Coconut Grove

The Grove as locals calls it has it all! Miami’s oldest neighborhood is nestled along the shoreline of Biscayne Bay, Coconut Grove is a combination of older homes, leafy streets, relaxed sidewalk cafes, and chic shops combined with ultra-luxurious newer offices and residential high-rises. From the air, Coconut Grove looks like one large continuous park because of all the tree-lined streets and mature landscaping. The area’s several green spaces include bay-front Barnacle Historic State Park, home to a mangrove forest, and the beautiful Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. From yacht clubs, marinas, waterfront dining, and walking paths, the Grove has something for everyone. Its residents make up a diverse collection of characters from the original hippies, old-timers, and newer transplants and families who love the quirky, fun, and always interesting Grove! It is also home to some of Miami’s best private and public schools.

When it comes to luxury beachfront living, nothing comes close to Coconut Grove.

Located a few miles south of Downtown Miami, Coconut Grove is renowned for its breathtaking waterfront location, Bahamian charm, opulent real estate options, and near- infinite variety of outdoor activities. Coconut Grove’s upscale yet laid-back lifestyle endears it to those who are looking for a relaxing and sunny destination to call home.

Ready to explore this side of Miami? Continue reading as we lay out everything you need to know about Coconut Grove—including the reasons why this historic neighborhood is one of the best places to live in South Florida.

Coconut Grove enjoys close proximity to Miami, bounded by the following thoroughfares: North Prospect Drive, South Dixie Highway, LeJeune Road, and Rickenbacker Causeway. To its east lies the great expanse of Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic. Neighboring communities include Brickell, Coral Gables, Pinecrest, and The Roads.

History

This is Miami’s oldest and continuously inhabited neighborhood, with roots dating back to 1825, making it even older than the city it belongs to. Coconut Grove’s early years were agricultural in nature, with citrus groves and a variety of tropical fruits cultivated in the area. This was the result of the Homestead Act of 1862, which promised free land to settlers—many of whom were from the Bahamas and the Keys. Any U.S. citizen had the right to claim 160 acres of land as long as they were willing to improve it.

In the early 1900s, Coconut Grove’s pristine beaches proved especially popular to the region’s elite. Many of these wealthy vacationers ended up building splendid homes in the area, creating a “millionaire’s row.” In 1919, it became its own city until it was annexed by Miami in 1925. By the 1960s and 1970s, Coconut Grove served as the center of South Florida’s youth countercultural movement.

Coconut Grove today retains its distinct Bahamian (and bohemian) character—laidback, free-spirited, and chill. Banyan trees, live oaks, and palm trees provide plenty of shade in this community. Its streets are lined with beautiful homes, as well as a great collection of outdoor restaurants, cafes, local boutiques, and elegant hotels. And with Coconut Grove only covering under 6 sq. mi. of land, the neighborhood is compact and highly walkable.

HOMES FOR SALE IN COCONUT GROVE

Coconut Grove, FL homes for sale are typically Spanish and Mediterranean-style residences, with lots sizes ranging from 9,000 to 11,000 sq. ft. A small section of the market comprises even larger estates, hidden inside gated communities or leafy cul-de-sacs.

Single-family residences are plentiful, but Coconut Grove also has a growing selection of upmarket condominium developments overlooking Biscayne Bay.

Given Coconut Grove’s rich and vibrant past, the neighborhood has no shortage of beautifully restored historic properties. These homes, which range from charming bungalows to grand estates, showcase architectural elements from the past and contribute to the neighborhood’s overall vibe and character.

Local architecture

Owing to the diversity of its people and the history surrounding the neighborhood’s origins, homes for sale in Coconut Grove unsurprisingly come in a wide range of different architectural styles. These include Mediterranean Revival and Colonial Revival, two styles that reflect the region’s historical connection with Spanish and Mediterranean architecture.

Another distinct style you can see around Coconut Grove and its neighboring areas is Miami Vernacular, an architectural style characterized by the use of indigenous materials and layouts adapted to the local environment. Similarly, Bahamian or Conch Style homes also abound in Coconut Grove—a reminder of the neighborhood’s past as an enclave for Bahamian immigrants.

