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California is one of the most popular boating state in the country, with over 800,000 registered watercraft in the state. Thanks to its expansive coastline and gorgeous inland lakes, California has endless boating opportunities for people who hold the proper educational certificates.

As of January 1st, 2018, it is mandatory for any operator of a powerboat (including sailboats equipped with motors) to carry a California Boater Card while boating. As of 2023, according to an NMMA study, California ranks #7 in boat sales overall, with the gross value topping $1.1 billion. This is a 17% increase from 2020, indicating that boating interest is growing strong in the Golden State.


About This Report

This report delves into booking data from Getmyboat, the world’s largest boat rental marketplace, examining the top 10 boating cities in California.

It contains proprietary boating data for each location, discusses the distinct features that make each of these cities a haven for boaters and explores the maritime culture, boating amenities, attractions, and the overall boating experience they offer.


About Getmyboat

Getmyboat offers charters and rentals, worldwide.

Launched in 2013 with the vision of making the joy of boating accessible to everyone, the company has since grown into the largest boat rental and charter marketplace globally, with over 150,000 listings in 184 countries covering 9,300 destinations.

By giving a platform to both individual boat owners and professional charter businesses, Getmyboat makes the experience of getting out on the water more accessible to everyone — from a weekend jet ski rental in the local lake to a vacation yacht charter to a bachelor party pontoon , and everything in between.


Our Methodology

To develop this report, Getmyboat analyzed recent boat rental data in Florida on the Getmyboat platform. Cities are determined by the city that the boat owner registers the boat in within their profile on the platform. Data was curated to exclude outlier hourly and total trip rates while rental types were categorized into the significant categories to be evaluated in this report.


Top 10 California Cities

#1: Marina del Rey

Average Hourly Rental Price

$280

Average Total Trip Price

$810

Yachts

Aquatic Offerings

The largest man-made small-craft harbor in North America, offering expansive coastal views, a thriving boating community, Fisherman's Village, and Catalina Island.

Marina del Rey in Los Angeles County stands out as the number one boating destination in California. Sitting on the Pacific coastline, the marina benefits from a favorable maritime climate, characterized by mild temperatures that render it an attractive year-round boating destination. Its expansive and well-designed harbor, one of the largest man-made small-craft harbors in the world, offers an extensive array of services, amenities, and navigable waterways. Yacht charters are the most popular boating experience of choice in Marina del Rey.


#2: San Diego

Average Hourly Rental Price

$229

Average Total Trip Price

$710

Pontoons

Aquatic Offerings

San Diego Bay, Coronado Bridge, La Jolla Cove, scenic landmarks, marine life, and proximity to Catalina Island.

San Diego, situated along the southern coast of California, is a top boating destination thanks to its expansive and well-protected harbor and a series of sheltered bays. The region benefits from a mild Mediterranean climate, fostering year-round boating opportunities. San Diego's accessibility to notable marine landmarks, including Point Loma and Coronado Island, contribute to its popularity. San Diego's rich maritime history and a plethora of recreational activities make it a sought-after destination for sailors, cruisers, and those seeking a diverse and dynamic boating experience.


#3: South Lake Tahoe

Average Hourly Rental Price

$158

Average Total Trip Price

$771

Powerboats

Aquatic Offerings

Crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay, recreational activities, fishing for trout or salmon.

South Lake Tahoe sits in the Sierra Nevada mountains and it stands out as a favored boating destination thanks to its crystal-clear waters and alpine setting. The lake's pristine clarity and scenic mountainous backdrop provide an unparalleled visual experience. Boaters in South Lake Tahoe enjoy a variety of water activities, from sailing and kayaking to motorized boating, all against the backdrop of stunning natural landscapes. The accessibility to multiple marinas and waterfront facilities, combined with the picturesque surroundings and a plethora of onshore recreational options, establishes South Lake Tahoe as an attractive boating destination.


#4: Newport Beach

Average Hourly Rental Price

$295

Average Total Trip Price

$966

Yachts

Aquatic Offerings

Newport Harbor, Balboa Island, waterfront dining, upscale marinas, scenic coastline.

Newport Beach, located along the Orange County coastline in California, emerges as a prominent boating destination due to a confluence of geographical, climatic, and recreational factors. The city's extensive network of harbors, including Newport Harbor and Balboa Harbor, provides boaters with ample docking space and navigable waterways. Newport Beach's location near marine landmarks like Catalina Island, adds to its allure. Furthermore, Newport Beach's vibrant waterfront community, upscale amenities, and a variety of onshore attractions contribute to its status as a sought-after destination for sailing, yachting, and recreational boating.


#5: Long Beach

Average Hourly Rental Price

$184

Average Total Trip Price

$617

Yachts

Aquatic Offerings

Queen Mary, Naples Canals, Long Beach Marine Stadium, urban amenities, waterfront attractions.

