December 2025: Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach Pre-Construction Condo News Update

Miami Neighborhood Comparison: Key Biscayne vs Brickell

One of the key advantages of living in Miami is its wide variety of neighborhoods to choose from. From luxury towers overlooking secluded beaches to modern skyscrapers in the heart of the urban jungle, there’s a place for every need and desire. Two Miami neighborhoods that best exemplify both ends of this spectrum are Key Biscayne and Brickell. Not only do they differ in the housing options and price points they have available, but their particular dynamics also offer vastly different lifestyles, perks, and sceneries. And yet they are very close to each other. In this blog, we'll compare both locales in several categories so you can make an informed decision when choosing to buy or rent a property if you’re considering Key Biscayne vs Brickell.

An August to ‘Spice’ Up Life with Food, Wine and Rum!

August is one special month in Miami when it comes to indulgences. We have the Spa and Spice months that coincide, which means you can nosh on a fancy three-course meal and try out that chakra balancing treatment you’ve been eyeing, all at the price of a single night out on the town. There’s also a drum festival, a rum festival, ballet and Rolling Stones concert to keep things chill through these sultry summer days. Read on for details: ## Miami Spa Months: July 1 - August 31 _Various venues across Miami_ If you missed your chance last month, here’s one whole month to catch up on your wellness. Miami Spa Month continues into August with a variety of deals and discounts on the highest standards of spa therapy, starting at as low as $109\. Check out the various treatments and packages offered by Miami’s best health clubs, hotel spas, day spas and med spas here. ## Miami Spice Months: August 1 - September 30 _Various venues across Miami_ The most delicious months on the Miami Temptations calendar are back again! Pull out your fork and knife to savor the best culinary delights in the city, five-star to local hits, all at highly discounted prices. The top eateries and chefs in Miami will be showcasing their top talent with three course meals and prix-fixed menus. For two whole months, you get to nosh on signature dishes priced at $23 for lunch/brunch and $39 for dinner. So, don’t waste a minute more waiting and check out the list of participating restaurants here. ## African Diaspora Dance and Drum Festival of Florida: August 2-4 _212 NE 59th Terrace, Little Haiti Cultural Center, Little Haiti_ The first weekend of August brings another colorful festival to Miami. This cultural event features dance workshops, live performances, yoga, a better living health fair and symposium, a bazaar, free children’s village zone and much more. In its 10th year, the festival brings together renowned native artists from Guinea, Senegal, Mali, Ivory Coast, Haiti and Cuba. These artists will be performing to the tune of “Seeds of the Diaspora”, which is also the theme of the year. ## National Rum Day Festival: August 16 _4041 Collins Avenue, The Confidante Miami Beach, Mid-Beach_ Cool down with your favorite rum, poolside, at The Confidante Miami Beach hotel. This heady festival brings you complimentary tastings and the chance to mingle with the best mixologists, as you try out the best of local and global rum brands. There will also be lots of games and live music for a fun-filled evening. ## Chefs Up Front: August 16 _1200 Anastasia Avenue, The Biltmore, Coral Gables_ Not a rum fan? Then dine for a cause at the Chefs Up Front fundraiser. This culinary event includes an elaborate table-side meal prepared by the most sought-after chefs and served with an expertly paired wine selection for each course. With tickets costing $250, all of the proceeds of the event and silent auction will go to benefit the Florida Cooking Matters program, which is a part of the Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry campaign. ## Coconut Grove Food and Wine Festival: August 17 _2985 S. Bayshore Drive, Coconut Grove_ We recommend working up an appetite for this progressive food festival, with tickets starting at $25\. Begin your stroll with tastings and demos at the Coconut Grove Woman’s Club. Then, carry on through the Mutiny Hotel’s pool area for a taste of some of the finest spirits. This delicious festival brings forth dishes from Coconut Grove’s newest restaurants and famous chefs along with access to rum bars, craft beer stations and fine wine samplings. Featuring full family entertainment, the fest will also have a Kid’s Zone, Waiter’s Race, Cuban Sandwich Smackdown Contest, Doggies Bark in the Park Contest and live music. ## Florida Track Days: August 18 _1 Speedway Blvd, Homestead Miami Speedway, Homestead_ Every biker’s dream, this is your chance to push your bike to its fullest protentional in a safe and supervised environment. Taste new speed levels and try out new skills without any speed limits or stop signs at this world-class facility. Book your spot in advance for some private lessons. Or, join the advanced rider classes, where expert instructors train you to explore your full potential under the supervision of a competent safety crew. ## International Ballet Festival of Miami: July 27 - August 18 _Various venues across Miami_ Enjoy an array of graceful evenings courtesy this fine festival. You will find the greatest stars from ballet companies from across the globe performing at this three week-long festival. Celebrating the past, present and future of ballet, come to witness local talent to visiting stars performing in modern, contemporary and classic styles. Click here for the full schedule and tickets. ## Rolling Stones Concert: August 31 _347 Don Shula Drive, Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens_ This one is for the young at heart and those with a classic soul. The greatest rock bands of all time will be visiting the Hard Rock Stadium for one of its most explosive events. Grab your seats here to catch this legendary band in all its glory, as it closes out its summer tour. So, where would you like to be seen this August? Let us know in the comments below!

