Miami in a nutshell; by Rhonda kohn (your friendly Miami realtor)
Miami is a beautiful city, filled with countless areas, distinct charm, and history. Consider these areas when looking for a place in Miami! Here is the 411 on all the best areas in Miami, along with things I wish I knew before moving here. Let’s work to find you an amazing place to call home.
LITTLE HAVANA
Anchored by the famous “calle ocho”, this area is home to some of Miami’s best kept secrets. Leave the travel guide at home and visit old’s Havana for a “vaca frita”, and then walk across the street to ball and chain for a “mojito”. Little Havana is home to tremendous Cuban culture, live music, food, and an up-and-coming art scene.
MIAMI BEACH
When people see photos of Miami, this is what they see. Home to one of the best beaches in the world, Miami beach is the place to be for those wanting the best in dining, nightlife, and entertainment. Tall hotels and condo buildings line the streets, anchored by brick-and-mortar businesses below. Miami beach has a place for everyone. From $350,000 condos to multi-million-dollar homes, everyone is welcome. Pro tip: visit the beach between 1st and 3rd streets. This area is known as “south pointe” and is less crowded and touristy than other areas.
DOWNTOWN
Undoubtably the most up and coming downtown in the United States, downtown Miami is home to office buildings, residences, bars, restaurants, and nightlife. This area of the city is truly a place where there is something for everyone. In the morning you’ll find people rushing to the many sprawling office buildings for work, and in the evening, you’ll see people ready to hit the city for all Miami has to offer. Downtown is also home to the famous America airlines arena, where there’s always an event to see! Don’t miss the Sunday brunch at “Toro Toro” located inside the intercontinental hotel.
BRICKELL
This is unanimously the hottest place to be in Miami at the moment, and it’s apparent why. Brickell is home to some of Miami’s best dining and nightlife, and residences. Everything is steps away from your door in Brickell, making driving a thing of the past. Make sure to have dinner at moxie’s and swing by sweet Caroline for some karaoke.
KEY BISCAYNE
Do you like to be away from the hustle and bustle of Miami? Perhaps feel like you’re on island time? If the answer to either of those is yes, then look no further than key Biscayne. Located across the Rickenbacker causeway, key Biscayne is home to luxurious residences, gorgeous scenery, and quiet beaches. Consider this a vacation from a vacation, and head to Virginia key beach for the day.
SUNNY ISLES
Looking for more affordable options by the beach? Look no further than sunny isles. This popular beachfront city is home to a plethora of luxury condominiums, hotels, and restaurants. What many fail to realize is that sunny isles is the same stretch of beach as Miami beach, only further north. That said, this area remains an attractive place for many to call home. Head to Haulover beach park to watch the sunset!
CORAL GABLES
One of the most longstanding neighborhoods in Miami, coral gables is home to the bulk of the city’s single-family homes. Here you’ll find expansive homes surrounded by lush natural landscaping. This area is also home to hotels, bars and restaurants. Interested in golf? The Biltmore hotel offers one of the best courses in Miami. Pro tip: walk down “miracle mile” and grab a burger at doc b.
COCONUT GROVE
Looking for a trendy area? Look no further than coconut grove. This area is home to mom-and-pop boutiques, restaurants, luxury hotels and condominiums. A great area for those wishing to walk around, coconut grove is easily accessible on foot. From brunch at Greenstreet to a night at Mr. C, coconut grove is a meeting ground for locals and tourists alike. Grab a drink at taurus, home to immaculate curated beverages.
DESIGN DISTRICT
Art? Fashion? Museums? Dining? If any of these sound-like things you like, then this is the area for you. Every block you’re sure to discover something new in this up-and-coming area. The design district is where some of Miami’s most elegant stores call home, yet right next door you can grab a $3 cookie at night owl and walk around. Come grab a bite, check out an art gallery, and do some window shopping at this trendy area next time you’re in Miami.