Prospective residents can also expect to see homes for sale in Coconut Grove with a sleeker and minimalist aesthetic. Mostly newly built or recently renovated, these properties contrast beautifully with the lush surroundings, making them especially popular among those drawn to more modern-style residences.

Despite their differences in architectural styles and aesthetics, Coconut Grove, FL homes for sale have several features and amenities in common. These include large outdoor spaces, open layouts, and high-end finishes and appliances. Some of the luxurious amenities that may be found in Coconut Grove homes include large swimming pools, spacious garages, and outdoor kitchens and living spaces. Not only that but many of the area’s houses are located on the water, which means they have private boat docks and provide easy access to the ocean and Biscayne Bay.

Gated communities & real estate developments in Coconut Grove

These are some of the most coveted places to live in Coconut Grove:

• Abitare, a private complex of 21 luxury townhouses near Peacock and Barnacle parks
• Bay Heights, a walled community of 56 residences spread across just seven streets
• Bayshore Villas, a guard-gated community of 25 villas on a private, single street
• Camp Biscayne, a former winter resort that’s now a lush community of 26 homes
• DeGarmo Estates, an 11-property waterfront community named after Water C. DeGarmo, architect and one of its esteemed former residents.
• The Anchorage, an ultra-private waterfront community with only five luxury estates
• Cloisters on the Bay, which features 40 Europe-inspired upscale villas
• The Moorings, a bayfront neighborhood with 43 homesites, located in South Coconut Grove

Despite it being located just 15 minutes away from Miami’s busy downtown area, Coconut Grove has a very laid-back and easygoing vibe to it. This, coupled with its abundance of green spaces and attractions, as well as its stellar luxury real estate offerings, makes it particularly desirable to those who want a peaceful—and luxurious—retreat from the big city.

Thinking of moving to this beloved part of Miami? Here are some things you have to know about Coconut Grove

Mouth-watering dining scene

As expected from such an esteemed neighborhood, Coconut Grove is no slouch in the culinary department. Currently, Coconut Grove is home to a diverse selection of restaurants, with many publications dubbing it one of Miami’s most exciting culinary destinations.

Chief among these is Ariete, which specializes in contemporary American food. Another important dining spot in Coconut Grove is Sushi By Scratch, a small, intimate sushi counter that serves some of the most decadent—if somewhat experimental—takes on sushi in Florida. Those looking for Cuban food, meanwhile, can visit Chug’s, an upscale diner with a menu filled with beloved staples such as sandwich empanadas, boliches, and pastelitos.

For hard-to-beat vegetarian fare, visit the Coconut Grove branch of longtime South Beach favorite Planta Queen, which serves unique creations such as ahi watermelon. Craving after-work treats? Go to Level 6 and enjoy tapas and premium cocktails while watching the beautiful Miami sunset and listening to well-curated music.

A shopper’s dream

Coconut Grove is a dream come true for shopping enthusiasts, with the neighborhood offering a wide variety of retail options to its residents.

Cocowalk is one such shopping destination. An outdoor shopping center, Cocowalk is known for its mix of local boutiques, high-end retailers, and designer stores, making it a must-visit destination for shoppers.

Another premier shopping destination just minutes from Coconut Grove is The Shops at Merrick Park. Designed to resemble a Mediterranean village complete with palm trees, fountains, and cobblestone walkways, this outdoor mall has over 100 stores, including designer boutiques like Gucci, Tiffany & Co., and Neiman Marcus.

For fresh, locally grown produce, handcrafted goods, and artisanal food products, Coconut Grove residents swear by the Coconut Grove Saturday Organic Farmer’s Market. Held every Saturday, the Coconut Grove Saturday Organic Farmer’s Market has everything from organically grown vegetables and exotic tropical fruits to fresh-pressed juices, as well as products like homemade soaps, handmade jewelry, and other artisanal items.

Outdoor activities galore

Coconut Grove has no shortage of outdoor attractions, which adds to its charm and desirability to visitors and prospective residents. These attractions include Dinner Key Marina, where residents can dock their yachts as well as rent kayaks and pontoons for an afternoon.