Coconut Grove vs Brickell: Which Miami Neighborhood is Better?

Miami is a city of contrasts. On one hand, you have thriving urban centers bustling with life and energy 24/7, and on the other, you have village-like neighborhoods where time stretches and life rolls by without a care in the world. And often they are just mere miles away from each other. It’s one of the main reasons the area attracts such a wide variety of people! There is truly something for everyone here. Two of the areas that best embody this dichotomy are Brickell and Coconut Grove. Despite both being immensely popular and sitting right next to each other, their characters couldn’t be more different. Together, they represent one of Miami’s oldest neighborhoods and one of Miami’s newest and fastest-growing neighborhoods. And both are undergoing spectacular renaissances. So if you’re wondering which one of these two world-class destinations would be best to buy a property in or call home, you’re in luck because in this blog, we’ll compare both locales in several categories to help you make your best decision when choosing between Coconut Grove vs Brickell. ## The Lifestyle Established in 1825, Coconut Grove is one of Miami’s oldest and most beloved neighborhoods. Oozing with historic charm and lush tropical foliage, it's known for its quaint Caribbean flavor, bohemian vibe, verdant nature, and laid-back coastal lifestyle right on Biscayne Bay. Throughout history, Coconut Grove has attracted families, creative types, and sailing enthusiasts alike, looking for a relaxed daily rhythm, community and privacy in a more secluded setting but close to everything. Its small streets offer cool shade thanks to a canopy of tropical trees, including grand poincianas and banyans, while its unique inhabitants include exotic bird species such as peacocks – yes, peacocks! – and renegade parrots that have managed to escape the pet trade and found a home in the treetops. In contrast, Brickell is a growing and bustling metropolitan area, commonly dubbed the “Manhattan of the South.” It’s the largest financial center in the U.S. south of New York, and it’s characterized by high-rise luxury condos, luxury corporate offices, and vibrant dining, shopping, and nightlife. In all, Brickell’s fast-paced lifestyle is ideal for professionals, executives and world travelers who want to have walkable access to it all, including where they work. If you’d like to see for yourself how both of these neighborhoods compare to one another, check out our exclusive video on everything Coconut Grove vs. Brickell. ## Getting Around Both neighborhoods score high on walkability and transportation. Coconut Grove’s village feel makes it naturally walkable with many great parks, outdoor eateries and boutiques within a short distance. Bicycles are also a common form of transportation, and you can always take the free Coconut Grove Trolley to move within the neighborhood limits. ###### Miami Trolley To get to other areas of Miami, you would normally take your car, with the Grove connecting directly to main roads leading to Brickell (10-20 minutes), Coral Gables (15 minutes), US-1 and I-95\. Alternatively, there’s also the option to take the Metrorail, Metromover, and several bus lines. But as with most of Miami, you’ll want your car. ###### Miami Metromover Being a busier and denser area, Brickell takes walkability to another level with cafes, restaurants, convenience stores, banks, and offices on almost every block. It also has more transportation options, including the free Brickell trolley, the Metromover, which can take you to Wynwood, Coconut Grove, and Downtown Miami, bus lines, and the Metrorail. While you don’t need a car to live in Brickell, many residents do. And if you plan to drive, plan to expect heavy traffic during peak rush hours, plus congestion throughout most of the day – it comes with the territory of living in Miami's financial district. ## The Work-Life Flow While Coconut Grove is mostly a residential neighborhood, it includes a mix of professional services offices, important architecture firms, and other creative industry locales contributing to its vibrant, small and medium business environment. New boutique office buildings have been emerging alongside retail and dining, attracting tenants in tech, finance, real estate development and creative sectors. Also, thanks to its proximity to the University of Miami, the Grove attracts both students and faculty, giving the area a college-town feel, with a creative, intellectual vibe that mixes well with its charming eateries, wellness spots, and boutiques. Brickell, on the other hand, lives up to the image of a true modern metropolis. Gleaming high rises line the streets, while pedestrians wait to cross the streets to get to their next lunch meeting. It’s a buzzing international corporate mecca now evolving into Miami's tech hub, with startups, VC firms, and AI labs filling the office space available. While Coconut Grove is all about finding nirvana amid the natural splendor of the South Florida coast, when you compare Brickell vs Coconut Grove, you get a