The Neighborhood of Key Biscayne
Community Info
The Village of Key Biscayne is an island located east of Miami and south of Miami Beach. Connected to the mainland by the Rickenbacker Causeway, the Village was incorporated in 1991 and has since done an incredible job of protecting the island lifestyle that makes living in Key Biscayne so special. Architectural styles are varied, from Key West chic to the ultra-modern flair. This Village is a top-tier residence for families and retirees with amenities and activities that are one-of-a-kind in South Florida.
Here are just a few things that make the Key Biscayne neighborhood stand out:
The Village of Key Biscayne: It’s an amazing community, protecting the island from over-development, projects that hurt the environment and anything that threatens the island lifestyle that they have carefully cultivated over the last three decades.
Removed from mainland lifestyle: Between the charming chaos of Miami and Key Biscayne is a four-mile stretch of water. The Village is very keen on keeping the island friendly, warm and most importantly – quiet. With very few exceptions (like a multi-day tennis tournament or a beach-side concert), living on the Key is devoid of distractions.
Outdoorsy: Over four parks, many beaches, the water – this is designed for anyone with an active lifestyle. If being physical is important to you Key Biscayne is a wonderful place to live. If nature replenishes you, then look no further. This is an islanders home – one of Miami’s most unique human habitats.
Community Center: This resident-centric facility does much more than offer programs for kids and adults – they also provide in-island transportation for seniors! For those who don’t need a ride there are programs that run the gamut – from Mommy and Me activities to music and art lessons.
A short history of the Key Biscayne neighborhood:
- Before the arrival of Europeans, the Tequesta Tribe called Key Biscayne home.
- Ponce de Leon was the first to chart the island. He named it Santa Marta.
- In 1824, Mary Ann Channer Davis of Saint Augustine, Florida bought the entire island for $100. Really.
- In 1947, the Rickenbacker Causeway was completed, connecting the Miami mainland to the Key.
- Key Biscayne has an impressive list of past and present residents. They include race car driver Emerson Fittipaldi, actor Andy Garcia, tennis player Mary Joe Fernandez, singer Cher, President Richard Nixon, singer Juanes, and many more…
Restaurants & Attractions
Some of our favorite places to dine around Key Biscayne:
Novecento: This is a classic Argentine experience. Many courses – and a lot of meat. Not a meat lover? Don’t despair. Their ceviche is amazing. A very cool place to relax with indoor and outdoor seating. If you are at a loss when reading the menu and you can’t decide, may we suggest the Picada Criolla – a sample plate with an array of beef built to satisfy.
Sir Pizza: This is a Key Biscayne jewel. Generations of Key Rats (the affectionate name given to residents) have been coming here after a game of golf or a day at the beach. As life-long residents of Miami, we have many fond memories of sharing a pizza with friends on the Key. Delicious thin crust pizza, you’ll love. Spoiler alert: The pizza comes in the traditional round shape, but sliced into tiny bite-sized squares. Trippy indeed.
Kebo Restaurant: For seafood there is only one place to go to in Key Biscayne. Kebo is a Spanish/Mediterranean establishment with a full menu of delicacies made for sharing – from tapas to paellas. Pair these tasty recipes from the old country with one of their many Spanish wine offerings, and it is the foundation of a great night out. Enjoy.
Favorite things to do in and around Key Biscayne:
Bill Baggs Florida State Park: What can’t you do at this historic location? Starting off as a safe haven for Indians and runaway slaves, the park is now one of South Florida’s most visited recreation areas. From primitive camping to mountain biking, Bill Baggs has dozens of experiences for you to jump into. Spend a day kayaking or wildlife watching – or just hike one of its many trails. Plus, you can experience one of the US’s most beautiful beaches.
Crandon Park Tennis Center: Key Biscayne is big on tennis, and it’s the home of the Sony Ericsson Open Tennis Tournament. But when the center is not besieged by the global tennis community and star athletes, you can use the center too! Twenty-seven courts, lessons for all ages and an activities-laden clubhouse make this a fun day outside.
Cape Florida Lighthouse: Built in 1825, burned down during the Second Seminole War in 1836, rebuilt and put back into service in 1846 – the Cape Florida Light has a history of surviving wars, fire, explosions, hurricanes – well you get the picture. Definitely worth a visit, especially to get an idea of pioneer life and the often tumultuous times that gave birth to the State of Florida.
Crandon Boulevard: Cozy restaurants and cafes, nature walks, and the beach breeze provide a low-key alternative to the often extravagant mainland and Miami Beach experiences. Enjoy a quite evening with family or someone special.
Key Biscayne Demographics
- There are 13, 182 people living in Key Biscayne.
- In 2000, 32.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them.
- Median household income in the city is $86,599.
Distance to popular areas
South Beach: 14.4 miles
Design District: 11.6 miles
Midtown: 11.7 mile
Wynwood: 12.1 miles
Downtown Miami: 8.4 miles
Brickell City Center: 7.8 miles
Miami International Airport: 14.2 miles
Aventura Mall: 24.5 miles
Neighborhood Schools
Public schools
The Key Biscayne (K-8)
MAST Academy (6-12)
Ponce de Leon Middle School (6-8)
Coral Gables High School (9-12)
Private schools
St. Agnes Academy (Pre-k3 to 8)
Are you in love with Key Biscayne?
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.