How to Celebrate the Fourth of July by Boat

As MarineMax prepares for the great American holiday that is the Fourth of July, so should you! We've got you covered for where to spend the day and watch the fireworks at night on the water. It’s hard to argue against the idea of cleaning your boat, fueling it up, and taking it out on the water to really maximize your patriotic spirit. We just want to make it easier, so here are the top ten locations to watch fireworks from your own boat, as well as some ideas for how to make this Fourth the best one yet!
  • PATRIOTS POINT FIREWORKS

    1. Patriot's Point - Charleston, South Carolina

    Anchor your boat on the Cooper River or grab a slip at Charleston Harbor Marina, then sit back and watch the magnificent show. With easy access to the river, taking your boat out is a must! Enjoy a fun night out with your family and friends in the harbor. If you are looking for the history of Charleston, watch the fireworks blast from the unique venue of the flight deck on the USS Yorktown. When it's all said and done don't forget to drop by MarineMax Hall Marine Charleston and check us out! We have plenty of events that we would love for you to be a part of coming up in the very near future.

  • NEW YORK FIREWORKS

    2. Hudson River - New York City, New York

    New York is a beautiful city regardless of the date, whether you are walking around Time's Square or hanging out on your boat this summer, you will never be bored. However, when talking about patriotism on the fourth of July no-one can outdo the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks show. This show is a can’t miss when talking about the best places to view fireworks. While relaxing on the Hudson River, you can grab a spectacular view of the fireworks exploding over the skyline. Watching these fireworks explode over the iconic New York City skyline is definitely a bucket list-worthy experience.

  • NAVY PIER FIREWORKS

    3. Navy Pier - Chicago, Illinois

    The windy city hosts an annual fireworks display from the historic Navy Pier, located on Lake Michigan. Watch the fireworks blast off from your boat in the beautiful blue waters of Lake Michigan. Let your eyes wander while you witness the fantastic view of fireworks in front of the Chicago skyline, and let your ears listens to the music synchronized specifically to this display.

  • Key West bay and boats docked

    4. Casa Marina - Key West, Florida

    Celebrate the unique Florida fruit, the Key Lime, at multiple Key Lime Pie drops throughout the week leading up to the fourth of July. During the week there are events such as a Key Lime Cocktail Sip and Stroll and a pie eating contest, where you can win awards, or simply satisfy your hunger. This festival concludes with a massive fireworks show over the beautiful Casa Marina Resort on the beach. 

  • Seattle Fireworks

    5. Lake Union - Seattle, Washington

    With almost 8,500 pounds of fireworks, it is quite the scene when boating on Lake Union. This event on July 4 is a part of the Seafair Summer Fourth. Boaters can see this display from anywhere on the lake. This event has people traveling from all over the state of Washington and maybe even friends from outside of the state. Stake out your spot, bring your food and drinks, and enjoy this enormous firework display.

  • San Diego Bay Fireworks

    6. The Bay - San Diego, California

    If you’re on the west coast, the “Big Bay Boom,” is a can’t miss when talking about the best firework displays. One of the largest firework shows across the west coast, will be setting off more than 10,000 fireworks and special effects into the night sky. Enjoy a peaceful night on the water as fireworks are shot off in the distance of the San Diego bay.

  • New Orleans Fireworks

    7. Mississippi River - New Orleans, Louisiana

    While taking a break from the streets of New Orleans, grab a spot on the magnificent Mississippi river. Here you can watch this fantastic firework display from Louisiana or Mississippi. Don’t take the Big Easy’s massive Independence Day event for granted, because few events can out-do this one. There is so much to do you won’t have a spare second to relax, from walking the streets of New Orleans to floating down the Mississippi river, you'll want to be there!

  • LAKE TAHOE FIREWORKS

    8. Lake Tahoe - California-Nevada Border

    Fireworks are visible all over the towns surrounding Lake Tahoe, whether you hang out on the shore of El Dorado Beach, Nevada Beach, or Timber Cove Marina, it's a beautiful sight. The firework display casts a reflection off of the crystal-clear water of Lake Tahoe. Making it even more stunning the Sierra Nevada Mountains serve as a back drop. Making this one of the most visually arresting shows in the country. Not only is Lake Tahoe a fantastic place to view fireworks on your fourth, it's also one of the top 10 lakes to visit in the country, so if you get a chance this is a must see! So, pull your boat up and relax as the show explodes.
     
  • Pier 39 Fireworks

    9. Pier 39 - San Francisco, California

    While staying over on the west coast, quite frankly, anywhere in San Francisco would have great views for your fourth of July fireworks. To really get in the spirit try downtown on Pier 39. Get your boat and drift around the pier as you watch about half an hour of firework effects. There are live performers if you get there early enough. If not enjoy yourself, stake out your spots, and cook out using these recommended recipes! Afterwards you can enjoy yourself while watching the breathtaking light show in the pier.
     
  • River Fireworks

    10. Potomac River - Washington D.C

    Where better to celebrate America’s birthday then in the nation’s capital. In order to avoid the worst of the crowds you can view this spectacular firework display happening at the National Mall from the Potomac River. Whether it’s between Gravely Point or on Theodore Island. The best spot is located between the Theodore Roosevelt Bridge and the Arlington Memorial Bridge, so get there early!

Fourth of July Boating Activities

Don't wait until nighttime to begin your Fourth of July fun! Spend your days celebrating with one of these exciting activities.
  • Fishing

    With summertime comes fishing, and there's no better time to fish than on the Fourth of July. Head out with your loved ones and spend the day reeling in fish before the fireworks begin.
  • Grilling

    Cook up your favorite foods while out on your boat! We've got you covered for all the recipes you could need to put together the perfect Fourth of July feast.
  • Watersports

    Celebrate America by having fun with your favorite watersport! Whether you have years of experience or are trying it for the first time, you're sure to have the time of your life.
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