stark contrast. Brickell provides a tropical-chic urban setting where you can rub shoulders with some of the world’s most important players in the international corporate scene, all waterfront, while Coconut Grove offers you nature’s counterbalance. And this is why so many people who work in Brickell also choose to live in Coconut Grove. Brickell is winning you over? Discover top luxury Brickell condos for sale and rent. ## Outdoor Living & Waterfronts Coconut Grove cannot be beaten as far as access to nature goes, as the entire neighborhood is one lush tropical wonderland. Streets serve as walking trails, and there are expansive areas such as Kennedy Park and Peacock Park, where you can play volleyball or kickball, and your furry friends can run leash-free. With Biscayne Bay as its backdrop, the Grove is also a great place to play on the water and enjoy sailing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding, with many marinas available, of which the most notable is the Dinner Key Marina – Miami’s largest! And the breathtaking and historic Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, with its spectacular gardens and natural mangrove forest and excellent cultural programming is a gem of Miami destinations that Coconut Grove gets to call home. Coconut Grove’s charm is working on you? Explore the Grove’s luxury condos for sale and rent. Despite its urban density, Brickell provides plenty of smaller outdoor options with green spaces as well, such as Brickell Park, Brickell Key Park, Alice C. Wainwright Park, and Miami Circle Park, where you can enjoy walking along shady trails, and pups can enjoy off-leash areas. And while the neighborhood is waterfront, it lacks beaches, marinas, or public boating facilities. For this, you’d have to drive 10 minutes to Coconut Grove. ## Arts & Culture Thirty years ago, Coconut Grove was Miami’s first art district before any other existed, and the area still celebrates the arts with a host of fairs and quirky cultural festivals such as: * the King Mango Strut * Goombay Festival * the Coconut Grove Arts Festival. The neighborhood is also home to many small art galleries and artists’ studios, as well as hosting Pinta Miami, a key Art Week highlight. Moreover, it has unique sites where culture, history, and nature converge, such as: * the aforementioned Vizcaya Museum and Gardens * The Kampong National Tropical Botanical Garden * Barnacle Historic State Park. While Brickell is best known for its lively happy hours, Michelin-rated Miami dining, and nightlife venues more than for cultural events, public art installations along the Baywalk and pop-ups during Miami Art Week contribute to its cultural flair. Also, you can easily get to the nearby Downtown Arts District and enjoy the many cultural offerings there, such as: * the Kaseya Center * the Adrienne Arsht Center * Ziff Opera House * the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM). Both neighborhoods also have very good movie theaters. ## The Shopping Edit Coconut Grove offers a charming mix of indie boutiques and lifestyle shops along the streets of the neighborhood’s center, anchored by the CocoWalk, an open-air shopping hub with food and entertainment options that include clothing brands, restaurants, gift shops, bars, and a movie theater. For a luxury shopping experience, you can drive 10 minutes to the Shops at Merrick Park in neighboring Coral Gables, or head to Brickell. For groceries and daily essentials, residents rely on nearby premium markets like The Fresh Market, Milams, Aldi, or specialty spots on Grand Avenue (organic produce, artisanal goods), as well as the Coconut Grove Farmer’s Market. A 10-minute drive will also take you to the Trader Joe's in Coral Gables. In Brickell, you’ll have a huge array of shopping options along Brickell Avenue, with the crown jewel being the multi-storied, luxury shopping destination at Brickell City Centre. Here, you’ll find a Saks Fifth Avenue, as well as other noteworthy brands like Zara, Apple, Anthropologie, and contemporary favorites for fashion, beauty, jewelry, and home goods, plus entertainment like a cinema and a mini golf. For the day-to-day, there’s a Publix near Brickell City Centre, a Whole Foods just over the bridge in Downtown Miami, as well as multiple pharmacies and specialty spots for organic produce and artisanal goods. Plus you’re 10-minutes from Coconut Grove’s Fresh Market. See what we are getting at here? ## Signature Flavors Coconut Grove is home to some of Miami’s most delightful outdoor cafés, world-class restaurants, as well as sports bars and even old-school dives where you can get your bohemian groove on. The Grove’s dining options range from vegan to burgers and seafood options, street food, and international fare from all corners of the world. Some of the most notable options include: * Ariete is the Michelin-starred option experimenting with new American cuisine. * Bombay Darbar thrills with the flavors of India. * Sapore di Mare, a classic offering Italian fare with a nautical twist. * Chug’s Diner takes the diner concept to another level with Cuban flavors