Fisher Island

The basics

Fisher Island is prime real estate with some of the highest per capita incomes found anywhere in the United States. The island is surrounded by warm, turquoise waters and lined with white sand beaches. This luxurious and tropical private island can be seen during several Miami tours including helicopter tours, seaplane tours, and boat tours, but typically can only be visited by invitation.

Things to know before you go

• Fisher Island is ideal for travelers seeking quiet luxury.
• One of the exclusive hotels on the island is a former Vanderbilt retreat.
• There are no bridges to Fisher Island; all arrivals are by boat.
• Fisher Island is private and an invitation from a resident or a hotel reservation is required to visit.

How to get there

Fisher Island is located off the southern tip of Miami in Biscayne Bay. It can’t be reached by car or bridge; visitors must take the ferry (or a private boat). The ferry runs 24 hours a day and departs every 30 minutes from Terminal Island Road just off Miami Beach’s MacArthur Causeway.

When to get there

The most popular time to visit Fisher Island (and Miami in general) is during the winter months when temperatures are warm and people from snow-covered places travel south seeking sun and surf. The late summer and early fall are prime season for hurricanes; people planning a trip during this time often do so at the last minute. The summer months can be hot and humid.

Bird’s Eye View of Miami

One of the best ways to get the lay of the land in Miami is with a bird’s eye view. Book a tour in a helicopter or a seaplane to experience a new perspective on South Beach and Fisher Island. The flight also includes views of the downtown Miami skyline, Coconut Grove, and Coral Gables.

Are there public beaches on Fisher Island?

No, the beaches on Fisher Island are not open to the public, except for guests staying at Fisher Island Hotel and Resort or guests of residents on the island. Fisher Island Hotel and Resort considers their beachfront one of the most exclusive private beaches in the state of Florida.

Can tourists stay overnight on Fisher Island?

Yes, tourists can stay overnight on Fisher Island at the Fisher Island Hotel and Resort. Fisher Island is a members-only residential island, frequented by the rich and famous. Guests should be aware that rates for Fisher Island Hotel and Resort are expensive, even compared to the most lavish hotels on Miami Beach.

How do you get to Fisher Island from downtown Miami?

The only way to get to Fisher Island from Downtown Miami (and any other location) is by boat. Unless you have a private yacht, you’ll need to take the 24-hour ferry to Fisher Island. The ferry departs near Miami Beach’s MacArthur Causeway, though guests must pre-arrange a security clearance check.

Are there guided tours of Fisher Island?

No, most tours associated with Fisher Island are boat and helicopter tours that depart from Miami and the surrounding area. None of these tours stop on Fisher Island itself. Guests of Fisher Island Hotel and Resort may be able to arrange an informal tour, but there are no public tours.

What is the history behind Fisher Island?

Fisher Island was an undeveloped piece of land in Biscayne Bay attached to Miami Beach. Fisher Island was split from Miami Beach in 1905, changing ownership throughout the century. The 1980s saw the development of Fisher Island Club and a massive restoration process took place in the 2000s.

Is visiting Fisher Island worth it?

Yes, if you secure an invitation to the Fisher Island Club or through a resident, a visit to Fisher Island is worth it to see a luxurious side of Florida few get the chance to experience. Keep in mind that even with an invite, transfer, access, and amenity fees are pricey.

Ways to explore

Fisher Island is prime real estate with some of the highest per capita incomes found anywhere in the US. Surrounded by warm turquoise waters and white sand beaches, this private tropical island is viewed from afar on several Miami tours, such as helicopter, seaplane, and boat tours. Some private yacht excursions elevate the experience with Champagne, meals, and activities such as snorkeling or dolphin-watching. Access to the island itself, though, is limited to residents or invited guests, and security on the ferries is tight, to ensure only approved visitors get in.

Accessibility

Check with individual tour operators to make sure the mode of transportation to view the island is accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Contactless payment method, camera

What to wear

Layered clothing, comfortable footwear

Not allowed

Visiting the island without a resident or member invite, littering

Amenities

Offerings vary by tour.

Address 

Fisher Island is located off the southern tip of Miami in Biscayne Bay. It can’t be reached by car or bridge, or visited by the general public; boat tours are one way to view it.

Driving

You cannot drive directly onto Fisher Island, as no bridges connect it to the mainland. Instead, if you’re an approved visitor, you can drive to the Fisher Island Ferry Terminal on Terminal Island Road.

Public transportation

If you’re traveling by ferry, the service operates 24 hours a day, every day of the week. You must be invited by a resident or member to be able to get to the island.

Best times to visit

Many travelers opt for morning outings to take in the sights.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are generally more relaxed than the weekends for a tour.

Best months to visit

The weather is typically comfortable between December and April. These months have lower heat and humidity than the peak summer months.

Special events

Events on the island aren’t open to the public—they’re just for residents, members, and guests. But if you’re planning a Miami itinerary, you can catch big annual events such as Art Basel Miami in December.