About The Deck at Island Gardens
The Deck at Island Gardens is a luxury waterfront restaurant and lounge on Watson Island in Miami, opened in June 2016 (themiamiguide.com ). It anchors the Flagstone ‘Island Gardens’ development – North America’s first deep-water 50-slip superyacht marina – and offers an alfresco dining experience with panoramic Biscayne Bay and Miami skyline views (themiamiguide.com ) (islandgardens.com ). The venue blends Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with an open-air design: a wooden deck extends along the seawall, and there are waterfront cabanas and a cozy indoor lounge area (islandgardens.com ) (themiamiguide.com ). With seating for roughly 500 guests (and up to ~1,300 without tables) (www.privatekeyvenues.com ), The Deck is known for its energetic vibe. By night it transforms into a party hotspot with premium bottle service, while by day it serves “Ibiza-style” brunch and light bites. As one local magazine notes, this unique waterfront setting – where cruise ships and mega-yachts sail by – has “put Miami on the map as a] superyacht destination” ([themiamiguide.com ) (islandgardens.com ). In short, The Deck is notable for its exclusive island location, expansive water views, high-energy atmosphere and upscale Mediterranean menu, making it a standout dining spot in Miami’s local and boating scene.
Events and Programming
The Deck hosts a mix of dining and entertainment every weekend. Regular events include happy hours, brunches and late-night parties. For example, it offers a “Sunset Happy Hour” (Thursday–Sunday, 6pm–8pm) with $10 cocktails, wines and seafood specials (islandgardens.com ) (islandgardens.com ). Thursdays feature a “Ladies Night” (8pm–midnight) with complimentary drinks (islandgardens.com ). From Friday evening through Sunday, The Deck comes alive with DJs and live music. On Friday & Saturday nights (roughly 6pm–1am) patrons enjoy dinner parties and dancing (themiamiguide.com ), while Sunday is famous for its sunset-into-night party sessions (starting around 5pm) with world-class DJs and performers (islandgardens.com ) (islandgardens.com ). Daytime “Weekend Brunch” service (Fri–Sun, 11am–5pm) is a big draw – originally a lavish brunch buffet (islandgardens.com ) and now a reimagined à la carte brunch with cocktails (islandgardens.com ) (www.miamivibesmag.com ). Besides weekly lineups, The Deck occasionally stages special themed events (past examples include Halloween cabaret and festival-style parties (islandgardens.com ) (islandgardens.com )). Notably, there is no fixed ticket outlet – guests typically book tables or cabanas instead of buying one-off tickets. It’s a hybrid restaurant-club: some nights are simply dining with entertainment, others (like holiday parties) may have cover charges or minimum spend requirements.
Tickets and Booking
Because The Deck operates as a restaurant and lounge, there aren’t usually “tickets” to purchase. Instead, guests make reservations for tables or private cabanas via the venue’s website or by phone. It’s recommended to book early, especially for popular weekend evenings and brunches (the-deck-at-island-gardens.com-fnb.com ). The Deck’s events team handles group bookings: parties of 11 or more (and especially events of 20–500+ people) are arranged through the Island Gardens private-event portal (islandgardens.com ). For everyday visits, just reserve a table or show up early to snag a seat (seating is first-come-first-serve otherwise). Prices on-site are premium: cocktails typically range ~$12–20 (happy-hour specials can be as low as $10 (islandgardens.com )), appetizers and entrees often run in the $20–50 range, and bottle service or cabana rentals cost several hundred dollars. Expect gratuities (usually 18–20%) to be added to bills. Note also that valet parking ($25 per car, VIP valet $100) is the norm for arrivals (islandgardens.com ), so include that in your budget. In short, there is no public box office – you secure entry by booking (unless a specific event advertises ticket sales) and pay as you enjoy food, drinks and service at the table.
