Not every island in Miami is about glitz and yachts. Some are built on purpose — to honor history, to give locals a quiet escape, and to offer boaters a scenic spot to drop anchor. Welcome to Flagler Monument Island, one of the best-kept secrets of Miami’s Biscayne Bay.
Nestled just off the Venetian Islands, this tiny man-made island is more than a sandbar. It’s a peaceful stop with a story — and one of the best boating destinations in Miami if you’re seeking both beauty and meaning.
📍 Where Is Flagler Monument Island?
Flagler Monument Island is located in Biscayne Bay, between the Venetian Islands and Star Island. You can only get there by boat, kayak, or paddleboard.
GPS Coordinates: 25.7895° N, 80.1642° W
📍 Google Maps Location
This island is part of a string of small, low-key destinations in the bay — places where you can anchor, swim, picnic, and explore.
🏛️ Who Was Henry Flagler?
At the heart of this island is a towering obelisk: the Henry M. Flagler Monument, dedicated to the railroad magnate who helped turn Florida into a booming destination in the early 1900s.
Flagler was instrumental in bringing the railroad to South Florida, including Miami. Without him, the Magic City may never have existed as we know it.
The monument was built in 1939 by Miami’s yacht club members as a tribute to Flagler’s contributions to the state.
🛥️ Why Boaters Love This Island
For locals and tourists alike, Flagler Monument Island is a prime boating destination for half-day charters or chill afternoons. Here’s why:
- Easy to reach from Miami Beach marinas, Venetian Marina, or Sea Isle Marina
- Great for swimming — shallow water surrounds the island
- Instagram-worthy monument — the tall obelisk creates a unique backdrop
- Nature vibes — it’s peaceful, often with birds nesting in nearby trees
- Picnicking paradise — sandy shores and shade make it ideal to lounge
It’s especially popular with boat renters who want a quiet spot not far from the action.
🚤 How to Visit by Boat
You’ll need a boat to get there, but fortunately, Miami has some of the best rental options around:
- Book a Guided Boat Tour with Aquarius Boat Tours for a customizable experience that includes Flagler Monument Island.
- Choose a Miami Boat Rental Option with Captain M Boat Rentals and add a stop to this island in your self-curated route.
- Want to stop and swim? Aquarius also offers Sandbar and Swim Tours that pass near this monument spot.
🏝️ Pro tip: On weekends, it’s popular — go early in the day for the most tranquil vibes.
🧭 Make It Part of Your Itinerary
You don’t need a full day to visit Flagler Monument Island — it’s a perfect 30–60-minute stop when combined with:
Add it to your private boat rental plan and you’ll feel like you uncovered one of Miami’s forgotten gems.
📚 Resources & Citations
- National Park Service: Biscayne Bay Boating Access
- Historic Preservation Report – Henry Flagler Monument (City of Miami Beach)
- Wikipedia – Monument Island
🌅 Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about standing on a sandbar in the middle of Biscayne Bay, looking up at a monument most people have never heard of. It’s quiet. It’s personal. It feels like a secret chapter in Miami’s story.
So whether you’re out with friends, hosting a birthday cruise, or just want to explore beyond the usual tour stops — make sure Flagler Monument Island is on your route.
