DMV - Local Boating
Local Boating Guide
Exploring the waters of the area offers endless opportunities for adventure, sightseeing, and dining. Check out our local guide for inspiration on where to go, what to see, and the best spots to eat and drink on your next boating trip.
Places to See
Our area offers incredible sightseeing opportunities, including a cruise past the National Mall, where you can view the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and Kennedy Center from the water. Heading south, boaters can explore Mount Vernon, the historic estate of George Washington, which features a beautiful waterfront view along the Potomac River. For a mix of history and entertainment, The Wharf and National Harbor provide vibrant waterfront destinations with restaurants, live music, and stunning cityscape views.
Historic London Town and Gardens
A 23-acre historic park on Almshouse Creek (off South River) featuring an 18th-century William Brown mansion and beautiful woodland gardens. Boaters may dock for free at the small private pier (approx. 4-ft depth) while touring the museum and gardens. It’s an educational, quiet stop – great for families and history buffs to stretch their legs and enjoy colonial history and horticulture.
Address: 839 Londontown Rd, Edgewater, MD 21037
Website: Visit Website
Phone: (410) 222-1919
Harness Creek & Quiet Waters Park
About 2.5 miles upriver from Oak Grove, Harness Creek backs up to Quiet Waters Park and is one of the South River’s most popular anchorages. Many Oak Grove boaters raft up or anchor here to swim, relax with lunch on board, or paddle into the park’s coves. Depths stay 8–10 ft with sheltered, calm waters. You can dinghy ashore to Quiet Waters Park, which has walking trails, picnic areas, and summer concerts.
Address: Located within Quiet Waters Park, Annapolis, MD
National Harbor
Roughly 18 miles north on the Potomac, National Harbor is within range for a day trip from Occoquan. Boaters can arrive at the National Harbor Marina and enjoy the same attractions mentioned earlier (Capital Wheel, restaurants, shopping). It offers a big change of scenery – from quiet Occoquan to the bustling entertainment district – and is doable in a larger powerboat in good weather. Many will plan a whole day, departing early and returning before dark.
Address: 165 Waterfront St, National Harbor, MD 20745
Website: Visit Website
Phone: (301) 749-1582
Leesylvania State Park
Just 5 miles out of the Occoquan River at Freestone Point. Leesylvania offers a quiet natural escape with hiking trails, picnic shelters, a boat beaching area, and a marina with fuel. Its historic Potomac River bluff was once home to Revolutionary War hero “Light-Horse” Harry Lee’s family. Boaters often pull up on the park’s shoreline to enjoy a picnic or hike to the Civil War cannon battlements. It’s a convenient family outing very close to Occoquan.
Address: 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Dr, Woodbridge, VA 22191
Website: Visit Website
Phone: (703) 730-8205
Town of Occoquan
A pleasant 7-mile cruise up the Potomac and Occoquan River brings you to the Occoquan town dock. Here you can enjoy waterfront dining, a cup of coffee from the local cafe, and browse art shops. The trip upriver feels like an adventure, transitioning from broad Potomac into the narrow, wooded Occoquan – worth it for the destination’s quaint reward.
Address: 201 Mill St, Occoquan, VA 22125 (Occoquan town dock/Madigan’s)
Website: Visit Website
Georgetown Waterfront
Lively waterfront area in Georgetown with day docks and popular riverside restaurants. Boaters can tie up along the Washington Harbour seawall (no overnight docking) to enjoy dining, parks, and people-watching.
Address: 3000–3050 K St NW, Washington, DC 20007
Website: Visit Website
Phone: (202) 295-5007
Old Town Alexandria
A charming historic waterfront town just ~8 miles downriver. Dock at the Alexandria City Marina (next to Cameron Street) and stroll King Street’s colonial-era shops, restaurants, and pubs. The area’s 18th-century architecture and waterfront parks make it ideal for couples and families.
Address: 0 Cameron St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Website: Visit Website
Phone: (703) 746-5487
The Yards Marina - Capitol Riverfront
A convenient marina on the Anacostia River by Nationals Park. Transient slips allow boaters to dock for a few hours or overnight to catch a baseball game and enjoy the surrounding restaurants and bars. The location is hard to beat for entertainment, with concerts and events at The Yards Park in summer.
Address: 10 Water St SE, Washington, DC 20003
Website: Visit Website
Phone: (202) 484-0309
Mount Vernon Estate Wharf
Cruise ~15 miles down the Potomac to George Washington’s historic estate. Private boats are welcome on a first-come basis. Walking the grounds offers a unique glimpse into history from the river approach. The estate’s red-roofed wharf and hilltop mansion are especially picturesque from the water.
