Owning a Boat on Ono Island: The Ultimate Boater’s Guide
As a homeowner and boater on Ono Island, I’ve learned there’s nowhere quite like this gated community in Orange Beach, Alabama when it comes to waterfront living. Our island offers a rare blend of deep-water access, private canals, and quick routes to the Gulf, making it a boater’s paradise. But not all waterfront homes here are the same – each area of Ono has unique features, from bridge-free deep water lots to tranquil canals with size limitations. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything a boater needs to know about owning a boat on Ono Island, including the best areas for boating, water depths, suitable boat types, lifts and boathouses, and key regulations. Welcome aboard!
Boaters on Ono Island enjoy scenic waterways, including sunsets over Bayou St. John.
Prime Waterfront Areas for Boaters
Ono Island’s shoreline is split between Old River on the south side and Bayou St. John on the north side, with the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) skirting the northern edge. Depending on where you drop anchor (or build your dock), you’ll find different advantages:
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South Side (Old River Frontage): Homes along Old River offer quick access to Perdido Pass and the Gulf of Mexico. This southern shoreline features deep, unobstructed water – ideal for larger offshore boats. There are no low bridge obstructions on the west end of Ono, so even yachts and deep-draft sailboats can navigate freely in and out. Streets like River Road and Ono Boulevard on the south side are coveted for their expansive views and deep-water docks. If you’re a serious boater with a big center-console, sportfisher, or cruising yacht, the south side delivers the depth and direct Gulf route you need.
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North Side (Bayou St. John & ICW): The north shore backs up to Bayou St. John and the Intracoastal, providing deep, protected water that’s perfect for full-time docking of larger boats. Many properties here enjoy bridge-free access to the bay and ICW, meaning you can hop on your boat and head to Orange Beach marinas or Perdido Key hotspots with ease. This side is great if you love cruising to waterfront restaurants or prefer smoother bay waters over open Gulf waves. Note: A few north-side homes sit behind private canal bridges (more on that later), but most along Bayou St. John have unrestricted water access. If you have an especially tall vessel (think a flybridge or tall mast), choosing a lot on the north side can help you avoid clearance issues entirely by not having to pass under the Ono Island bridge.
Water Depths Around Ono Island
One of the first questions boat owners ask is: How deep is the water around my potential home? Ono Island offers a mix of naturally deep channels and man-made canals, so understanding depths is key to matching your boat to the right location:
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Bayou St. John (North Side): The bayou offers approximately 10–12 feet of depth near many docks. This deep, calm water is ideal for larger vessels and deeper drafts. You’ll often see big cabin cruisers and even yachts comfortably docked along Bayou St. John thanks to its depth and protection. The ICW channel that runs through here is maintained to about 12 feet deep as a federal project depth, ensuring that even sizable boats can navigate the main channel without worry.
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Old River (South Side): Old River is slightly shallower than the bayou, but still plenty navigable. Mid-channel depths are around 7–8 feet on the Ono side, which accommodates most pleasure boats, trawlers, and smaller sailboats. Closer to the edges or in small coves, depth can drop to about 5 feet at low tide. That’s something to note if your boat draws a lot of water – you’ll want to stick to the channel at low tide. Overall, offshore center-consoles and moderate draft boats do great on the Old River side, but extremely deep keel sailboats might find the bayou side more forgiving.
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Private Canals and Harbors: Ono Island has a network of interior canals and small harbor inlets carved into it, offering homeowners tranquil, protected dockage. Depths in these canals vary, but many have been dredged or are naturally deep enough to handle boats with about 3–5 feet of draft. In practice, that means a typical bay boat, pontoon, or shallow-draft center console can live happily in a canal-front home. If you’re considering a canal property, always check the depth at the dock during low tide – especially if you plan to bring a larger boat in. The good news is, if a canal is a bit shallow for your needs, sometimes additional dredging can be done with proper permits to deepen a slip (more on permits later).
Tide Tip: Ono Island’s tides are moderate (generally about a 1-foot range), but even that can affect your clearance and depth. I always make a point to know my dock’s depth at mean low tide and plan my boating schedule or loading accordingly.