and its chic aesthetic. * Midorie is a simple-looking Japanese restaurant that lets the flavors speak for themselves. * Los Félix, another Michelin-starred restaurant that elevates the Mexican experience. * Lokal is a casual joint offering the good old American burger, but with locally sourced ingredients. * Bellini is perched atop the Mr. C hotel, offering great views and even better Italian food from the Cipriani family. * Le Bouchon du Grove is your French corner in Coconut Grove. Brickell's dining scene reflects its cosmopolitan energy. From Michelin-starred experiences to power lunch spots and late-night lounges, the neighborhood caters to professionals, foodies, and those seeking Miami's most elevated culinary moments. Some of the area’s best restaurants include: * Elcielo is a Michelin-starred restaurant where chef Juan Manuel Barrientos reimagines Colombian tradition through dramatic, sensory tasting menus. * Cipriani, credited with inventing both the carpaccio and the Bellini, brings the iconic Italian brand to Brickell with refined dishes, nautical elegance, and panoramic views of Biscayne Bay. * The River Oyster Bar is a beloved seafood bistro where locals have both their romantic and business rendezvous over some of the freshest oysters in town. * The Henry offers a wide range of foods, from avocado toasts to braised ribs, ideal for a large group or if you’re undecided on what to eat. * Claudie channels the sun-drenched charm of the Côte d'Azur with elevated Mediterranean dishes. * Dirty French brings bold prime-aged steaks, extravagant seafood towers, and a decadent martini lounge to a neon-glam, Paris-meets-Miami setting in Brickell. * Casa Tua Cucina is a high-end Italian eatery and market with ten individual food stations offering gourmet ingredients, a hundred labels of wine, and a soulful approach to gastronomy. * B Bistro + Bakery is where locals head to satiate their sweet tooth and comfort food cravings, serving croque madames, creative pastries, tuna avo toast, and pastelito pancakes. ## Schools: Coconut Grove vs Brickell ###### Ransom Everglades School Being a well-established residential neighborhood, Coconut Grove wins in terms of the best schools, and not just over Brickell. Coconut Grove is home to some of Miami’s finest private schools and public ones, too. These include the highly-ranked private Ransom Everglades School, as well as the parochial Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart with its beautiful Mediterranean-style campus. Other private schools in the area include Saint Hugh, Saint Stephen’s Episcopal, Coconut Grove Montessori, the Vanguard School, and LaSalle High School. Public schools include Coconut Grove Elementary, Frances S. Tucker Elementary, and George W. Carver Elementary and Middle Schools. Of course, Brickell also has several notable schools. Public schools that serve the Brickell area include Coral Way K–8 Center, Southside Elementary School, Ponce de Leon Middle School, and Miami Senior High School, as well as the Robert Morgan Vocational Tech Institute and the highly ranked MAST Academy, located in nearby Key Biscayne. Nearby private schools include Open Hearts Language Academy (OHLA), Key Point Academy, and Brickell International Academy. Our clients often reach out to us for the overview of the best private schools in Miami during their search for the new condo home, and you’ll find some excellent Coconut Grove and Brickell recommendations on our list. ## Architecture & Design The architecture in Coconut Grove is an eclectic blend of new high-rise condos, older boutique condos, Bahamian cottages and Old Florida bungalows, mid-century single-family homes, as well as opulent Bayside mansions nestled in gated communities, and even some historic structures. This variety is part of the Grove's appeal! For those who seek modern condo living, some of the most luxurious building options in Coconut Grove include: * The newly completed Vita at Grove Isle * Grove at Grand Bay * Grovenor House * Mr. C Bayshore & Tigertail Residences * Two Park Grove * One Park Grove And the up-and-coming Four Seasons Private Residences Coconut Grove, which is currently under construction with a 2028 completion date. We are extremely excited to see this boutique luxury Coconut Grove condo come to life, and detail its progress in our exclusive video. For new boutique offerings, Ziggurat is a rare find: an exclusive collection of only 19 luxury homes conceived to provide a private oasis within the Grove. Brickell on the other hand offers a completely different landscape. While South Brickell contains older low and mid-rise buildings plus a handful of mansions and Spanish-style homes from the Mary Brickell era, the bulk of the neighborhood consists of soaring skyscrapers—particularly new, modern high-rises packed with resort-like amenities. Watch our Guide to Living in Brickell video for a true local expert’s view. Some of the most luxurious existing buildings you’ll find in Brickell include: * Santa Maria * Jade Brickell * Brickell Flatiron * Echo Brickell * The Four Seasons Residences Brickell