Full-Service Marina with 24-Hour Boat Ramps & Island Access
Pelican Harbor Marina is North Miami’s premier “in-town” full-service marina facility, strategically positioned on Biscayne Bay with exceptional access to both Haulover Inlet and Government Cut for ocean adventures. With 112 wet slips, 24-hour boat ramps, convenient proximity to major shopping and dining, and exclusive access to the pristine Pelican Island nature preserve just 400 yards offshore, this Miami-Dade County Parks marina combines affordability, convenience, and natural beauty for boaters of all experience levels.
Marina Overview & Location
- Address: 1275 NE 79th Street, Miami, FL 33138
- Coordinates: 25°51.000’N 80°09.900’W
- Location: Biscayne Bay, Atlantic ICW Mile Marker 1084.5
- Phone: (305) 754-9330
- Fax: (305) 754-9653
- VHF Radio: Channel 16 (monitored) / Channel 68 (working)
- Hours:
- Park: Sunrise to sunset daily
- Office: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, seven days a week
- Boat Ramps: Open 24 hours
- Management: Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation & Open Spaces
- Dockmaster: Tommy Salleh
- Contact: Sherri Fisher
Pelican Harbor Marina – North Miami
Pelican Harbor Marina sits in an ideal North Miami location, just minutes from I-95 (North Miami exit), providing easy access for residents throughout northern Miami-Dade County, Broward County, and beyond. The marina’s strategic Biscayne Bay position offers boaters quick routes to both Haulover Inlet (to the north) and Government Cut (to the south) for Atlantic Ocean access.
Table of Contents
Marina Facilities & Services
Wet Slip Accommodations
Slip Capacity
- 112 total wet slips
- 10 transient slips for visitors
- Maximum vessel: 50 feet LOA
- Dock type: Fixed docks
- Approach depth: 6.0 feet
- Dockside depth: 6.0 feet
Slip Rates (Subject to Change)
- Under 49 feet: $1.67 per foot per day
- 50 feet and above: $1.75 per foot per day
- Call ahead to confirm current pricing: (305) 754-9330
Reservation Policy
- No deposit required for transient slips
- First-come, first-served basis
- Courtesy 24-hour cancellation appreciated
- Contact marina in advance for availability
24-Hour Boat Ramps
Ramp Features
- Open 24 hours daily – Launch anytime
- Multiple ramps – Reduced wait times
- Ample trailer parking – Hundreds of spaces
- Launch/Retrieve rates: Pricing varies by day (weekday vs. weekend)
- Check with office for current fees
- Easy access – Wide, well-maintained ramps
- Popular destination – One of North Miami’s busiest ramps
Convenience
Just minutes from I-95 and Happy Trailer Storage (nearby boat storage facility at 79th Street), Pelican Harbor’s 24-hour ramps make it easy to get on the water whenever you want.
Essential Marine Services
Fuel Dock
Fuel Available
- Diesel: $4.20/gallon (March 2025 pricing)
- Premium Gasoline: $5.01/gallon (90 octane)
- Brand: Indigo diesel, Mansfield gas
- No non-ethanol at this facility
- Call for current pricing: fuel prices change regularly
Fuel Services
- Professional fuel dock attendants
- Quick, efficient service
- Competitive pricing
Dockside Utilities & Amenities
Electrical Power
- 30 amp service available
- 50 amp service available
- Reliable power delivery
Water & Sanitation
- Fresh water at slips
- Pump-out service available
- Oil disposal facilities
Boater Facilities
- Restrooms – Clean, maintained daily
- Showers – Hot water available
- Laundry facilities – On-site coin laundry
- Ice sales – Block and cube ice
- Ship store – Marine supplies and essentials
- Captain’s lounge – Comfortable waiting area
- Trash disposal – Convenient bins
- Security – Monitored facility
Additional Services
- ATM on-site – Convenient banking
- Pet friendly – Well-behaved pets welcome
Pelican Island – Your Private Nature Preserve
Exclusive Island Access Just 400 Yards Offshore
One of Pelican Harbor Marina’s most unique features is access to Pelican Island, a beautiful 10-acre nature preserve and bird sanctuary located just 400 yards from the marina docks.