Long Beach, positioned along the southern California coastline, has established itself as a premier boating destination through a synthesis of geographical advantages and recreational offerings. Its expansive and well-protected harbor, complemented by the Los Angeles River estuary, provides a diverse aquatic environment suitable for a wide array of boating activities. The city is near major shipping lanes and the Queen Mary, an iconic maritime landmark. Robust maritime infrastructure, including modern marinas, yacht clubs, and marine services, enhances the overall boating experience. Additionally, Long Beach's commitment to hosting prominent boating events, such as the Long Beach Grand Prix, further solidifies its status as a popular destination for boaters.


#6: Coronado

Average Hourly Rental Price

$289

Average Total Trip Price

$883

Yachts

Aquatic Offerings

Coronado Island, Hotel del Coronado, Glorietta Bay, charming island ambiance, historic landmarks, pristine beaches.

Coronado, situated along the San Diego Bay in California, emerges as a favored boating destination owing to a combination of geographical, climatic, and recreational factors. The sheltered waters of the bay, framed by the iconic Coronado Bridge and the picturesque skyline of San Diego, provide an inviting environment for boaters. Coronado's strategic location, near the Pacific Ocean and notable maritime landmarks such as Point Loma, contributes to its allure. With its stunning waterfront, proximity to naval bases, and a range of maritime events, Coronado attracts sailing enthusiasts and recreational boaters seeking a blend of navigational challenges and scenic coastal beauty.


#7: Huntington Beach

Average Hourly Rental Price

$341

Average Total Trip Price

$1,025

Yachts

Aquatic Offerings

Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, Huntington State Beach, Huntington Harbour, diverse ecosystems, popular surfing spots.

Huntington Beach, situated along the Southern California coastline, has garnered popularity as a boating destination due to a convergence of geographical, climatic, and recreational elements. The city's adjacency to the Pacific Ocean affords boaters access to open waters, presenting diverse opportunities for marine activities. The region benefits from a temperate coastal climate, with mild temperatures and relatively calm sea conditions, facilitating year-round boating. Huntington Beach's extensive shoreline, encompassing the Huntington Harbour and Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, provides a varied and picturesque seascape for boaters. The city's commitment to maritime infrastructure, including well-maintained marinas, yacht clubs, and marine services, further elevates its appeal. Boaters are drawn to Huntington Beach for its vibrant coastal atmosphere, diverse aquatic ecosystems, and a plethora of recreational options, establishing it as a sought-after destination for sailing, yachting, and overall maritime enjoyment.


#8: Tahoe City

Average Hourly Rental Price

$250

Average Total Trip Price

$1,200

Powerboats

Aquatic Offerings

West Shore, Fannette Island, Lake Tahoe, mountainous surroundings, serene waters.

Tahoe City, nestled along the northern shores of Lake Tahoe at the outlet of the Truckee River, has gained prominence as a top boating destination in the state. The clear and pristine waters of Lake Tahoe, surrounded by the Sierra Nevada mountains, create a visually stunning backdrop. The lake's large surface area and diverse topography offer ample space for various boating activities, including sailing, kayaking, and motorized boating. Wakesurfing and wakeboarding are popular activities to enjoy by boat in Tahoe City. With well-established marinas, boat launches, and access to scenic coves and inlets, Tahoe City offers an appealing boating experience.


#9: San Francisco

Average Hourly Rental Price

$361

Average Total Trip Price

$1,005

Sailboats

Aquatic Offerings

Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, San Francisco Bay, iconic landmarks, challenging waters.

San Francisco stands as a prominent boating destination, epitomized by a confluence of geographical, climatic, and maritime factors. The city's expansive bay, notably the San Francisco Bay, provides a diverse aquatic environment, offering a myriad of sailing and boating opportunities. The region's distinctive and challenging winds, often influenced by the cool coastal climate, create an engaging navigational experience for sailors. The iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, coupled with the city's panoramic skyline, contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the boating landscape. The city's rich maritime history and the annual Fleet Week further enhance its reputation as an attractive destination for boating enthusiasts.


#10: Sausalito

Average Hourly Rental Price

$263

Average Total Trip Price

$747

Yachts

Aquatic Offerings

Richardson’s Bay, Sausalito Yacht Harbor, Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito Yacht Club, Houseboats on the Bay.

Sausalito, located in Marin County, not far from San Francisco, has emerged as a favorite boating destination. Situated along the picturesque northern shores of the Bay, Sausalito offers a sheltered and strategically positioned harbor, shielding vessels from the prevailing Pacific winds. The city’s proximity to iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, combined with its vibrant waterfront community and upscale marinas, adds to the allure. Here, yachting and sailing are beloved pastimes for locals and visitors alike.


In Summary

The coastal cities of California, as delineated in this comprehensive analysis, offer a spectrum of boating experiences characterized by unique aquatic features and points of interest. The diverse attractions, ranging from serene lakeside retreats to lively urban waterfronts, establish these destinations as popular choices for boaters seeking scientific interest, recreational opportunities, and an exploration of California's coastal geography.


Citing This Report

Media professionals are welcome to utilize this data for journalistic reporting purposes, with a citation and link to Getmyboat. For any questions, or for any other data not found in the below report, reach out to pr@getmyboat.com. Our data and press team can provide further analysis, press quotes, and any other information needed for press stories.