However, Brickell is quickly becoming the world’s destination for ultra-luxury condo living with more than two dozen new construction developments on the way, from supertalls to boutique offerings. In our expert opinion, some of the best Brickell pre construction include: * 888 Brickell by Dolce & Gabbana * The Residences at the Mandarin Oriental, Miami on Brickell Key * St. Regis Residences Miami (in South Brickell) * The Residences at 1428 Brickell * Cipriani Residences * Baccarat Residences * Mercedes-Benz Places * Nobu Residences Miami Watch our exclusive 888 Brickell video interview revealing all the amazing details. ## Prices & Perspective Coconut Grove has a wider range of single-family and duplex housing options, ranging from affordable to extremely affluent, with an emphasis on the higher end of the spectrum. Average listings range around $1,959,878 or about $938 per square foot, but listings can run as high as $22,500,000 or $4,080 per square foot. Brickell’s options lean more heavily toward condo units, which appeal to international investors, young urbanites, young families and C-suite executives seeking stunning Brickell penthouses. Average listings hover at about $484,915, or $357 per square foot, but can run as high as $33,000,000 or $7,119 per square foot. ## Which Neighborhood is Better? Coconut Grove or Brickell? This really depends on what type of person you are and the lifestyle that you seek, since these two neighborhoods are very different from one another, and each offers unique pros and cons. Whether you're debating living in Coconut Grove or Brickell, understanding what each neighborhood offers is key to making the right choice. If you’re more of a nature lover, seeking spacious, family-friendly housing in an exclusive tropical village setting with plenty of access to nature, and close to everything including top schools, Coconut Grove is sure to steal your heart. But if you thrive in an urban core, love being walking distance from work, or are an executive who can’t resist the fast-paced energy of the city, you’ll probably feel more at home at Brickell. If you’re interested in seeing how other neighborhoods compare to one another, for example, Coconut Grove vs Coral Gables or other locations, explore the rest of our Miami Neighborhood Comparisons. Whatever your decision, we’ll be happy to share our 20+ years of experience in Miami’s luxury condo market, as well as our homegrown insights into the advantages of each location. Just give us a call or email, and let us help you sort through the many available listings in Coconut Grove vs Brickell, to help you pick the perfect location for you.

Top Things to Do in Miami in January 2026

January is all about fresh starts, renewed energy, and pressing the reset button on your mood. And our selection of top Miami events in January 2026 does just that. We’ve got feel-good philanthropic galas, soul-stirring orchestral moments honoring Miami’s Art Deco history, spiritually rich pieces at PAMM, marathon milestones to knock out, and laugh-out-loud nights at the Hard Rock. There’s something for every taste to help you move into the year at your own pace. --- ### Begin the Year by Giving Back: Charity Events and Galas **January 10th, 22nd, and 24th | Multiple Venues** Ring in the New Year with purpose and the simple joy of sharing by supporting one, or more, of these meaningful Miami events in January: #### Be A Voice Gala 2026, January 10 Join the “Voices” championing youth in the foster care system at this elegant black-tie evening and help them open doors to a brighter tomorrow. You get to wine, dine, dance, and bid on exclusive auction items with fellow changemakers at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, as this year’s theme “Bloom Where You Are Planted” celebrates resilience, hope, and growth. #### YoungArts Miami Gala 2026, January 10 Sponsored by Oscar de la Renta, this evening affair makes a fitting conclusion to National YoungArts Week while supporting rising talents in their pursuit of creative freedom. This year, the five days of multidisciplinary live performances wrap up at the Rubell Museum with a fundraiser and an inspiring awards night. #### Annual Splendor in the Garden, January 22 Get your front-row tickets to an outdoor runway show by Neiman Marcus Coral Gables, and help nurture the next generation of conservationists. Set against the lush backdrop of the Fairchild Botanic Garden, proceeds from this stylish afternoon fund vital school science and education programs, while keeping you on top of trends. #### The Underline Sneaker Ball 2026, January 24 It’s the launch of a signature sneaker, culinary fest, and fundraiser rolled into one! You’ll arrive for the silent auction and a chance to support Friends of The Underline, but end up staying for the eye-popping entertainment and palpable energy. #### The Royal Ball of Prince Orlovsky, January 24 This roaring 20s masquerade offers the rare opportunity to step into an immersive world crafted by the Florida Grand Opera (FGO). Marking the opening night of “Die Fledermaus” at the Adrienne Arsht Center, this