Key Biscayne, Florida: A Paradise To Call Home

Considered one of the best places to live in Florida, Key Biscayne combines luxury, beauty, and a welcoming community in one of the state’s most desirable locations. This island paradise borders the Atlantic Ocean on the east, Biscayne Bay on the west, and two state parks on its northern and southern sides. Just a short 15-minute drive from Miami via the Rickenbacker Causeway, the island offers a pleasant contrast to the frenetic energy of the city. Instead, Key Biscayne charms with its laid-back, idyllic lifestyle – one marked by a close-knit community, scenic beaches and marine reserves, and luxurious comforts.

Whether you’re considering buying a permanent home or a vacation property, Key Biscayne real estate is a promising investment. It will provide residents with the ideal lifestyle and investors with lucrative returns. 

An Overview of Key Biscayne

Spanning just 1.7 square miles and home to around 14,600 residents, Key Biscayne is regarded as a small town that is walkable and bike-friendly. Often, guests and residents simply take a golf cart, a preferred mode of transportation, to get around. It’s easy to head to the beaches, lush nature parks, and the community center within minutes.

Living in Key Biscayne is not just about enjoying the highest levels of luxury. It advocates a balanced lifestyle, lived in harmony with nature. From its white sand beaches and thriving marine reserves to the bustling community supported by a robust local economy, Key Biscayne is a haven for those seeking both tranquility and vibrancy. 

A Brief History

The first settlers on the land now known as Key Biscayne were the Tequesta Indians, followed by the Spaniards under explorer Juan Ponce de León. Before becoming a sought-after travel and retirement destination, Key Biscayne was a coconut plantation managed by New York industrialist William John Matheson. In 1991, the village was incorporated and became a new municipality in Miami-Dade County, the first in more than half a century. 

Luxury Real Estate and Investment Opportunities in Key Biscayne

Being one of the best towns to live in, it is also one of the most premium real estate markets in the country—not just in Florida.

The real estate market is highly competitive, as most Key Biscayne homes for sale are advantageously located near the waterfront, parks, or community amenities. These types of properties are generally more expensive than standard single-family homes and this is one of many reasons why the median home price in Key Biscayne is considerably higher than in other parts of the country.   

For homebuyers and investors, there are numerous real estate options available; there are elegant mansions, modern coastal homes, and condos. 

Prime Properties in Key Biscayne: Where Should You Invest? 

Living in Key Biscayne means living in one of the most sought-after areas in the US. The town, though relatively small can be divided into locations that express their own sense of identity. 

East Side

On the island’s east side, you’ll find modern condos like The Ocean Club, Oceana, Grand Bay Towers, and the Sands of Key Biscayne. These residences are fitted with luxury amenities, including pools, spas, gyms, beachfront access, and private parking, ensuring a high standard of living.

West Side

Single-family homes are concentrated on the west side of Crandon Boulevard. These homes feature a range of architectural influences, from modern contemporary to Spanish colonial, and the southern area offers a more suburban feel. 

Waterfront properties on expansive lots with mansions and premium amenities, such as pools and docking facilities, are primarily located on the west side along Harbor Drive, with access to Biscayne Bay. Additionally, properties on the island’s edge provide access to Hurricane Harbor and the South Basin.

Luxury residences with larger plots of land are located on Mashta Island, providing an exclusive living experience. For real estate investments, buyers can also purchase land, offering potential for development.

Luxury Condos

Condos and apartments are available with numerous high-rise residential developments that have luxurious resort-style amenities. Notable developments include:

• Oceana Key Biscayne. A 15-story building with 142 condos and 12 villas on 10 acres of oceanfront property. Units range from 2 to 5 bedrooms, featuring modern kitchens, balconies, and staff rooms, and include access to a private beach.
• Grand Bay Residences. A 13-story building with 138 units, including 2-bedroom residences and penthouses with up to 5 bedrooms. The property boasts luxurious amenities like a heated swimming pool, jacuzzi, tennis courts, and spa, situated on 12 acres of lush tropical grounds with private access to Key Biscayne beach.
• Ocean Club Tower One and Two. Located within a 52-acre gated community that includes a clubhouse, beachside bar and grill, spa, fitness center, and miles of beach just steps from the condo. It is comprised of 802 apartments spread out among 11 luxury towers.
• Oceana Beach Condos. This ultra-luxurious development is another premium option for those seeking upscale living with resort-style amenities.

