Things have changed at the Town of Palm Beach Marina on Florida’s southeast coast—in ways that are good for transient boaters who want to enjoy the popular shopping and dining that’s just steps away.
“In the old marina, we were at such a high occupancy with long-term leases that a lot of people wouldn’t even reach out for transient dockage,” says Marina Manager Mike Horn. “I think a lot of people still believe that, and it’s just not true.”
In 2021, the marina reopened after a $40 million renovation. The old facility was demolished and replaced with new docks and amenities.
“It was cheap to stay in our marina back then, and people would sign up for a lease even if they weren’t there,” says Carolyn Stone, deputy town manager, business enterprise and culture. “But it’s different now.”
During the off-season in the summertime, about 70 percent of the marina’s space opens up to transients at rates that can be less than half-price for slips, Horn says. “The majority of the restaurants are still open,” he adds. “It’s not like the town folds up in the summertime. It’s a good time to get into the restaurants, and we’re about three-quarters of a mile from the beach if people want to walk down there.”
In fact, Stone says, using the marina as a home base for touring the area at this time of year can be a smart option compared to shoreside accommodations. “In the summer months, if you want to take a vacation in Palm Beach, you’ll do better staying on your boat,” she says. “It’s a great way to see Palm Beach with less crowds and more availability.”
Center of the universe
President Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort is about a mile and a half—the next bridge down the waterway—from the Town of Palm Beach Marina. Boaters are not allowed to display political flags from either party, so everyone can feel welcome along the docks, but plenty of people involved with national politics are typically in this area, including to shop along Worth Avenue.
