Boats for Sale in California

Registration and titles

The California DMV registers and titles boats. Motorized boats of any length and sailboats over 8 feet need registration. Along with the registration fee, California charges a Quagga and Zebra Mussel Infestation Prevention Fee, shown as a sticker on the hull. Bring the signed title or out-of-state documents and a bill of sale to transfer a used boat.

California Boater Card

The California Boater Card is being phased in by age, and as of January 1, 2025 anyone operating a motorized vessel on California waters must carry one, with limited exceptions such as rentals. The Division of Boating and Waterways runs the program.

Where people boat

Lake Shasta is the largest reservoir in the state and famous for houseboats. Lake Tahoe straddles Nevada, with mandatory boat inspections and decontamination when needed. Clear Lake, Lake Berryessa and New Melones are popular in the north. The Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta has hundreds of miles of waterways, and Lake Havasu on the Arizona line is a summer favorite for southern Californians.

On the coast, San Francisco Bay and San Diego Bay are the main harbors. Southern California has Newport Harbor, Marina del Rey and Long Beach, with runs to Catalina Island.

Popular boats

Wakeboats and ski boats are big on lakes and the Delta. Houseboats are a Shasta specialty. Coastal boaters run center consoles, sportfishers and sailboats.

Season

Year-round in the south and on the coast. Mountain lakes have short seasons, and drought can drop reservoirs enough to close ramps.

Buying tips for California boats

Many reservoirs inspect boats for quagga and zebra mussels, and some require a quarantine after visiting infested water. A clean, drained and dry boat is easier to use. On a lake boat, check intakes and cooling systems for shells. Saltwater boats need the usual corrosion checks. Make sure the mussel fee sticker is current. Drought years mean lower water, so check props and lower units for damage.