Seating and Layout
The Deck is essentially one large, flat wooden deck built over the seawall, furnished with dining tables and lounge cabanas. Waterfront tables and private cabanas (sometimes reserved for VIPs) line the edge of the marina (themiamiguide.com ). These seats offer the best skyline and yacht views. The interior “Marina VIP Lounge” (adjacent) houses the kitchen and restrooms (www.privatekeyvenues.com ), but most guests stay outdoors. Because it’s open-air, sightlines and sound travel freely: every table can hear the DJs clearly and see each other across the deck. If you want a front-row experience, sit near the DJ booth and cabanas; for a quieter dinner, choose a corner table away from the bar. Note that there are no steep steps or balconies – the venue is one level – but the dock edges do have railing and limited shade. Some tables have umbrellas or mooring shade, but if you plan a daytime visit you may want sun protection. On busy nights, booths/cabanas often have minimum spend requirements. For dances or performances, the center area acts as an informal dance floor. No part of the deck is officially “bad to sit in,” but guests with limited mobility should avoid uneven dock edges. High heels can be tricky on the wooden deck, so many visitors prefer dressy flats or wedges. Overall, the layout favors social dining: sitting anywhere near the water or the DJ station gives a classic Deck experience (themiamiguide.com ) (islandgardens.com ).
Getting There and Parking
The Deck at Island Gardens is at 888 MacArthur Causeway , Miami, FL 33132islandgardens.com ). There are no public lots directly on Watson Island, so most drivers use valet or nearby paid garages back on the mainland. (One TripAdvisor review warned of a $60 valet fee, but current signage lists $25 – always carry a card and ask the attendant.)
Public transit: While there’s no Metrorail/Metromover stop on Watson Island, several Metrobus routes serve the area. Notably, routes **20**, **14** and **100** stop at MacArthur Causeway & Watson Island (the bus pullout near the entrance) (moovitapp.com ). These connect from downtown Miami, South Beach and Aventura respectively. (Another option: seasonal water taxis may stop at nearby bayside docks, though check schedules.) Rideshares and taxis can drop off right at the valet entrance – they use the same lane as personal cars. The drive is straightforward: from downtown or Miami Beach, just stay on MacArthur Causeway heading east, and watch for The Deck signage. If arriving by boat, Island Gardens Deep Harbour has a 50-slip marina – visitors with yachts can dock at The Deck's marina and walk up to the lounge (www.privatekeyvenues.com ) (themiamiguide.com ). In fact, the original concept emphasized arriving “by land or sea” (themiamiguide.com ). After your visit, note that leaving by car can take time when the venue closes (weekend traffic); valets will retrieve cars as you finish your meal.
Inside the Venue
Expect an upscale-casual yet energetic vibe inside The Deck. The entrance flows directly into the open deck (with no formal foyer or reception area), so the atmosphere is immediately “outdoors meets lounge.” Staff will meet you at the valet drop-off. On arrival, presenters may check IDs (21+) for evening service. Once seated, you can order from full table service. The menu (Mediterranean-inspired by Chef Jean Pierre Palacio and team (www.miamivibesmag.com )) features shareable seafood towers, wood-fired pizzas, grilled steaks and fresh salads. The bar stocks specialty cocktails, craft beers and a wide wine/bubbly list – notably, sunset evenings often feature $10 signature cocktails or champagne specials (islandgardens.com ) (islandgardens.com ). Bottles of wine and liquor are available for cabanas as well. Important to note: outside food or drink is not permitted (except perhaps a celebratory cake with prior arrangement); everything must be ordered on-site. Gratuities are customarily added at 18–20%. As for services, free high-speed Wi-Fi is offered to guests (ask your waiter for the password) (islandgardens.com ). Restrooms are located in the adjacent VIP lounge building (there are two on duty) (www.privatekeyvenues.com ). There is generally no coat-check, since patrons usually remain outdoors. The Deck operates with a moderately strict dress code: think Miami chic – no beachwear, backpacks, flip-flops or gym clothes. The staff and clientele dress to impress. On evenings with entertainment, visitors often linger, and guests may dance near the music area. Overall, you’ll find attentive servers and a friendly vibe – but fast service is critical (tables are sometimes limited to ~2.5 hours on busy evenings). Also, being waterfront means it can get breezy or even misty, so dress in layers and wear bug spray in warmer months. Finally, safety first: keep track of the dock edges and railing at night (no running) and never swim in the marina. The Deck itself is secure and well-maintained, but standard venue policies apply (no concealed weapons, no smoking at dining tables, etc.).