one-of-a-kind evening will have you enjoying a champagne tower, a royal ball, dinner on stage, Prince Orlofsky’s legendary hospitality, and the Elevare award ceremony, followed by after-hours entertainment, all while you help fund FGO’s vision for the future of opera. ### Woody De Othello: coming forth by day at PAMM #### **January 1st - June 28th |** 1103 Biscayne Boulevard, Perez Art Museum Miami, Downtown Miami ###### Woody De Othello. Installation: Untitled Works, 2025\. Courtesy the artist, Jessica Silverman and Karma. Photo: Phillip Maisel You have to experience it to fully absorb the nuanced spirituality and ritualistic gravity of Woody De Othello’s immersive installation, widely appreciated during Art Basel 2025. His first museum solo in Miami, “coming forth by day” is heavily inspired by the “Egyptian Book of the Dead: The Book of Coming Forth by Day” (2000) and Othello’s interpretation of written works by Afrocentric scholars. This deeply personal and materially rich exhibit features a series of ceramic and wood sculptures, a large-scale bronze, tiled wall works, clay-painted walls, and subtle use of herbal scents. It will stay on display through to June 28th. ### South Beach Jazz Festival #### **January 8th-11th |** Multiple Venues Across Miami Beach With the theme “From Disability to Serendipity,” this Miami Beach tradition brings together jazz musicians of all abilities and statures to fill your weekend with smooth vocals and timeless melodies. It’s easily one of the top Miami events in January 2026, so come and experience the rich legacy of jazz in Miami, as this annual celebration unfolds across free outdoor concerts and club shows. This year’s lineup includes Federico Britos Jazz Quintet, John Pizzarelli, The Harden Project, Spam AllStars, the Spanish Harlem Orchestra with special guest Etienne Charles, Ricky Ricardi, and Lemon City Trio, among other classic to contemporary artists. ### Art Deco Weekend #### **January 9th-11th |** Along Ocean Drive & Lummus Park, South Beach In its 49th year, Art Deco Weekend goes far beyond postcard views, bringing you themed architecture walking tours around South Beach’s most iconic buildings, including the fan-favorite “Crimes and Scandals” tour that gives you all the secrets you’ve always wanted to know about the city’s infamous past. Set along Ocean Drive, this magical weekend feels like a leaf right out of history and gives you an insider’s view of Miami Beach’s timeless glamour and design heritage, while spotlighting the Miami Design Preservation League’s efforts to protect it for future generations. They also have live jazz performances and dance lessons to round out the festivities Miami style. ### Short FILM FESTIVAL: Best of Fest 2025 + Here We Gather: All We Need, We Already Have Exhibit #### **January 11th + January 25th - March 22nd |** 16701 SW 72nd Avenue, Deering Estate, Palmetto Bay Rounding up and scoring all the cinematic gems released over the past year, the MIAMI short FILM FESTIVAL (MIAMIsFF) will be hosting a special evening show on the 11th. After a brief cocktail reception, you’ll be treated to a screening of the winners in the categories of Best Comedy, Best Animation, Best Documentary, and the prestigious Jury Award. Later, on the 25th, “Here We Gather…All We Need, We Already Have” will debut with a free opening reception. True to its name, the exhibit will showcase works made of materials found at the Deering Estate and curated by Dainy Tapia. Featuring works by Rebecca White, David Valiente, Karla Kantorovich, Jessica (Yessica) Gispert, and Maria Theresa Barbist, among other artists, this two-month-long display will highlight the ephemerality of natural materials, allowing them to shift and weather over time, lending the exhibit great repeat value. ### Outdoor Science Lab for Families at the Vizcaya #### **January 15th | 3251 South Miami Avenue, Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, Coconut Grove** The Vizcaya turns into your personal outdoor lab for the night with this after-hours family experience. Guided by local scientists and educators, kids aged 6-12 are invited to explore the fascinating wildlife that crawls out after sunset at these historic grounds. Each child will receive a flashlight at check-in to assist their study, followed by a story circle hosted by the Miami-Dade Public Library plus science-based art and craft activities to round out this immersive learning program. ### Life Time Miami Marathon & Half Marathon #### **January 24th-25th | Course Spans Downtown Miami, South Beach, and Coconut Grove** Miami’s favorite year-opening race is back to challenge 18,500 athletes from more than 80 countries. Choose between a marathon, half marathon, and 5K to test your limits and catch the best of the city en route, from the shimmering bay views of Downtown to the Art Deco landmarks of South Beach, and palm-lined avenues of Coconut Grove. There’s also a Kids Run that will have elementary to middle-school runners competing for top honors and a medal for each at the finish line, if they can conquer the 26.2-mile route. ### Jerry Seinfeld, Stavros