Stiltsville
Iconic historic houses on stilts in Biscayne Bay, a unique glimpse into Miami's colorful past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Stiltsville
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic historic houses on stilts in Biscayne Bay, a unique glimpse into Miami's colorful past.
"A must visit if in Miami, clients always amazed at the structures and incredible view around."
Book Tours in Advance
Stiltsville tours fill up fast! Secure your spot early, especially during peak season.
Boat Access Only
You need a boat to reach Stiltsville. Opt for a guided tour or rent a private vessel.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Stilt Houses
Biscayne Bay
Six historic houses perched on stilts, appearing to float on the water. A truly unique architectural marvel.
Biscayne National Park Boat Tour
Departing from Dinner Key Marina
Explore the history and beauty of Stiltsville up close with knowledgeable guides. Educational and scenic.
Sunset Views
Biscayne Bay
Witness a breathtaking sunset over the water with the unique silhouette of Stiltsville as your backdrop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Stiltsville
Understanding Stiltsville's History
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tours in Advance
Stiltsville tours fill up fast! Secure your spot early, especially during peak season.
Boat Access Only
You need a boat to reach Stiltsville. Opt for a guided tour or rent a private vessel.
Learn the History
The stories behind these houses are fascinating – from gambling dens to exclusive clubs.
Bring Sun Protection
The sun can be intense on the bay. Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tours in Advance
Stiltsville tours fill up fast! Secure your spot early, especially during peak season.
Boat Access Only
You need a boat to reach Stiltsville. Opt for a guided tour or rent a private vessel.
Learn the History
The stories behind these houses are fascinating – from gambling dens to exclusive clubs.
Bring Sun Protection
The sun can be intense on the bay. Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
Respect the Structures
These are historic homes. Admire them from the water or during permitted tours.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Stiltsville is consistently praised as a unique and historic Miami landmark, offering fascinating insights into the area's past. Visitors are amazed by the sight of the stilt houses and the beautiful bay setting. While access is limited to boat tours, the experience is widely considered educational and visually stunning, making it a must-see for many.
"This Historic part of Miami is a must see. It is the northernmost part of Biscayne national park and gets the name Stiltsville from homes on pilings / stilts. This started as early as 1922."
Charlie Schiffer
"It was a wonderful day going out on the National Parks Boat to visit these interesting little structures. Lots of history, very educational"
lisa thomas
"You wouldn't expect to find historic houses in the middle of a 95% water national park but here Stiltsville is! Each house has a unique history that's fascinating to learn about. If you don't have a personal boat, the Biscayne National Park Institute has a few tours that'll take you close to several of the houses"
Tyler Norris
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Stiltsville is located in Biscayne Bay and is only accessible by boat. The most common ways to visit are by joining a guided tour offered by the Biscayne National Park Institute, or by chartering a private boat.
No, Stiltsville is situated miles offshore in the water and cannot be reached by car. Access is exclusively by watercraft.
Tours typically depart from the Dinner Key Marina in Coconut Grove, Miami.
You can get a distant view of Stiltsville from the shoreline at Bill Baggs State Park on Key Biscayne.
Some visitors have inquired about spearfishing in the Stiltsville area, noting potential wrecks and drop-offs. It's crucial to check current regulations and park rules before engaging in any fishing activities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, if you plan to visit via a guided tour, you will need to purchase tickets in advance through the Biscayne National Park Institute or other tour operators.
Tour prices can vary, but generally range from $40-$60 per person. It's best to check the official Biscayne National Park Institute website for current pricing and booking information.
Stiltsville is part of Biscayne National Park. While there isn't a separate entrance fee for Stiltsville, you will pay for the boat tour or if you have your own boat and are entering the park.
Renting a house in Stiltsville is extremely rare and typically involves special arrangements or private ownership. There are no standard rental services like Airbnb for these historic homes.
Stiltsville is accessible to the public primarily through guided boat tours. Private boat access is also possible, but direct entry into the houses is usually restricted unless part of a special tour.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photographing Stiltsville. Weekday afternoons can also provide fewer boats in the background.
Access inside the houses is limited. Some special tours may offer brief interior peeks, but photography inside is generally not permitted unless explicitly allowed.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the bay and the unique perspective of the stilt houses. A telephoto lens can be useful for details. Don't forget waterproof protection for your gear.
Drone usage is typically restricted within national parks. Always check the specific regulations for Biscayne National Park before flying a drone.
From the water, approaching from different angles reveals the unique structure of the houses. Aerial views from a helicopter or drone (where permitted) offer a stunning perspective.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Make sure to pack plenty of sun protection, snacks, and drinks, as you'll be on the water for a few hours. The novelty of these floating homes and the chance to see marine life in Biscayne Bay can make for a memorable family outing.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the houses and their surroundings, and a telephoto lens for details. Waterproof protection for your camera gear is highly recommended due to the marine environment. Aerial shots, if possible via helicopter tours, offer an unparalleled perspective.
⚓ Boating & Water Sports Fans
If you have your own boat, you can explore the bay at your leisure, anchoring nearby to admire the houses. Remember to be mindful of park regulations and maintain a respectful distance from the historic structures.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Colorful History of Stiltsville
+1The community faced numerous challenges, including hurricanes that destroyed many structures, and changing regulations. In the 1960s, the state of Florida revoked leases, leading to a decline. Despite efforts to preserve them, many houses were lost to storms and demolition. Today, only six of these iconic structures remain, a testament to their resilience and unique place in Miami's history. They are now managed by the Biscayne National Park Institute, ensuring their preservation for future generations.
+1Visiting Stiltsville offers a glimpse into a bygone era of Miami's development. The remaining houses, each with its own distinct character and history, stand as a fascinating reminder of the city's adventurous and sometimes scandalous past. Learning about the figures who frequented these establishments and the events that unfolded here adds a rich layer to the visual experience.
Experiencing Stiltsville: Tours and Private Charters
+1For a more personalized experience, chartering a private boat is an excellent option. This allows you to set your own pace, explore the bay, and potentially even arrange for a closer look at the houses if the owner permits, as some have done.
Many charter companies operating out of Miami and Key Biscayne can arrange trips to Stiltsville. It's advisable to book these in advance, especially if you have specific requests or are traveling during a busy period. When planning your visit, remember that Stiltsville is an outdoor experience. Be prepared for sun, wind, and water. Bringing sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and light, comfortable clothing is essential. While some tours might offer brief opportunities to step onto a stilt house if arranged, generally, you'll be viewing them from the water.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit