Welcome to Bay Harbor Islands
Just off the Northern Coast of Miami, you will find the Bay Harbor Islands. These Islands are separated from the mainland by Biscayne Bay yet connected to it by the Broad Causeway.
Originally, the two islands were named Broadview and Bay Harbor, respectively. It was the goal of Shepard Broad, who founded the islands and named them the Bay Harbor Islands in 1947. Today, they are commonly called the West and East Islands to individualize them.
Family homes are mostly on the west to further differentiate the islands. The east contains the Bay Harbor Islands' commercial district, where you will find the largest concentration of mid-century Miami Modern architecture and lavish condominiums.
What to Love
- Scenic views
- Relaxed lifestyle
- Luxurious living
- Easy access to big city amenities
Local Lifestyle
People who call the Bay Harbor Islands home are there to relax. They have a strong desire to escape the hustle and bustle of life on the mainland.
Most have an affinity for boating, relaxing strolls on the beach, and living out their days in the most enjoyable way possible. However, there is also some appeal in knowing that within 30 minutes, they can be deep in the heart of Miami, where all the action takes place.
With a population of nearly 6,000, the Bay Harbor Islands is the perfect place for anyone who values their space and the friendliness of their neighbors. As a bonus, there are occasional tourists traveling through to see what they can see, but most tourists stick closer to the larger cities.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Although laid back in the atmosphere, the Bay Harbor Islands offer several amenities if you enjoy fine foods and shopping endeavors. It is here that you can sample anything you desire.For instance, if you want to sample American and Latin foods, then the Mestizo Gastro Fusion is the place to go. The newest addition to the menu is Takitos in your choice of New York Steak, Hamachi Ceviche, shrimp, and more.The O'Lima is the perfect place if you're craving a little Peruvian and seafood. The menu includes several seafood varieties, as well as pasta, risottos, and Lomo-Cucho. For something a little more casual, you could try Open Kitchen, where you can sample anything from sandwiches to balsamic tomato-braised brisket.When shopping, you will have plenty of options, though most are small shops like the Under the Sun clothing store or the Bayview Boutique. You can also try the Bal Harbour Shops, a mall that is just across the Kane Concourse.
Things to Do
Entertainment is never far away when you're looking for a great way to spend your days in the Bay Harbor Islands. There are several golf courses nearby for you to enjoy. One of the closest is Indian Creek Country Club, with outstanding views and exclusive membership. Just a short drive away, you'll find the fun and challenging Normandy Shores Golf Club.If you're truly feeling adventurous, we suggest you travel a little south. From here, you can visit the Biscayne National Park. You can see it by taking your personal boat into it or by scuba diving to see all the wonders that lie beneath the water's surface. It is the largest marine park in the U.S., with 250 square miles of underwater land.If it's water you love, you can take a short drive a little further south to enjoy the Venetian Pool, just 30 minutes away. This is one simple pleasure that all residents of the area should enjoy at least once if you want to take advantage of South Florida's immense healing vibes.
Schools
All children enrolled in school in the Bay Harbor Islands will be a part of the Miami-Dade County Public School system. Some of the top schools in the area include: