Miami Haulover Sandbar: Boat party with local guide

Summary

Boat party at Miami’s Haulover Sandbar with friends, music & sun

You’ll step onto a boat in Miami with a small group and cruise out to Haulover Sandbar for a laid-back party scene — think floating neighbors, music in the air, cold drinks in hand. Wade through shallow waters or try out some water toys while your local guide keeps things easygoing. It’s one of those afternoons you’ll remember long after you’ve rinsed off the salt.

What’s the experience like?

We climbed aboard just as the sun was getting high over Miami, and honestly, I didn’t know what to expect from this whole Haulover Sandbar thing. Captain Ang greeted us with this easy smile and a quick safety rundown — nothing too formal, just enough so you felt like you were in good hands. The boat hummed out past Biscayne Bay, and there was this salty breeze that made me forget about my phone for once. I could already spot the sandbar in the distance, dotted with boats and people wading around waist-deep, laughing or just floating on those inflatable flamingos (I never did figure out how people get on those things gracefully).

When we anchored up, it felt like we’d stumbled into some kind of floating neighborhood — everyone waving or calling out across the water. Our guide handed out bottled water and sodas (no glass allowed), and someone nearby offered us a bite from their food boat — fried shrimp that tasted way better than it looked, if I’m honest. There was music drifting over from another boat but not too loud; you could still hear the slap of water against the hull and someone’s dog barking somewhere down the line. I tried one of those paddleboards for about five minutes before giving up and just sitting in the cool shallows, letting the current tug at my feet.

I kept thinking how weirdly relaxing it was to be surrounded by so many strangers but not feel crowded at all. Maybe it’s something about being out in the open like that — sky above, sand underfoot (well, under knee), everyone just sort of content to let time drift by. Captain Ang told us stories about how locals come here every weekend, sometimes bringing their whole families or even their dogs (I saw at least three golden retrievers living their best lives). We stayed until our skin started to feel warm and salty; then we headed back toward Miami’s skyline, which looked almost unreal after all that blue and white light.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Haulover Sandbar Beach Day

• The Haulover Sandbar visit

Top questions

Is pickup included for this Miami Haulover Sandbar boat party?

No, hotel pickup is not included; guests meet at the departure point.

Are drinks provided during the tour?

Soda and bottled water are included; alcohol is not mentioned.

Can children join the Haulover Sandbar boat trip?

Yes, infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap.

Are pets allowed on board?

Service animals are permitted on this tour.

What should I bring to the sandbar party?

Bring swimwear, sunscreen, towels, and any personal snacks or drinks if desired.

Is lunch included?

No lunch is provided; food can be purchased from Sandbar Food boats nearby.

How deep is the water at Haulover Sandbar?

The sandbar is mostly knee- to waist-deep during low tide.

Are there any motorized water toys available?

No motorized water toys are included; only non-motorized options are provided.

What’s included

Your day includes soda or bottled water to keep you refreshed under the sun, plus access to non-motorized water toys for splashing around at Haulover Sandbar. Fuel surcharge and charter insurance are covered by your hosts so you can relax without worrying about extra fees.