September 4, 2025

Haulover Sandbar Miami Guide: Best Time, Map, Depth, Anchoring & Tips

Haulover Sandbar Miami Guide: Best Time, Map, Depth, Anchoring & Tips
North Miami Beach • Sandbar • Party

Haulover Sandbar Guide: Best Time, Map, Depth, Anchoring & Tips

Last reviewed: Coverage: Haulover Inlet & Biscayne Bay
Location: North Miami Beach / Bal Harbour Inlet, FL
Best Time: Rising–high tide, late morning to mid-afternoon
Access: By boat/charter or PWC (no public dock on the sandbar)
Coordinates: 25.9075° N, −80.1235° W
Highlights: 2–4 ft clear shallows, weekend party vibe, float vendors on busy days

Overview

Haulover Sandbar forms just inside Haulover Inlet on Biscayne Bay and is famous for ankle- to waist-deep clear water that feels like a natural pool in the bay. On weekends and holidays the scene turns into a floating social hub—rafts of boats, floaties, music, and occasional mobile vendors—while weekdays are calmer and family-friendly.

Local insight: Aim for a rising to high tide for better clarity and easier anchoring. Depths average 2–4 ft across the flats but drop quickly near the marked channel. Currents increase close to the inlet; keep swimmers near your stern and idle through no-wake areas.

Before you go: Launch/fuel/restrooms are available at Haulover Park Marina. Check wind, tide, and afternoon storms. Bring lines/fenders for rafting and a sand spike or proper anchor with enough scope.

Respect the bay: Stay out of seagrass, anchor only on sand, pack out trash, and keep music at respectful levels. Marine patrols are common on busy days.

Local Rules & Safety

  • No-wake & Channel: Keep clear of the marked channel; idle near swimmers and PWCs.
  • Anchoring: Drop on sand, avoid seagrass beds; set adequate scope and test set before swimming.
  • Safety Gear: USCG-required life jackets; use a floating line/flag if snorkeling.
  • Patrols: Expect checks by FWC/Marine Patrol on busy weekends.
  • Facilities: No restrooms or lifeguards on the sandbar—use marina facilities before departure.

Helpful references: FWC Boating Regulations • Miami-Dade Boating Access • NWS Miami Marine Forecast

Things To Do

  • Anchor & Float: Drop on the shallow flats; use plenty of scope and avoid the channel.
  • Water Toys: Floaties, noodles, paddleboards, snorkel masks—great for the clear shallows.
  • PWCs & Tenders: Keep a lookout and idle near swimmers; give wide berth to anchored boats.
  • Vendors: On busy days, floating vendors may offer snacks/drinks/ice cream.
  • Nearby Marinas: Haulover Park Marina/Boat Ramp for launch, fuel, and facilities.

Nearby: Haulover Park • Oleta River State Park • Bal Harbour • Sandspur Island

Quick FAQ

  • Do I need a boat? Yes—access is by boat/charter or PWC; there’s no public dock on the sandbar.
  • What’s the depth? Typically ~2–4 ft at mid to high tide; shallower at low tide.
  • Best time to go? Rising to high tide for clearer water; weekends are busiest and most lively.
  • Are there lifeguards or bathrooms? No lifeguards/bathrooms on the sandbar—use marina facilities before departing.
  • Any rules for anchoring? Stay out of the channel, respect no-wake zones, and avoid anchoring in seagrass.

About This Guide

Author & Reviewer: Fernando Yemail — Miami lifestyle expert and founder of Out.Miami and Feeling Yachty, with first-hand experience curating South Florida guides and luxury yacht charters. See his profiles at Out.Miami and Feeling Yachty.

Editorial policy: We combine first-hand local insight with official sources (FWC, Miami-Dade Parks, NOAA/NWS). Content is reviewed regularly or when conditions/regulations change.