How to Reach Paradise Without a Passport
One of the biggest perks of chartering a boat in South Florida is how quickly you can leave the city behind. With a half- or full-day charter, you can reach beautiful islands and remote sandbars that feel like a world away—without ever crossing an international border.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape or just want to disappear with friends for a few hours, here are some of the best island-style getaways you can reach directly from our docks.
Boca Chita is the closest thing to a tropical postcard you’ll find within a 45-minute boat ride of Miami. This small island features a white lighthouse, a sandy shoreline, and crystal-clear water perfect for swimming or wading.
Although there’s no restaurant or shop here, that’s part of the charm. Pack a cooler, bring music, and enjoy one of South Florida’s most beautiful boating destinations.
Best for: Couples, day trips, photos, and drone shots
Suggested media: Aerial view of lighthouse with boat anchored offshore
As the largest island in Biscayne National Park, Elliott Key offers more space, more walking trails, and more solitude. You’ll need a full-day charter to fully enjoy it, but if you’re looking for an island that feels untouched and natural, this is the one.
Visitors often dock and explore by foot before swimming or enjoying lunch on the deck.
Best for: Nature lovers, full-day escapes, and low-traffic days
Suggested media: Photo of dense greenery, picnic setup on boat
This small island near North Miami is known for its calm water and convenient location. It’s popular among locals for rafting up boats and wading between vessels in knee-deep water. Despite its nickname, it’s surprisingly peaceful and family-friendly during off-peak hours.
Best for: Small groups, sandbar-style fun, casual vibes
Suggested media: Guests on floaties or paddleboards with island in background
Located in the Intracoastal Waterway near Palm Beach, Munyon Island is a bit of a secret even among locals. The island is uninhabited, surrounded by calm waters, and offers incredible paddleboarding and wildlife viewing.
It’s an excellent stop for families or couples who want a more peaceful alternative to the crowded sandbars.
Best for: Quiet charters, nature photography, kayaking
Suggested media: GoPro or wide shot of boat drifting along mangroves
Start at Nixon Sandbar for the social scene, then cruise south to see the legendary Stiltsville houses in the middle of Biscayne Bay. These wooden structures were originally built in the 1930s and now serve as protected historical landmarks.
The route offers both a fun anchor stop and a unique photo opportunity in one trip.
Best for: Blended adventures, Instagram-friendly charters
Suggested media: Boat cruising past stilt houses on clear water
