Paradise is not always some far flung destination. Sometimes it’s right in your own backyard – especially as a Leopard Powercat owner in South Florida.
Florida is practically made for catamaran cruising, with its vast coastline, protected bays, and a near-endless stream of islands, coves, and coastal towns to explore. Whether you’re setting off from the East Coast or the Gulf Coast, the Florida coastline is filled with sun-drenched sandbars remote wildlife refuges, off-grid anchorages and quirky sites.
Whether you’re craving a quick island hop from Miami, a nature retreat through the Ten Thousand Islands, or a bold weekend dash to Bimini, this guide has you covered. We’ve rounded up the 10 best bite-sized escapes and easy getaways that are perfect for Leopard Powercat owners in South Florida.
1. Day Trip To Peanut Island
Cruise Time: ~1 hour from Fort Lauderdale
Trip Type: Day Trip
Vibe: Easygoing Family Fun / Water Toy Paradise / Diving / Snorkeling
Mini Itinerary:
This small island is big on charm and ideal for a relaxed day on the water, offering something for everyone. Plan to depart early and cruise north along the intracoastal to anchor just off Peanut Island by mid-morning. Snorkel the vibrant southern edge of the island to spot manatees, rays, octopus and small sharks, or head north to the Blue Heron Bridge for some easy world class diving.
If you prefer to keep your head above the water, then this is the perfect spot to test out all your latest water toys and soak up the sun. Numerous sandbanks surround the island, making it perfect to pull up your paddleboard and take a stroll, or explore the mile long nature trail on peanut island itself.
Although peanut island has no facilities, there are boats that come by with drinks, beer and snacks for sale, or you can dock at one of the many marinas on either side of the inlet and enjoy a casual waterfront lunch.
Leopard Owner Tip: The island can get busy on weekends—anchor early for a front-row spot close to the action (or peace, depending on your mood).
2. Weekend Getaway To The Upper Florida Keys
Cruise Time: ~5 hours to Key Largo from Miami
Trip Type: Weekend Getaway
Vibe: Tiki Bars / Tropical Waters / Fishing
Mini Itinerary:
Start your Keys weekend by slowly cruising south to Key Largo and stopping at any of the numerous sites along the way that peak your interest. Dock at Marina Del Mar and enjoy a seafood dinner and some tropical cocktails as the sun sets.
The next morning explore John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park – one of Key Largo’s most popular places for manatee encounters. Paddle or snorkel through the park’s mangrove tunnels, to spot a variety of marine life.
Cast your lines and cruise further south to the sport-fishing capital of the world – Islamorada. Feed the tarpon at Robbie’s, snorkel the famous Alligator Reef, and drop anchor near the Islamorada Sandbar for an afternoon of floating, relaxing, and socializing. Return north the next morning or extend your island-hopping adventure to slowly make your way back to civilization.
Leopard Owner Tip: Islamorada’s shallow sandbars are no problem for your Leopard Powercat’s draft. Bring fishing gear—these waters are legendary!
3. Marco Island & Ten Thousand Islands: Wild Weekend Getaway
Cruise Time: ~1.5 hours from Fort Myers
Trip Type: Weekend Escape
Vibe: Nature Exploration / Island Hopping / Remote Retreat
Mini Itinerary:
If you’re craving a wild weekend without sacrificing creature comforts, this powerboating escape delivers. Cruise south toward Marco Island, your jumping-off point to the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, a remote labyrinth of mangroves, hidden beaches, and dolphin-filled backwaters.
On your way south, drop anchor near Keewaydin Island for a sandbar picnic or beach stroll—this undeveloped barrier island is only accessible by boat, and you’ll often have it nearly to yourself. Then head into Marco Island Marina for the night. Dock your Leopard, dine dockside and soak up the peaceful atmosphere.