Address: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy, Mount Vernon, VA 22121
Website: Visit Website
Phone: (703) 780-2000
The Wharf
Cruise upriver (~10 mi) to DC’s Wharf District for a day of dining and sightseeing. Transient slips and day docks allow easy access to dozens of restaurants, boutiques, and the vibrant waterfront promenade. It’s a great urban boating getaway with views of DC monuments from the water.
Address: 760 Maine Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024
Website: Visit Website
Phone: (202) 984-1900
Fort Washington Park
A national park on the Potomac featuring a 200-year-old fort on a high bluff. While it doesn’t have public boat docks, you can anchor just off shore in fair weather and take in the “grand view” of Washington and the Virginia shoreline. The fort’s stone walls and riverside walking trails make this a scenic, historic stop.
Address: 13551 Fort Washington Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20616
Website: Visit Website
Phone: (301) 763-4600
Mount Vernon
George Washington’s Mount Vernon is a must-visit landmark. Its reconstructed wharf welcomes private boats (call ahead for docking). From the river, the estate’s gently sloping lawn and mansion are visible, and visiting by boat gives a unique historical perspective. Tours of the estate and gardens are available if you come ashore. Make sure to purchase your ticket prior to visiting.
Address: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy, Mount Vernon, VA 22121
Website: Visit Website
Phone: (703) 780-2000
National Colonial Farm
Directly across from Mount Vernon on the Maryland side, this living history farm (part of Piscataway Park) has a new boat dock with stunning views of Mount Vernon. It’s about 7 miles from National Harbor. Boaters can tie up (6 ft depth at high tide) and explore the 18th-century farm, trails, and wildlife exhibits in the park. This is a peaceful, family-friendly stop with a bit of history and nature.
Address: 3400 Bryan Point Rd, Accokeek, MD 20607
Website: Visit Website
Phone: (301) 283-2113
Downtown Annapolis & City Dock
Nautilus Point is in Eastport, just a short hop across Spa Creek to Annapolis City Dock (“Ego Alley”). Docking at City Dock (one Dock Street) puts you steps from the U.S. Naval Academy, the Maryland State House, and countless shops and pubs in this historic capital city. Strolling along the brick streets or enjoying ice cream by the water are favorite activities. Annapolis is extremely boater-friendly, often called the “Sailing Capital,” and offers a mix of history and lively maritime culture.
Address: 1 Dock St, Annapolis, MD 21401
Website: Visit Website
Phone: (410) 263-7973
Kent Narrows Dock Bars
For a fun day trip, cruise ~15 miles east to Kent Narrows, a lively boating channel lined with waterfront bars/restaurants. You can dock at establishments like Fisherman’s Crab Deck or The Jetty Dock Bar to enjoy fresh seafood and tiki-bar vibes. This area is known for its summer dock bar scene – expect live music, outdoor decks, and plenty of fellow boaters. It’s an ideal destination for groups of friends looking to socialize.
Address: 3032 Kent Narrows Way S, Grasonville, MD 21638 (Fisherman’s Crab Deck)
Website: Visit Website
Phone: (410) 827-6666
Rock Hall & Waterman’s Crab House
About 18–20 miles north (across the Bay), Rock Hall is a quaint fishing town that makes a great full-day excursion. Dock at Waterman’s Crab House or Rock Hall Harbor and enjoy this quieter Eastern Shore town. Waterman’s offers famous crabs and a marina/dock bar atmosphere. Rock Hall features gift shops and often hosts summer festivals. This trip gives you open Bay cruising and a rewarding destination with small-town charm.
Address: 21055 W Sharp St, Rock Hall, MD 21661 (Waterman’s Crab House)
Website: Visit Website
Phone: (410) 639-6860
St. Michaels
A picturesque harbor town on the Eastern Shore, roughly 15 miles by water (across Eastern Bay into Miles River). St. Michaels is famous for the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and its quaint downtown. Boaters can dock at the museum or in the harbor and spend the day exploring exhibits on Bay history, browsing boutique shops, and enjoying seafood at waterfront eateries. This is an ideal family destination blending education and leisure.
Address: 213 N Talbot St, St. Michaels, MD 21663
Website: Visit Website
Phone: (410) 745-2916
Things to Do
Boating in the greater Washington, D.C. area offers plenty of exciting water activities, including wakeboarding and tubing on the Potomac River, where boaters can find smooth stretches for high-speed fun. Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines in the Chesapeake Bay or Occoquan River, targeting striped bass, catfish, and perch.
