Stiltsville and the Sandbar: A Perfect Miami Boat Day

Some boat days are about a single destination. This one is about putting two of my favorite things in Biscayne National Park together: the strange and wonderful houses of Stiltsville, and a lazy afternoon in clear, shallow water at the sandbar. Add the Miami skyline on the horizon, and it's about as "Miami" as a day can get.

Here's how I like to plan it.

What Is Stiltsville?

Picture a handful of wooden houses standing on stilts in the middle of the bay, with nothing around them but water. That's Stiltsville, and the first time guests see it, they almost always reach for their phones.

According to the National Park Service, it all started in the 1930s, when "Crawfish Eddie" Walker built the first shack on stilts over the shallow flats. Over the following decades, Stiltsville became a getaway spot with some colorful stories, including tales of gambling and police raids at the old clubs. At its peak in 1960, there were 27 buildings out here.

The flats became part of Biscayne National Park in 1985. Hurricane Andrew hit in 1992, and only seven buildings were left standing. Today, the Stiltsville Trust works with the park to preserve them.

Seeing Stiltsville by Boat

Stiltsville sits at the northern end of the park, so the only way to see it is from the water. We cruise past slowly, so you can take photos and hear the story. Going inside the houses requires a permit from the Stiltsville Trust, so we enjoy them from the boat. Honestly, that's the best view anyway, with the houses framed by open water and the city behind them.

From there, we can keep heading north into Biscayne Bay for a look at the downtown Miami skyline. It's a great backdrop for group photos.

Then, the Sandbar

After the sightseeing, it's time to slow down. A sandbar is exactly what it sounds like: a stretch of shallow water over soft sand, where you can hop off the boat, stand in clear water and just relax.

Our family-favorite sandbar is Billy's Point, on the bay side of Elliott Key inside the park. Depending on tide and weather, we have other spots we like too. Because we're in a national park, you're not at a crowded party sandbar. It's calm, the water is clear, and it's not unusual to see fish, rays or a sea turtle cruise by.

What you can do at the sandbar:

• Wade and float. The water is shallow, so it's easy for all ages. Water shoes are a good idea.

• Lounge on the floating mat. It's free on request, just ask when you book.

• Snorkel. Snorkel gear is provided and cleaned after every trip.

• Turn up the music. Both of our boats have Bluetooth audio.

• Eat, drink and relax. Bring your own food and drinks. Alcohol is welcome for guests 21 and over only, in moderation. Just no glass bottles, please.

The water depth changes with the tide, so I pick the timing and the spot to make sure it's right for your group.

How Long Should Your Trip Be?

Stiltsville is about 14 nautical miles (about 16 miles) north of Billy's Point in a straight line, and the bay is a big place. To see Stiltsville and still have real time to enjoy the sandbar, I recommend a 6 or 8-hour private charter. That gives you time for:

• Stiltsville and the story behind it

• The downtown Miami skyline

• A long, relaxed sandbar stop

• A snorkel stop, or even a visit to the Boca Chita Key lighthouse on the longer days

A longer charter is also your best chance to stay out for sunset, which is the perfect way to end this kind of day.

Every trip is custom. Tell me what matters most to your group, whether that's history, swimming, photos or just floating with a cold drink, and I'll build the route around it.

Pick Your Boat

We run private charters on two boats, the Mako 253 and the Sea Casita, each for up to 6 guests. Both have shade, an onboard toilet and Bluetooth audio, and I keep a cooler on board with ice, water and an assortment of drinks. Every guest signs a liability waiver before we head out.

Where We Meet

We depart from the floating dock at Loggerhead South Miami Marina, inside Black Point Park & Marina, 24775 SW 87th Ave, Homestead, FL 33032.

Book Your Stiltsville and Sandbar Day

Ready for a day of history, sunshine and clear water? Book at coastalrunners.com, email hello@coastalrunners.com, or call or text 305-842-1119. Tell me your date and group size, and I'll put together your perfect Miami boat day.

See you on the water, Captain Pablo

Gratuity isn't included in the trip price. If you enjoyed your day on the water, a 20% tip for your captain and crew is customary and always appreciated.