Nearby Amenities
The Deck is relatively secluded on Watson Island, so there are few walk-up shops immediately adjacent. For pre- or post-dinner plans, most guests venture a short drive into Downtown Miami or Brickell. Within a mile you’ll find numerous restaurants and bars. For example, the Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay hotel (0.9mi away) has its own lounges and is a convenient landmark (www.tripadvisor.com ). Brickell (about 1mi south) offers nightlife options like American Social, rooftop bars (for example at the E11EVEN or W Miami hotels), and late-night eateries. Bayside Marketplace (to the east at Bayside) has several casual waterfront restaurants and bars (Steel City Pizza, Hard Rock Cafe, etc.) if you’re looking for more variety. To the west, Downtown Miami (5–10 minutes by car) has upscale spots like Zuma (modern Japanese) or CVI.CHE 105 (Peruvian ceviche) if you want fine dining before The Deck. For quick bites, there’s a small café in the Island Gardens lobby and a Deli on MacArthur, but many visitors recommend eating downtown or on the way. If you need lodging, nearby hotels include the JW Marriott Marquis and Hilton Miami Downtown (both under 1mi) or the Conrad and Intercontinental in Midtown. Key Biscayne and Miami Beach hotels are 5–15 minutes away by bridge. Late-night transport options: after The Deck closes (around 1am Fri/Sat), rideshares (Uber/Lyft) and some taxis still operate. Miami’s free dusk-to-dawn safety shuttles don’t serve Watson, so plan a pick-up ahead or walk a few blocks to a downtown parking garage if you must taxi. Note that public transit ends earlier, so rideshare or arranged taxi are safest after midnight. Overall, arriving early (4–5pm) for a sunset dinner or staying late for a nighttime cruise home are both feasible.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Deck’s combination of location, design and lifestyle cements its reputation. It is one of Miami’s few open-air dining spots directly on a working marina, so every visit feels like an event on the water (themiamiguide.com ) (themiamiguide.com ). Its panoramic sunset views – cutting through palm fronds to the glowing skyline – are frequently cited as unmatched in Miami. Architecturally, the teak boardwalk and cuddle-lounge cabanas give a chic resort-like ambiance, unlike any downtown club. The founder, Mehmet Bayraktar, envisioned it as “Miami’s one-stop entertainment destination” to honor the city’s boating culture (themiamiguide.com ), and that shows in every detail: bottle service, a DJ booth under the stars, even fire-based visual acts on occasion. Culturally, The Deck has woven itself into Miami lore: it emerged as an elite scene where local socialites, visiting celebrities and luxury yacht owners mix on Sundays and holidays (themiamiguide.com ) (islandgardens.com ). By also spotlighting Mediterranean flavors (think Ibiza or Cannes) fused with local ingredients, it offers cuisine unlike many other city spots (www.miamivibesmag.com ) (islandgardens.com ). In essence, The Deck matters because it encapsulates “Miami lifestyle” – glamorous, waterfront, international, and social – in one venue. It’s the kind of place that both residents and traveling artists name-drop as a must-see, especially since it elevated Watson Island from an office park into a go-to party district (themiamiguide.com ) (islandgardens.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
The Deck has full ADA accessibility: the deck is flat and wheelchair-friendly (it’s listed as “Wheelchair Accessible” in public info (www.tripadvisor.co.za )). Valet drop-off is level with the entrance, and the indoor restrooms have accessible stalls. Plan to arrive early on busy nights. Reservations are strongly encouraged (weekends fill up quickly). Dress to impress – Miami casual chic is the norm (no shorts or flip-flops for evening). Bring a valid photo ID for all patrons if you plan to drink alcohol. Typical waitstaff policy will train table time to about 2–3 hours on hot ticket evenings. Traffic can get backed up when valet lines build, so allow extra time or visit midweek. The Deck enforces a no outside food/drink rule, and they often add an automatic service charge (~18–20%) to bills, so check your tab. We advise carrying some cash for tipping and incidentals, though major cards and mobile pay are accepted (the-deck-at-island-gardens.com-fnb.com ). Be weather-savvy: it’s an uncovered rooftop space, so apply sunscreen for daytime seating, and know that sudden tropical rain or cold fronts may require scramming inside (staff will announce closures if needed). A light jacket is handy if the breeze picks up at night. If you’re attending a party event, double-check dress code or theme (e.g., some hip-hop nights may have a stricter dress rule). Finally, it’s a party spot and can be loud after dark. If noise or crowding is a concern, consider brunch or early dinner visits (those are more subdued). On the flip side, if you love dancing at sunset to DJ beats, don’t be shy about staying late – they often run until 1am on weekends (islandgardens.com ) (islandgardens.com ). Above all, carry your sense of adventure: coming by yacht, enjoying a sunset toast, or dancing under swaying palms – those are the insider experiences that make a night at The Deck truly Miami. (Tip: Check The Deck’s social media or Sunset Hour posts each week – they sometimes announce one-night drink specials or an end-of-season closing.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy tickets or pay a cover charge to visit The Deck at Island Gardens?
