Legend has it the name Haulover came from a fisherman named Philip Edward Baker (1832-1898) who would haul his sponge boat from Key Biscayne over the dunes by cutting a path through the mangrove forest. An area on the maps marked it as Baker's Haulover in 1823 which people then called Haulover as other generations of fisherman continued the practice. During the Prohibition era, boats would arrive from the Bahamas to deliver whiskey. Alcohol would be to be hauled over the beach to the bayside where speed boats would take it north up north up the Intracoastal Waterway. The inlet where Haulover is located was created in 1925 to increase access to the Atlantic Ocean. The Haulover sandbar was created as the tide rolled in and out over the north end of Biscayne Bay in Miami. The sandbar had a sand shoal that surfaced during low tide. It was as if there was an island oasis in the Bakers Haulover Inlet. When the weather was good, the sandbar was highly visible. Hundreds of boats would converge to enjoy floating concession stands and people would hang out and party on the clean sand left behind by the inlet currents. Alas the Haulover Sandbar is no more. It was dredged in 2021 by the US Army Corps of Engineers who felt it was blocking boat traffic and that the beach-quality sand could be put to better use by shoring up nearby Bal Harbour Beach. Thanks for the great memories and RIP Haulover Sandbar. read more

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Gorgeous sandbar with plenty of nice people to meet. My friends and I spent nearly the entire day having a blast at this sandbar yesterday. There are people who sell food, treats, and can also help you book fun water activities. There's so much space so you're able to dock your boat anywhere and just enjoy! Very relaxing. Can't wait to go back. read more

My one and only lifetime experience walking from the shore to a sand bar was at Haulover. If you haven't experienced being on a sandbar with the Atlantic Ocean all around you I'm recommending you try it. It's like being on a mini island. Back in the day it wasn't as crowded as it became over the years. When places become congested with revelers it takes away from the experience. I'm still giving it Five Stars because I can safely say it was a peak experience I never forgot. read more

Great day of fun, sun and relaxation!!! Met new people, everyone was super friendly even saw people BBQing,, unicorn floats, pink flamingo and the sunset. Sorry for the late post, but I was taking it all in.... read more

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Love this sandbar. They have boats that grill up hotdogs/hamburgers/ sell ice cream and beer ( Nixon should get on that). I like the crowd a lot, its a great mix of families, and is not as ghetto or as much of a "rave" as Nixon. I love that it gets really, REALLY shallow, like sand comes out of the water shallow. Also there is none of that nasty sea grass. I will be back again and again read more

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Unless you are a boater who has unexpectedly run aground, you have to be a fan of the Haulover Sandbar. It's just one of those gathering places unique to SoFlo where the people gather on their boats, anchor, party, swim and float around for the day. Always pleasant, always laid back and totally casual. Even the dogs enjoy it. I like sandbars in general, this one specifically because it is always submerged and so close to Haulover Park, Haulover Inlet, Oleta Bay, Oleta Park and what the locals call Beer Can Island, though I'd hate to think of how may little sandbar islands have the local name of "Beer Can." read more

What can I say. You got a boat or anything that floats? Well then this floating party is within your reach. Located in the middle of the intercoastal waterway this has been a gathering ground for aquatic partiers over the years. With the water only a couple feet deep over a couple acre area hundreds of boats, kayaks, paddle boards, inner tubes and anything else that floats show up to party and have a good time. Primarily a warm weather destination during the spring and summer months this is a great place to go on the weekends to just chill in the water and have a few beers. The actual sandbar ranges from a tidal island during low tide to only a couple feet deep during high tide. The current here can be quite strong so care should be taken if you have little ones. Don't worry if you didn't bring food or don't have a radio. There's always plenty of music coming from a multitude of boats. Just choose a spot near what you like and as for food, there are a couple of floating restaurants that appear here every weekend. With offerings ranging from burgers and dogs all the way to cevieche and fish dip. This place can get a little crazy. during prime weekends it could even be considered dangerous. So if you decide to come just use common sense. Most people are very safety conscious but there are a few that can make it interesting. Also I suggest you get here early . much past noon and it can actually become a challenge to find a good shallow spot. Bring the kids, bring the dogs, bring the visiting relatives. Great place to experience a little bit of South Florida. Till next time Cheers. read more

Chances are if you have a boat & you just wanna chill in the ocean without being on land- you've been here several times. Granted there's always the raunchy cousin known as Nixon Sandbar that gives you that whole "hey baby, I got a boat so call your girlfriends" vibe. This one is more family-oriented and by family-oriented I mean they have people floating around selling food and you won't be in murky shallow water with the "spring break-esque" vibe. Shocker ! There's actually space to swim around and throw a frisbee around! It's extremely shallow and very crystalline blue on a great sunny day which we get pretty often. It's two seconds away from the marina & I find it much more accesible. If what you like is to relax on the water and not have the mass crowds overwhelm you- you should just be here. Like I said, it's the classy cousin of the sandbars. Ahoy mate! read more

