South Beach, the favorite destination of Spring-Breakers and tourists, is much more than just Ocean Drive. Like many hotspots, South Beach holds hidden gems for its residents and its many diverse neighborhoods. The islands and neighborhoods of South Beach each have their own personalities and plentiful amenities.
South Beach Ocean Front
The glittering resort capital of the Southeast was originally an Avocado farm before development began in 1915. Now, this bustling, multi-cultural neighborhood is home to some of the most exclusive properties on the market. The draw is understandable with direct access to the waterfront and an eclectic array of boutiques and tasty restaurants.
· A constant view of the water and access to the 74-acre public Lummus Park
· Walk alongside the colorful buildings and step into the scenery of some of your favorite movies and TV shows like; Scarface, The Birdcage, and Miami Vice
· Dining experiences from the colorful Mango’s Tropical Café to the high-end Santorini by Georgios
· An entertainment hotspot with exclusive night clubs and beach clubs like Nikki Beach
· Home of the Colony Hotel which is known to be the most photographed Art-deco hotel
Art Deco District
The Art Deco movement came alive in the 1920’s and 30’s, first in Paris, and made its way to Miami where pastel-colored buildings featuring the architectural style sprang up between the 1920’s to 40’s. Now, the Miami Beach Art Deco Historic District holds the distinction of being the first neighborhood recognized by the National Register of Historic Places.
· Pop into the Art Deco Welcome Center and enjoy cultural tours through the historic district and stunning buildings
· Steps from the 8th street Designer District and upscale shopping
· Drag shows at the Palace Bar mirror the colorful buildings and elaborate architecture
· Minutes from cultural highlights; The Wolfsonian, Art Deco Museum, and lively Salsa Mia
South of 5th
The South of 5th Miami Beach neighborhood known as the SoFi District is full of ultra-luxury condominiums and single-family homes. This neighborhood is for those who want all the perks of island life and still delight in the luxurious upscale experiences offered.
· Walkable to the iconic South Pointe Pier & Park, residents take in stunning views of Fisher Island and breathtaking sunrises over the Atlantic Ocean.
· Weekend pastimes include watching the Cruise Ship parades and enjoying some of the best restaurants in the Miami area like Smith & Wollensky and Planta.
· Of course, always dressed in their finest Beach Chic attire.
· Boaters love this area for its easy access to the open water through Government Cut and plentiful docking options for larger yachts.
Lincoln West
Lincoln West features the 5th Avenue of South Beach, Lincoln Road Mall, a pedestrian-driven oasis of trendy cafes, small bistros, shopping, and prime people-watching. Join a bike tour and get a closer look at this cosmopolitan area.
· Home of independent bookstores like Books & Books
· A great place to go for local theater, check out the renowned Colony Theater
· Minutes from the very popular Timeout Market which features a group of talented chefs in a fun, open concept space
· Espanola Way for additional shopping and acclaimed restaurants. Espanola way recently completed the addition of their permanent pedestrian experience
Collins Park
Set on the Northeastern tip of South Beach, Collins Park offers a quieter atmosphere for residents and visitors alike while also encompassing some of the area’s best museums and memorials.
· Collins Park features a well-shaded playground, walking paths, and a variety of interesting sculpture installations
· Home of the Bass Museum of Art and the Miami City Ballet
· Location of the Holocaust Memorial
· Home of the CANDO Arts Co-op and host of satellite exhibitions for Art Basel
Palm View
Palm View is a residential neighborhood with parks, bordered by the Convention Center. It’s recognized historic district borders the lovely Collins Canal.
· A historic district with homes designed in the Mediterranean Revival style of the 1920’s
· Near the excitement of Lincoln Road without the constant activity
· A hands-on community feel with residential parks and events
Sunset Harbour
A slower-paced strolling neighborhood just off Lincoln Road. Sunset Harbour offers some wonderful Italian bistros, Asian food, and includes an outpost of Panther Coffee – a Miami favorite.
· Known for its charming boutique feel with artsy shops and local favorites.
