How to get to Raccoon Island

Only by water. There is no bridge, no road, no ferry terminal and no public dock. Raccoon Island sits in open Biscayne Bay, so the only way there is by boat, kayak, paddleboard (SUP) or jet ski on a tour. Tours depart from Miami and North Miami marinas and run $74 to $140 per person, or $359 for a private group.

AccessWater only; no bridge or road

Tours depart fromMiami & North Miami marinas

Paddle toursSUP/kayak paddle ~3 hours to the island

Boat toursReach it in minutes; anchor nearby to swim/float

Price range$74–$140 per person; $359 private

Most bookedSUP & Kayak Wildlife Paddle (1,478 reviews)

Why water only

Raccoon Island is a small, uninhabited spoil island in Biscayne Bay, not a park or named landmark. It is roughly a few hundred meters offshore, surrounded by open bay water. There is no seawall, no jetty, and no way to drive or walk there. You need a watercraft.

The five ways to get there

Guided SUP or kayak paddle: The most booked option. You paddle out from the launch point (with guide support). The paddle itself is a few hundred metres. Total time: ~3 hours. Best if you want to be in the water and close to the raccoons. Bring water shoes; you will get wet.
Guided boat cruise: Reach the island in minutes by boat. You anchor nearby, swim or float, and watch the raccoons from the water’s edge. Tours run 90 minutes to 4.5 hours. Best if you want to stay dry or have less time.
Kayak with mangrove paddle: The Ultimate budget tour combines boat and kayak, so you get the mangrove scenery and island time. $74 — cheapest option.
Island hopping by boat: Half-day boat trip that passes Raccoon Island among other stops, with a floating-mat break. $140; smaller group, captain-hosted.
Private sandbar & island tour: Private group charter that includes Raccoon Island, a sandbar swim, and Billionaire’s Row. $359 per group (not per person).

Where the tours launch from

Depending on the tour operator, launches happen from Miami Beach, North Miami, or Oleta River marinas. When you book on GetYourGuide, the tour details tell you where to meet. Most operators offer hotel pickup in Miami/Miami Beach.

How far is it really

By water, roughly a 10–20 minute paddle (SUP/kayak) or a few minutes by motorboat from the launch point. The island is small — you can walk it in 15 minutes. What matters is the paddle or boat ride to get there, not the island itself.

Bring gear for water

You are in a boat or paddle craft on saltwater bay. Bring water shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, and a dry bag. Wear a life vest on paddle tours. Bring drinking water and cash for tips. Read the honest verdict on whether the trip is worth it.

See all six tours by type, boat-only options, paddle tours, and check availability.

Frequently asked questions

Can you drive to Raccoon Island?

No. There is no bridge, no road, and no parking. The island is in open Biscayne Bay, roughly a few hundred metres offshore. You must take a boat, kayak or SUP tour to reach it.

How long does it take to get there by boat?

By motorboat, a few minutes from the launch point. By kayak or SUP, about 10–20 minutes of paddling. The total tour time is 2.5 to 4.5 hours depending on the operator.

Do I need to know how to paddle to visit?

No. Boat tours let you stay dry and reach the island just as quickly. But if you want to paddle, SUP and kayak tours are guided, so beginners are welcome. Bring water shoes.

What if I get seasick?

Talk to the tour operator about motion-sickness medicine. Morning tours in November through May have calmer water than summer. Private tour captains know the bay well and choose smooth routes.

Can I kayak there on my own?

Technically yes, but not advised. The bay has motorboat traffic, and the island has no facilities or services. A guided tour gives you safety, local knowledge, and the certainty of finding the raccoons. See the paddle tour options.