Why fly across the Atlantic when you can experience old world charm right here in Florida? Scattered along the Sunshine State’s coastline are ports and harbors that mirror the elegance, flavors, and atmosphere of Europe’s most iconic seaside towns. From Spanish courtyards to Greek-style tavernas, French Riviera promenades to Italian piazzas, these ports transport you across the Atlantic without leaving U.S. waters.
Whether you’re planning a quick day trip, luxurious weekend cruise or a leisurely weeklong escape, these destinations deliver the romance of the Mediterranean with the convenience of cruising close to home.
Take a look at our top 10 Sunshine State Mediterranean dupes that are perfectly suited for Leopard catamaran cruising.
1) St. Augustine: Spain in the Sunshine State
Why It Feels European: Founded in 1565, the Spanish Colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and shaded courtyards transport you straight to southern Spain.
Step back in time in the nation’s oldest city, where Spanish Colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and shaded courtyards give you a taste of southern Spain. Dock your Leopard Catamaran at the St. Augustine Municipal Marina, placing you steps from historic landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos and the Bridge of Lions.
Spend the afternoon wandering through narrow streets, exploring boutique shops, and savoring tapas and fresh seafood at one of the many intimate plazas. In the evening, enjoy a quiet stroll along the waterfront while the sun sets over Matanzas Bay, offering a picture-perfect Mediterranean-style panorama.
Leopard Owners Tip: The marina is catamaran-friendly, but currents can be tricky. Call ahead for a T-head slip to simplify docking. And if you are looking for some more European flair nearby, take a 40 min drive south to the quaint and unique planned community of European Village.
2) Palm Beach: French Riviera Sophistication
Why It Feels European: Grand boulevards, manicured gardens, and luxury boutiques evoke the Côte d’Azur.
Palm Beach evokes the elegance of the Côte d’Azur with its manicured boulevards, luxury boutiques, and waterfront cafés. Palm Harbor Marina and Rybovich Marina both offer ample space for catamarans and full-service luxury amenities, giving you that added touch of elegance for your French Riviera inspired getaway.
Spend your days browsing high-end fashion shops along Worth Avenue, celebrity spotting while sipping champagne at al fresco cafés, and strolling along the waterfront in the warm glow of the late afternoon sun. Palm Beach’s refined pace and picture-perfect architecture make it feel like a little slice of the French Riviera tucked into Florida.
Leopard Owners Tip: If you’re staying a few nights, request a slip on the southern end of Palm Harbor Marina for easier access to Worth Avenue and the beach. Many Leopard owners also recommend taking advantage of the marina’s concierge service to arrange provisioning or even a private car, making your Riviera-style escape seamless and luxurious from dock to shore.
3) Tarpon Springs: Florida’s Greek Island Escape
Why It Feels European: Sponge-diving boats, blue-and-white buildings, and tavernas serving authentic Greek cuisine channel the Aegean Islands.
Tarpon Springs is more than a charming European dupe in Florida, it’s actually home to the largest Greek community in the United States, shaped by the sponge-diving industry that took root here in the early 1900s. The town’s waterfront still reflects those roots with traditional sponge boats docked along the Anclote River, family-owned bakeries serving baklava and loukoumades (Greek honey puffs), and bustling shops where you’ll hear Greek spoken just as often as English.
Stroll the Sponge Docks to watch divers unload their catch, browse boutiques selling natural sponges and hand-crafted goods, or step into a local Orthodox church for a glimpse of intricate frescoes that could have been lifted straight from the Cyclades. For food lovers, Tarpon Springs is a paradise of authentic Greek cuisine. Sample spanakopita, moussaka, and fresh-caught seafood at legendary eateries like Hellas or Mykonos, then pick up feta, olives, and a bottle of ouzo to recreate the flavors back aboard your catamaran.
The blend of Greek heritage, living traditions, and a bright Florida coastal vibe makes this stop feel unmistakably Mediterranean, yet uniquely Floridian.
Leopard Owners Tip: Depths along the Anclote River can be shallow at low tide. Arrive mid- to high tide for a stress-free approach.
4) Apalachicola: Rustic Mediterranean Fishing Port
Why It Feels European: Brick streets, working oyster boats, and historic storefronts echo southern Italy.
Apalachicola’s blend of maritime heritage, quaint architecture, and relaxed pace evokes the charm of places like Sicily or Amalfi, where the harbor is the heart of local life. Dock at Scipio Creek Marina or Apalachicola Marina, both offering easy access to downtown, fuel, and basic provisioning. The marinas are well-suited for multihulls, with calm waters and friendly staff who often know the best local spots for dining and shopping.
Wander the town’s brick-lined streets to discover historic homes and artisan shops. Stop by local cafés for freshly brewed coffee in the morning, then explore waterfront oyster houses and seafood markets. The town’s working harbor is alive with shrimp and oyster boats, giving visitors an authentic glimpse of Florida’s coastal culture. Wildlife enthusiasts can take short trips along the Apalachicola River or nearby St. George Island to spot wading birds, dolphins, and other marine life.