Halkias, Penn & Teller, and More Comedy Gold at the Hard Rock #### **January 16th, 17th, 23rd, 24th & 31st |** 1 Seminole Way, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Hollywood Kickstart your year with hearty laughs courtesy of Hard Rock Hotel’s label-defying lineup: #### Stavros Halkias, Jan. 16: If you’ve seen this “Fat Rascal” star on Netflix or tuned into one of his podcasts, then you know you’re in for an evening of belly laughs. He’s bringing “The Dreamboat Tour” to town, and you’re invited to experience his unfiltered self, up close and personal. #### Miami Comedy Festival, Jan. 17 Catch the likes of Earthquake, Special K, and Sommore for a night of nonstop laughs that will echo well beyond the curtain call. #### Jerry Seinfeld, Jan. 23-24 With one of the most successful comedy series of all time to his name, this Emmy and Golden Globe winner needs no introduction. Reserve your seat to dive into the kind of shenanigans he’s been up to lately. #### Penn & Teller 50th Anniversary Tour, Jan. 31 From busking to sold-out Broadway shows, this chaotic duo has come a long way. You won’t want to miss these acclaimed comedic magicians in action, as they bring the antics that made them one of Las Vegas’s most beloved resident headliners to town. ### Ailey II, Rhapsody in Blue, Bronfman Plays Beethoven, and More Performances at the Arsht Center #### **January 8th-31st (check specific event dates) |** 1300 Biscayne Boulevard, Adrienne Arsht Center, Arts and Entertainment District Here are our top picks for performances at the Adrienne Arsht Center this January: #### The Inheritance (Part 1), Jan. 8th-25th Watch the Florida premiere of this two-part contemporary epic that explores the meaning of love, loss, and legacy within the LGBTQ community. It has been praised for being deeply emotional and unexpectedly humorous, intimate and strong. #### Ailey II, Jan. 9th This dance production by Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s second company shines a spotlight on its next generation of performers. South Florida native Jordyn White, known for her powerful stage presence, leads the contemporary program with a full ensemble under the direction of Francesca Harper. #### Rhapsody in Blue, Jan. 10th Marcus Roberts’ Trio delivers a fresh take on George Gershwin's masterpiece, in collaboration with the New World Symphony, at this evening program. A fusion of jazz and classical elements, Roberts’ skillful improvisation meets its harmonious match under the technical clarity of conductor Andrew Grams for an electrifying performance. #### Verdi's Requiem, Jan. 23rd-24th If emotionally charged classical works speak to you, then you won’t want to miss this musical production by The Cleveland Orchestra. Led by the acclaimed baton of Franz Welser-Möst, this dramatic presentation moves from grief to hope, backed by powerful percussion and an exceptional quartet including tenor Joshua Guerrero and soprano Asmik Grigorian. **The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Jan. 26th** Another powerful piece of Arsht’s 2025–26 Classical Music Series, this program features Vasily Petrenko leading the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in two meaningful symphonies on its 80th-anniversary tour. We recommend arriving early to catch the pre-show discussion, scheduled an hour before the show. #### Itzhak Perlman’s Cinema Serenade, Jan. 28th Legendary violinist Itzhak Perlman partners with The Cleveland Orchestra to serenade you with the silver screen’s most stirring melodies. Gear up for an intense evening as the lineup includes “Schindler's List’s” hauntingly beautiful score and the evocative love theme from “Cinema Paradiso.” #### Mikailo Kasha, Jan. 30th Ranked among the top 1% of bassists worldwide, Miami’s own Mikailo Kasha will be taking center stage at the Arsht Center’s outdoor plaza. Expect to tune into the award-winning composer’s original works, as he leads his modern jazz quartet for an unforgettable concert experience under the stars. #### Bronfman Plays Beethoven, Jan. 30th-31st Another can’t-miss concert for classical music fans, this program pairs Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 5 with Mozart's Symphony No. 41 to deliver a rare masterpiece. With Grammy Award-winning pianist Yefim Bronfman at the keyboard, you’re in for a spectacle worth remembering. --- Take this guide as an invitation to start the year connecting with others and enjoying cultural expressions that will remind you why Miami is the place to be in 2026\. From supporting meaningful causes and exploring cultural depth to riding an emotional wave of music or laughing the night away, there’s a wide range of Miami events in January to keep you energized. And as always, we’d love to hear what made it onto your calendar, so be sure to drop us a comment on our socials. Follow @blackbookproperties on Instagram to join the fun as we bring you highlights from Miami’s hottest annual events. Alternatively, call, text, or email us to become a part of our vibrant community and experience these events with a Miami address of your own.