Bridge Clearances and “Bridge-Locked” Canals
One unique aspect of Ono Island is its fixed bridges on certain canals. These create what we locals call “bridge-locked” properties – gorgeous waterfront homes that nonetheless have limited clearance for boats due to a low bridge at the canal entrance. Here’s what you need to know:
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The main Ono Island bridge (connecting the island to Orange Beach) has about 24 feet of vertical clearance at high tide – expanding to roughly 25–26 feet at low tide. Most standard powerboats (center consoles, pontoons, runabouts) and even many 30–38 ft cruisers fit under this with room to spare. However, boats with very tall superstructures (flybridges, tuna towers, or sailboat masts) might exceed this height. If you dream of a tall sportfishing yacht or a big sailboat, you’d likely prefer a north-side home that avoids going under the Ono bridge altogether.
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Interior Canal Bridges: Within the island, some residential canals are crossed by fixed-span neighborhood bridges with much lower clearances (often just a few feet above the water). Homes beyond those bridges are considered bridge-locked because taller boats cannot pass under. These areas are best suited for low-profile boats. For example, on streets like Yellowfin Drive, Turtle Key Drive, and Sandy Key Drive, certain sections sit behind low bridges. If your property is in one of those sections, you’ll likely be limited to vessels such as:
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Bay boats and flats boats (generally low consoles)
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Pontoons and deck boats (no towering structures)
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Skiffs and runabouts
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Jet skis or small watercraft
Basically, anything without a tall cabin or tower can navigate these canals easily. In fact, many owners in bridge-locked canals enjoy their pontoons, fishing skiffs, and jet skis for day-to-day fun.
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Not All Homes on Those Streets Are Restricted: It’s important to note that not every property on Yellowfin, Turtle Key, or Sandy Key is actually behind a low bridge. Some portions of those streets have open water access while other portions do not. This is where working with a local expert (like myself ????) pays off – I often help buyers verify exactly what the bridge clearance and route to open water is for a specific lot. If you’re unsure, ask for measurements or take a boat ride through the canal at high tide to see what fits.
For boaters in these bridge-locked areas, tall T-tops, radar arches, or flybridges won’t clear the neighborhood bridge. But there are perks to these spots: ultra-calm waters, minimal traffic, and often better protection from storms and wakes. Many folks love the serenity of a canal where only smaller boats roam – it’s perfect for a peaceful sunset cruise or paddleboarding in your backyard. Just match your vessel to the canal’s limitations and you’ll be set.
Boat Lifts, Boathouses, and Piers on Ono Island
One of the joys of Ono Island living is having your boat right at your doorstep – usually on a private dock or lift. Waterfront homes here typically feature some combination of piers, covered boathouses, and boat lifts, tailored to the owner’s needs. Here’s what to expect:
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Boat Lifts: Many Ono owners install lifts to keep their boats out of the saltwater when not in use. Lifts range in size and capacity – from smaller 5,000–10,000 lb lifts for bay boats and jet skis to heavy-duty 20,000+ lb lifts for larger offshore boats. For instance, there’s a home on Peninsula Drive that boasts a 20,000-pound lift to hoist a big cruiser safely out of the water. I’ve even seen lift installations handling 30+ foot boats with no issues (just be sure the lift is rated for your boat’s weight and beam!). The key is to match your lift to your vessel’s weight and width so you can cradle it securely. Having a lift not only protects your hull from marine growth but also makes maintenance and hurricane prep easier.
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Covered Boathouses: A lot of properties feature covered boathouses, which are essentially roofed structures over a slip or lift. These offer shade and weather protection (and look pretty charming, too). Regulations usually require boathouses to be open-sided (not fully enclosed living spaces) and single-story. Some designs include an upper deck or sun deck on top for lounging – for example, a beautiful Turtle Key Drive home has a boathouse with a sun deck, a boat lift, and even a jet ski lift incorporated. Boathouses can often accommodate one large boat or sometimes multiple smaller lifts side by side if you have the waterfront width. Just remember, any roofed structure over the water will need proper approvals (HOA and city permits).
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Piers and Docks: The length and style of pier you can build depends on your lot and water depth. Ono Island generally allows piers long enough to reach navigable water, but they cannot extend more than 25% of the width of the waterway to avoid impeding navigation (a common regulation). Most homes have wooden piers or composite docks, often with power and water hookups for convenience. It’s common to see fish cleaning tables, dock boxes, and seating areas on these docks – they become an outdoor living room by the water. Some larger properties even have two sides of waterfront (like those on certain points or cul-de-sacs) and thus two docks – one owner on Peninsula Drive has docks on both the bay side and the canal side of their property!