Haulover SANDBAR should never be confused with Haulover BEACH. The beach is the place where 260 lb. hairy, French Canadian men go to strip off their speedos, thinking they are still 22 years old and/or starring in some crappy 70's porn flick. Now the Sandbar is where it's at, folks. Unless your name is Michael Phelps, the sandbar is only accessible via boat/yacht/personal watercraft/etc. and lays just west of the old Haulover bait and gas store in the middle of the ICW. Just look for the giant kites flying on weekends and you will find the sandbar. I've been coming out to Haulover Sandbar since Jesus was in Pampers and it's always a good time! But here's a few tips for you newbies if you are so inclined to venture out one day... 1) I'm going to sound like someone's mom but bring plenty of sunscreen. 2) I'm going to sound like someone's dorm mate in college but bring plenty of beer/booze. 3) When walking on the sandbar, whether it's waist deep or ankle deep water, always shuffle your feet, dragging them as you walk. I've seen many a tourist step straight down on a stingray with disastrous (yet funny) results. 4) Please don't feed the birds!!!!! No one enjoys getting dive-bombed with bird crap while kickin' back with a cocktail at the sandbar. The birds can do just fine on their own, trust me! While I'm on the topic, don't litter. There's nothing more stupid than to throw your trash and whatnot in the water, especially beer bottles, which will break and go into an unsuspecting person's foot. No one likes a douchebag at the sandbar. 5) Watch your vessel's wake (No Wake Zone) and be sure to have lots of clearance around deployed anchor lines on the bows of other boats. Some boats will use a lot of anchor line and I've seen several boats' props get tangled up because they didn't use enough clearance. That costs $$$ to repair and you can have a very angry (and possibly drunk) boater on your ass. No bueno! Just follow those five simple rules and you are well on your way of having an awesome time out there! read more

Haulover Sandbar - July 4, 2011 - Local Flavor Near Me - Miami, Florida

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Wonderful experience i have had at the sandbar. So chill and laydback all the stress melts away. We used the Haulover beach ramp and it was fast and easy access to the causeway, Biscayne and Haulover sandbar. We are reaching summer and if you go on a paddle board or kayak beware of dolphins. Its mating season as the waters become warmer they tend to get closer to the beaches and the bay. We saw a couple as they are known to be playful and they will get in front of the jet ski, they will ride the surf in the back of the boat and they will definitely jump and spray you with water. Packing some cool drinks is ideal, they have a kayak hot dog delivery service but you can bring in some snacks and fresh fruits to share. The sandbar gets full, its like a small regatta, everyone is nice and are there for the same reason as you are, to enjoy the company and have a lad back afternoon of nothing but an easygoing mind, water fun and sun kissed skin. read more

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This place doesn't have an actual address. That's because it's a natural SANDBAR, on the water! ; p But it's near Haulover park. I entered in Haulover Park's address, but that's not accurate. If you enter in these coordinates: (25.901928, -80.128613) into Google Maps, you'll be able to see exactly where it is. This is a fun spot to boat to. During the weekends you can find dozens of boats anchored there. The depth is typically between 5-10ft, so people just hang out, blast their marine stereos, and play in the water. There's even a barge raft that floats around selling hot dogs and drinks. They deliver to your boat via inflatable canoe. How cool is that?! We always bring our own food, so I'm not sure; but I think they sell beer too. read more

Haulover Sandbar - Local Flavor Near Me - Miami, Florida

I've been going to the Haulover Sandbar since I was a little girl and my oh my has it grown since then. HUNDREDS of boats anchor here to enjoy the gorgeous Miami weather and water. It is also accessible by kayak or SUP. Your closest launching point would be Oleta River State Park. The Sandbar at lowest tide has a small chunk of sand above the water level and a huuuuge wading area clear of most boats (to prevent getting stuck). I've seen people set up umbrellas, beer pong tables, and even dominoes in these shallow areas! The bigger boats tend to hang back and anchor by the canal, but even they can't resist the fun times of Miami's BEST sandbar! read more

Ducked in to get my weekend party on and it was a fine time, here's why: * Clear water (see photo) * Bikinied Hotties (see photo) * Gorgeous Weather! (See photo) * Fireball Whiskey (no photos) Pass the sunscreen! Much gratitude to be able to enjoy this aspect of where I live. Cabeza OUT! read more

Haulover Sandbar - Awesome weather! - Local Flavor Near Me - Miami, Florida

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Nice launch, easy access, not free. If you have never been to the sand bar, it is quite the sight to see. Locals and tourists alike tie up their boats in a shallow portion of the ocean and party all day and night. There are even floating food trucks. It is a true party on the water done with the obvious South Florida flair and feel. The launch is nice and large with multiple docks and a ton of parking. It can get congested, but they move the people through fairly efficiently. There is a charge to park, but that has to be expected at such a popular place. read more

Super fun for a boat day with family and/or friends. The other boaters are usually pretty friendly. There are always boats out playing loud music. Always a great time! It only sucks when big boats have to anchor further from the sandbar. Coming earlier, this maybe could be avoided. read more