Another outdoor attraction in the neighborhood is David T. Kennedy Park, a charming waterfront park that comes complete with amenities such as walking and cycling trails, a dog park, outdoor fitness equipment, and several volleyball courts. Meanwhile, Matheson Hammock Park in nearby Coral Gables offers 630 acres of urban paradise, with beaches and hardwood forests to boot.

Upscale entertainment options

Coconut Grove residents are spoiled for choice when it comes to entertainment, given Greater Miami’s abundance of theaters, performance venues, and sports centers.

These include the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County, which hosts touring productions of Broadway theater productions as well as dance, comedy, jazz, and cabaret shows. Residents can also visit the historic Colony Theatre,  a restored 1935-era art deco theater that regularly hosts film screenings as well as music, dance, and opera performances. Lastly, residents can visit the restored Lyric Theater in Historic Overtown,  which mounts various theater, comedy, and music productions throughout the year.

Those who enjoy sports and similar spectacles, meanwhile, can head over to Kaseya Center in  Downtown Miami. Located right along Biscayne Bay, this waterfront area can seat 20,000 people and serves as home to NBA champions Miami HEAT.

Hotbed of culture and history

Due to it being an enclave for the Beatnik and Bohemian communities during the heady 1960s and the 1970s, it’s no surprise that Coconut Grove has a dynamic cultural scene. The neighborhood boasts an impressive array of attractions for art and culture enthusiasts.

One such spot is the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. The former estate of businessman James Deering, this Mediterranean Revival villa takes pride in its extensive collection of European decorative art and furnishing from the 15th to early 19th-century. It’s also home to stunning Italian Renaissance-style gardens overlooking Biscayne Bay.

Another major thread in Coconut Grove’s rich cultural tapestry is Barnacle Historic State Park. Once home to pioneer Ralph Middleton Munroe, this slice of Old Florida has a well-preserved charming boathouse, lush gardens, and guided tours, all of which provide insight into the region’s rich maritime heritage. Furthermore, Barnacle Historic State Park also hosts concerts and performances on its lawn, as well as yoga classes and other events catering to Coconut Grove residents.

Lovers of local art, meanwhile, can go ahead and join the Grove Gallery Walk. Held every first Saturday of every month, the Grove Gallery Walk aims to showcase works by local, professional, and emerging artists, making it a must-see attraction in the neighborhood.

One other destination you can visit in Coconut Grove is The Kampong. A living museum of sorts, The Kampong is a nine-acre botanical garden that once served as home to botanist Dr. David Fairchild, the former chief of the Seed Section of the US Department of Agriculture in the early 20th century. Inspired by Indonesia, Kampong has over 1200 species of plants, including tropical fruits, palms, flowering trees, bamboo, and other plants. One of only five tropical plant research sites in the country, The Kampong is open to visitors from Monday to Friday, provided that they book their visit in advance.

Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science rounds up the list of must-visit cultural attractions in the area. Located in Maurice A. Ferré Park in Downtown Miami, this bayfront museum counts a world-class planetarium and a massive three-level aquarium among its features. The museum also has six floors of interactive exhibitions dedicated to topics such as prehistoric life, the oceans, and the human body, making it an engaging and educational destination for all ages.

Colorful festivals and events

Living in Coconut Grove is never boring, thanks to its (literally) colorful slate of annual events. This includes the Coconut Grove Art Festival, which features the creations of over 300 artists from across the world. This lively event showcases a variety of artistic disciplines, including painting, sculpture, photography, and more. Visitors can immerse themselves in the lively environment, admire the talent on display, and possibly even add a one-of-a-kind work of art to their personal collections.

King Mango Strut Parade is Coconut Grove’s irreverent and wacky answer to the King Orange Bowl Parade. With its  satirical costumes, marching bands, and floats, it takes the Miami center stage each year.

Great Properties International Realty specializes in luxury properties in South Florida. We take great pride in helping our clients find their dream homes in Miami and the surrounding areas.

Our team is composed of approximately 100 bilingual and multicultural agents, all of whom are equipped with years of experience in the luxury housing market. And in the 15 years we’ve been hard at work, we’ve built a tried and true network—composed of attorneys, inspectors, designers, architects, and contractors– that can help you reach your real estate goals.

Ready to start your home-buying journey in Coconut Grove, FL? Give us a call at 305.215.1686 or send us an email here to schedule a meeting.