This past year was monumental for Marinalife, as we celebrated our magazine’s 20th anniversary. Among all of the contests and celebrations, one of our most highly anticipated competitions was the 2020 Best Marina Contest. Each year, participants cast thousands of votes for top-notch marinas that provide exceptional customer service and hospitality to guests. The winners are chosen by a five-month survey of boaters in the United States and abroad.
We are thrilled to announce the winners of our 11th annual Best Marina Contest. Thank you to all of the hardworking marina staff members and dedicated boaters who participated. Look for the 2021 Best Marina Contest announcement in our summer issue to cast this year’s vote!
Best Large Marina 2020
1st PLACE — SHELTER COVE HARBOUR & MARINA Hilton Head Island, SC
As the largest deep-water marina on Hilton Head Island, Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina is a secluded paradise in the heart of South Carolina’s Lowcountry. The recently dredged port boasts 190 wet slips on floating docks accommodating boats ranging from 15 to150 feet. The beautiful Shelter Cove promenade is packed with eight waterfront restaurants, and multiple jewelry, clothing and gift shops. Activities offered on-site include fishing, eco and dolphin tours, water sport charters, kayak rentals, and more.
2nd PLACE — RIVER DUNES Oriental, NC
The full-service, 400-slip, world-class resort and harbor club at River Dunes Marina is a true gem of the ICW. With floating docks, a 500’ fuel dock with Hi-Speed Diesel, onshore accommodations and waterside dining that overlooks the beautiful Grace Harbor, you can find plenty to do here. Harbor Village at River Dunes’ community is built for transients and residential boaters and provides overnight accommodations, shopping, provisions, spa services and much more.
3rd PLACE — REEFPOINT MARINA Racine, WI
Conveniently located between Milwaukee and Chicago, this modern, 900+ slip marina is one of the deepest, well-protected marinas on the western shores of Lake Michigan. Amenities include a park and picnic areas with grills and spacious seating, outdoor heated pool, two hot tubs, Reefpoint Brew House on-site restaurant, Anchors Away ships store, gas fire pits, ValvTect fuel dock, as well as electric, Wi-Fi and dock box included with the slip fee.
Best Small Marina 2020
1st PLACE — CHICKS MARINA Kennebunkport, ME
Tucked away in the idyllic southern coast of Maine, Chicks is known as one of New England’s cleanest marinas as it strives to continuously upgrade facilities to ensure safety and efficiency. Recently renovated, the marina has seasonal and transient dockage, custom boat care services and indoor, heated winter storage. The property has about 50 slips and is the only marina in Kennebunkport to offer 91 Octane gasoline and ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel.
2nd PLACE — PINK SHELL BEACH RESORT & MARINA Fort Myers Beach, FL
Situated on the white sand, Gulf shores of Fort Myers Beach, this luxury resort offers beautiful villas, water sport rentals, fishing excursions, upscale amenities and a marina with more than 40 slips. Enjoy three on-site pools and poolside restaurants such as Bongo’s Beach Bar & Grill. Located just minutes from downtown Fort Myers, guests can explore fun activities and attractions in the popular Times Square area along Estero Blvd.
3rd PLACE — DOLPHIN MARINA & RESTAURANT Harpswell, ME
Set in the heart of Casco Bay, this intimate, 60-slip marina has been family-owned for more than 50 years and serves as a top destination for seasonal or transient boaters exploring Maine’s coast. Situated at the water’s edge of Pott’s Harbor, the marina has direct, deep-water access from the ocean and is protected by its surrounding islands. The famous on-site restaurant specializes in coastal fare such as giant Maine lobsters, creamy fish chowder and delicious, local seafood.