Island Features
- 10 acres of pristine natural environment
- Protected bird sanctuary – Observe native species
- Covered picnic shelters – Shaded areas for relaxing
- Barbecue grills – Cook your fresh catch
- Picnic tables – Family-friendly seating
- Sand volleyball court – Bring your own net and ball
- Walking trails – Explore the island
- Swimming areas – Calm, shallow waters
- Open to public – Free access by boat
Perfect For
- Family outings and picnics
- Birdwatching expeditions
- Island beach days
- Group gatherings and parties
- Peaceful nature escapes
- Photography
Reservations
- Large groups can reserve facilities
- Contact marina for rates: (305) 754-9330
- Small groups can use island free of charge
- Bring supplies (net/ball for volleyball, food, etc.)
How to Access
- 400-yard boat ride from marina
- Dock your boat at island
- Very calm waters – safe for all boats
- Perfect for kayaks, dinghies, small boats
Strategic Location Advantages
Perfect Position on Biscayne Bay
Cruising the Intracoastal
- Direct ICW access – Mile Marker 1084.5
- North to Fort Lauderdale: Easy ICW run
- South to Miami Beach: Scenic waterway cruise
- Great shopping and dining along the way
- Safe, protected waters – Perfect for all boats
Ocean Access – Two Options
- Haulover Inlet (North):
- 5 miles north on ICW
- Most popular inlet in South Florida
- Well-maintained channel – Regular dredging
- Marked entrance – Easy navigation
- Famous Haulover sandbar – Social boating hotspot
- 24-hour access – No restrictions
- Government Cut (South):
- 12 miles south via ICW
- Deep-water entrance – Commercial channel
- Miami Beach access – Pass South Beach
- Port of Miami – Watch cruise ships
- Wide, safe channel – Easy navigation
Fishing Destinations
- Offshore fishing – Quick run to Gulf Stream
- Reef fishing – Multiple artificial reefs nearby
- Inshore fishing – Biscayne Bay flats and channels
- Bridge fishing – 79th Street Causeway nearby
Nearby Amenities & Services
Shopping & Dining (Within 1-5 Miles)
Groceries
- 1 mile: Full-service supermarkets
- Publix, Winn-Dixie, and other chains
- Stock up for extended cruises
Restaurants
- Nearby: Multiple dining options within 1 mile
- Cuban, American, seafood, international
- Fast food and casual dining
- Fine dining in nearby areas
Marine Services
- Marine stores: 3 miles
- Parts and equipment suppliers
- Fishing tackle shops nearby
- Hardware stores: 1 mile
Other Conveniences
- Banks/ATMs: On-site ATM, banks within 1 mile
- Pharmacy: 1.5 miles
- Medical services: 3 miles (doctor), 10 miles (hospital)
- Veterinarian: 1 mile (pet services)
- Liquor store: 1.5 miles
- Dry cleaner: 1 mile
- Post office: 2 miles
- FedEx/UPS: 2 miles
Shopping Centers
- 5 miles: Major shopping destinations
- Aventura Mall – 20 minutes north (luxury shopping)
- Biscayne Boulevard – Retail corridor
Recreation & Attractions
Beaches
- 3 miles: Ocean beach access
- Haulover Beach – Popular destination (nude section available)
- North Shore Beach – Family-friendly
- Sunny Isles Beach – High-rise beach community
Fitness & Sports
- Fitness centers: 5 miles
- Golf courses: 5 miles
- Tennis courts: 5 miles
Nearby Parks
- Oleta River State Park – 3 miles north
- Kayaking, mountain biking, camping
- Greynolds Park – Historic WPA-era park
Transportation & Access
By Water