The next day set out early into the Ten Thousand Islands. This protected stretch of Florida’s southwestern coastline is teeming with birdlife, manatees, and endless nooks to explore. For the adventurous, kayak through mangrove tunnels or stop at Indian Key for some light hiking and shelling. Cap the day off with a peaceful sunset cruise back toward civilization, or stay another night at sea and sleep under the stars.
Leopard Owner Tip: The shallow draft and fuel efficiency of your Leopard Powercat make navigating the narrow passes and remote anchorages of this region a breeze. Bring binoculars, bug spray, and a good playlist—you’ll want to cruise slowly and take it all in.
4. Sandbar Day at Haulover
Cruise Time: <1 hour from Miami Beach
Trip Type: Day Trip
Vibe: Social / Energetic / Floating Party Scene
Mini Itinerary:
This is where Miami’s boating scene comes alive. Head out early and snag a prime anchorage before the sandbar fills with weekend revelers and droves of dayboats.
Set up your floating mat, turn on the tunes, and enjoy an epic people-watching scene. Expect floating taco boats, bachelorette parties, jet skis, and a lively atmosphere in waist-deep turquoise water.
Leopard Owner Tip: Weekends get packed—arrive before 11 a.m. for the best spots. The more floaty toys you have the better!
5. Boca Chita Key & Biscayne National Park Weekend Escape
Cruise Time: ~2 hours from Miami
Trip Type: Weekend Retreat
Vibe: Remote / Peaceful / Diving / Snorkeling
Mini Itinerary:
Cruise south towards Biscayne National Park and dock overnight at the simple but picturesque historic harbor on Boca Chita Key. Explore the lighthouse, hike the shoreline, and enjoy the natural serenity.
Wake up to fantastic snorkeling or diving on the Florida Reef Tract – the 3rd largest barrier reef in the world. The Florida Reef is located just a few miles offshore and offers a vibrant array of diverse marine life.
Head further south to the small undeveloped island of Sands Key within the boundaries of Biscayne National Park. While it’s not known for specific attractions like a lighthouse or extensive hiking trails, it offers a peaceful, undeveloped environment perfect for those seeking solitude and water activities.
Leopard Owner Tip: There are no services at any of these islands, so come self-contained. This is an off-grid weekend built for grilled dinners on board and stargazing from your flybridge, letting your Leopard Power Cat really shine as a true home away from home.
6. Day Trip to Three Rooker Island
Cruise Time: ~30–45 minutes from Clearwater Beach Marina
Trip Type: Day Trip
Vibe: Chill / Uncrowded / Pure Gulf Coast Beauty
Mini Itinerary:
Enjoy a scenic cruise north along the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway and in less than an hour from Clearwater, you’ll reach Three Rooker Island: a pristine, boat-access-only sandbar that feels like a private island escape.
Drop anchor and spend the day swimming in emerald waters, shell hunting, or just kicking back on your Leopard’s aft deck with your favorite cocktails and playlist. There are no facilities here—just sugar-soft sand, dolphins on the horizon, and a salty breeze with your name on it.
Leopard Owner Tip: Arrive early to beat the local boat crowd and stake out your own quiet stretch of beach. Your Leopard Powercats’ shallow draft gives you access to prime front row anchorages in this pristine stretch of paradise.
7. Day Trip to Stiltsville & Nixon Beach Sandbar
Cruise Time: ~45 minutes from Miami
Trip Type: Day Trip or Casual Overnight
Vibe: Iconic / Quirky / Photo-Worthy / Water Toys
Mini Itinerary:
Cruise past Miami’s skyline and into Biscayne Bay to visit the historic and surreal houses on stilts scattered across the horizon. Anchor nearby and paddle around for some epic photos.
Once you have had your fill of this quirky floating ‘town’, head back north towards Key Biscayne for brunch at the boating friendly and aptly named, Boaters Grill, located in the Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park.
This epic day trip doesn’t stop here! After a dockside brunch, head further north to the fun and lively Nixon Beach Sandbar. Set up all your water toys, turn on your favorite music and enjoy the quintessential Miami on the water atmosphere and great people watching.