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Boat Lift Canopies: While not every lift has one, you’ll spot a few canvas canopy covers over boat lifts around the island. These act like a “carport” for your boat, shielding it from sun and rain. Canopies often require additional HOA approval because they affect the look of the waterfront, but they’re a nice perk for high-end boats with sensitive finishes.
Private boathouses and docks along an Ono Island. Many homes feature covered lifts, multiple slips, and pier lighting to enjoy the waterfront day and night.
Regulations & Permits: Building or modifying a pier/boathouse on Ono Island does require permits and adherence to community guidelines. Homeowners must get a building permit from Baldwin County, and often approval from the Army Corps of Engineers and Alabama Department of Conservation for work in navigable waters. Importantly, the Ono Island Property Owners Association (POA) has its own review process – you’ll need POA approval and inspections to ensure your dock or boathouse meets their standards. This includes considerations like structure size, setbacks from neighbors, and not blocking canals. Typically, up to 2–3 slips or boat spaces per lot are allowed under general permits, which is usually plenty. Also, if your site is shallow and you plan to dredge for a deeper slip, that dredging must be explicitly permitted so it doesn’t harm seagrass or encroach into channels. It may sound like a lot of red tape, but these rules keep our waterways safe and enjoyable for everyone. When in doubt, consult the POA and perhaps a marine contractor – they’ll guide you through designing a compliant dock that suits your boat.
Access to the Gulf of Mexico
For many boaters, the ultimate goal is reaching the open Gulf – whether for deep-sea fishing or cruising at sunset. Ono Island is perfectly positioned for that, with Perdido Pass serving as our gateway to the Gulf just west of the island. Here’s how Gulf access breaks down:
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Perdido Pass Route: No matter where you live on Ono, you’ll likely navigate westward to Perdido Pass to get into the Gulf. From the easternmost homes on the island, it’s a scenic ride through Old River or Bayou St. John of just a few miles to the pass. Homes on the western end (e.g. along Perdido Pass Drive) are basically at the doorstep – they enjoy deep-water boathouses just minutes from the Gulf. Going through the pass is straightforward: it’s a well-marked channel with a 54 ft fixed bridge clearance at the Alabama Highway 182 bridge over the inlet. That bridge height (54’ at the center) is high enough for most yachts and sportfishing boats. Only very tall-masted sailboats might have an issue, but those are a rare sight here since we don’t have a mast-up marina on Ono.
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Travel Times: From a mid-island location, reaching the Gulf might take roughly 15–30 minutes by boat, depending on your proximity to the pass and how fast your vessel is. It’s a No-Wake Zone in our residential canals and parts of Bayou St. John, so you’ll idle slowly until you hit open waters. Once you’re in Old River or the ICW channel heading west, you can get on plane and be at Perdido Pass in a hurry. Many of us love that we can finish breakfast on a Saturday and be out in the Gulf catching red snapper shortly after!
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Bridges and Obstacles: As mentioned, the Ono Island bridge (24 ft clearance) only comes into play if you’re on the eastern side of the island’s north shore and need to pass under it to head west. Homes west of the bridge have no small bridges blocking their way to the Gulf. Also, there are no locks or dams—this is open tidal water all the way. So, accessibility is excellent. Just remember, Perdido Pass’s conditions can get rough with outgoing tides or heavy winds, so always mind the weather and the markers (locals will tell you about the sandbar spots to avoid near the inlet).
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Big Boats: If you have a large yacht or sportfish (40–60+ ft), you’ll typically moor it on Bayou St. John or in Ono Harbour (a protected harbor on the north side). These areas can accommodate deep drafts and wide beams easily. In fact, one example on Ono’s north side had a dredged slip built to fit a 60-foot boat complete with shore power hookups. Big boats are commonly seen along Ono Boulevard and St. John Drive on the bay side, and along River Road near the west end on the Old River side – basically wherever the water is deep and direct. The community doesn’t have height restrictions except the bridges, so some owners with big flybridge yachts simply choose lots that avoid any low-clearance routes. Once out in Perdido Pass, the Gulf is your playground – you can voyage to Pensacola or Mobile Bay easily, or straight out into blue water.
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Community Boat Launch: Worth noting – Ono Island has a private boat ramp for residents located near the fire station. If your boat is trailerable or you have jet skis, this is a game-changer. I often use it to launch my smaller skiff, avoiding the crowds at public ramps. It’s also handy for bringing a boat in for the first time or taking one out for servicing.
