Marina Spotlight: National Harbor Marina, Oxon Hill, MD

Whether you admire National Harbor from an aerial perspective from the 180-foot- tall Capital Wheel or from the deck of your boat, the view is always unmatched.

National Harbor Marina is situated along the Chesapeake Bay where the tranquility of the Potomac River meets the liveliness of Washington, D.C. The marina offers 81 floating docks just steps away from tons of attractions. Boaters can easily access amenities including a private shower and laundry facilities, pump-out, fuel, picnic tables and a lounge.

National Harbor’s 350-acre property is lined with a booming shopping district, world-class restaurants, historic sites and various attractions. Visitors can experience a small slice of urban oasis at National Harbor Beach, home to “The Awakening,” a 72-foot statue of a giant emerging from the sand. Enjoy family-friendly activities along the promenade like taking a spin on the Spirit Park Carousel and the Capital Wheel or the Flight Deck waterfront lounge, an open-air pavilion at the base of the ride.

For an all-inclusive stay, the area has several high-end resort hotels such as M&M National Harbor Hotel & Casino and Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center. For a unique waterside experience and spectacular views of the Potomac, stay at FLOHOM, a chic, modern-designed, luxury houseboat accommodating up to four guests.

With more than 40 restaurants to choose from, guests have endless access to international cuisine minutes from the marina. Just steps from the docks, enjoy Italian at Bond 45, Mexican at Rosa Mexicano, seafood at The Walrus Oyster & Ale House and steaks at McCormick & Schmick’s.

While nearby Washington, D.C., is known for museums and historic sites, National Harbor provides its own glimpse into history when you embark on a free, self-guided tour of photo-worthy statues located throughout the neighborhood, including famous icons like Rosie the Riveter, Marylin Monroe and Abe Lincoln.

One of the region’s largest privately owned developers, Peterson Companies, began transforming the harbor into a world-class marina in 1984, which eventually grew into today’s thriving waterfront that welcomes millions each year. The marina is excited to announce a new partnership with Latitude Marinas, a US Marina Group company, now managing the marina.

“As we expand our services, we’re excited to add National Harbor to our Latitude Marinas fleet of managed marinas as one of the most iconic destinations in the region,” says Jim Bronstien, co-owner of US Marina Group.

National Harbor is known for vibrant events from fundraisers and family- friendly workshops to music festivals and holiday celebrations. The marina is rallying boaters, locals and eco-champions for a Marina Cleanup Day on June 19 in partnership with the Potomac Riverkeeper Network.

“Protecting our waterways is part of who we are,” says Theresa DeHart, vice president of Latitude Marinas. “We work hard, play hard — and take care of the places we love.”