Have you ever had the opportunity to hop on a jet ski and bounce rhythmically along the water as the wind blows through your hair? It’s one of the best feelings in the world, and once you pick up jet skiing as a hobby, don’t be surprised if you never go back to life without it!
While jet skiing in and of itself never gets old, exploring the same bodies of water can.
If you are itching to ride new waves, all it takes is a little exploration to find locations where jet skiing isn’t just welcomed–but encouraged.
To help you out, here are the 5 best jet ski locales in the US.
The Top Jet Skiing Hotspots Across the U.S.
#5: Lake Placid, Adirondack Mountains, New York
Address: 1002 Adirondack Loj Rd, Lake Placid, NY 12946
As part of a village located in the Adirondack Mountains of New York, Lake Placid is surrounded by mountainous land. The area is so breathtaking that you’ll be convinced you’re staring at a painting.
Lake Placid is a smaller jet ski location, which makes it less intimidating to novice jet skiers. At four miles long and less than two miles wide, you won’t be able to travel in the same direction for as long a distance as more spacious jet ski locations. But if you’re looking for a tranquil atmosphere and a beginner-friendly area, Lake Placid is calling your name.
Jet Ski Rental Opportunities at Lake Placid:
- Adirondack Personal Watercraft: $505+
- Invert Sports: $1,413+
#4: Lake Travis, Austin, Texas
Image courtesy of U.S. News Travel
Address: 4370 Mansfield Dam Park Rd., Austin, TX 78732
Located about 20 miles outside of Austin, Texas, Lake Travis is applauded for its scenic views that span a total of 63.75 miles, especially the tucked-away coves.
The 18,929-acre lake is suitable for beginners and experienced jet skiers alike. But the natural beauty isn’t just above the water! If you take a moment to peek beneath the surface of the waves, you will spot all kinds of fish swimming in the waters below.
Jet Ski Opportunities at Lake Travis:
- Lakeway Marina: $125+
- Luxury Boat Rentals: $90+
#3: New York Harbor, Hudson River, New York
Address: Brooklyn, New York 11201
Still wondering where to go jet skiing? Well, for something outside your norm, New York City offers guided jet ski tours of the New York Harbor. From the comfort of a jet ski, you can take in the stunning views of sky-high buildings and modern-day architecture while learning about the city’s history.
Not only is this an ideal activity for tourists familiarizing themselves with NYC for the first time, but it’s also idyllic for anyone who wants to try out a jet ski without owning one.
Various types of jet skis can cost thousands of dollars, making them quite an investment, whereas tours are a less expensive way to jet ski.
Jet Ski Opportunities in the Hudson River:
- Sea the City: $151+
- New York City Jetski: $150+
#2: Lake Ouachita, Arkansas
Address: 1424 Blakely Dam Rd, Royal, AR 71968
When you think of the perfect place to jet ski, it’s understandable if your mind jumps to coastal towns or cities. But the beauty of the United States is its vast diversity, which includes landlocked states with areas suitable for jet skiing!
Lake Ouachita in Arkansas is a prime example of a place where jet skiers can venture out into deep blue waters from somewhere in the south. You’ll parade through calm waters surrounded by the lush greenery of the Ouachita National Forest. Thanks to the 93 different campsites available to guests, you can even plan to stay awhile.
Why not pack your suitcase, hitch your jet ski to a trailer, and travel to Lake Ouachita for a relaxing getaway? It’s a safe and serene environment where you can jet ski and sit on the water as bream, crappie, and bass fish swim underneath.
Jet Ski Opportunities at Lake Ouachita:
#1: Miami Beach, Florida
Address: 1410 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139
As a peninsula, the state of Florida is almost entirely surrounded by water. With Miami near the southeasternmost part of Florida, residents and visitors alike have seemingly endless access to water, specifically the Atlantic Ocean. That’s what makes Miami Beach, Florida, an ideal location for those who love to jet ski.
Jet skiing is a popular attraction in Miami, but it’s important to understand the requirements. For starters, you must be 14 years or older to ride a jet ski. As long as they have the proper boater education (and are accompanied by a licensed and adult-aged boater), 14-year-old riders are capable of operating a jet ski.
If unsupervised, you’ll need to be at least 18 years old to operate a jet ski.
Jet Ski Opportunities in Miami Beach:
- Miami Jet Skis Adventure: $85+
- Miami Jet Ski Tours: $139+
- Miami Watersports Jet Ski Rides: $29+
- Ride the Waves Jet Ski Tours: $94+
- Miami Waterlife Tours: $160+
In Summary
If you plan to tow your jet ski to one of these must-visit locations in the U.S., you’ll need a place to store your PWC in between excursions and during the off-season. For those who own a jet ski, storing your personal watercraft in a covered and enclosed space is vital.
In doing so, you will lower the chances of your jet ski sustaining weather-induced risks, including rust, corrosion, and mechanical wear caused by exposure to UV rays, rain, or moisture. Not only that, but keeping your jet ski safe is a crucial deterrent against the likelihood of theft.
If you have limited garage space, consider looking into Neighbor’s options for jet ski storage. As a vehicle storage marketplace, peer-to-peer storage solutions like Neighbor can offer you a safe, local, and budget-friendly space to store your jet ski.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where Is Jet Skiing Most Popular?
In the United States, the state of Florida is the most popular destination for jet skiing.
What Is the Jet Ski Capital of the World?
Lake Havasu City is the jet ski capital of the world. In fact, this is the exact location where the Kawasaki jet ski brand originated! Ever since the 1970s, Lake Havasu City has been a hub for jet ski enthusiasts.
Where Can You Ride a Jet Ski in Texas?
In Texas, you can legally ride a jet ski virtually anywhere, but you can only ride one from sunrise to sunset. If you are unsure if jet skis are allowed at certain locations in Texas, ask for permission before taking your jet ski out in the water.
How Much Should I Pay for a Jet Ski?
According to Boater’s World Marine Centers, the average jet ski costs between $5,000 and $20,000. That said, for a more specific explanation of what a jet ski will typically cost based on its brand, model, speed range, and horsepower, check out this chart from JetDrift.
