Miami Beach Homes

Incredible, expansive sunset water views amongst the backdrop of countless sailboats and the magnificent skyline of Miami. The Venetian Islands views are simply the best of the best; the word breathtaking still does not do them justice. The community is a cluster of man-made islands in the Biscayne Bay and home to some of the most incredible real estate in Miami. The islands are, from east to west, Belle Isle, Rivo Alto Island, Di Lido Island, San Marino Island, San Marco Island and Biscayne Island. The four islands furthest to the east belong in Miami Beach, and the other two belong to the city of Miami.  These artificial islands represent the beginning of a much larger project that never came to fruition, a plan that included the building of four more islands, more bridges, and more roads. After the “Great Miami Hurricane in 1926 and the end of what was referred to as the Florida land boom in the 20’s, plans to keep adding islands came to a halt, and the six current luxurious and exclusive islands were the result.

What people love so much about Venetian Islands real estate is the diversity of looks, styles, and sizes of the homes on each island. Some Venetian Island houses are on the water some are more inland. From midcentury modern mansions selling for $6.5 million, to Mediterranean style and Balinese-style homes that you can rent for 50k a month, you’ll be able to find just the right home, on just the right island.

Belle Isle

Belle Isle is the easternmost island in the chain that makes up the Venetian Islands. It is a quiet island composed of apartment buildings, a public park, and a hotel. The Venetian Causeway runs through this island connecting it to Rivo Alto Island on one side and Miami mainland on the other. A major highlight of Belle Isle is the Standard Hotel and Spa. This five-star hotel offers a modern spa experience to hotel guests, unlike anything they’ve experienced before. Roman waterfall hot tubs, mud lounges, an arctic plunge, fitness classes and a salt water infinity pool encourage a holistic approach to relaxation. Instead of feeling like a typical hotel, The Standard feels more like a posh spa with guest rooms.

Rivo Alto Island

The second island in the chain is home to architecturally diverse Miami real estate, and unlike Belle Isle, is strictly zoned for single-family residential property. Waterfront lots in Rivo Alto Island have unobstructed views of Biscayne Bay and/or the Miami skyline, and it’s close proximity to both Downtown Miami and South Beach makes it a desirable place to live. Residents can walk to Sunset Harbor for a wine tasting, fitness class or have dinner at popular restaurants like Pub Belly or Yardbird Southern Table and Bar. The Miami International Airport is only twenty minutes away, and this unique island has a way of blending luxury real estate with a classic small town community feel that is hard to find on the other islands.

Di Lido Island

The largest island in the chain, Di Lido Island is separated into “East Di Lido” and “West Di Lido’ by the Venetian Causeway and is home to luxury waterfront mansions and chic pool homes. There are trendy brunch places and coffee shops that line the quiet streets that are dotted with palm trees and million dollar homes. Recently, Miami model Daniela Urzi sold her Venetian Island home on Di Lido Island for $10 million!

San Marino Island

For luxurious, waterfront property with incredible views of the Biscayne Bay, many high profile figures flock to San Marino Island for the epitome of VIP living. Multi-million dollar homes with private docks and yachts make up a majority of this island.  During the winter, many high profile figures and celebrities quietly retreat to their Venetian Island mansions to get away from the craziness of Miami and enjoy a little peace and privacy.

San Marco Island

High profile figures and celebrities like San Marco Island because it offers the exclusivity and privacy that only an island can offer, while still being close enough to the beaches and just a short drive on the Venetian Causeway to the mainland. Homes here have expansive square footage, sparkling pools and meticulous backyards that overlook the bay. Million dollar listings go quickly here, and residents appreciate the privacy and privilege that comes from living on this highly sought after island. Many Miami residents who are venturing out to the Venetian islands for the first time star with rental homes on the Venetian Islands so they can get used to the lifestyle, and eventually find the island that fits their style and personality, and finally purchase a Venetian Islands home of their own.

Biscayne Island

Originally home to an airport, this unique island is the closest to the mainland and offers waterfront real estate for almost every home on the island. The views of the Miami skyline and Biscayne Bay from almost every home on the island make it a popular place to buy real estate. The Venetian Causeway connects the island to the mainland, where residents can enjoy a wide variety of restaurants, sidewalk boutiques, name brand clothing stores, bars, fitness centers, juice bars and more.

Getting On And Off The Islands

The causeway started as a wooden bridge built in 1913, which opened up the possibility of growth and development that surpassed the water’s edge.

It is very common to see Miami residents jogging, walking or skating on the Venetian Causeway, a gorgeous route that offers 360 views of the water from its bridges. The causeway connects all of the islands so the mainland, and runners appreciate the beautiful scenery and passing the various multi-million-dollar homes for sale on the Venetian Islands is a welcome distraction on a long run. The causeway was just revamped last year and has helped ease traffic getting on and off of the beach.  The newly updated bridges made running and biking a little easier and widened the lanes to relieve some crowding. Even if they have to take a break to let the drawbridge go up or down, exercise enthusiasts are happy to have the scenic route available to them for a breathtaking run. Running on the causeway is the only place in Miami where you can run and have water on both sides of you!

Shopping and Dining

The location of the Venetian Islands is excellent for residents who want to be close enough to South Beach and Lincoln Road to experience all of the local restaurants and dining options, but still want the ultimate privacy and seclusion that comes with living on one of these prestigious islands. Downtown Miami is just a short drive from any of the islands, and the adjacent Sunset Harbor community provides even more luxury real estate options. Living on the islands feels like a private paradise, but a short drive over the causeway and you’re smack in the middle of the action, the excitement and the conveniences of South Beach.

For many, living in an affluent part of Miami is a dream come true, but Venetian Islands real estate truly takes it up a notch. Living here, whether on a dry lot or waterfront property, is the definition of luxury, comfort, and convenience. It is how Miami’s elite experience a tropical island paradise without being too far from what makes Miami sexy, sophisticated and fun. These islands are rich in history but, in true Miami style, are constantly changing and evolving to keep up with the upscale lifestyle of the people who live here.