No. The Deck functions as a high-end restaurant and lounge, not a traditional concert hall. There are no general admission tickets for normal evenings. You simply book a table or cabana reservation (no entry fee) and pay for any food and drinks you order. Some special events or parties may have a cover charge or a minimum spend, but these are announced in advance. Otherwise you arrive at booked time and dine as usual.
How much do drinks and food cost at The Deck?
The Deck is a premium venue, so prices are on the higher side. Cocktails usually run around $12–20 (there are happy-hour specials like $10 signature cocktails in the evening (islandgardens.com )). Appetizers and salads might be $15–30, and entrees often range from $25 up to $70+ for large steaks or seafood platters (www.tripadvisor.co.za ). Brunch used to be a buffet (~$65 per person including some drinks (www.tripadvisor.co.za )), though now it’s an à la carte menu. Bottle service or renting a cabana can cost several hundred dollars minimum. As always, these prices are approximate and subject to change. (Also note: The Deck typically adds an 18–20% service charge to your bill.)
What is the address and how do I get to The Deck at Island Gardens?
The Deck’s address is 888 MacArthur Causeway , Miami, FL 33132. It’s located on Watson Island, between Downtown Miami and Miami Beach. Driving is easiest via MacArthur Causeway. There is no self-parking lot; only valet parking is available onsite ($25 standard valet, $100 VIP) (islandgardens.com ). For public transit, Metrobus routes #20, #14, and #100 all stop at the MacArthur Causeway/Watson Island stop a short walk from the venue (moovitapp.com ). Rideshare drop-offs can be made directly at the valet entrance. Private boats can dock at the Island Gardens Marina, as The Deck is on the marina’s edge (www.privatekeyvenues.com ).
Where should I sit for the best view or experience?
Seating at The Deck is outdoors around the waterfront. For sweeping skyline and yacht views, request a table or cabana right on the water’s edge (themiamiguide.com ). Cabanas (semi-private lounges) offer a prime vantage and bottle service. If you prefer to be near the music, pick somewhere closer to the center or DJ area for a lively atmosphere. Tables under umbrellas give shade during the day. There are no “bad” seats, but note that the far edges get the sun or breeze more depending on the time. For dinner at sunset, any shoreline table is ideal. Check with staff at booking time to be seated in your preferred zone.
Is The Deck indoor or outdoor, and what if it rains?
The Deck is primarily an outdoor venue. Almost all dining and lounges are out on the open-air deck or in waterfront cabanas. There is a nearby small indoor lounge (VIP area) with restrooms, but no large indoor dining room. If rain occurs, the staff will typically offer umbrellas or move diners to the covered areas, but heavy rain often forces closure or delay. We recommend checking Miami weather before your visit: reschedule or cut visits short if severe weather is forecast, since a steady downpour can make the deck slippery or wet.
What are the venue’s hours and best arrival times?
