If Raccoon Island is where nature lovers roam, then Haulover Sandbar is where Miami’s boaters go to let loose. Imagine a floating city of boats, tunes playing in the breeze, and crystal-clear water that barely reaches your knees. That’s Haulover on a good day — and it’s a must-see whether you’re a Miami local or just visiting.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything from how to get there and when to go, to why Haulover is unlike anywhere else in the country.
📍 Where Is Haulover Sandbar?
Haulover Sandbar sits in the Biscayne Bay Intracoastal Waterway, just west of the Haulover Inlet and east of North Miami Beach. The GPS coordinates are roughly 25.899° N, 80.126° W — but honestly, you’ll know when you’re close. You’ll see the crowds before you hit anchor.
🛥️ How to get there:
You need a boat, jet ski, or be part of a tour. Most boat rental companies offer half-day or full-day charters that include a stop here.
Top ways to get there:
- Book a Haulover Sandbar Tour with Aquarius Boat Tours
- Charter a captain-guided route via Captain M’s Boat Rentals
- Join a sandbar party cruise with music, drinks, and floaties included
🎉 What to Expect at Haulover Sandbar
This isn’t your average beach day — it’s a floating social scene.
At low tide, the sandbar emerges as a knee-deep “island” in the middle of the water. Boats pull up around it, forming an impromptu marina with music, grills, floaties, pets, and sometimes even floating tiki bars.
Expect:
- Crowds — especially on weekends and holidays
- Vendors on jet skis selling everything from BBQ to coconuts
- Waist-high water with soft sand underfoot
- Floating water toys, football games, and sunset swims
- The occasional celebrity sighting
Pro tip: Bring your own anchor and long lines — space gets tight!
📅 Best Time to Visit Haulover Sandbar
- Weekends = biggest party vibe
- Weekdays = more chill and family-friendly
- Spring & Fall = best weather combo
- Low tide = when the sandbar is most visible
🌞 Early afternoon is prime time for sunshine and crowd energy, but late afternoon and sunset offer a dreamy, golden-hour vibe.
🚫 Things to Know Before You Go
Haulover Sandbar is a blast, but keep these tips in mind:
- No facilities – bring your own cooler, towels, snacks, sunscreen
- Boating safety – only experienced drivers should attempt to anchor here on busy days
- No glass bottles
- Watch the tides – water rises fast
Always check local marine weather and tide conditions before heading out. The inlet nearby can get choppy!
📸 Local Tip: Capture the Sandbar from the Sky
Haulover Sandbar looks incredible from above. If you have a drone, this is your chance to get one of the most iconic Miami shots — hundreds of boats surrounding a turquoise slice of sand in the middle of the bay.
Check out these stunning aerials from Haulover Sandbar on Google Maps.
🔗 Related Tours and Experiences
Looking to add to your itinerary?
- Giant Group Boat Charters – Bring 12+ friends
- Luxury Yacht Rental Miami – Turn the sandbar into your private party
- Bachelor & Bachelorette Boat Parties – Let loose in the best way possible
If you’re new to boating or want an easy no-hassle day, consider a captain-included rental from Captain M or Aquarius.
🌊 Why You Have to Go
There are sandbars all over Florida — but none like this. Haulover blends the local love for the water with that unmistakable Miami energy. Whether you’re there to mingle, chill, float, or just soak up some Vitamin Sea, this is one place that should be on every boater’s bucket list.
