Miami · Sandbar Experience
Haulover Sandbar Boat Rental
Anchor at Miami's most famous sandbar. Private charters from $479.
4 vessels · Captain included · BYOB welcome
Sandbar Experience
What Is Haulover Sandbar?
Haulover Sandbar is a shallow stretch of sand in northern Biscayne Bay, just south of the Haulover Inlet. At low tide the water is knee-deep. At high tide it rises to waist or chest height. On any given weekend, dozens of boats anchor here and the sandbar transforms into an open-water gathering — music, floating coolers, and people wading between boats.
There is no dock and no road to the sandbar. The only way to get there is by boat. Your captain navigates through Biscayne Bay, finds a spot to anchor, and you step off into warm, crystal-clear shallows. It is one of the most uniquely Miami experiences you can have on the water — part beach day, part boat party, completely unlike anything on land.
The sandbar is popular with locals and visitors alike. Weekends draw the biggest crowds, with a festival-like atmosphere. Weekday mornings offer a more relaxed version — the same turquoise water and sandy bottom, but with space to spread out. Either way, a Haulover Sandbar trip is one of the top things to do in Miami.
Best Boats for Haulover Sandbar
Sport Boats (26'-37')
Ideal for small groups of 2-13 guests. Easy to anchor in shallow water, fast ride to the sandbar, and open deck layouts perfect for swimming and lounging.
Cruisers (48')
Great for groups wanting more space and amenities. A/C cabin for breaks from the sun, bathroom on board, and a larger swim platform for easy water access.
Center Consoles
Walk-around design makes it easy to move between the bow and stern. Shallow draft lets your captain get closer to the sandbar.
Yachts (50'-105')
For larger groups or a premium sandbar experience. Flybridge for views, full galley, and room for 13+ guests. Your floating base for the day.
What to Expect
Depart from Miami
Board your boat at the marina. Your captain briefs you on the plan and you head north through Biscayne Bay toward the Haulover area.
Arrive at the Sandbar
Your captain finds a prime anchoring spot. In shallow water, you step off the boat onto sand. The water is typically 2-4 feet deep.
Swim, Wade, Relax
Spend as long as you like wading, swimming, floating, and enjoying drinks and food. The boat stays anchored as your home base.
Cruise and Return
When you are ready, your captain pulls anchor. Many guests add a cruise past Star Island, the Venetian Islands, or through the downtown skyline on the way back.
Best Times to Visit
Weekend Party Vibes
Saturday and Sunday 11 AM – 3 PM. Dozens of boats, music, and a social atmosphere. Arrive early for the best anchoring spot.
Weekday Calm
Tuesday through Thursday mornings. The sandbar is quieter with fewer boats. Perfect for families or couples wanting a peaceful swim.
Sunset Sessions
Depart around 4 PM and catch golden hour at the sandbar as the crowd thins. Spectacular light for photos.
Peak Season
December through April brings the best weather. Water is warm year-round, but winter air is more comfortable than the summer heat.
Anchoring Tips from Our Captains
- ✓ Arrive before noon on weekends to secure a prime spot on the sandbar.
- ✓ Your captain sets a secure anchor in the sand — no need to worry about drifting.
- ✓ Tides affect water depth. Low tide exposes more sand; high tide means deeper wading.
- ✓ Avoid anchoring too close to the inlet — currents are stronger there.
- ✓ Bring a floating cooler so drinks stay accessible while you wade.
Related Miami Experiences
Miami Boat Tour
Full sightseeing tour of Biscayne Bay, Star Island, and the Miami skyline.
Star Island Boat Tour
See celebrity mansions up close from the water.
Boat Tour with Drinks
BYOB cruises and sunset tours with drinks aboard.
Miami Snorkeling
Explore underwater reefs and marine life in Biscayne Bay.
Our Fleet
Sandbar-Ready Vessels
Common Questions
Haulover Sandbar Boat Rental — FAQ
Where is Haulover Sandbar?
Haulover Sandbar is located in northern Biscayne Bay, just south of the Haulover Inlet between Bal Harbour and Sunny Isles Beach. It sits in shallow water (about 2-4 feet deep) roughly a half mile west of the Haulover Inlet jetties. The sandbar is only accessible by boat — there is no way to walk or drive to it.
How much does a Haulover Sandbar boat rental cost?
Boat rentals to Haulover Sandbar start from $479 for a 2-hour trip. A half-day (4-hour) charter gives you plenty of time to cruise to the sandbar, anchor, swim, and return. All prices include your captain, fuel, and crew — no hidden fees.
What is the best time to go to Haulover Sandbar?
Weekends between 11 AM and 3 PM are when the sandbar is most active, with dozens of boats anchored and music playing. If you prefer a calmer experience, weekday mornings offer the sandbar nearly to yourself. The water is warmest from May through October. Winter months (December through April) have pleasant air temperatures but slightly cooler water.
How long does it take to get to Haulover Sandbar by boat?
From our departure point in Miami, the ride to Haulover Sandbar takes approximately 20-30 minutes depending on the vessel and water conditions. We recommend booking at least a 3-4 hour charter so you have plenty of time at the sandbar without feeling rushed.
Can I bring food and drinks to Haulover Sandbar?
Yes. BYOB is welcome on all of our charters. Bring your own cooler with drinks, snacks, and food. We also offer catering add-ons if you prefer a prepared spread. Many guests bring a floating cooler to keep drinks accessible while wading in the shallow water at the sandbar.
What should I bring to Haulover Sandbar?
Essentials include: sunscreen (reef-safe preferred), towels, sunglasses with a strap, a waterproof phone case, a hat, and a cooler with drinks and snacks. Optional but popular: a Bluetooth speaker (our boats have built-in sound systems too), inflatable floats, snorkel gear, and a floating cooler. We provide life jackets on all vessels.
Is Haulover Sandbar safe?
The sandbar itself is shallow — typically 2-4 feet of water over a sandy bottom. Your captain anchors the boat securely and monitors conditions throughout. The main safety considerations are sun exposure (bring sunscreen and hydrate), boat traffic in the area, and occasional strong currents near the inlet. Children should wear life jackets. Your captain is trained in water safety and knows the area.