Key West Sandbar Charter | Private Sandbar Tours
by Make It So Charters
Start with the sandbar — then make it yours. Explore Key West’s hidden sandbars on your own private charter adventure.
⭐ 5-Star Rated | Private Sandbar Trips in Key West | All Gear Included
Looking for a private sandbar charter in Key West? Our sandbar trips are designed for guests who want a relaxed, uncrowded experience in some of the most beautiful shallow-water locations in the Florida Keys. Instead of sharing a boat with strangers or following a fixed tour route, your private sandbar charter is fully customized around your group, the tides, and the day’s conditions.
Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or celebrating a special occasion, we take you to crystal-clear sandbars where you can swim, relax, explore, and enjoy Key West at its best. Our experienced local captains know exactly when and where to go to create the perfect sandbar experience — every trip is different, and every trip is private.
Best Sandbars to Visit on a Key West Sandbar Charter
One of the biggest advantages of booking a Key West sandbar charter is having access to multiple sandbars — not just one crowded location. Because every private sandbar tour is customized around tides, weather, and your preferences, we choose the best sandbar conditions for your trip. Here are some of the most popular sandbars we visit:
Snipes Key Sandbar
Snipes is one of the most well-known sandbars in Key West — and for good reason. On the right tide, the water becomes crystal-clear and shallow, creating the perfect place to relax, float, and enjoy the sun.
This sandbar is popular with both locals and visitors, but with a private sandbar charter, you’re not locked into the busiest section. We position the boat where conditions are best, giving you space to swim and unwind without the crowd feel of large group tours.
Snipes sandbar is ideal for:
Floating and relaxing in waist-deep water
Families with kids
Social sandbar days with friends
Combining sandbar time with snorkeling nearby
Because tides shift throughout the day, our local captains know exactly when Snipes sandbar is at its best.
Boca Grande Sandbar
Boca Grande sandbar offers a slightly more remote sandbar experience. Located west of Key West, this area often features exceptionally clear water and excellent snorkeling conditions depending on visibility and current.
If you’re looking for a more secluded sandbar trip away from heavy boat traffic, Boca Grande is often a great option. The surrounding waters can be full of marine life, making it a perfect stop for guests who want to combine a sandbar charter with snorkeling.
Boca Grande is great for:
Couples looking for a quiet experience
Guests wanting clearer water
Snorkel + sandbar combination trips
Sunset sandbar stops
Since every sandbar charter is private, we can adjust timing and locations to give you the best conditions possible.
Jewfish Basin
Jewfish sandbar is another beautiful shallow-water location that becomes especially stunning during ideal tide conditions. When the water pulls back just right, wide sandy areas emerge, creating a calm and family-friendly sandbar setting.
This area is often chosen for:
Relaxed floating and swimming
Family groups
First-time visitors to Key West
Guests who want a laid-back atmosphere
Because sandbars are tide-dependent, having a captain who understands local water movement makes all the difference. We monitor daily conditions to determine which sandbar will offer the best experience for your trip.
Why a Private Key West Sandbar Charter Makes the Difference
Unlike large group sandbar tours that visit one fixed location, our private sandbar charters are flexible. That means:
We choose the best sandbar based on tide and water clarity
You’re never on a boat with strangers
Your trip can include snorkeling, island exploring, or relaxing
Timing is customized around your group
Every Key West sandbar charter is different — because no two days on the water are the same.
Why Our Sandbar Trips Are Different
- 100% private — no strangers on your trip
- Access to hidden sandbars most visitors never see
- Combine activities in one trip
- All gear included (snorkeling, fishing, floats)
- No rush — your pace, your day
Private vs Group Sandbar Tours in Key West
When searching for a Key West sandbar charter, you’ll see both private charters and large group tours. While group tours can be fun for some travelers, they offer a very different experience compared to a fully private sandbar charter.
Group Sandbar Tours
Group sandbar tours typically:
Follow a fixed route
Operate on a strict schedule
Include multiple unrelated guests
Visit one pre-selected sandbar location
Offer limited flexibility
These tours can feel busy — especially during peak season — and you’re sharing the experience with strangers.
