Palmetto Bay Marina: Boat Slips, Fuel, and Waterfront Dining on Biscayne Bay

What Palmetto Bay Marina Offers

Palmetto Bay Marina sits on the western shore of Biscayne Bay in Miami-Dade County, about 20 minutes south of downtown Miami. The facility operates year-round and provides wet slips for boats up to roughly 65 feet, fuel docks with both gasoline and diesel, a ship's store, and a waterfront restaurant. The marina is privately operated and caters to both transient boaters passing through and those keeping permanent slips.

The marina's primary draw for South Carolina visitors is its position as a stopping point for cruisers heading to or from the Caribbean, the Keys, or the Bahamas. If you're trailering a boat to South Florida for offshore fishing or a longer voyage, Palmetto Bay can provide a secure place to leave your vessel while you handle business on land. The facility also serves local boaters who fish the bay or use it as a base for day trips.

Key Takeaways

• Palmetto Bay Marina accommodates vessels up to approximately 65 feet with wet slips available for both short-term and long-term docking.
• Fuel service includes both gasoline and diesel at the fuel dock, useful for boats heading offshore or to the Keys.
• The on-site restaurant and ship's store mean you can handle meals and basic supplies without leaving the property.
• The marina's location on Biscayne Bay provides direct access to fishing grounds, the Intracoastal Waterway, and routes to the Florida Keys.

Slip Availability and Boat Size Limits

Palmetto Bay Marina operates wet slips rather than dry storage, meaning your boat stays in the water. Slips accommodate vessels up to roughly 65 feet in length, though exact availability depends on current occupancy. The marina accepts both transient (short-term) and permanent slip rentals, so you can dock for a night or a season.

Transient rates and permanent slip costs vary by boat size and season. Contact the marina directly for current pricing, as rates change and availability fluctuates, especially during winter months when cruisers from the north arrive. If you're planning to leave your boat for an extended period, ask about long-term discounts or winter storage options.

Fuel, Water, and Basic Services

The fuel dock dispenses both gasoline and diesel, essential if you're running a larger cruising boat or heading offshore. Water hookups are available at the slips for freshwater needs. The ship's store stocks basic marine supplies, ice, and snacks—useful if you need a quick item before heading out or if you're staying overnight.

The marina does not offer haul-out or repair services on-site, so if your boat needs mechanical work, you'll need to arrange that elsewhere. However, the staff can point you toward nearby repair facilities and marine services in the Miami area. Pump-out facilities are available for boats with holding tanks.

Dining and Amenities

The on-site waterfront restaurant serves lunch and dinner with views of Biscayne Bay. The menu focuses on seafood and casual fare typical of South Florida marina restaurants. Hours vary seasonally, so check ahead if you're planning an evening meal. The restaurant is open to both marina guests and the public, so it's a reasonable option if you're docked for the night or just stopping by.

Restroom and shower facilities are available to slip renters. Wi-Fi is typically available throughout the marina, though speeds and reliability vary. The marina has limited parking for vehicles, so if you're leaving your boat for a few days, confirm parking availability when you reserve your slip.

Location and Access to Fishing and Cruising Routes

Palmetto Bay Marina's position on Biscayne Bay puts you within reach of several popular fishing grounds. Shallow-water flats to the south hold bonefish and permit; deeper waters offshore hold grouper, snapper, and pelagic species depending on season. The Intracoastal Waterway runs nearby, offering a protected route north toward Fort Lauderdale or south toward the Keys.

The marina is roughly 15 nautical miles north of the Florida Keys and about 30 minutes by boat to the Bahamas if you're running an offshore-capable vessel. For South Carolina boaters planning a winter escape or a longer cruise, Palmetto Bay serves as a logical refueling and rest stop. The bay itself is relatively protected, making it suitable for overnight docking even during mild weather.

Getting There and Contact Information

Palmetto Bay Marina is located at 9300 Palmetto Bay Road in Miami, Florida 33157. If you're driving, it's accessible via the Palmetto Expressway (Florida's Turnpike) and local roads; GPS coordinates and detailed directions are available on the marina's website. The facility is open daily, though office hours may vary seasonally.

To reserve a slip, check current rates, or ask about services, contact the marina directly by phone or through their website. If you're planning to arrive by water, you can call ahead to confirm availability and get docking instructions. The marina monitors VHF Channel 16 for hailing, though calling ahead is more reliable for securing a slip.

Nearby Alternatives and Considerations

The Miami area has several other marinas, including Dinner Key Marina (closer to downtown), Coconut Grove Sailing Club, and various facilities in Homestead and the Keys. If Palmetto Bay is full or doesn't meet your needs, these alternatives are within 20 to 40 minutes by boat. Each has different slip sizes, pricing, and amenities, so your choice depends on your boat's size, how long you're staying, and what services matter most.

Weather is a factor year-round in South Florida. Hurricane season runs June through November, and while the marina is relatively protected, severe storms can close facilities or limit access. Winter (December through March) brings calm conditions and attracts cruisers from the north, so slips fill quickly during those months. Spring and fall offer good weather with fewer crowds and lower rates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I dock overnight at Palmetto Bay Marina?

Yes, the marina accepts transient slips for short-term docking. Rates are charged per night based on boat length. You'll have access to water, fuel, restrooms, and showers. Confirm availability by calling ahead, especially during winter months when the marina fills up.

What's the maximum boat size the marina can accommodate?

Palmetto Bay Marina accepts vessels up to roughly 65 feet. Exact slip availability depends on current occupancy and your boat's beam (width). Call the marina with your boat's length, beam, and draft to confirm they can accommodate you.

Does the marina offer boat repairs or haul-out services?

No, Palmetto Bay Marina does not have repair facilities or haul-out capability on-site. The staff can recommend nearby marine service providers in the Miami area if you need mechanical work or other repairs.

Is the restaurant open to people who aren't docked at the marina?

Yes, the waterfront restaurant is open to the public, not just slip renters. Hours vary by season, so check ahead if you're planning to dine there. It's a casual spot with seafood and bay views.

How far is Palmetto Bay Marina from the Florida Keys?

The marina is roughly 15 nautical miles north of the Keys, about 30 minutes by boat depending on your vessel's speed and sea conditions. It's a common stopping point for cruisers heading south or refueling before the run to the Bahamas.