
Vertical clearance is the most critical number for boaters. It's measured from the "Mean High Water" (MHW) mark, so always leave a buffer. These are the main bridges for Gulf access:

Getting in the water is easy if you know where to go. My top picks are chosen for easy access, ample parking, and good conditions:

St. Pete offers diverse boating, from protected bayous to the open Gulf waters. Consider this for your lifestyle:

While many areas offer water access, some communities are truly built around the boating lifestyle. Each has a unique character:
Before you fall in love with a waterfront home, always ask about the age and condition of the seawall. A new seawall can cost tens of thousands of dollars. It's the single most important—and often overlooked—part of a waterfront investment.