Off the coast of Biscayne Bay in Miami-Dade County is an eerie abandoned place with a most unique history. Stiltsville, located just one mile south of Cape Florida, is a community of wooden structures that sit abandoned ten feet above the water. These houses have a fascinating vantage point, seemingly floating above Biscayne Bay’s shallow water. But what’s more fascinating is the history of these unique stilt houses in Florida and where they sit today.

Floating above Biscayne Bay there is a community of wooden stilt houses that date back to the 1930s.
Flickr vxla
Stiltsville in Florida started back in 1930 when “Crawfish Eddie Walker” built the very first shack on stilts above the water.
Flickr vxla
With time, more buildings were constructed, and eventually, the area became one of the most fascinating places in America.
Google/Jesus Torres
Because Stiltsville was only accessible by water, many people weren’t able to get a chance to visit, making it one of the most exclusive areas in South Florida.
Flickr/RSLab

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However, there were stories of illegal gambling and alcohol, which led to several police raids over the years.
Google/Ralph Gentile
When the community of wood houses was at its peak in the 1960s, there were 27 structures in total. However, hurricanes, fires, and other natural disasters have wreaked havoc on the area, leaving only seven of the buildings still standing.
Flickr/pwbaker
While the structures can still be seen by boat by anyone in the area, public access to the structures is by permit only, due to the ownership by the National Park Service and management by the Stiltsville Trust.
Google Marcine Linder
Check out where Stiltsville, Florida is - you can see what a unique location this is!
Google Maps

Have you heard of these stilt houses in Florida? What do you think about Stiltsville? Have you ever visited in person? Share with us your thoughts in the comments section! Or if you’re looking for more information about these houses check out the official National Parks Service website.

Looking for more abandoned places in Florida? Check out these eerie places that nature is reclaiming.

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Stiltsville in Florida & Related Info

Jennifer | January 31, 2023

What are some unique abandoned places in Florida?

While not all of Florida's coolest abandoned places are open to visitors, even catching a peek of some of the state's eeriest places has its rewards. Perhaps even more fascinating are the stories behind these modern ruins! Here are a few abandoned places in Florida that are worth looking into:

  • Cape Romano Domes
  • Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida Keys
  • Overseas Railroad/Old Overseas Highway, Florida Keys
  • Miami Marine Stadium
  • Stiltsville, Key Biscayne

 

Are there any ghost towns in Florida?

While many people think of ghost towns and picture the mining boom towns found in the West, Florida is home to a surprising number of ghost towns, including cities that appear to have "mysteriously vanished." From an underwater ghost town in Lake Okeechobee to abandoned military posts, here are just a few ghost towns in Florida that are worth a visit:

 

Does Florida have any uninhabited islands?

Florida's sun-kissed beaches and vibrant islands get a great deal of attention - and rightfully so! But the Keys are also home to a number of islands that are either private, abandoned, or uninhabited. And dare we say haunted? Wisteria Island (Christmas Tree Island) is one such hidden gem. Indian Key could also be considered an uninhabited island in Florida, although visitors to Indian Key Historic State Park are welcome. In 1840, Indian Key island was the location of the southernmost battle of the Seminole War, after which the U.S. Navy took possession of the island.

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Stiltsville, Key Biscayne, FL 33149, USA