Wakeboarding & Water Sports
Early mornings offer the smoothest water for wakeboarding, waterskiing, tubing, and jet-skiing. While some areas are restricted by no-wake zones or boat traffic, nearby open stretches and sheltered coves provide ideal conditions. These spots are popular for long runs, slalom skiing, and casual tubing—just watch for debris, shallow water, and crab pots.
Fishing Hotspots
Local waters offer diverse fishing opportunities, from trophy-sized blue catfish and striped bass to white perch, crappie, and even northern snakehead. Early mornings and evenings are best for bass along marsh edges, while deeper channels and creek mouths yield catfish year-round. In spring, look for shad and herring runs; summer brings spot, croaker, and blue crabs. Whether casting for big game or teaching kids to fish, there's always something biting nearby.
Scenic Cruising
Local waterways offer a mix of natural beauty and cultural sights perfect for leisurely cruises. Whether winding through forested creeks, circling calm bays at sunset, or exploring broad river channels, there’s always something to enjoy—wildlife, waterfront homes, or peaceful reflections on the water. Early evening trips are especially popular, offering calm conditions and scenic backdrops.
Snorkeling
Though visibility is limited, shallow bays and creeks offer fun, casual snorkeling opportunities—especially for kids. You might spot small fish, tadpoles, or aquatic plants in 2–4 feet of water, particularly on calm, sunny days. These areas are best enjoyed in no-wake zones or enclosed shorelines where paddling with a mask is safe and relaxing. It's a light activity perfect for cooling off and exploring nature from a new angle.
Places to Eat
Boaters in the greater Washington, D.C. area can enjoy a variety of waterfront dining options, from casual dockside bars serving fresh seafood to upscale restaurants with scenic river views. Many marinas and harbors offer convenient dock-and-dine experiences, making it easy to grab a meal or a drink without leaving the water. Whether you're looking for a lively atmosphere with live music or a relaxed setting for a casual dinner, the region has plenty of spots to unwind while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Kirwan’s Irish Pub
Authentic Irish pub at District Wharf featuring genuine decor, live Irish music, and a large selection of imported beers and whiskey. Enjoy pints and hearty pub fare on two patios with Potomac River views. Transient slips available at The Wharf Marina for easy docking.
Address: 749 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC 20024
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 202-554-3818
Mi Vida
Upscale-casual Mexican restaurant by chef Roberto Santibañez, serving street food–inspired dishes in a vibrant waterfront setting overlooking the Washington Channel. Dock at The Wharf’s public piers.
Address: 98 District Sq SW, Washington, DC 20024
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 202-516-4656
Farmers Fishers Bakers
A farmer-owned American eatery at Georgetown’s Washington Harbour, offering a diverse, eco-conscious and locally sourced menu (sushi, salads, burgers, etc.) for lunch, dinner, and an extensive weekend brunch. Lively dining room and covered patio right on the Potomac waterfront. Dock at Georgetown’s public waterfront slips.
Address: 3000 K St NW, Washington, DC 20007
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 202-298-8783
The Salt Line
Trendy Navy Yard oyster bar and ale house with a casual yet sophisticated seafood menu. Offers fresh New England–style seafood (lobster rolls, raw bar) on a dog-friendly outdoor terrace overlooking the Anacostia River. Dock adjacent to the public dock at Diamond Teague Park (short-term tie-ups available).
Address: 79 Potomac Ave SE, Washington, DC 20003
Phone: 202-506-2368
Fiola Mare
Fabio Trabocchi’s renowned upscale Italian seafood restaurant on the Georgetown waterfront , known for its elegant nautical design and panoramic river views, its great for a leisurely luxury lunch on weekends. Menu features fine coastal Italian cuisine (whole branzino, house-made pastas, crudo) with an extensive wine list. Dock at Georgetown’s waterfront
Address: 3050 K St NW Ste 101, Washington, DC 20007
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 202-525-1402
The Walrus Oyster & Ale House
Bustling seafood house overlooking the Potomac at National Harbor. Features a scratch-made menu and one of the largest selections of freshly shucked local oysters (up to 15 varieties). Casual indoor-outdoor seating with unobstructed river views. Transient slips at National Harbor Marina.
