Top Sandbars & Coastal Getaways for Family Boaters

There’s something special about dropping anchor at a sandbar or tucked-away island. Whether you’re grilling lunch on deck, fishing off the stern, or watching the kids chase minnows in knee-deep water, it’s the kind of simple fun that makes boating unforgettable.

At Sportsman, we design boats that make these moments easy—from shallow-draft bay boats to offshore center consoles equipped for family cruising. Below are five of our favorite family-friendly sandbars and coastal escapes—handpicked for boaters who want to explore, relax, and maybe catch dinner along the way.

1. Three Rooker Island – Clearwater, Florida (Gulf Coast)

Tucked between Honeymoon Island and Anclote Key, Three Rooker Island is a pristine, boat-only destination that's a favorite among Florida Gulf Coast families. It’s a naturally forming sandbar with powdery white sand, clear water and calm anchoring spots perfect for raft-ups and beach games.

Why it’s great for families:

• Shallow water for kids

• Sandbar extends far out during low tide

• Dolphins often swim nearby

• Accessible via the Intracoastal, making it ideal for a Masters 247 or Heritage 241

Pro tip: Arrive early on weekends. It’s popular, but there's plenty of space to spread out if you stake your spot early.

2. Lake Pontchartrain’s Little Irish Bayou – Louisiana (Gulf Coast)

For Louisiana locals looking for a quick and calm escape, Little Irish Bayou, just outside of New Orleans, is a hidden gem. While not a sandbar in the traditional sense, this shallow inlet off Lake Pontchartrain offers calm waters, minimal boat traffic, and a peaceful setting to anchor, swim, or fish.

Why families love it:

• Easy access from Slidell or New Orleans

• Calm for paddleboarding or tubing

• Nearby marshes offer great fishing

• Quiet enough for a full day of floating

Recommended ride: A Masters 227 Bay Boat is perfect for sneaking into these protected shallows with plenty of space for the family and gear.

3. Stuart Sandbar – Stuart, Florida (East Coast)

Where the St. Lucie River meets the Atlantic, the Stuart Sandbar is one of Florida’s most iconic boating hangouts. The water is clear, shallow, and perfect for anchoring just off the inlet. Expect dozens of other friendly boaters, floating picnic tables, and kids playing in the surf.

Family favorites:

• Sandbar is exposed during low tide

• Great spot to snorkel with kids

• Restaurants and fuel docks nearby

• Dolphins and manatees are common visitors

Ideal launch: A Heritage 231 Center Console is built for both the Intracoastal cruise and a quick offshore run if the conditions are right.

4. Fairlee Creek – Maryland (Mid-Atlantic)

Hidden just north of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, Fairlee Creek is one of the best-kept secrets on the upper Chesapeake. This protected cove opens into a sandy beach and quiet anchorage—perfect for a family day trip. On calm days, it’s a straight shot up from Annapolis.

Why boaters love it:

• Protected anchorage with calm water

• Easy beach landing for kids and pets

• Shallow shoreline is perfect for paddleboards

• Great mix of fishing and floating

Best approach: Bring your Open 252 for a smooth ride up the Bay with enough size and storage to keep the whole crew comfortable.

5. Tices Shoal – Barnegat Bay, New Jersey (Northeast)

Located just inside Barnegat Inlet, Tices Shoal is a must-visit for Northeast boaters. The shallow shoal sits adjacent to Island Beach State Park, offering beautiful sandy bottom anchoring, crystal-clear water, and even a short beach walk to the ocean.

Why it’s perfect for a summer day:

• Calm bay waters on one side, ocean surf on the other

• Sandbar fun meets state park adventure

• Accessible from both north and south Jersey marinas

• Often hosts floating food vendors and live music on weekends

Family-ready tip: Pack the grill and bring your portable beach tent. It’s a great full-day destination.

These locations are a reminder that the best days on the water aren’t always about the catch—they’re about anchoring in the right spot with the right crew and making memories that stick.

If you’re new to boating, or just looking to upgrade your ride, every Sportsman is built with sandbar Sundays and coastal escapes in mind—plenty of storage, shallow draft options, freshwater showers, and full-length swim platforms make pulling up to these destinations effortless.

Been to one of these spots? Tag us on Instagram @sportsmanboats with your favorite sandbar moments!

Tight lines and following seas!