Leopard Owner Tip: The shallow depths here make other boats nervous—but not yours. This is prime territory to show off the versatility of your Leopard.
8. Bahamas Teaser: Bimini Weekend
Cruise Time: ~3 hours from Miami (weather permitting)
Trip Type: International Weekend
Vibe: Exotic / Clear Waters / Tropical Island Escape
Mini Itinerary:
Just 50 miles east of Miami, Bimini offers a taste of the Bahamas without needing a week off.
Check weather, clear customs, and make your Gulf Stream crossing early. Dock at Resorts World Bimini or Bimini Big Game Club. Sip cocktails, relax at the pool, and enjoy fresh seafood by the beach.
Wake up in paradise and take your dingy to go snorkel the iconic SS Sapona shipwreck, rent golfcarts to explore the island, or simply spend your weekend soaking up the tropical vibes on the beach.
Leopard Owner Tip: Always check forecasts and customs requirements in advance. And yes—bring your passport!
9. Day Trip to Egmont Key & Passage Key National Wildlife Refuges
Cruise Time: ~1 hour from Tampa Bay
Trip Type: Nature Filled Day Trip
Vibe: Secluded Beaches / Historic Ruins / Wildlife Encounters
Mini Itinerary:
Depart from downtown Tampa or St. Petersburg in the morning and head south through the mouth of Tampa Bay. Your first stop: Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge—a remote island with boat only access, filled with history, wildlife and un-spoilt beaches.
Drop anchor offshore and tender in to explore Civil War-era fort ruins, walk shell-covered beaches, and spot gopher tortoises meandering through the dunes. Don’t forget your snorkel gear! The clear waters around Egmont are perfect for an easy swim.
After soaking up Egmont’s quiet magic, hop over to Passage Key, a tiny, undeveloped sandbar just north of Anna Maria Island. This protected wildlife refuge is only accessible by boat and frequently shifts with the tides, but when conditions are right, it’s one of the most stunning spots in the region for a swim and a lazy relaxed afternoon.
Leopard Owner Tip: Plan your visit to Passage Key during calm weather and mid-to-low tide for best access to the sandbar. The shallow draft and quiet ride of your Leopard Powercat make both of these protected islands an easy, eco-friendly getaway.
10. Pine Island Sound & Cabbage Key
Cruise Time: ~3 hours from Tampa
Trip Type: Weekend Getaway
Vibe: Old Florida Charm / Laid-Back Island Vibes / Great Seafood / Fishing
Mini Itinerary:
Cruise south through Pine Island Sound, with a relaxing stop at Cayo Costa State Park. Swim, hike, or collect seashells along miles of unspoiled beaches.
The following morning head to Cabbage Key— rumored to be the inspiration for Jimmy Buffett’s “Cheeseburger in Paradise”. Dock at the marina, order the burger, and climb the water tower for panoramic views of the surrounding islands.
Bring your fishing gear and cast your lines as you slowly head back north. The waters surrounding Cabbage Key are known for excellent fishing, and the island hosts fishing tournaments throughout the year.
Leopard Owner Tip: Bring cash for the Dollar Bill Bar on Cabbage Key to pin your note to the thousands that adorn this historic bar.
Where Will Your Leopard Take You Next?
From the glassy backwaters of Marco Island to the conch-colored coastlines of Bimini, South Florida is bursting with bucket-list destinations just waiting to be explored—often in under a few hours from your doorstep (or dock slip)! With your Leopard Powercat’s comfort, range, shallow draft and performance, weekend getaways are quick, easy and comfortable.
So, grab your charts, stock the galley, and start saying, “Yes!” to those spontaneous sandbar days, barefoot beach strolls, and fishing-filled detours. Because with a Leopard, the journey is just as exciting as the destination.
Take a look at all of our latest award-winning Leopard Powercats here.
