The Neighborhood of Palm, Hibiscus & Star Islands

Community Info

The neighborhood of Palm, Hibiscus & Star Islands are three small islands in between Miami and Miami Beach off the McArthur Causeway (I-395) . The first homes were built here in the 1920’s but most have been replaced by beautiful mansions. This exclusive island community hosts various architectural styles – Colonial, Mediterranean, Ranch, Modern, and more. The ocean is the centerpiece of this neighborhood, many homes sit on the Intercoastal Waterway and quick access to Biscayne Bay and beyond. If you and your family want privacy a stone’s throw away from Miami’s and Miami Beach’s most sought after activities – this is your new home.

Here are just a few things that make the Palm, Hibiscus & Star Island neighborhood stand out:

Gated Community: The only way in and out on the islands is the MacArthur Causeway – and the Guardhouse. Manned by a Miami Beach police officer 24-7, you can be sure you’re in one of Miami’s safest, most private neighborhoods.

Seaside Retreat: Just like those who first built their summer mansions in the 1920’s and 30’s, residents here stay for the sight and smell of the ocean and the amazing views of downtown Miami. Wherever you are, you will be able to hear the waves crash against the seawalls surrounding the island.

Palm Island Park: Located at the center of Palm Island, the neighborhood’s recreation center is a great place to spend a day out in the sun with family and friends. Come by to watch your little ones play at the park, pick up a game of basketball or upgrade your tennis game with a lesson from a local pro. All community events are hosted at the park by the homeowners association.

Location, location, location: You are literally at the center of Miami’s most impressive offerings. To the west you have galleries, ballet, plays and musicals – to the east you have beaches, boating, and shopping. Of course you have amazing cuisine and nightlife wherever you turn.

A short history of the Palm, Hibiscus & Star Islands neighborhood:

  • Both islands were dredged by the Army Corps of Engineers out of Biscayne Bay in 1922.
  • Palm Island was home to the famous Latin Quarter Nightclub during the 40’s and 50’s. It was owned by Lou Walters, father of journalist Barbara Walters. Huge stars of the day performed there, including Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Tony Bennett.
  • Past and current residents include actress Gabrielle Anwar, gangster Al Capone, singer Ana Gabriel, actor Nick Nolte, music producer Scott Storch and rapper Bryan “Birdman” Williams.

Restaurants & Attractions

Some of our favorite places to dine around Palm, Hibiscus & Star Islands:

Joe’s Stone Crabs: When Joe Weiss opened his restaurant in 1913 he was the only eatery on Miami Beach – by all accounts he made the best fish sandwich in town. Over one hundred years later and they still make a great fish sandwich, but now they are world famous for…stone crabs! Joe’s has been a Miami Beach icon for decades, and you can’t call yourself a resident until you’ve experienced the buttery goodness of their crustacean delicacy. Make it your first stop.

Planta South Beach: The fine young anti-cannibals of Planta have taken on sustainability head on – and have created an incredible plant-based menu. That’s right. No meat or dairy anywhere. Innovation and a love for the planet has inspired Chef David Lee to create something truly unique, delicious and gastronomically satisfying with every dish. Be good to you and the earth.

Fooq’s: This little spot in a forgotten corner of Downtown Miami is a treat. Euro/Middle Eastern fare using locally sourced ingredients, Fooq’s does a lot for you. An eclectic decor, a seasonal menu and a vibe that spills out into the street. You won’t forget this experience anytime soon.

Favorite things to do in and around Palm, Hibiscus & Star Islands:

The PAMM: The Perez Art Museum Miami has one of the nations most diverse 20th and 21st century contemporary and modern art collections. Totally tied into the community, they have taken a special interest in local and international art that represent the U.S. Latino experience, the African diaspora, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Go and see something truly culture-spanning.

The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science: Housed in a magnificently designed building on the bay, this science museum is a beautiful space for learning, awe and activism. It will take many visits to experience everything – laser light shows, an indoor aquarium, an aviary, rotating science exhibitions, workshops and much more. Go ahead. Nurture your inner geek.

South Point Park: Right on the tip of South Beach, this curvy park is a local favorite. Take a jog on its hilly path. Walk into the ocean and cool off. Take a short break to take in some sun. Have a smoothie by the kids park. Watch the sunset on the pier. There. We planned a day for you.

South Beach: World famous (or infamous) for it’s hedonistic celebration of life, millions come every year to dance, eat and drink like it was the last Saturnalian festival of the century. But that’s the night time. Daytime activities are family friendly – volleyball on the sand, bike rides next to the beach and breezy lunches on Ocean Drive. It is quite the paradox. Explore it.

Palm, Hibiscus & Star Islands Demographics

  • There are 723 people living in the Palm, Hibiscus & Star Islands.
  • Median age of a resident is 52 years old.
  • Median household income on the islands is about $250,000.

Distance to popular areas
Design District: 5.6 miles
Midtown: 5.6 mile
Wynwood: 4.1 miles
Downtown Miami: 4.8 miles
Brickell City Center: 5.2 miles
Miami International Airport: 8.2 miles
Aventura Mall: 18.4 miles

Neighborhood Schools

Public schools
South Pointe Elementary School (K-5 Grades)
Nautilus Middle School (6-8 Grades)
Miami Beach High School (9-12 Grades)

Colleges and Universities
Miami-Dade College

Are you in love with Palm, Hibiscus & Star Islands?

Email or call me (305.318.8557) to learn more, talk about what’s available and hopefully visit a few of these amazing homes. I can’t wait to show you around.