Commercial Property Investments

For investors living in Key Biscayne or who are interested in exploring the commercial real estate market of the area, here are some popular shopping and entertainment centers with excellent potential for return on investment.

• Harbor Plaza Shopping Center
• Key Executive Building
• Key Biscayne Arcade
• Key Colony Plaza Shopping Center
• The Square Shopping Center
• Key Biscayne Shopping Center
• L’Esplanade Mall
• The Shops at the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami
• 660 KB Office Building
• 700 Crandon Shops
• 800 Crandon Shops

Strategically located around the area, these commercial areas provide excellent footfall. For residents, they ensure that wherever you are in Key Biscayne you’re never far from creature comforts or a dazzling shopping experience. 

Education

Due to its close-knit community, Key Biscayne has become a preferred address for many couples and growing families. The town offers a welcoming atmosphere where neighbors know each other, and the sense of community is strong. This environment is particularly appealing to families who value safety and a supportive neighborhood.

Key Biscayne has an impressive array of educational institutions, catering to the needs of its growing population. The town is home to several top-rated schools, providing quality education from early childhood through high school. Some notable schools include:

Elementary and Middle School

• St. Christopher’s By-The-Sea Episcopal Montessori School (PK-6) 
• Key Biscayne K-8 Center (PK-8) 
• St. Agnes Academy (PK-8) 
• Maritime and Science Technology Academy MAST Academy (6-12) 

Senior School

• Maritime and Science Technology Academy MAST Academy (6-12)

Relaxation, Recreation, and Reconnection with Nature

Living in Key Biscayne provides the opportunity to immerse yourself in a world of enriching experiences. Outdoor adventures and recreational activities abound, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. Apart from basking in the warm sunshine, try surfing, windsurfing, paddle-boarding, fishing, snorkeling, kayaking, and other beach activities at popular Key Biscayne locations. However, it’s not all about the beach with many parks dotted around the island. 

Key Biscayne is luxurious with all its modern amenities but it also allows you to reconnect to a more natural rhythm of life in its beautiful natural environment.

These are great places for family picnics, hiking, and exploring easy trails. 

• Crandon Beach. Bring the family and friends to the beachfront for a fun weekend. Apart from having picnic tables and water sports amenities, the beach is PWD-friendly and has beach wheelchairs on-site.  

For nature enthusiasts, Crandon Park also has dense marshland forests, quiet sandbars, and vibrant coral reefs. 

• Nixon Sandbar. Rent a boat or a yacht to visit this alluring sandbar surrounded by crystal clear waters.  Join the many parties hosted here and socialize with other boaters. 
• Virginia Key Beach Park. Located near Rickenbacker Causeway, this beach park is an important historical site and was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 2002. It was the only beach in Miami where Black people were allowed in during segregation.  
• Hobie Beach. Bring your pet and let them run free on the sand and in the shallow water. This is one of the few places that allow pets off the leash. This spot is also well-known for windsurfing, which is why it’s also referred to as Windsurfer Beach.
• Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. Discover a different kind of beach scene with sand dunes and a barrier reef just six miles out from the shore. You can also explore its mangrove and marine hammock forests, offering opportunities for fishing, bird-watching, and butterfly spotting.
• Village Green Park. Located at Crandon Boulevard, the 9.5-acre park near the residential area of Key Biscayne provides a family-friendly oasis with its expansive grassy areas, pools, play courts, and community center.

Though not a natural site, the Ritz-Carlton spa deserves a place on the list as it’s the ultimate destination for relaxation. Treat yourself to rejuvenating facials, massages, and full-body pampering, for a truly revitalizing experience within the 20,000-square-foot world-class spa. 

