If you want to get more out of your visit to Miami, Florida, a day cruise is a great way to see more of this gorgeous southern city and its surrounding area. The sun, sand, and incredible weather give visitors to the city many different options for day trip destinations by boat. On the way to these spots, passengers can soak up the Florida sun and get a glimpse of the fascinating marine wildlife that lies beneath the surface of Miami’s Atlantic coast. Here are the spots you could explore from Miami on a day cruise.
Virginia Key
One of the first stops on a day cruise trip should be Florida’s Virginia Key, offering some of the best waterfront restaurants in Miami. This small barrier island is home to a large, oceanfront park that features a network of walking and biking trails, swimming, and kayaking opportunities. The Miami Seaquarium is also located here for visitors who want to learn about marine life in the region. The small island is also a good spot for nature-lovers who want to get a view of Florida’s manatee population. The annual Miami International Boat Show also has its home here.
Key Biscayne
Key Biscayne also makes for a great destination for passengers on party yacht rentals. Exploring this small town on an island a few minutes away from Miami makes for a fun afternoon. The area has beautiful white sand beaches and serene parks of pretty tropical trees. Visitors here can see different examples of wildlife, including loggerhead turtles, birds, and butterflies. Lots of people enjoy fishing from this barrier island as well.
Fisher Island
Day cruisers throughout the Miami area also may schedule a tour by Fisher Island. The Fisher Island area can only be seen from a distance. This private island is limited to residents and the people who work there. By boat, this island shows off a lifestyle that most can only dream about. This island is an exclusive, private enclave for the rich. If your cruise takes a detour by this island, you’ll be able to see some of the priciest homes and condo buildings in the country, along with gorgeous beaches, a pristine golf course, and sparkling private pools.
Star Island
Another island nearby the barrier islands close to Miami is Star Island. Star Island, like Fisher Island, is an upscale neighborhood with some of the most expensive homes in the country. Cruising by this island, boat passengers will see a man-made atoll that has become a mecca for some celebrities in the Miami area. Celebrities Gloria Estefan, Don Johnson, Rosie O’Donnell, Will Smith, and Lenny Kravitz have homes on the island. Visitors on a cruise to the island may get a glimpse of gorgeous, million-dollar homes on the water.
Biscayne National Park
For a day trip idea that takes beach and nature lovers a little further out, consider scheduling a trip to Biscayne National Park. The park is part of the National Park System and sits a few miles off of the coast of South Florida. It’s part of the northern end of the Florida Keys and features a large network of colorful coral reefs. Visitors to the park can also see dolphins, turtles, pelicans, and historic shipwrecks under the surface of the water.
Bimini
Another spot to visit via a day cruise is the closest part of the Bahamas, Bimini. Bimini sits about 50 miles away from Miami and can easily be part of a dedicated day trip cruise from the city. This small region of the Bahamas, comprised of North and South Bimini, is known for crowd-free beaches, casinos, and excellent resorts. Try snorkeling, diving, or enjoying the seafood on this lovely little island paradise.
Miami Sandbar
The last fun day trip that can be experienced via a cruise from Miami is to a sandbar. There are multiple sandbar spots cruises can flock to and explore from the coast of South Florida. The shallow waters in this area and the fact that the sand often shifts due to the current have created several fun sandbar spots. Boaters can sail up and unload passengers on the sandy oasis in the middle of the water for a beach party and more.
After spending time in the city of Miami and experiencing the tastes and culture of South Florida, check out these special places a short sail away. Going for a boat ride and visiting some of these island spots can make your trip to Miami extraordinary. If you want to experience more worthwhile excursions, visiting the top national parks in California is also a great idea.