The Haulover Sandbar...one of South Florida's many treasures. Places like these are what make us the envy of much of the rest of the country. If you have been out on the sandbar, you know exactly what I am talking about. If you have not been, find a friend with a boat, rent a boat, whatever, just go! Location: Just north of the inlet, where the Ocean meets Biscayne Bay, just south of the Haulover Marina. What you will find: a bunch of boats and jet ski's (me!) anchored side by side. People in the water, hanging out, enjoying a cold drink, not caring about anything at all going on dry land! There are a couple of barges that sell burgers, dogs, ice cream, etc. Before you ask, NO they are not an eye-sore. We like them. We like their greasy burgers. We like that they do all the work and we don't have to. And as far as the kids are concerned, this is the best ice cream truck EVER! If you come out: PLEASE keep your music at a normal level...no boom boom! PLEASE Don't leave any garbage behind; this place is paradise, and we would like to keep it this way. This is the perfect local spot to leave your cares behind and totally relax. read more

Ahhhhh Haulover Sandbar, I miss you so much!!! A natural sandbar located by Haulover Park (as mentioned by another reviewer). Theres an entrance from the ocean or from the intercoastal if coming from the north or from the west. I used to head south from Ft. lauderdale (where the marina is) through the intercoastal and drink all the way down...pass Nikki Marina and you are more than halfway there, or take the ocean which is a lot of fun (depending on how choppy the sea was). Every weekend theres hundreds of boats, you can find spots from 3 ft to 6ft depeding on how close to the action youd like to be. If you come from the north and head west (towards the main land) and follow the canals you will easily find remote islands with mangroves and eventually star island and the causeway bridge. Expect to see: -Topless women -Alcohol -Dolphins -Manatees -Pigs on boats (I mean police) -Coast Guard helicopters -Beautiful Mansions -Light Blue water read more

We kayaked here from oleta park which is a 20-30min kayak. And I was blown away at the view here! There were other kayaker's here as well and they let us anchor with them because the current was a bit strong., how nice! The water here is beautiful and its about waist high so you can walk around. There is also a boat that sells food so you can't lose! The food is reasonably priced about 3.50 for a hotdog as I recall?? T The only negative is that it is pretty crowded so please becareful of other people when you are there. ESPICALLY the people with the big boats! They may not see a small kayaker too well. We actually saw a kayaker get tumbled over because the boat had pushed them. The people on the boat did not help them either they just watched them fall into the water!!hey also have hotdogs, icecream, and drinks too. read more

What a fantastic place. The boat storage yard or building is massive. They have very nice facilities here including recently remodeled store. They are excellent bathrooms also have showers. A plus if you're staying on the boat. I would during the week when there was hardly anybody there. But I can imagine on the weekends it's very busy. read more

Haulover Sandbar - Local Flavor Near Me - Miami, Florida

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A sandbar that turns into a floating party. Yep! That's fun. Shallow enough to wade around in the middle of the channel. Kids okay. Bring some cash, there are a couple of floating burger shops. read more

Haulover Sandbar - Floating burger barge. Bring some cash. - Local Flavor Near Me - Miami, Florida

This hang out on the water is a viable option when the goal is simply to park the yacht/boat somewhere and drink. It gets crowded on sunny weekends. You will typically see manatees and jet skis riding around uncomfortably fast for these docile and endangered creatures. The water is usually clear and seemingly clean. All in all, an easy solution to driving the yacht around aimlessly. read more

Beautiful; best summer hangout any day of the week any time, period. read more

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i can't wait for summmer!!!! I just moved down here and recently discovered the Sandbar.... i hope to be getting super drunk there soon! read more

Great food. Great fun. You can definitely come with an appetite!!! We had the cheese burger, hot dog, and fries. Its has a great atmosphere.

this is very nice place ,enjoing whit friends and family ...clean ocean water , good views , music in boats , peope do sports atound and bbq.....recomend this place read more

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Yes - if you love to meet people, enjoy boating, sunshine, and want to go to a party this is the place, especially on a weekend ......there is no better place in Miami! we rented a pontoon boat locally and spent all day there! Awesome! read more

The place is great. A sand bar in the middle of the inter-coastal. It is a ton of fun for adults and kids. What is great are the floating food barges, which deliver. I am not saying this is the best or cheapest food, but it sure is convenient. read more

love this place! recently acquired a boat and have been here 3 weekends in a row what a party! read more

to all the people conserned about haulover sandbar im thomas im the ceo of the conession stand at haulover sandbar just to let you know a lil about it we are a family owned bussiness since 1997 at haulover sandbar and beer can island we go out every weekend and only execpt cash at the moment i saw everyones post about us on yelp and we have a facebook page www.facebook.com/baysweep and thank you all for all the post about us weare very glad everyone is always having a great time for the people that dont have food or forgot something we will always be there to supply them ready for the summer and the house boat will no longer be out there cause of the funding but we will always be out there read more