Hidden Anchorages You’ll Love This Summer

Everyone loves a popular harbor… until you’re rafted four-deep and someone’s generator kicks on. This summer, escape the crowds and drop anchor in one of these quiet, beautiful, and lesser-known anchorages. We’ve also included a few smart gear picks you’ll want onboard—each one available on Amazon if you're looking to upgrade your cruising kit.

1. Cuttyhunk Pond – Massachusetts

Sheltered and charming, Cuttyhunk Pond is a New England treasure. Anchor outside the mooring field for a quiet night and an unbeatable view of the stars.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Solid holding ground

• Dinghy in for oysters & lobster rolls

• Calm enough for a floating swim mat

Recommended Gear:

• Floating Water Mat for Kids & Adults – relax right off your swim platform

• RTIC Soft Cooler – keep your drinks cold while you paddle ashore

• Portable Anchor Light (LED Solar) – stay safe and seen after dark

2. St. Leonard Creek – Maryland (Chesapeake Bay)

A quiet offshoot from the Patuxent River, this tree-lined creek is perfect for peaceful overnights and paddle adventures.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Protected from most winds

• Tiki drinks at Vera’s onshore

• Excellent paddleboarding waters

Recommended Gear:

• Inflatable Paddleboard Set – compact and perfect for exploring coves

• Floating Dry Bag Backpack – keep your phone and towels dry when you dinghy in

• Bug Zapper Lantern (USB Rechargeable) – perfect for the cockpit at dusk

3. Gilkey Harbor – Maine

Between Islesboro and Warren Island, this hidden gem delivers Maine’s rocky-coast beauty without the crowds.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Excellent protection

• State park access with trails

• Bald eagle sightings likely

Recommended Gear:

• Binoculars for Bird Watching/Marine Use – spot wildlife from your deck

• Marine Grill with Mount – grill dinner without going ashore

• Compact Boat Hook – essential for solo anchoring and picking up a mooring

4. Pelican Bay – Cayo Costa, Florida

This quiet Gulf Coast anchorage offers sugar sand, clear water, and manatees. Dinghy to shore and spend the day barefoot on one of Florida’s most unspoiled beaches.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Calm, tropical feel

• Epic shelling

• Excellent for beachcombing or a romantic walk

Recommended Gear:

• Beach Tent with UV Protection – lightweight and sets up in seconds

• Snorkel Set with Fins – explore the nearby shallows

• Sand-Free Waterproof Blanket – perfect for beach picnics

5. Jones Cove – North Carolina (Pamlico Sound)

A well-protected nook east of Oriental, Jones Cove offers excellent birding, quiet evenings, and those big Southern skies.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Very low traffic, even on weekends

• Prime spot for sunset photography

• Great holding ground

Recommended Gear:

• Underwater LED Lights for Night Fishing – attract fish or just create ambiance

• Portable Camping Table – set up the cockpit for sunset cocktails

• Bluetooth Marine Speaker (Waterproof) – small, powerful, and weather-resistant

🧭 Final Tip: Don’t Just Anchor—Set the Scene

Hidden anchorages aren’t just about escape—they’re an opportunity to turn your boat into a floating getaway. With the right setup (good food, shade, tunes, and tools), your quiet cove turns into a five-star retreat.

Stay curious, stay anchored, – The BoatersNewsletter.com Crew

📬 www.boatersnewsletter.com

Affiliate Note: All gear suggestions in this newsletter are hand-picked for boaters and may include affiliate links. If you click and buy, we may earn a small commission—at no cost to you. It helps us keep the newsletter afloat!