Staff Answer
Jun 20, 2026 - 08:08 PM
There are definitely places where you can anchor, but there are also areas where you shouldn't. The good news is that there are plenty of great spots to stop. Crab Island is the most popular, and you'll also find quiet sandy areas around Choctawhatchee Bay where it's perfectly fine to anchor, swim, and relax. What you want to avoid is anchoring in marked navigation channels where other boats need to pass, near bridges, at public docks, boat ramps, or in areas that are clearly marked as 'no anchor' or environmentally protected. You also don't want to tie your boat off to channel markers or navigational buoys. Before you leave the dock, the rental company will usually show you a map and point out the areas where it's safe to anchor. They'll also let you know if there are any temporary restrictions because of weather, construction, or special events. One thing I always tell first time renters is don't stress too much about finding the "perfect" spot. If you see a group of boats safely anchored in an area and you're outside the marked channels, that's usually a good sign you're in a spot where it's okay to stop. And if you're ever unsure, just give the rental company a quick call. We'd much rather answer a question than have you anchor somewhere you shouldn't.