The Deck’s current hours are: Thursday 6pm–midnight, Friday 11am–midnight, Saturday 11am–1am, and Sunday 11am–1am (islandgardens.com ). It’s closed Monday–Wednesday (except often open on holiday Mondays for brunch). We suggest arriving about 15–30 minutes before your reservation: tables are ready by opening time, and later arrivals may find long lines or wait on weekends. For brunch, 11am is perfect; for dinner or club nights, arriving at kickoff time (e.g. 6pm on Thursday) ensures good seating. Avoid arriving much before opening (they won’t seat you early). If you want to enjoy sunset, plan for the deck by 7–7:30pm in the winter (later in summer). Taxis and valets can back up during shift changes (around 11pm), so plan accordingly when leaving.
What is the dress code at The Deck at Island Gardens?
The dress code is upscale resort-casual. On most nights, guests wear stylish Miami attire: sundresses or smart women's tops for ladies, button-downs or polo shirts for men, with upscale sandals or heels. Swimwear, tank tops, jerseys, baseball caps, flip-flops, athletic wear and hats are not allowed. Jeans or casual pants are fine if they look neat. Because it’s a lively club-restaurant, many patrons “dress to impress” (www.tripadvisor.co.za ). Checking the calendar is wise: on special events (DJ nights, ladies’ nights, etc.), the vibe may skew trendier.
Are children or age restrictions allowed?
The Deck welcomes all ages during daytime and early evening. Families with children often attend brunch or lunch. However, after dark (typically 8–9pm on weekends), the venue becomes a 21+ nightlife spot. The staff does check IDs for entry after 9pm. If visiting with minors, it’s safest to plan before evening entertainment (the atmosphere is more family-friendly at brunch than at a late-night party). Always call ahead if you have younger guests in your party to confirm happy policies.
Is The Deck wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The Deck is listed as wheelchair accessible in public information (www.tripadvisor.co.za ). The outdoor deck is flat and open, with no steps except at the waterfront edge. There are ramps to the Marina VIP Lounge (which has accessible restrooms). Valet drop-off is at ground level near the entrance. Staff will assist with seating if needed. However, the aisles can get crowded on busy nights, so we recommend calling ahead to ensure a convenient table placement.
Are cameras or photography allowed?
Yes. Guests are free to take photos of the view or food. Many patrons snap sunset pictures of the skyline. Professional photography or videography (tripods, lighting crews) is not allowed without venue permission. Personal cameras and phones are fine. If you plan to use professional gear, arrange it as a private event or with management approval.
Can I host a private event or party at The Deck?
Yes. The Deck has a full-event offering for private parties, corporate gatherings and weddings. The outdoor Wood Event Deck can accommodate up to ~500 guests (seated tables) or about 1,300 in an open-plan setting (www.privatekeyvenues.com ). For even larger concerts or productions, the adjacent “Production Lawn” space can hold 3,000+ people (islandgardens.com ). Private event packages cover catering and entertainment. To inquire, fill out the “Book Your Event” form on the Island Gardens site or email the events team. (Groups over ~11 people should book in advance to ensure dedicated service.)
What should I bring and what is not allowed?
Bring your photo ID and credit card(s) – they’re needed for entry and payment. It’s also smart to have cash for gratuities. Dress appropriately (per the guide above). The Deck prohibits outside food, tobacco smoking (except in any designated outdoor ashtrays), and large backpacks or coolers. You may carry personal items and cameras. Because it’s a water-accessible spot, thinking about insects or sun is wise – bug spray and sunscreen aren’t provided. Finally, if planning to arrive by boat, secure a marina reservation by calling ahead (mobile signal is good there if you get lost).
Is there free Wi-Fi at The Deck?
Yes. The Deck offers complimentary Wi-Fi for patrons. You can ask any staff member for the network and password. (Even by the marina, the signal is quite strong.)
What are The Deck’s weather policies?
Being an open-air venue, The Deck can close or have limited service during severe weather. Light rain or wind is usually fine (they have some umbrellas), but if heavy storms or lightning occur, events are delayed or rescheduled. If weather is bad on your reservation day, call the venue for updates. It’s wise to check the Miami forecast before traveling. In case of heatwaves or intense sun, staff will try to provide shade and cool towels, but bring sun protection just in case. Late-evening breezes can get cool in winter, so a light jacket may come in handy.
