In Biscayne Bay, just west of Haulover Beach, lies a tranquil island known as Sandspur Island. From the outside, it looks just like your average island with sandy shores, coconut palm trees and surrounding cityscape, but it has some very unique inhabitants.
It has a rather fitting nickname — Raccoon Island — which describes the furry mascots that call it home!
While many raccoons roam free throughout South Florida, these guys make up the island’s only residents. They’re used to visitors and can be pretty friendly, but you won’t be able to take any home with you. They’re said to love snacks too, so it’s best not to show up empty handed.
No one’s really sure how they got there, but it’s believed there are approximately 175 of them and have been on the island for 30 years. One thing’s for sure and it’s that these mammals are proficient swimmers, according to Britannica, and can even stay afloat for several hours!
Accessible by kayak or boat, Sandspur Island is the largest spoil island in Biscayne Bay at 15 acres. It’s actually part of Oleta River State Park, a vast scape of water and trails to lose yourself in. There, you can rent equipment like kayaks, canoes, paddle boards and bikes to connect with nature.
Another fitting nickname for Sandspur Island is Beer Can Island, as beer cans can be found throughout. So if you do go, consider bringing a bag to help clean up trash while you’re there.
You can plan your visit and capture moments with all of the island’s wildlife at Oleta River Park here. You can also get to the island via a public charter or another kayak rental service.