Floating piers constitute an integral part of marinas, tourist resorts and sports and recreation facilities located at various types of water reservoirs. These structures are used as yacht marinas, small cafes or recreational facilities. Structures of this type are to a great extent affected by the shape of the coastline. This is particularly visible in the way the landing is accessed. An application of stairs or a ramp under these circumstances depends on whether the shore is flat, sloped or precipitous. The shape of the reservoir bottom is important as well, as it determines the method applied to anchor the floating platform. Contemporary structures of this type are usually made of hot dip-galvanized steel. Application of aluminum offers an alternative solution. The rules for shaping and dimensioning joints in floating piers made of both steel and aluminum are presented in this paper. The proposed solutions have been adapted to local conditions prevalent at Rożnow and Solina artificial lakes located in southern Poland. The advantages and disadvantages of particular solutions have been discussed in the context of the structural material applied.