Discover the Nation's Waterfront at The Wharf DC
The Wharf DC isn’t just a waterfront — it’s the beating heart of a vibrant community and a transformative vision centuries in the making. First imagined by George Washington and laid out by his city planner, Pierre L’Enfant, SW DC was meant to be the “jewel and the crown of the Nation’s Capital.” With the arrival of the Wharf, that vision is now a stunning reality.
City skyline
Where Land Meets Lifestyle
Whether you arrive by foot, bike, kayak, boat, or DC Water Taxi, The Wharf has something for everyone.
- The Anthem, one of the city’s premier music venues, brings in international acts and huge festivals year-round.
- Transit Pier transforms throughout the year—an ice rink in winter, a concert stage in summer, always buzzing with activity.
- District Pier offers one-of-a-kind event space, riverboat docking, and cozy winter evenings around the firepit at Camp Wharf, roasting s’mores while watching visiting tall ships dock.
This dynamic mix of natural beauty and vibrant activity makes The Wharf an incredible place to live, especially if you’re exploring floating homes for sale or envisioning a unique lifestyle just steps from the water.
Always Fun with Port of Washington Yacht Club
Life on the water is even better with community—and the Port of Washington Yacht Club (POWYC) brings it in style. Founded in 2002, POWYC is the yacht club for everyone who loves the boating lifestyle in and around Washington, DC. Whether you own a boat or simply want to connect with like-minded neighbors, POWYC offers both Regular and Community Memberships, welcoming liveaboards, recreational boaters, and land-based enthusiasts alike.
POWYC keeps the Wharf energized with a full calendar of social, boating, safety, and environmental events. Sip your morning brew with fellow members at Captains Coffee on Sundays, or raft up for a lazy weekend float at Three Sisters. Hop aboard for Wild Rover and enjoy dock-to-dock Irish fare and fun—complete with a roaming keg on wheels! Cruise into Dinks and Drinks with kayaks and tenders gathered on a mooring in the Washington Channel, or dress to impress at the annual Change of Watch formal.
Whether you're paddling into the sunset or raising a glass with new friends, it's never dull on the water with POWYC. Learn more and join the fun today!
Welcome to the Capital Yacht Club
In the heart of the Wharf lies the Capital Yacht Club (CYC). Established in 1892, CYC is a tight knit community of boaters at the Wharf in DC. As a member or resident, you gain access to:
- Private clubhouse with full-service bar and restaurant and stunning views of the sunset
- Frequent live music and social events
- Secure dockage and a welcoming, diverse community
The CYC docks include transient and resident slips and provide monumental views, a relaxed atmosphere, and DC hospitality at its finest. Come join us a member or visiting boater and get to know this unique community on DC’s vibrant SW waterfront.
Something for Everyone
You’ll never be bored at The Wharf. The calendar is packed with year-round events and fun things to do, including:
- Enjoy s’mores by the firepit at Camp Wharf
- Watch for festivals on the District Pier
- Rent a kayak or SUP for a morning paddle at Recreation Pier
- Splash in the fountain at 7th Street Park or play bocce on one of the bocce courts at Waterfront Park
- Join a dinner cruise through City Cruises or take the DC Water Taxi to Mount Vernon, National Harbor, Alexandria, or Georgetown
- Enjoy ice skating in the winter and weekly concerts in the summer at the Transit Pier
- Join pop-up fitness classes, wine tastings, art fairs, and more
Whether you're spending time with family and friends, walking your dog, or just enjoying the river breeze, there’s something for everyone here.
Dining on the Waterfront
From casual favorites like Tiki TNT, Surfside, and Colada Shop to world-class cuisine like Hell’s Kitchen (by Gordon Ramsay), ilili Restaurant (Mediterranean Lebanese), and Philippe Chow (Chinese), you’ll find something for every palate, mood, and occasion. Many restaurants feature rooftop seating or patios right on the water, making your dinner view just as memorable as your meal.
The People Make the Wharf
What truly sets The Wharf apart isn’t just the architecture or amenities—it’s the people.
You just never know what you’ll see at the Wharf. You might catch an Indian wedding procession, where the groom and his groomsmen, dressed in vibrant colors, dance the streets toward his bride, or join a crowd to watch the always entertaining, annual Running of the Chihuahuas. You never know what you’ll see, from spontaneous dance performances, street musicians, to just plain people watching.
This is where stories happen. This is where locals and visitors alike gather to create memories, celebrate community, and experience life in motion.
Unwind with a Sunset
With your Floating House just steps away, quiet, relaxation, and a chilled glass of wine on your rooftop at sunset is never far away. After a full day of waterfront living, retreat to your floating home, pour a glass of wine, and head to your rooftop deck. Watch the sky turn pink and gold as the sun dips behind the Washington Monument, and let the city fade into the background.
It’s quiet. It’s peaceful. It’s yours.
Ready to Join Us?
Floating Homes DC is your go-to destination for finding the perfect waterfront lifestyle. Whether you’re browsing floating homes for sale, considering a barge or sailboat, or just wondering what’s possible, we’re here to help you take the leap into something extraordinary.
Come visit The Wharf. Walk the piers. Watch the water. And see what it means to live at the Nation’s premier waterfront.