Address: 749 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC 20024
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 301-567-6100
Succotash
Celebrity chef Edward Lee’s acclaimed restaurant blending Southern comfort food with Korean accents. Soulful menu features smoked meats, fried chicken, kimchi collards, and craft drinks in a stylish two-story space. Military discount 10%. Dock at National Harbor Marina (short walk).
Address: 186 Waterfront St, National Harbor, MD 20745
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 301-567-8900
Vola’s Dockside Grill
A popular waterfront grill on the Alexandria City Marina pier, offering classic seafood with a view of Old Town’s harbor. All-day menu of crab cakes, oysters, fish tacos, and more, plus a tiki-themed Hi-Tide Lounge for tropical drinks. Live music on summer weekends at the attached lounge. Dock at Alexandria’s public docks.
Address: 101 N. Union St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 703-935-8890
Barca Pier & Wine Bar
Trendy Spanish-Mediterranean tapas bar split between an open-air pier (built from a repurposed shipping container) and an intimate indoor wine bar. Serves shareable small plates like croquetas, patatas bravas, and charcuterie alongside sangria and Spanish wines. Special: Located at Robinson Landing with “pull-up boat access” for diners (with docking fee).
Address: 79 Potomac Ave SE, Washington, DC 20003
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 703-638-1100
Bond 45
A New York–born Italian steakhouse and seafood restaurant that brings a bit of Broadway to the Potomac. Known for classic Italian-American fare: house-aged steaks, veal chops, fresh pastas, and a raw bar. Located steps from National Harbor Marina - full-service dock with advance reservation.
Address: 3050 K St NW Ste 101, Washington, DC 20007
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 301-839-1445
Mike’s Crab House
A legendary waterfront crab house overlooking the South River – family-owned since 1958. Famous for Chesapeake blue crabs (steamed by the dozen or all-you-can-eat) plus Maryland classics like crab cakes and rockfish bites - it’s super fun, expect butcher-paper tables and mallets pounding crabs.
Address: 3030 Riva Rd, Riva, MD 21140
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 410-956-2784
Yellowfin Steak & Fish House
Waterfront restaurant on the South River known as “Sunset Heaven” for its beautiful west-facing views. Offers a broad menu from fresh seafood and sushi to steaks and pasta. Upscale-casual vibe. Private docks operate on first come, first serve basis.
Address: 2840 Solomons Island Rd, Edgewater, MD 21037
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 410-573-1333
The Pier Oyster Bar & Grill
Casual open-air restaurant at Pier 7 Marina with wraparound decks and sweeping views of the South River. Serves steamed Maryland crabs, raw oysters, crush cocktails, and grill favorites. Sand-covered outdoor tiki bar and plenty of umbrella tables, with a large play area for the kids right off the deck and live music on summer weekends.Tie up at Pier 7 Marina (call ahead on Channel 16) – dockhands available on busy days.
Address: 48 South River Rd S #103, Edgewater, MD 21037
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 443-837-6057
Pirate’s Cove Restaurant & Dock Bar
A beloved West River institution combining a fine-dining seafood restaurant with an adjacent casual dock bar. The dining room offers classic Chesapeake fare (rockfish, scallops, prime rib) in a relaxed setting with water views, while “Big Mary’s” Dock Bar serves steamed crabs, burgers, and beers outside. Plenty of slips for patrons (complimentary docking while dining).
Address: 4817 Riverside Dr, Galesville, MD 20765
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 410-867-2300
Skipper’s Pier
A rustic waterfront crab house and tiki bar on Herring Bay (just south of the West River). It’s a local boaters’ favorite for steamed crabs, fried shrimp baskets, and tropical drinks. Large deck and tiki bar overlook Drum Point and dozens of docked boats. No frills, but great fun (and great crabs). Slips available at adjacent Paradise Marina if the restaurant’s small pier is full.
Address: 3050 K St NW Ste 101, Washington, DC 20007
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 410-867-7110
Carrol’s Creek Café
An elegant seafood restaurant on Spa Creek in Eastport, offering an amazing view of downtown Annapolis across the water. Features creative regional cuisine – think lump crab gazpacho, rockfish with risotto, and a well-curated wine list. Great spot to watch the sailboats. Limited free dockage for diners (call ahead – they have a small pier).
Address: 410 Severn Ave, Annapolis, MD 21403
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 410-263-8102
Severn Inn
Upscale-casual dining just across the Severn River offering panoramic views of Annapolis and the Naval Academy while you enjoy crab cakes, oysters, and seasonal chef specials on a spacious deck (check if closed for private events on weekends).. The Inn has its own small dock for patrons. Known for an excellent Sunday brunch.
