Welcome to Star Island, where luxury floats on the water and every mansion tells a story. Tucked between Downtown Miami and South Beach, this man-made island is more than just a backdrop to celebrity gossip—it’s a must-see spot on any boat tour through Miami.
In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about cruising past this exclusive enclave: how to see it, when to go, what to look for, and why it’s a true highlight for anyone booking a boat rental in Miami Beach.
📍 What Is Star Island?
Star Island is a small, private, ultra-wealthy neighborhood in Biscayne Bay, just off the MacArthur Causeway. Though the island itself is gated and only accessible by land to residents, the water tells its own story—and that’s where your boat tour comes in.
From the water, you can admire the stunning architecture, massive yachts, and see the homes of celebrities past and present. It’s basically Miami’s version of Beverly Hills—only wetter.
Want a closer look without needing a mansion budget? Book a shared boat tour around Star Island from Aquarius Boat Tours.
⛵ How to Visit Star Island by Boat
While you can’t dock or disembark at Star Island unless you’re invited (sorry, not even your captain has that kind of pull), you can cruise slowly along its perimeter, take epic photos, and listen to juicy backstories about who lives where.
Here’s how you can do it:
- Private boat tour – Book a luxury boat rental with captain for a personalized ride
- Shared group tour – Great for solo travelers and small groups
- Luxury yacht tour – Charter an upscale Azimut 60 and cruise in style
Pro tip: Ask your captain to slow down near the East side of the island—best views are often around the southern and eastern homes.
🕰️ Best Time of Year to Cruise Around Star Island
Boating in Miami is generally a year-round adventure, but here’s the breakdown:
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Peak season, great weather, calm waters
- Spring (Mar–May): Slightly warmer, great visibility
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Hot, more active storms—but good for water lovers
- Fall (Sep–Nov): Quieter, lower rates, ideal for locals or savvy tourists
If you’re after calm seas and clear skies, book a tour between January and April.
🌟 Who Lives on Star Island?
Here’s where the storytelling gets fun. Over the years, Star Island has been home to:
- Gloria Estefan
- Sean “Diddy” Combs
- Rosie O’Donnell
- Shaquille O’Neal
- Jennifer Lopez (rumored)
- Even Al Capone once owned a villa here (which still stands)
A good captain will point out the most notable homes and sprinkle in colorful stories—some true, some local legends.
📸 What You’ll See on the Tour
- Mansions that feel like 5-star resorts
- Exotic cars parked on waterfront driveways
- Private docks with luxury yachts
- Iconic skyline views of Downtown Miami
- Wildlife like pelicans, dolphins, and manatees
Star Island is the kind of place that makes you dream bigger, especially when viewed from the deck of your own private boat.
🧭 What Else You’ll Pass On the Cruise
Star Island is just one stop on your route. Your captain may also cruise past:
- Fisher Island – The richest zip code in America
- Venetian Islands – Historical and scenic
- Port of Miami – The cruise ship capital of the world
- Downtown Miami River Entrance – Great for skyline photos
To see it all, check out this guided private boat tour route offered by Aquarius Boat Tours.
🔗 Related Experiences
Here are some other unforgettable Miami boat adventures you can explore:
- Raccoon Island Tour: Secluded island fun
- Miami Sandbar Tours: Epic parties in shallow waters
- Celebrity Home Tours – Captain M: More behind-the-scenes fun
⚓ Wrap-Up: Why Star Island Belongs on Your Boating Bucket List
Star Island isn’t just a place—it’s a fantasy floating in Biscayne Bay. Whether you’re a Miami native or visiting for the first time, seeing it by boat offers a perspective that Google Street View could never capture.
It’s the perfect mix of luxury, curiosity, and tropical sightseeing. So if you’re thinking of booking a boat rental in Miami Beach, make sure Star Island is on your route. You won’t regret it.
