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Miami Boat Ramps Short answer:
- Jet skis: Launch at Crandon Park Marina (Key Biscayne). It’s fast, organized, and—local tip—two dedicated PWC/jet-ski lanes sit at the end of the main ramp, so you’re not jockeying with big trailers.
- Kayaks: Use the Barry Kutun Boat Ramp at Maurice Gibb Memorial Park (Sunset Harbour, Miami Beach). The park was recently expanded and reopened, and provides bayside access ideal for paddlers. Heads-up: Miami Beach rules limit ramp/dock use—see the “Know Before You Go” box below.
On This Page:
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- 1 Why do these two Miami Boat ramps win
- 2 Know Before You Go to Miami Boat Ramps (Important) – links below
- 3 What to bring to Miami Boat Ramps
- 4 Launch routines for Miami boat ramps (copy these checklists)
- 5 Where to go from each ramp
- 6 Safety & local etiquette
- 7 Internal reads on SoFloLife about Miami Boat Ramps
- 8 Credits & recent updates
Why do these two Miami Boat ramps win
Crandon Park Marina — Best for Jet Skis
- Location: 4000 Crandon Blvd, Key Biscayne
- What makes it #1 for PWC:
- Two dedicated PWC/jet-ski lanes at the end of the ramp (a local setup that keeps traffic flowing and safer for small craft).
- Full-service marina (restrooms, fuel, bait/tackle, courtesy docks), plus easy access to flat, protected water before you open it up outside the no-wake zones.
- 24-hour ramp access and ample trailer parking compared with most in-city options.
Pro tips
- Weekends get busy; arrive before 9 a.m. or after 3 p.m.
- Carry a trailer lock and a spare tie-down—wind on the causeway loves to test knots.
- After your ride, swing by the beach side for a quick dip or sunset shot.
Barry Kutun Boat Ramp (Maurice Gibb Memorial Park) — Best for Kayaks
- Where: 18th St & Purdy Ave, Miami Beach (Sunset Harbour)
- What changed: The park just reopened after a major expansion with fresh amenities and a polished waterfront. It’s a calm bay launch and a short paddle to Venetian Islands views—perfect for kayaks and SUPs.
- Hours: Typical park hours run into the evening; always confirm posted signage on arrival.
Pro tips
- Early mornings are glassy and quiet; bring a small cart for the short roll from parking to the water.
- If you’re new to the area, hug the shoreline and mind boat channels—weekend traffic builds after 10 a.m.
- Sunset paddles here are A+ (pack a white light after dusk and a whistle).
Know Before You Go to Miami Boat Ramps (Important) – links below
- Crandon Park Marina (Key Biscayne): Public Miami-Dade facility with 24/7 ramp access and marina amenities; fees/parking rules apply.
- Barry Kutun Boat Ramp / Maurice Gibb Memorial Park (Miami Beach): The City of Miami Beach updated rules in 2024–2025. Current ordinance language limits ramp/dock use (including the floating docks for human-powered craft) and imposes time limits; Miami Beach residents have specific privileges. Always check the posted signs and city rules before launching. If you’re not a MB resident, verify eligibility and consider alternative launches in Miami-Dade parks.
What to bring to Miami Boat Ramps
For Jet Skis (PWC)
- USCG-approved PFD (Type III) – Type III with ventilated back (stays comfy in the heat).
- Floating lanyard / kill-switch key – Keep it on your wrist or PFD at all times.
- PWC fenders & short dock lines – Low-profile fenders prevent gelcoat rash at courtesy docks.
- Dry bag (10–20L) & waterproof phone pouch – For keys/phone; look for IP68-rated pouches.
- Trailer tie-downs + wheel chocks – Add a second transom strap for highway hauls.
- Flush kit – Essential after saltwater runs (check your model’s adapter).
- Basic tool & first-aid mini-kit – Zip ties, multi-tool, bandages.
For Kayaks
- Low-profile paddling PFD – Comfortable, high-visibility vest. Popular: Onyx MoveVent line.
- Whistle + white light – Florida requires sound signaling; light after dusk.
- Paddle leash + spare paddle – Saves you if wind/chop knocks the blade away.
- Cart/dolly – Airless wheels roll easily from parking to ramp.
- Bilge hand pump & sponge – Quick water removal in chop.
- Deck bag / small dry bag – Keep snacks, sunscreen, and phone accessible.
- Roof-rack cam straps – Rubber-coated buckles prevent dings.
Launch routines for Miami boat ramps (copy these checklists)
Also, check out my launch article here for 6 Tips for First Timers to success!!!
Jet ski 60-second launch
- Move to the staging area: load PFDs, attach lanyard, remove transom straps, and install the drain plug.
- At the ramp: ease down, use the PWC lanes at Crandon, bump start to check idle, unhook winch with bow line in hand.
- Idle to the courtesy dock or outside the basin—watch your no-wake.
- Park, pay, return, and go ride.
Kayak 60-second launch
- Rig at the car: PFD on, paddle leash attached, whistle/light stowed.
- Use the ramp/floating dock area quickly—respect time limits and other users.
- Enter on the lee (downwind) side; push off to deeper water before seating fully.
- Stay visible; cross channels at 90° and yield to motor vessels.
Where to go from each ramp
- From Crandon (PWC):
- Stiltsville & Biscayne Channel for scenic runs on calm mornings.
- Bear Cut for quick, protected water; watch tides and manatee zones.
- From Maurice Gibb (Kayak):
- Sunset Islands loop for skyline views.
- Venetian Causeway shorelines on low-wind days; stay outside marked channels.
- Flagler Monument Island only 1 mile away
Safety & local etiquette
This is so important when you want to launch at any of the Miami boat ramps. Too few people follow basic etiquette and make the very helpful staff at the Crandon Marina work way too hard in the heat!
- Wear your PFD and carry required safety gear (Florida/USCG rules).
- Idle-speed in marked zones; no-wake means no planing.
- Give anglers and paddlers space at docks and ramps; prep in the staging area, not on the incline.
- Rinse your trailer/craft to fight corrosion and seagrass hitchhikers.
Internal reads on SoFloLife about Miami Boat Ramps
You can find detailed information about Miami boat ramps under these links, especially about my favorite of the Miami boat ramps: Crandon Marina!
Credits & recent updates
Of all the Miami boat ramps, the new ramp at the Maurice Gibb Memorial Park is really nice. Limited parking, but restaurants, jet ski rentals, and some additional street parking are available.
- Maurice Gibb Memorial Park expansion & reopening (April 2025) confirmed via City of Miami Beach press release and local coverage.
- Ramp/dock rules at Barry Kutun (Maurice Gibb) updated by city ordinance in 2024–2025; floating docks explicitly reserved for launching/disembarking human-powered craft with time limits; resident use applies.
- Crandon Park Marina details (public Miami-Dade facility, hours/amenities).
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