Unique Biscayne Adventures

Key Biscayne Heritage Bike Trips. This is a great way to learn more about the area. Not only are given a guided tour, but you also get to spend a day with the breeze in your hair on the seats of an electric bike. Education was never this much fun. 

EcoAdventures Program. Choose from a variety of naturalist-guided tours to discover Key Biscayne’s hidden gems, from the Bear Cut Marine Preserve to Crandon Beach, where you can participate in the turtle hatchling release programs. Snorkeling adventures are also available to explore the petrified mangrove reefs in Biscayne Bay.

Cape Florida Lighthouse Viewing. For breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay and Miami, climb to the top of this historic landmark. Originally built in 1825, it was reconstructed in 1846 after being destroyed by fire during the Seminole War.

Crandon Golf. For sports enthusiasts, this challenging 18-hole course, designed by Von Hagge, was recognized by Golfweek and Golf Digest for its incredible design and panoramic views. This championship course promises a memorable golfing experience. 

Best Places to Dine

Indulge in the culinary delights that this tropical paradise has to offer, with its array of dining options that will satisfy every whim and craving. 

• Rusty Pelican. An iconic dining destination renowned for its unparalleled views of the bay and Downtown. Delight in a menu of elegant dishes, including lobster risotto and its famed New York Strip.
• Vinya Wine Bar by Chef Mariano Araya. Relax and unwind with your favorite wine, whether red, white, or something in between. Sample by the bottle, glass, or flute, or share a bottle with a friend in their cozy dining room.
• Milanezza Kitchen Bar Market. Spend your Friday night indulging in delectable Italian and Argentinian-inspired dishes and drinks at this popular hangout.
• Rumbar. Transport yourself to the charm and energy of a 1940s Havana bar at this swanky establishment located at the Ritz-Carlton. Enjoy fantastic Latin music while sipping on handcrafted cocktails.
• Flour & Weirdoughs Bakery. Treat yourself to sweet or savory baked goods, freshly made daily, and experience the flavors of the local cuisine.
• Lightkeepers. Delight in the freshest seafood sourced from South Florida waters, perfectly complemented by their signature blend of spirits and cocktails.
• Boater’s Grill. A true dock-and-dine destination, this popular restaurant offers Latin-style seafood dishes that will keep you coming back for more.
• Lighthouse Café. Enjoy views of the Cape Florida Lighthouse at this charming café, where families can tuck into delicious burgers and fries by the seaside. Revisit the classic flavors of American cuisine.
• Kazumi Modern Japanese Restaurant is a contemporary experience in Japanese cuisine and a creative menu. It is known by the locals as an outstanding dining experience and meeting place with outstanding food and service.
• Costa Med Bistro+Wine From the same restauranteurs who own and run Kazumi, is the original success story. Costa Med is excellent Mediterranean food perfectly executed. Simple, stylish, and always on point. 

Commitment to the Environment and Sustainability

Key Biscayne is beautiful and the town is committed to keeping it that way. Here you’ll find a strong dedication to protecting the island’s natural resources. Volunteerism is thriving as residents – young and old – regularly host cleanup drives and other green initiatives to maintain the island’s beauty. These efforts are further supported by regulations, including waste management codes that uphold recycling efforts and proper garbage collection. 

Looking for a New Home or Premium Property Investments in Key Biscayne?

Want to make living in Key Biscayne a reality? Make the transition into this picturesque tropical paradise with the help of the dynamic team at Great Properties International Realty. 

As one of the most trusted real estate specialists in Florida, with over 20 years of experience and expertise, Great Properties International Realty specializes in premier waterfront properties in Southern Florida. When you partner with us expect professional services, a well-curated portfolio of luxury properties, and real estate experts who will take the time to understand your needs, concerns, and preferences.

With the help of the finest Key Biscayne Realtors, you can locate and land your prized property in Key Biscayne, and other sought-after neighborhoods like Miami, Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, Wynwood, and Pinecrest, among others. 

Contact us at 305.215.1686 or send us a message here and we’ll get right back to you. Together let’s begin your journey to one of the best locations in Florida.