Private Sandbar Charters
A private Key West sandbar charter is completely different.
With a private tour:
The boat is reserved only for your group
The itinerary is customized
We choose the best sandbar based on tide and water clarity
You can combine snorkeling, island stops, or eco exploring
You control the pace of the day
Instead of rushing between stops, your private sandbar tour is designed around what your group wants most — whether that’s relaxing in shallow turquoise water, exploring hidden sandbars, or creating a fun social day on the water.
Why Most Guests Choose Private
Many guests initially search for “sandbar tour Key West” without realizing they can book the entire boat privately. Once they understand the flexibility, comfort, and personal attention that comes with a private sandbar charter, the choice becomes easy.
There are no strangers.
No fixed scripts.
No crowded stops.
Just your group, your captain, and the best sandbar conditions available that day.
Popular Sandbar Combos
Sandbar + Snorkeling
Swim vibrant reefs where the tour boats can’t go.
Sandbar + Eco Tour
Spot dolphins, turtles, and stingrays in the wild.
Sandbar + Fishing
Light-tackle fishing fun for
all ages.
Sandbar + Sunset
Champagne toasts in golden-hour shallows.
The Experience
What’s Included
Your private sandbar charter includes everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable day on the water. From the moment you step aboard, our focus is on safety, convenience, and relaxation.
Every sandbar charter includes a licensed local captain, fuel, and all required safety equipment. We also provide a cooler with ice, snorkeling gear, and floats so you can fully enjoy your time at the sandbar. Just bring your favorite drinks, snacks, towels, and sunscreen, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Private boat + licensed captain
Snorkeling
gear
Fishing
tackle
Bluetooth sound system
Cooler with ice & bottled water
Floats & water
toys
Best Time for a Sandbar Trip in Key West
Timing is one of the most important factors for a great sandbar experience. Sandbars are influenced by tides, weather, and seasonal conditions, which is why local knowledge matters.
In general, sandbar trips are best around mid to high tide, when water levels allow for easy access and clear swimming conditions. Morning trips often offer calmer winds, while afternoon trips can provide warmer water and great lighting. Our captains plan each trip based on the day’s conditions to ensure the safest and most enjoyable experience possible.
If weather conditions change, we’re flexible and can adjust locations or timing to keep your trip comfortable and fun.
Who Our Sandbar Charters Are Perfect For
Private sandbar charters are a great choice for a wide range of guests visiting Key West. Families love the shallow water and relaxed pace, making sandbar trips safe and fun for kids. Couples enjoy the peaceful setting and flexibility to explore at their own pace.
Sandbar charters are also popular for bachelorette and bachelor parties, friend groups, and visitors looking for a unique way to experience Key West without crowds. Because the trip is private, we can tailor the experience to match your group’s interests, energy level, and schedule.
What to Bring on Your Sandbar Charter
To make the most of your sandbar trip, we recommend bringing a few essentials. Sunscreen, towels, sunglasses, and hats are always a good idea. Many guests also bring drinks, snacks, and a waterproof phone case or camera to capture the experience.
Comfortable swimwear and water shoes can be helpful, especially for exploring shallow areas. If you have any special requests or questions about what to bring, just let us know — we’re happy to help you prepare.
Key West Sandbar Charter FAQs
How long is a private sandbar charter?
Most sandbar charters range from half-day to longer custom trips, depending on your preferences.
Which sandbar do you visit?
We choose the best sandbar for the day based on tides, weather, and your group’s goals.
Is a sandbar trip safe for kids?
Yes. Sandbars typically have shallow water, and private trips allow for a relaxed, family-friendly pace.
Can we combine a sandbar trip with snorkeling or dolphin watching?
Absolutely. Many guests choose to combine activities during their private charter.
What happens if the weather changes?
Safety comes first. If conditions change, we can adjust locations or reschedule as needed.
How many people can come on a private sandbar charter?
Our private charters are designed for small groups — contact us for capacity details.
Do you provide snorkeling gear and floats?
Yes, snorkeling gear and floats are included.
Are sandbar trips good for bachelorette parties?
Yes, private sandbar charters are a popular choice for celebrations.