- From Atlantic Ocean: Via Haulover Inlet (5 miles north) or Government Cut (12 miles south)
- From Intracoastal Waterway: Direct access at MM 1084.5
- From Fort Lauderdale: South on ICW
- From Miami Beach: North on ICW
- VHF contact: Hail dockmaster Channel 16/68
By Land
From I-95
- North Miami exit (NE 79th Street)
- East on 79th Street to marina
- 5-10 minutes from highway
- Easy access for trailer towing
From Major Locations
- Miami International Airport: 6 miles, 15 minutes
- Downtown Miami: 8 miles, 15-20 minutes
- Miami Beach: 4 miles, 10 minutes
- Fort Lauderdale: 20 miles, 25-30 minutes
Parking
- Ample parking – Large surface lots
- Trailer parking – Designated areas
- No overnight parking restrictions for slip holders
- Free parking included with launch fees
Nearby Storage
- Happy Trailer Storage – Just minutes away on 79th Street
- Convenient boat and trailer storage
- 24/7 surveillance
- Gated facility
Pelican Harbor Blueways
Eco-Tourism & Paddling Trails
Pelican Harbor is a designated Miami-Dade Blueways Trail access point, part of the county’s water trail system for kayakers, canoeists, and paddleboarders.
Blueways Benefits
- Marked water trails – Easy navigation
- Scenic routes – Explore Biscayne Bay ecosystems
- Mangrove tunnels – Unique paddling experiences
- Wildlife viewing – Birds, fish, marine life
- Educational programs – Learn about local ecology
Kayak/Canoe Rentals
- Check with marina for current rental availability and partnerships with local outfitters
Miami-Dade Marina SMS Alerts
Sign up for emergency alerts and updates:
- Hurricane warnings
- Marina closures
- Special notices
- Important announcements
How to Register
- Contact marina office: (305) 754-9330
- Visit Miami-Dade Parks website
- Stay informed during storm season
Rates & Fees
Launch & Parking
Boat Ramp Fees
- Varies by day (weekday vs weekend/holiday)
- Typical range: $15-$20 for launch/retrieve
- Annual passes available for frequent users
- Contact marina for current fee schedule
Park Entrance
- Sunrise to sunset access
- Launch fees include park admission
- Additional fees may apply for special events
Wet Slip Rentals
Daily Transient
- Up to 49 feet: $1.67/foot/day
- 50 feet+: $1.75/foot/day
- Includes water and electrical hookup
Long-Term Rentals
- Monthly and annual rates available
- Discounts for extended stays
- Limited availability – waitlist may apply
- Contact: (305) 754-9330
Payment Methods
- VISA, MasterCard, AMEX
- Cash accepted
Find Professional Boat Services
Need Maintenance or Repairs at Pelican Harbor Marina?
YachtService.VIP connects you with certified marine professionals serving Pelican Harbor Marina and the North Miami area.
Common Services Available
- Engine service and repair – Outboards, inboards, sterndrives
- Bottom cleaning and painting – Antifouling application
- Boat detailing – Complete washing and waxing
- Electronics installation – GPS, fish finders, VHF radios
- Fiberglass repair – Structural and cosmetic work
- Trailer maintenance – Bearings, lights, tires, brakes
- Canvas and upholstery – T-tops, biminis, cushions
- Mechanical systems – Steering, controls, hydraulics
- Electrical troubleshooting – Battery systems, wiring
- Propeller service – Stainless steel repair and balancing
- Rigging work – Fishing equipment installation
Why Choose Pelican Harbor Marina?
