Hey everyone, I’m hoping someone here has some local insight. I’ve recently moved my boat from Austin to the Houston/Clear Lake area and I’m now looking for a good long-term storage solution. I don’t necessarily need anything overly fancy, but I’d prefer something that offers decent protection from weather and humidity, especially during the summer storms we get around here. Ideally, I’d like something not too far from Clear Lake since that’s where I spend most of my time on the water. I’m still trying to get used to the area, and there seem to be a ton of options—indoor, dry stack, wet slips, you name it.

My main concerns are accessibility (weekends mostly), security, and whether or not I’ll have to deal with a long waitlist. Any recommendations or general tips about what to look for when comparing storage options around here would be hugely appreciated.

I’d second that, and just add that you should consider how the layout and flow of the place affect your actual usage. I used to keep my boat at a spot that had everything on paper—security, covered slips, even a lounge—but getting in and out was a pain. The channel was narrow, and they didn’t keep the area well dredged, so low tides were a problem. Ended up moving somewhere less “flashy,” but way more practical. Easy access, less traffic, and it didn’t feel like I was navigating an obstacle course every time I wanted to get out on the water. I’d also recommend looking into whether they allow DIY work on-site. Some places are super strict about that, while others are a little more relaxed as long as you're respectful and clean up. If you're the type who prefers to handle your own small maintenance stuff (oil changes, basic cleaning, etc.), that’s something to keep in mind before you commit.

I've been storing my boat near Clear Lake for a few years now, and I’d suggest starting by thinking about how often you’re on the water and how much maintenance you’re willing to do yourself. If you’re out every weekend, something like a dry stack facility can save you a lot of time and hassle—your boat’s kept out of the water, which really helps with wear and tear, and they usually launch it for you with a quick call. Some places also have forklifts that’ll have your boat ready before you even get there. Also, you might want to check out options that include marina boat storage because they often come with a few added perks like access to freshwater wash-down stations and onsite repairs. I didn’t think I’d use those services much, but honestly, it’s saved me a lot of time. They tend to be more organized too—no running around trying to find someone to help. Just be sure to ask about hurricane prep if that’s something you’re concerned about, because some marinas offer tie-down support or even evacuation plans for boats, which is super useful in this area.