Seaplane Bases That Really Make a Splash

From Alaska's busiest hub to Manhattan's East River, these special spots redefine flying freedom.

Grant Boyd

Monday, July 20, 2026 at 08:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Lake Hood Seaplane Base in Alaska is both the largest and busiest facility of its kind in the world. [Credit: Adobe Stock]

Key Takeaways:

Seaplane flying offers a unique and rewarding aviation experience, providing access to diverse waterways across the U.S., with the Seaplane Pilots Association (SPA) serving as a primary resource for pilots.
The U.S. is home to hundreds of seaplane bases, ranging from major hubs like Lake Hood in Alaska (the world's busiest) to specialized destinations such as Tavares, Florida, and Alton Bay, New Hampshire, which features an FAA-recognized ice runway in winter.
Despite a decline in the number of rated pilots, obtaining a seaplane rating is accessible, typically requiring only flight instruction and a practical exam, with numerous training schools working to introduce new pilots to this unique form of aviation.

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Seaplane flying is widely regarded as one ultimate way of experiencing aviation. Flying off the water is a uniquely rewarding experience, offering a sense of freedom, access to breathtaking landing sites, and a level of tranquility rarely found in other forms of aviation.

The Seaplane Pilots Association (SPA) is the primary organization focused on this special segment of aviation and catalogs seaplane flying opportunities, training, and background information on its website (seaplanepilotsassociation.org). One of the SPA’s many resources is the Water Landing Directory app, which highlights seaplane bases and other places that welcome floatplane operations, as well as related regulations.