September 4, 2025

Monument Island

Monument Island Miami (Flagler Memorial Island) Guide: Access, Map, Anchoring, Rules & Tips
Biscayne Bay • Island Park • Boating

Monument Island Miami (Flagler Memorial Island) Guide: Access, Map, Anchoring, Rules & Tips

Last reviewed: Coverage: Biscayne Bay between MacArthur & Venetian Causeways
Location: Biscayne Bay off Miami Beach, between MacArthur & Venetian Causeways
Access: By boat/charter, kayak, or PWC (no bridges/roads to the island)
Coordinates: 25.7852° N, −80.1528° W
Highlights: White-sand shoreline, iconic Flagler obelisk, skyline views, easy paddling

Overview

Monument Island (officially Flagler Memorial Island) is a boat-in park in the middle of Biscayne Bay, crowned by a towering obelisk honoring Henry Flagler. It’s a favorite stop for boaters and paddlers thanks to its calm, shallow shoreline, soft sand, and 360º views of the Miami skyline and Miami Beach.

Local insight: Approach slowly and drop anchor off the sand (avoid seagrass). Weekends get lively with raft-ups; mornings and weekdays are quieter for picnics and photos. Bring shade, water, and trash bags—there are no facilities on the island.

Where to launch: Most boaters come via Biscayne Bay marinas; paddlers often stage from Miami Beach’s Sunset Harbour/Maurice Gibb Park area or from the Watson Island side. Expect wake and heavy boat traffic—cross channels with caution.

Local Rules & Safety

  • No-wake near swimmers: Idle speed around anchored boats and the beach.
  • Anchoring: Set on sand, not on seagrass; use adequate scope and test the set before swimming.
  • Pack in/out: No restrooms, potable water, or trash cans on the island.
  • No fires or overnight camping: Day-use vibe; respect posted signage and patrol instructions.
  • Wildlife & dunes: Stay off vegetation and dunes; keep music at respectful levels.

Things To Do

  • Anchor & Swim: Wade in clear, shallow water with skyline views.
  • Picnic & Photos: Bring a blanket/shade; the monument backdrop is iconic.
  • Kayak/SUP: Gentle paddling around the island and nearby islets.
  • Sunset Cruise Stop: Golden light on the obelisk and downtown—prime photo time.
  • Nearby Stops: Combine with Star Island loop or a South Beach dinner after docking.

Nearby: South Beach • Venetian Islands • Watson Island

Quick FAQ

  • Is Monument Island public? Yes—it’s a public island park in Biscayne Bay (boat/kayak access only).
  • How deep is it around the island? Depth varies; anchor on sandy patches off the beach and stay clear of channels.
  • Are there bathrooms or lifeguards? No—bring supplies and practice buddy swimming.
  • Can I grill or camp? No open fires or overnight camping; day use only.
  • Are rules enforced? Yes—expect Marine Patrol presence on busy days.

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 local expertise with official sources and city guidance; content is reviewed regularly or when regulations change.