The combination of history, seafood, culture, and waterfront ambiance gives this small town an old world feel that’s rare in the United States.
Leopard Owners Tip: Provisioning is excellent here! Stock up on local oysters, shrimp, and wine for an onboard Mediterranean feast. Take advantage of the town’s calm anchorages and marinas for overnight stays, but also consider short day sails to St. George Island, just across Apalachicola Bay, or along the protected river channels for quiet, scenic cruising.
5) Naples: Italian Riviera Glamour
Why It Feels European: Gelato shops, piazza dining, and chic boulevards feel like Portofino or Positano.
Naples offers a refined Italian Riviera feel with its palm-lined streets, piazza-style dining, and gelato shops. Dock at Naples City Dock or Port of the Islands Marina to be near Fifth Avenue South, where twinkling lights illuminate outdoor cafés and live music drifts from restaurants. Spend your days exploring this upscale city, savoring Italian-inspired cuisine, and walking the harbor at sunset. Back aboard your Leopard, host a Mediterranean-inspired dinner with provisions from Naples’ gourmet markets.
Naples is also ideally positioned for cruising along Southwest Florida’s islands and waterways. Escape your Mediterranean fantasy and firmly remind yourself that you are in fact still cruising in Florida by setting sail to Keewaydin Island or Kice Island for pristine beaches and wildlife viewing, or anchor at Cape Romano to explore unique shell mounds and abundant birdlife.
Leopard Owners Tip: Naples City Dock accommodates multihulls easily, but tidal currents can run strong, so time arrivals carefully.
6) Dunedin: Bagpipes & Breweries
Why It Feels European:. Dunedin feels distinctly European thanks to its Scottish heritage, cobblestone-style streets, and cozy pubs that mirror the charm of a seaside village in the UK.
Dunedin proudly embraces its Scottish heritage, from the sound of bagpipes at local festivals to cozy pubs that could easily be mistaken for those lining the streets of Edinburgh. Its walkable harborside avenues lined with breweries and cafés carry the same leisurely pace and charm you’d expect in a Scottish coastal town. With a strong emphasis on local culture, craft beer, and good food, Dunedin feels worlds away from the typical Florida beach experience.
For Leopard catamaran owners, Dunedin Marina offers an ideally placed home base. The calm, well-sheltered harbor makes docking straightforward, and once tied up, you’re only steps from the heart of downtown. From here, the protected waters of St. Joseph Sound open up easy cruising to barrier islands such as Caladesi and Honeymoon Island, both consistently ranked among the best beaches in America. The proximity between dock and downtown mirrors the ease of smaller European ports, where you can step off deck and be at dinner in just minutes.
Once ashore, the town offers plenty to explore. Start with a visit to the Dunedin Brewery, Florida’s oldest craft brewery, then make your way along the Pinellas Ale Trail, a collection of more than 40 breweries that rivals the pub culture of the UK. For foodies, European-style cafés and farm-to-table restaurants line the waterfront, while the weekly farmers’ market tempts with artisanal cheeses, fresh produce, and locally baked bread. Add in bike paths, waterfront parks, and live music venues, and you’ll find no shortage of charm to keep you ashore before retreating to the comfort of your catamaran.
Leopard Owners Tip: Take advantage of Dunedin Marina’s easy access to Caladesi and Honeymoon Island by planning a quick day sail. Both anchorages are calm, scenic, and ideal for a relaxed beach day aboard your Leopard catamaran.
7) Rosemary Beach & Alys Beach: Whitewashed Aegean Elegance
Why It Feels European: Inspired by Andalusian courtyards, Dutch West Indies details, and Grecian whitewashed walls, Rosemary Beach and Alys Beach feel more like Mediterranean enclaves than Florida beach towns.
These are without a doubt two of Florida’s most distinctive communities, and while neither town has its own marina, it is still worth a visit for their unique European charm. Dock your Leopard catamaran in one of the many options in either Panama City or Destin and take a short drive to experience two of the most charming European towns in Florida, complete with sugar white sand beaches and fresh gulf seafood.
Rosemary Beach invites visitors to wander pedestrian-friendly streets, relax in shaded courtyards, and dine at European-inspired bistros. Alys Beach, with its striking all-white architecture, palm-lined avenues, and luxurious Gulf-front restaurants, offers an even stronger resemblance to Santorini. Both towns boast upscale boutiques, art galleries, and cafés perfect for leisurely exploring.
Nature lovers aren’t left out either, Camp Helen State Park and Deer Lake State Park, both nearby, offer hiking trails, dune lakes, and quiet stretches of picture-perfect white sand.