Real Examples by Street
To give you a better feel for how different Ono Island areas cater to boaters, here are a few real-world examples of homes (by street name) and their boating amenities. These illustrate the range of options – without naming specific addresses, of course:
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Marlin Key Drive: This street offers some unique dual-frontage lots. One homeowner I know enjoys frontage on both Bayou St. John and a canal – a rare combo that provides expansive bay views plus a protected canal dock. It’s like having your cake and eating it too: they can keep a larger boat on the bay side and smaller craft in the calm canal. Marlin Key Drive exemplifies how some Ono properties are perfectly tailored for versatile boating lifestyles.
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Shoalwater Drive: Over on Shoalwater, the lots are large and often bulkheaded (with seawalls) to maximize usable waterfront. A family there has a setup with a covered boathouse featuring two lifts (one for their pontoon and one for their fishing boat) plus a “sky deck” up top for sunbathing. Being near the community boat launch and still tucked in a quiet corner, Shoalwater Drive is popular among active boating families. You get the convenience of quick launch and emergency services nearby, without sacrificing tranquility.
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Peninsula Drive: This is an exclusive cul-de-sac known for luxury homes and exceptional water access. One stunning property on Peninsula Drive literally owns waterfront on both sides of the street – bay side and harbor side. On the north (bay) side, they have a dock with big views of Bayou St. John (great for sunsets and even swimming). On the south side, they have a second dock in Ono Harbour with a 20,000 lb lift for their large boat. It’s the ultimate setup for an avid boater: deep water on one side, protected lift on the other. Homes on Peninsula Drive really demonstrate how Ono Island can deliver both elegance and top-notch functionality for boating enthusiasts.
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Turtle Key Drive: This street winds along a picturesque stretch and includes both canal-front and bay-front homes. One immaculate home here boasts 90 feet of its own private sandy beach on Bayou St. John, plus a boathouse equipped with a sun deck, boat lift, and a jet ski lift. Wading or beaching your boat on a sand beach in your backyard is pretty special! Turtle Key Drive also has sections that are bridge-locked (as noted earlier), but even there, owners have gotten creative by dredging private slips. Another resident on Turtle Key built a deep dredged slip to accommodate a 60-foot yacht, complete with power and a swiveling jet ski lift for their smaller toys. It’s a true boater’s haven for someone who wants it all at their fingertips.
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Perdido Pass Drive: As the name suggests, this street is on the western tip of Ono, nearest Perdido Pass. Homes here enjoy prime Gulf access and often have massive boathouses and docks. One example is a property that features a magnificent boathouse on deep water, literally minutes from the Gulf of Mexico – a dream for fishing enthusiasts who want to be first out to the offshore reefs. People on Perdido Pass Drive can watch the boats going through the pass from their living room, then join them in a heartbeat. It’s all about location here – if offshore fishing or quick Gulf runs are your passion, this area is unbeatable.
Each of these streets highlights a different aspect of Ono Island boating. Whether it’s dual waterfronts, multiple lifts, private beaches, or extra-deep slips, the common thread is that boating amenities drive the lifestyle (and value) on Ono Island. When shopping for a home here, think about what type of boating you love most – fishing, sailing, leisurely cruising, water sports – and choose a location that best supports it. There’s likely a perfect spot on Ono that checks all your boxes.
Final Thoughts: Living the Ono Boating Lifestyle
Living on Ono Island means embracing the water at every turn. From my own experience and those of my neighbors, I can tell you that a boat isn’t just a toy here – it’s almost a part of the household. We plan our weekends around the tides and weather, whether it’s an offshore trip to chase marlin or a gentle evening cruise to watch the dolphins.
Owning a boat on Ono is made easier by the island’s thoughtful amenities and our community’s respect for the water. We all abide by no-wake zones in canals (so everyone’s dock stays safe) and we help each other prep when a storm’s coming. The result is a place where boating is not only possible, but positively stress-free and enjoyable.
In summary, Ono Island offers something for every type of boater. If you need deep water and big docks, we have it. If you prefer a quiet canal for your skiff, it’s here. And if you’re like me – happy with anything that floats as long as I’m on the water – you’ll find Ono Island to be an endless source of joy. I hope this guide has given you a clearer picture of what to expect.
Feel free to reach out if you have questions about a specific area or property – as a fellow boater and Ono Island real estate advisor, I’m always glad to share what I know and help you find the perfect fit. Until then, see you on the water!
This guide is based on my personal experience as an Ono Island homeowner, conversations with fellow boaters, and local knowledge, along with information from community resources and regulations.
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