Miami: Private Boat Tour to Raccoon Island & Sandbar

Summary

Private boat trip to Raccoon Island and Haulover Sandbar with wild raccoons, swimming stops and music along Miami’s waterfront

You’ll ride with a local captain from Miami’s marina, cruise past city sights with music playing, spot wild raccoons on Raccoon Island (no feeding allowed!), then swim or relax at Haulover Sandbar’s shallow waters. It’s easygoing but full of small surprises—the kind you’ll remember when you hear seagulls back home.

What’s the experience like?

“You see that mangrove line?” Captain Luis grinned as he steered us past the edge of South Beach. “That’s where the raccoons come down for their morning gossip.” I didn’t know what I expected from a Miami boat tour, but it wasn’t this—Luis talking about raccoon drama like they’re old neighbors. The city faded behind us, replaced by the slap of water against the hull and that salty smell you only get out here. Someone put on Bad Bunny through the Bluetooth speakers (you can connect your own phone—my playlist was vetoed), and even the seagulls seemed to bob along.

Raccoon Island isn’t really an island in the way I pictured—more like a tangle of green where these little bandits live totally free. We drifted close (not too close; Luis reminded us not to feed them), and sure enough, two raccoons peeked out from the brush like they were sizing us up. It was quiet except for a soft breeze and our laughter when one tried to steal someone’s sandwich right off the cooler. I still think about how strange it felt, being watched by animals who didn’t care we were there—like we were just passing through their world for a minute.

After that, we headed toward Haulover Sandbar. The water turned this almost unreal turquoise, warm enough that even I couldn’t resist jumping in. There were other boats around but nobody felt crowded; everyone just floating or dancing or eating chips in knee-deep water. The sun got hot fast—I forgot sunscreen on my knees (classic)—but Luis had extra bottled water and ice in the cooler, so we were set. The sand between my toes felt gritty in a good way. And yeah, if you bring your own snacks or drinks, it turns into your own little party out there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private boat tour to Raccoon Island

• Board private 22 ft Bayliner boat
• Play music via Bluetooth system
• Cruise past Miami waterfront scenery
• Visit Raccoon Island wildlife sanctuary
• Swim or relax at Haulover Sandbar
• Enjoy shallow turquoise waters and views
• Bring and consume own food and drinks
• Return to marina for tour end

Top questions

How long is the Miami boat tour to Raccoon Island?

You can choose between a 2-hour or 4-hour private boat experience.

Is swimming included during the Miami boat tour?

Yes, there’s time to swim or relax at Haulover Sandbar during the tour.

Can I bring my own food and drinks on board?

Yes, you’re encouraged to bring your own snacks and drinks; water, ice, and cooler are provided.

Are life jackets provided for all ages?

Yes, life jackets and safety equipment are included for everyone on board.

Is this private boat tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible.

Do I need to sign anything before boarding?

A waiver is required before boarding the boat.

Are infants or small children allowed on this Miami boat tour?

Yes, infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap; strollers are allowed too.

Will we see wildlife on Raccoon Island every time?

The raccoons are wild so sightings aren’t guaranteed but are very likely.

What’s included

Your day includes a private captain steering a 22 ft Bayliner from an easy-access Miami marina with bottled water ready in an iced cooler, use of snorkeling gear if you want it, Bluetooth sound system for your music (or someone else’s), plus all safety equipment—just bring your favorite snacks and drinks for your own twist on this laid-back adventure before heading back ashore.