Islamorada Sandbar Private 3-Hour Tiki Boat Tour: Family-Friendly Sandbar & Snorkel Trip
Cruise mangrove channels to a sunlit sandbar off Islamorada aboard a private tiki boat. This three-hour, family-friendly trip pairs shallow-water swimming and wildlife viewing with convenient onboard amenities.
The Experience
Before You Go
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply and reapply reef-safe sunscreen before entering the water to protect coral and seagrass beds.
Bring a small dry bag
Keep phones and passports dry in a compact dry bag since you'll be on a low-profile boat and in shallow water.
Time your ride for calm seas
Mornings and early afternoons are usually flatter; choose earlier departures if you're prone to seasickness.
Respect the habitat
Avoid standing on seagrass or chasing wildlife; use the provided ladder for safe reboarding.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Check nearby mangrove channels for quiet snorkeling and small fish nurseries
- •Anchor on the downwind edge of the sandbar for calmer water and better shade opportunities
Wildlife
- •Southern stingray
- •Brown pelican
Conservation Note
This area relies on healthy seagrass and coral habitats; use reef-safe products, pack out trash, and avoid disturbing wildlife to reduce impact.
The Upper Keys developed around fishing and reef navigation; sandbars and flats have long served as gathering places for local captains and anglers.
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects your skin and the local marine ecosystem while exposed to strong tropical sun.
Swimsuit and quick-dry towelEssential
Comfortable swimwear and a towel make moving between boat and sandbar hassle-free.
Small dry bagEssential
Keeps valuables dry during shallow-water activity and occasional spray.
Polarized sunglasses and hat
Improves visibility on the water and reduces sun glare for spotting fish and navigating shallow flats.
Common Questions
How far is the sandbar from shore?
Typical runs are 15–30 minutes from the marina depending on exact launch point and conditions — roughly 1–3 miles offshore.
Are life jackets provided for children?
Yes — child-sized PFDs and adult life jackets are available and required for young or non-swimmers.
Can I bring food and alcohol on board?
Tours typically allow bottled water and snacks; check the tour operator’s policy for alcoholic beverages and local regulations.
What happens in bad weather?
The tour operator cancels for unsafe conditions; full refunds are standard if the trip is called off due to weather.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
Islamorada, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires basic mobility to step on/off the boat and stand in shallow water.
Ready to Explore Islamorada?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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