Address: 1993 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd, Annapolis, MD 214097
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 410-349-4000
Cantler’s Riverside Inn
The quintessential Maryland crab house nestled on Mill Creek off Whitehall Bay – a true waterman’s hangout. Picnic tables piled high with steamed crabs, peel-and-eat shrimp, corn on the cob; indoor dining for seafood platters and all the fixings. Very popular on summer afternoons (expect a wait at peak times). A must-visit for the authentic Chesapeake crab feast experience.. Free docking for diners – approach via Whitehall Bay.
Address: 458 Forest Beach Rd, Annapolis, MD 21409
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 410-757-1311
The Point Crab House & Grill
Scenic waterfront grill located on Mill Creek off the Magothy River. Offers a mix of traditional Maryland seafood and upscale twists (crab dip pretzel, seared tuna, etc.). Huge outdoor deck under palm umbrellas — named one of the 100 Most Scenic Restaurants in America. Private pier with complimentary slips for diners (often fills up on weekends).
Address: 700 Mill Creek Rd, Arnold, MD 21012
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 410-544-5448
Madigan’s Waterfront
Local institution on the Occoquan River serving seafood, steaks, and pastas in a casual setting. Multi-level decks and a tiki bar let you dine while watching boats cruise by Occoquan’s historic town harbor. Often hosts live karaoke on Fridays and Sunday brunch buffets. Docking: a handful of slips right out front (depth ~3–4 ft; call ahead on arrival).
Address: 201 Mill St, Occoquan, VA 22125
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 703-494-6373
The Electric Palm
Upbeat waterfront bar and grill at Prince William Marina (Occoquan River). Menu of burgers, fish tacos, and casual fare with some Filipino specials (the owner’s heritage) like lumpia. Docking: Plenty of space within the marina – just tie up in a guest slip.
Address: 12745 Sea Ray Ln, Woodbridge, VA 22192
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 703-492-7256
The Harbour Grille
Waterfront dining on Occoquan Bay, near Hoffmaster’s Marina. This spot is on the way out to the Potomac, making it a perfect lunch stop after a morning of boating or fishing. Menu has something for everyone – seafood baskets, steaks, pastas, sandwiches – plus a full tiki bar outside. Large patio and indoor dining room both face the Occoquan Bay channel. Docking available along the marina bulkhead (deep water).
Address: 13188 Marina Way, Woodbridge, VA 22191
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 703-548-0088
The Spot at Belmont Bay
New waterfront restaurant & bar at Belmont Bay Marina (veteran-owned). Serves a fresh American menu (flatbreads, sliders, salads, seafood specials) in a relaxed, scenic setting. Friendly for all ages (board games and cornhole often available). Docking: Use Belmont Bay Harbor Marina slips (the restaurant is right by the fuel dock). Staff can assist boaters; dockmaster on-site.
Address: 551 Harbor Side St, Woodbridge, VA 22191
Phone: 703-491-7768
The Harbour Grille
Waterfront dining on Occoquan Bay, near Hoffmaster’s Marina. This spot is literally on the way out to the Potomac, making it a perfect lunch stop after a morning of boating or fishing. Menu has something for everyone – seafood baskets, steaks, pastas, sandwiches – plus a full tiki bar outside. Large patio and indoor dining room both face the Occoquan Bay channel. Docking available along the marina bulkhead (deep water).
Address: 13188 Marina Way, Woodbridge, VA 22191
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 703-548-0088
The Narrows Restaurant
Refined waterfront restaurant overlooking Kent Narrows, renowned for its crab cakes and cream of crab soup (both shipped nationwide). Complimentary transient slips for diners (call ahead for availability)
Address: 3023 Kent Narrows Way S, Grasonville, MD 21638
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 410-827-8113
Bridges Restaurant
Trendy waterfront restaurant/bar with a modern design and island-inspired flair with a “floating” dining pavilion over the water. Named one of the 100 Most Scenic Restaurants in America. Dock at Wells Cove Marina.
Address: 321 Wells Cove Rd, Grasonville, MD 21638
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 410-827-0282
Harris Crab House & Seafood Restaurant
Family-run and famous for crabs – you can get them steamed, fried, soft-shell – plus oysters, clams, and more. Bustling, friendly and typically filled with boaters and locals alike, famous for its all you can eat crab feasts! boat docking is plentiful, adjacent to a fuel dock on north Narrows.
Address: 433 Kent Narrows Way N, Grasonville, MD 21638
Website: Visit Website
Phone: 410-827-9500
