Is Monument Island open to the public?

Yes. Monument Island is a public island park in Biscayne Bay; access is by boat, kayak, or PWC only.

How do I anchor at Monument Island?

Anchor off the sandy shoreline and avoid seagrass. Use idle speed near swimmers and anchored boats.

Are there facilities on the island?

No. There are no restrooms, potable water, or lifeguards. Pack in and pack out.

Can I camp or grill on Monument Island?

No overnight camping or open fires; follow posted rules and Marine Patrol directions.

Weekends and holidays see the most boats and raft-ups; mornings and weekdays are quieter.

septiembre 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: Sep 4, 2025 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

Map & GPS Directions

GPS: 25.7852, −80.1528 Open in Google Maps View Place Page

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.

Cosas que hacer

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: Playa del Sur - 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 Fuera.Miami y Feeling Yachty, with first-hand experience curating South Florida guides and luxury yacht charters. See his profiles at Fuera.Miami y Feeling Yachty.

Editorial policy: We combine local expertise with official sources and city guidance; content is reviewed regularly or when regulations change.