurricane Harbor is another nearby, protected anchorage, but there’s quite a bit of boat traffic. Check out episode 6 Sailing Our Seawind 1600 Catamaran from Ft. Lauderdale to Biscayne Bay for the full scoop on Key Biscayne. From No Name Harbor or the anchorage by Rickenbacker Marina, the Miami River is a dinghy ride away. If you’re starting from No Name Harbor, you’ll pass by Stiltsville, a group of wood stilt houses located one mile south of Cape Florida. Stiltsville has a colorful history that dates back to the 1930s. Unfortunately, the Leshaw House was destroyed in a fire this year and will not be rebuilt. To get to the Miami River you pass under the William M Powell Bridge. The glistening architecture of the Miami shoreline is quite impressive from the water and definitely a memorable experience. There are a number of bridges along the river, ranging from just 12 feet to 75 feet. All of the bridges open except for the 75 foot people mover, Metrorail, and I-95. There are certain hours the bridges remain closed so be sure to check the times. Restaurants Kiki On the River and SeaSpice have become hot spots, so the people watching is fantastic while you enjoy a delicious meal or cocktail. #DinnerKey anchorage situated on the western side of Biscayne Bay in Coconut Grove is one of South Florida's best kept secrets. There are some shoals and very shallow areas along the 4 islands found off of Dinner Key Marina, so definitely keep a close eye on the charts and stick to the channel. There are actually two places where boats can anchor. One is the official anchorage, on the south west side of Dinner Key Marina. The other is a temporary anchorage in the turning basin on the northern side of the marina, near the Chart House and Monty's Marina. Since the anchorages are very close to Coconut Grove there are plenty of amenities and marine services and you may even be able to access WiFi. There are a couple places to tie up dinghies, one being at the south end of the marina, near pier 7.