Leopard Owners Tip: Time your visit for late afternoon. As the golden light hits the whitewashed walls, the entire town glows in warm hues, a scene every bit as photogenic as the Mediterranean.
8) Venice: A True Namesake
Why It Feels European: True to its name, Venice Florida was modeled on the European original and blends Italian architecture with a network of canals set against a laid-back Floridian backdrop.
Venice, Florida, lives up to its famous Italian counterpart with charming Italian architecture, quaint courtyards, and a scenic network of canals that evoke a small European harbor town. Strolling through the downtown, you’ll notice Mediterranean-style arches, quaint courtyards, tiled roofs, and decorative fountains that make every corner feel like a scene from Italy.
But Venice is more than just a picturesque town, its waterways and nearby coastlines make it ideal for catamaran exploration. Sail along the Intracoastal Waterway, anchor near scenic canals for a quiet lunch, or explore Robinson Preserve and the nearby barrier islands for kayaking and wildlife viewing.
Venice is also famously known as the “Shark Tooth Capital of the World.” Its beaches are scattered with fossilized prehistoric shark teeth, perfect for entertaining kids and adults alike as you leisurely hunt for fossilized treasures in the warm Gulf waters.
Leopard Owners Tip: For a true local experience, rent bikes and ride the Venetian Waterway Trail, which winds along the canals and through scenic parks, a perfect way to capture that European harbor-town feeling while stretching your legs before setting sail again.
9) Dry Tortugas: Fortress of the Old World
Why It Feels European: The 19th-century Fort Jefferson is reminiscent of the massive stone fortresses found in Mediterranean harbors. Its imposing brick walls, moat-like ditches, and historic cannons transport visitors to another era, giving this remote island cluster a distinctly old-world European feel.
The Dry Tortugas are one of the least visited national parks in the United States, mostly due to the fact that it is only accessible by boat or seaplane, and also partly because most cruisers heading south down the Florida coast get stuck in the lively atmosphere of the keys.
Located about 70 miles west of Key West, the uninhabited Dry Tortugas blend European history and architecture with some of Florida’s most spectacular diving and wildlife. Drop anchor in the calm, protected waters of Garden Key, where Fort Jefferson rises dramatically just steps from shore. Wander through its vast corridors, climb the ramparts for sweeping ocean views, and imagine the fortress in its prime as a maritime stronghold. Beyond the brick walls, the surrounding waters offer some of the best diving and snorkeling in the state.
Dive in among the colorful coral reefs alive with tropical fish, sea turtles, reef sharks and giant groupers. For a slower pace, paddleboard or kayak through turquoise shallows, spot rare seabirds, or comb the untouched beaches for shells. Together, the fortress and the unspoiled marine environment create a rare destination that feels at once historic, European, and distinctly Floridian.
Leopard Owners Tip: Fuel up and pack provisions! The Dry Tortugas are completely off-grid, making it a true adventure for self-sufficient Leopard Catamaran owners.
10) Coral Gables & Coconut Grove: South of France Elegance
Why It Feels European: Spanish-Mediterranean architecture, leafy plazas, and café culture reminiscent of Antibes or Cannes.
Coconut Grove and Coral Gables transport you to the South of France with their Mediterranean-style architecture, tree-lined streets, and charming plazas. Dock at Dinner Key Marina or Bayshore Landing to be just minutes from the heart of the Grove, where sidewalk cafés, French patisseries, and boutique shops invite leisurely exploration. Spend your morning sipping espresso in the shade of tropical trees, the afternoon wandering the glitzy boulevards, and the evening enjoying sunset cocktails overlooking Biscayne Bay. The relaxed yet sophisticated vibe is reminiscent of Antibes or Cannes, making it a perfect romantic weekend escape.
And don’t skip out on taking a dip in the unmistakably European Venetian Pool in Coral Gables and a stroll through the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, where grand Italian Renaissance-inspired architecture, formal gardens, and fountains evoke the elegance of an old European estate. For a scenic afternoon, sail along Biscayne Bay to admire waterfront mansions and hidden coves, or anchor near Dinner Key for sunset cocktails with panoramic views of the city skyline to remind yourself that you are in fact still in Miami.
Leopard Owners Tip: Dinner Key offers over 500 slips, but request an outside slip for the easiest catamaran access.
Cruising Europe, Florida Style
Florida offers Leopard catamaran owners a chance to experience European charm without crossing the Atlantic. From tapas in St. Augustine to Greek feasts in Tarpon Springs, French elegance in Palm Beach to Italian sunsets in Naples, you can live your European sailing fantasies whilst still staying close to home and using your Leopard Catamaran as your luxurious home base.
Whether you are looking to sail away to your favorite destination dupes close to home or cross the Atlantic or Pacific for the ultimate off the grid lifestyle, Leopard catamarans are capable of it all. Contact our Leopard Owners team today to find out how easy and accessible yacht ownership really can be with the Leopard advantage.
