The Boat Coach: A Guide to Local Sandbar Islands

From Local Landmark to Boating Tradition

Now that summer is upon us, sandbar islands are now a thing again. Volusia County has one of the most famous sandbar islands, Disappearing Island on the east side of Ponce Inlet. It has been popular for generations, a gathering place for family and friends to enjoy the best of what boating can offer.

Named for the effect of tide on the size of the island, Disappearing Island shrinks as the tide comes up (high tide) and grows when the tide goes out (low tide). So, as the tide comes up, the island appears to be disappearing, thus Disappearing Island. Over time getting to the once popular south side of Disappearing Island has become a challenge with a sandbar forming at the east side of Rock House Creek; previously that was a prevalent way to get there. Boaters still approach it from the west side entrance to Rock House Creek, but it is not the same island.

Fortunately, a relatively new sandbar is growing both in size and in popularity. Sand Dollar Island is located just south of the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse directly across from Hidden Treasure Restaurant. Access is tight from the south, but doable. Follow someone who looks like they know what they are doing and if they run aground, go a different way. From the north the approach is marked by unofficial white posts. Come in along the east side close to the homes keeping the posts to the starboard. Once again, if you are unsure, follow someone.

Slightly north and west of Down the Hatch is Ta Ta Island. It is a sandbar that stretches east to west along a cut from the Halifax River, east, to the Intracoastal Waterway, west. Access is tight on both ends. Take care to avoid people in the water.

Heading south of Ponce Inlet is what I call Whaler Cove, tucked in on the back side of the southwest side of Rock Creek. From the intracoastal cut, head north along the west side of the Halifax River into the cove. I call it Whaler Cove because it has been a popular gathering place for Boston Whaler employees on weekends.

Squishy Island is just north of the North Causeway bridge (George E. Munson Memorial Bridge). It is becoming the new Disappearing Island both in popularity and at high tide it is barely there.

Further south in Edgewater is Dick’s Cut, Ski Beach and the Three Sisters. All three popular places to hang out and enjoy all that having a boat provides.

Each of these sandbar islands have their own personality. On weekends, Disappearing Island is losing its popularity due to access but is renowned for rowdy crowds. Sand Dollar Island is more family-oriented. Ta Ta Island is boisterous and more rancorous with loud music from multiple sources. Whaler Cove is secluded and calmer. Squishy Island is more macho with large center consoles, loud music and dogs tend to run loose. Dick’s Cut is generally rough sand and less crowded. Ski Beach has calmer waters. The Three Sisters is dominated by a local crowd that seems welcoming.

Essential Sandbar Boating Safety Tips

A few recommendations… When visiting a sandbar island, be courteous. Remember, everyone is there to have fun. Watch out for people in the water. Propellers and people don’t work together. When in doubt, turn your motor off.

Pay attention to tides. On a rising tide your boat can float away. On a falling tide your boat can become stranded. Even a 22-foot pontoon boat can weigh over a ton, and another high tide can be 12 hours away. When passing a sandbar island, don’t wake the boats on the sandbar. Remember, not everyone has the same taste when it comes to music, there is no need to play your music louder than reasonable. If you can, go out on a weekday and avoid the crowds.