The Neighborhood of South Beach

Community Info

South Beach is a neighborhood on the southern tip of Miami Beach. Established in the late 1800’s, this community is bordered by Dade Boulevard to the north, Biscayne Bay to the west, the Atlantic Ocean to the east and south. The area is world-famous for its iconic Art Deco buildings – including Art Streamline Moderne and Nautical Moderne. On top of these gems, are extraordinary luxury condo high rises where some of the world’s wealthiest reside. Dynamic and diverse, South Beach is one of South Florida’s most popular neighborhoods to live in.

Here are just a few things that make the South Beach neighborhood stand out:

It’s walkable: South Beach is one of the few places in Miami Beach and Miami where you will not need a car. Schools, grocery stores, doctors offices, parks, spas, restaurants and all the daily needs of a” life well lived” are a short walk away. Think of it as a tropical Manhattan, with palm trees instead of skyscrapers.

Old Miami Beach Historic District: Designated in 1979, it is a one-mile strip of the best examples of the Art Deco architectural movement. The classic hotels are alive with bars, restaurants and clubs servicing the residents and the thousands of tourists that come every year to relive a bygone era of glamour.

Miles of beach: Wherever you live, you are near the beach. Surf. Swim. Sunbathe. Jet Ski. Boat. If you are inspired by the ocean, this is your place. You get to enjoy one of Miami Beach’s most beautiful strip of beach from South Point Park and Pier to Dade Boulevard.

A short history of the South Beach neighborhood:

  • South Beach started off as a coconut farm in the 1870’s. The only way to get to it was by boat or ferry (Miami Beach is, after all, an island).
  • The first bridge to Miami Beach, Collins Bridge, was built in 1913. At the time of completion it was the longest wooden bridge in the world! A little over a decade later (1925) it was replaced by the Venetian Causeway, which still stands today.
  • Jackie Gleason used to tape his variety show from South Beach in the 1960’s.
    In the 1980’s and 90’s, South Beach became a popular spot for fashion editorial shoots, which eventually made the area a popular hot spot frequented by beautiful people. They ended up staying.

Restaurants & Attractions

Some of our favorite places to dine around South Beach:

Joe’s Stone Crab: Opened in 1913 by New York City waiter Joe Weiss, Joe’s Stone Crab is a Miami Beach institution. Starting off as a humble fish sandwich lunch stand, it evolved into a fine dining establishment famous for buttery stone crabs. You’re not really a Miami Beach resident until you enjoy a meal at Joe’s.

Taquiza: Tacos reinvented for those with discerning palates. A tasty dollop of meat or veggies on a handmade (gluten-free) tortilla, a Taquiza taco is one of the tastiest things you will ever enjoy. We recommend the chorizo taco – spicy, satisfying and certified authentic Mexican street fare.

Stubborn Seed: Lead by Top Chef season 13 winner Jeremy Ford, this is a die-hard foodies dream. Thoughtful dishes that are little explosions of flavor, mystery and love. This is one urban bistro that needs to be on your bucket list.

Macchialina: This Italian taverna, off the beaten path of the tourist side of South Beach, is a local favorite. Chef Michael Pirolos’ soulful contribution to Italian fare is a rare taste experience everyone will be happy with. Bing an empty belly.

Favorite things to do in and around South Beach:

South Point Park and Pier: This 17-acre park is more than a seaside stop. Stop by the park restaurant, have a frozen yogurt, and let Fido do his thing at the dog park. Panoramic views of Biscayne Bay, Fisher Island, Downtown Miami, and the Atlantic Ocean – best accessed from the pier – makes for perfect selfies. Enjoy!

Ocean Drive: There are not many places as famous (or infamous) as Ocean Drive. The parties, the dancing and most of all, the people make this a top destination for the world. As a resident, you can sit back and watch it all happen or join in, armed with a mimosa.

Miami Beach Golf Club: Home to the South Beach International Amateur, the highest ranked inaugural amateur tournament since rankings were introduced, this nearly 100-year-old course is a classic. Freshly redesigned icon (2011) and ready for your tee.

Festivals. Lots of them: The world largest art event, Art Basel, calls South Beach home. The Food & Wine Festival? Ditto. These international events bring millions of people to South Beach – but you get to experience it as a local. Spend your days taking in all the culture you want. It’s never too much.

Location, location, location. Living in South Beach is one of the worlds most unique experiences. You are embedded in a global culture, surrounded by art, cuisine and a bohemian vibe. The neighborhood is lit 24/7 by people, music and possibilities. Then, there is the ocean. It is a truly special place.

South Beach Demographics

  • There are 39,186 people living in South Beach.
  • With so many people from so many places in the world coming together to live in SoBe, diversity is built in. As you explore – you might hear over 10 languages during your walk!

Distance to popular areas

Design District: 7.7 miles
Midtown: 7.8 mile
Wynwood: 8.2 miles
Downtown Miami: 7 miles
Brickell Center: 7.9 miles
Miami International Airport: 10.4 miles
Aventura Mall: 20.5 miles

Neighborhood Schools

Elementary schools

Public schools
South Pointe Elementary School
Feinberg-Fisher Elementary School

Private schools
First Presbyterian International Christian School
Gordon Day School (Jewish)
Prima Casa Montessori School

High schools

Public schools
Miami Beach Senior High School (public)

Private schools
Rabbi Alexander Gross High School (private, Jewish)

Colleges and universities
The Florida International University School of Architecture
Lubavitch Educational Center (private, Jewish)

Are you in love with South Beach?

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.