· A large selection of restaurants & eateries like La Moderna, True Loaf, & Icebox
· Includes an array of specialty fitness clubs and boutique retailers
· Home of Stiltsville Fish Bar, an unbeatable place for fresh seafood and tropical inspired drinks
The Islands of South Beach
The islands of South Beach include; Star Island, Palm Island, Hibiscus Island, the Venetian Islands, and the Sunset Islands.
· Star Island – located in Biscayne Bay South of the Venetian Islands – is appropriately named as some of its residents include celebrities such as Emilio and Gloria Estefan, Don Johnson, and Shaquille O’Neal.
· Palm Island is an 82-acre residential island south of Hibiscus Island. It’s high property values and quiet feel are accessible via the MacArthur Causeway.
· Hibiscus Island, twin island to Palm Island, was home to the famous Latin Quarter nightclub of the 1950’s. The island and club have attracted historic figures like Frank Sinatra, Al Capone, and Sammy Davis, Jr.
The Venetian islands are a chain of residential, man-made islands known as Belle Isle, Rivo Alto, Di Lido, San Marino, San Marco & Biscayne Island, which was initially a 1930’s airport. These latter islands now support many luxurious waterfront homes. The islands offer a sense of privacy and exclusivity without losing the aspects that make South Beach great; access to the water, unlimited nature, and a casual pedestrian feel.
The Sunset Islands are four islands offering a mix of residences. Architectural styles range from those popular in the 1920’s to mid-century modern, and Mediterranean classic. The Sunset islands are just north of Sunset Harbour, and easily access this commercial district. The Sunset Islands also offer some of the newest single family homes built in Miami Beach.
· Centrally located to Miami Beach and South Beach amenities and activities
· Family-oriented, near outdoor parks and events, within the boundaries of North Beach Elementary School as part of the Miami-Dade County Public Schools District
· A wide range of property values, for-sale, and rental options.
A Closer Look
MIAMI BEACH RESTAURANTS
Some local favorites not-to-be missed!
Joe’s Stone Crab is popular for its food – but also for its emphasis on the Takeaway menu. Residents can pick up food and enjoy it surfside on the beach or picnic-style in on of South Beach’s many parks. Make sure to pick up some stone crab and a jumbo cookie.
For a Rustic Italian trattoria experience – head straight to Macchialina on Alton Rd. The award-winning handmade pastas, fresh use of local ingredients, and authentic menu will certainly hit the spot. Pair it with a glass of Chianti and enjoy the ambiance of this South Beach favorite.
MIAMI BEACH PARKS
Designed by West 8 - who did the grounds for the new luxury condo 87 Park designed by Renzo Piano – is a 2.5-acre park built to be a community space for cultural events. The City hosts events here for the public like movie screenings, Concerts by the New World Symphony, and morning yoga.
This almost 37-acre park is in the center of South Beach on 11th and Jefferson Ave. It is currently being re-vamped and renovated to expand its programming to include elements like soccer and football turfs, and ADA accessibility. Currently, Flamingo Park offers an amazing Tennis Center, aquatic center, playgrounds, and an 8-lane running track.
MIAMI BEACH ART & EVENTS
South Beach hosts some of the world’s most anticipated events like the recent 2020 Superbowl and the annual Art Basel. Art Basel is one of the reasons the area has been awarded the title of 3rd most influential art city in the world. Art Basel is an annual event presenting Modern and Contemporary art, Miami hosts the only U.S. location of the show alongside Basel, Switzerland, and Hong Kong.
Alongside this prestigious art distinction, the area is also recognized as the number 4 most fun city in America – but that comes as no surprise to us.
MIAMI BEACH SCHOOLS
Not all fun and games, South Beach also has a strong focus on education and the Miami-Dade Public School System includes great options for local youth.
· South Pointe Elementary School 1050 4th Street, Miami Beach
· Miami Beach Fienberg-Fisher K-8 1420 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach
· Miami Beach Senior High School 2231 Prairie Avenue, Miami Beach
It’s hard not to find what you’re looking for in South Beach or any of its dynamic neighborhoods. Reach out to us! The Urban Resource team is ready for all your residential, community, and property questions. realestate@urbanresource.com