Unique Advantages
- 24-Hour Boat Ramps: Launch anytime day or night – ultimate convenience
- Pelican Island Access: 10-acre nature preserve just 400 yards offshore
- Dual Ocean Access: Choose Haulover Inlet (north) or Government Cut (south)
- Affordable Rates: Competitive pricing for public marina
- Central North Miami Location: Minutes from I-95, convenient for northern communities
- Full Services: Fuel, slips, ramps, ice, bait, restrooms, showers
- Protected Biscayne Bay: Calm waters perfect for all boat types
- Family Friendly: Island picnics, volleyball, swimming, nature trails
- ICW Access: Direct Intracoastal cruising north or south
- Shopping & Dining Nearby: Everything within 1-5 miles
- Blueways Trail Access: Eco-tourism and paddling opportunities
- County Management: Miami-Dade Parks ensures quality maintenance
Weather & Boating Conditions
Year-Round Boating
- Water Temperature: 72°F (winter) to 86°F (summer)
- Air Temperature: 68°F (winter) to 90°F (summer)
- Hurricane Season: June 1 – November 30
- Best Boating Months: November – April (drier, calmer)
Tidal Information
- Tide range: 2-3 feet
- Check tables for optimal ramp use
- Biscayne Bay generally calm
Facilities, Rates & Reservations Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Slip Capacity | 112 wet slips (10 transient); Max 50 ft LOA; Fixed docks; 6 ft approach/dockside depth |
| Rates | Transient: $1.67/ft/day (<49 ft), $1.75/ft/day (50+ ft); Includes water/electric; Long-term discounts available |
| Fuel | Diesel $4.20/gal (Indigo); Premium gas $5.01/gal (90 octane, Mansfield); No non-ethanol |
| Ramps & Parking | 24-hour ramps; Multiple lanes; Ample trailer parking; Launch fees $15-20 (varies by day); Annual passes |
| Amenities | 30/50 amp electric; Pump-out; Fresh water; Restrooms/showers/laundry; Ice/ship store; Captain’s lounge; ATM; Pet-friendly; Security; Oil disposal |
| Island Access | Pelican Island (10 acres, 400 yds offshore): Picnic shelters, BBQs, volleyball, trails, swimming; Free for small groups; Reservations for large |
| Reservations | First-come, first-served; No deposit for transients; Call (305) 754-9330; VHF 16/68; Payments: Visa/MC/AMEX/cash |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the boat ramps really open 24 hours?
Yes! Pelican Harbor’s boat ramps are accessible 24 hours daily, making it one of the most convenient launch facilities in North Miami.
Can I visit Pelican Island?
Absolutely! Pelican Island is open to the public and just 400 yards from the marina. It features picnic facilities, volleyball, and nature trails
Which ocean inlet is closer – Haulover or Government Cut?
Haulover Inlet is closer at about 5 miles north. Government Cut is about 12 miles south. Both are easily accessible via the Intracoastal.
Is overnight parking allowed for boat trailers?
Check with marina office regarding overnight policies. Generally, slip holders have more flexibility than ramp users.
Can I rent slips monthly or annually?
Yes, long-term rentals are available subject to availability. Contact (305) 754-9330 for current openings and rates.
Is there a fuel dock?
Yes, Pelican Harbor has a fuel dock offering diesel and premium gasoline at competitive prices.
Are pets allowed?
Yes, pets are welcome at Pelican Harbor Marina. Please keep pets leashed and clean up after them.
Marina Contact Information
Pelican Harbor Marina
1275 NE 79th Street
Miami, FL 33138
North Miami – Biscayne Bay
Phone: (305) 754-9330
Fax: (305) 754-9653
Website: www.miamidade.gov/parks/pelican-harbor.asp
Email: Through county parks website
Management: Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation & Open Spaces
Dockmaster: Tommy Salleh
Contact: Sherri Fisher
VHF Radio: Channel 16 (monitored) / Channel 68 (working)
Office Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, seven days/week
Park Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Boat Ramps: Open 24 hours
Emergency: 911 or Coast Guard Channel 16
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Last updated: October 2025 | Information subject to change. Contact marina directly to confirm current hours, rates, and availability.
