Miami: Raccoon Island Boat Tour with Wildlife & Swim Stop

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Duration4h

GroupUp to 40

LanguagesEN

Mobile ticketAccepted

Cruise biscayne bay spot dolphins raccoons swim clear waters miami

You’ll cruise Miami’s Biscayne Bay with a small group, watching for dolphins before stepping onto Raccoon Island for an up-close look at its famous raccoons—or just relaxing in clear water with a swim stop. Float at Haulover Sandbar, hear stories from your local crew, and catch sunset views passing Indian Creek’s mansions. It’s simple but memorable—a different side of Miami you’ll actually feel.

Step-by-step itinerary

Miami wildlife cruise and island visit

Depart from Venetian Marina
Cruise Biscayne Bay, spot wildlife
Arrive at Raccoon Island
Optional guided wildlife walk
Relax or swim at the island
Cruise to Haulover Sandbar
Swim and relax at sandbar
Cruise past Indian Creek Island
Return cruise to Venetian Marina

The Experience

"Did you see that fin?" someone called out, and suddenly everyone on the boat was craning their necks. I’d barely finished my first sip of water when our captain slowed down, pointing toward the glint in Biscayne Bay. It turned out to be a pair of dolphins weaving through the waves, right off Miami’s skyline—felt like they were showing off just for us. The air was salty and warm, not too humid for once. There was this low hum from the engine and bursts of laughter every time someone tried to snap a photo but missed.

We reached Raccoon Island (locals call it Sandspur), and I didn’t know what to expect—raccoons in Miami? Our guide, Luis, led those who wanted on a little walk into the trees. He had this way of spotting movement before anyone else did; suddenly there were these curious raccoon faces peeking out from behind palms. They looked as surprised by us as we were by them. I hung back after a while, just listening to the rustle of leaves and catching bits of Spanish from another family nearby. Some folks stayed by the boat instead, dipping toes in the shallow water or floating lazily. The water was so clear you could see tiny fish darting around your feet—kind of hypnotic if you stared long enough.

Afterward we cruised over to Haulover Sandbar, which honestly felt like some kind of floating block party—music drifting from other boats, people waving drinks at each other across the water. I flopped onto one of those big floats and just let myself drift for a while. It’s easy to forget how much you need that kind of stillness until you’re right there in it.

On the way back we passed Indian Creek Island—our captain joked about “Billionaire Bunker” and pointed out houses so huge they barely looked real. The sun was starting to dip and everything took on this hazy gold color. I kept thinking about those raccoon eyes blinking at me from under the leaves—it’s funny what sticks with you after a day like that.

What’s included

Your day includes scenic cruising through Biscayne Bay with comfortable shaded seating and bottled water always handy.
an optional guided walk with locals to spot raccoons up close on Raccoon Island.
plenty of time to swim or float in shallow clear waters near both Sandspur Island and Haulover Sandbar.
plus easy access to your things while anchored nearby—and all led by a licensed captain with friendly crew sharing stories along the way before returning back to Venetian Marina.

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Aqua Party Boat & Cruises