Video: Tour this $5M, 4-Bedroom + Den, Bayfront Duplex in Edgewater’s Missoni Baia

Love the privacy and space of a standalone home but desire the conveniences and security of a luxury waterfront Miami condo? Then this 4,400-square-foot, 4-bedroom, 6.5-bathroom duplex with staff quarters delivers the best of both worlds, complete with uninterrupted water views, in one of Miami’s newest fashion-branded condo towers, Missoni Baia. In our latest Missoni Baia video, Sep Niakan, Miami’s leading luxury real estate expert and founding broker of Blackbook Properties and condoblackbook.com, joins Katia Bon, our go-to expert for hidden gems in Miami’s urban core and in-house master baker and cookie master, for a closer look at life inside this ultra-rare, two-story, Missoni Baia townhouse offering more than 4,000 square feet of pure luxury. ### A Bayfront, Entertainer’s Paradise One of only two duplexes in the 57-story Missoni Baia tower, this limited-edition southeast corner home offers grand proportions and expansive water views—a combination rarely found in Edgewater neighborhood. Built to adapt to your lifestyle, this 4,400-square-foot residence features four bedrooms, an open den or study, 6.5 bathrooms as well as staff quarters (behind the kitchen) that can easily be converted into a walk-in pantry, game room, or additional room. ### The Chef’s Kitchen Love cooking or prefer having someone else prepare meals in this Missoni Baia condo? Your chef-ready kitchen comes pre-loaded with Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, cabinetry from Italkraft, and a built-in wine cooler—all handpicked to afford both everyday convenience and entertainment-ready functionality. Plus a bonus room off the kitchen with a full ensuite bathroom doubles as a massive walk-in pantry or ample staff quarters. Add direct water views from the kitchen and an expansive stone island to the mix, and even your routine coffee becomes a ritual worth sharing. ### Impressive Living Room Area The double-height living room is the absolute centerpiece of this Missoni Baia condo for sale. With floor-to-glass windows spanning the entirety of the 4th and 5th floors, overlooking your balcony that runs the entire width of the residence, you have access to uninterrupted bay views and extended hours of natural light. True to its “entertainer’s paradise” reputation, this space further lends itself as easily to sunlit afternoon get-togethers as it does to elaborate evenings set against the romantic glimmer of the bay. ### Primary Bedroom with Master View Just up the stairs, your open den is perfectly positioned to inspire, complete with sweeping water and sky views. Tucked further inside, the primary bedroom in this Missoni Baia duplex offers its own share of views, a spacious walk-in closet, and a spa-like bathroom complete with freestanding soaking tub, his dual toilet closets, dual sinks, and a double, walk-in shower with dual rain showerheads, creating a sanctuary of calm you’ll love returning home to. ### The Missoni Baia Miami Experience Set against 200 feet of bay frontage, this minimalist glass tower comes alive with Paris Forino Design’s interpretation of Missoni’s iconic color palette for the interiors. Amongst the tower’s two floors of resort amenities, the Olympic-length lap pool, tennis courts, 1,700 square-foot gym with 180-degree views, full-service residents-only spa, and children’s splash pad stand out as favorites for those who value a wellness-focused lifestyle. You further enjoy access to a separate infinity-edge pool overlooking the bay, multiple lounges, a resident’s game room, a kids’ club, a hair and nail salon, a pet spa, and a bayfront boardwalk that takes you all the way to Downtown Miami. ### Missoni’s Edgewater Location: Central to Everything in Miami Within the neighborhood, you have the 8-acre, family-friendly Margaret Pace Park for everything—from fitness training to dog runs and family picnics. Further, Edgewater’s collection of restaurants is second to none; you have everything from waterfront fine dining to cafes and healthy bites close home. As mentioned above, a leisurely walk takes you right into the heart of Miami’s urban core to experience the best of art, culture, sporting events, and fine dining in Downtown. Miami’s Design District—known for its selection of couture shops, flagship stores, top-rated restaurants, and public art installations—is just a 10-minute drive from home. South Beach and its iconic nightlife sit right across the scenic Venetian Causeway, about 20 minutes by car. You are also just 20 minutes from the international airport. This Missoni Baia condo for sale is listed at just under $5 million—contact us directly if this waterfront lifestyle in one of Miami’s most desirable family-friendly neighborhoods speaks to you. We’ll gladly schedule a private viewing, so you can experience the views, scale, and finishes firsthand.

The Best Miami Neighborhoods: South of Fifth vs Fisher Island

If you’re considering moving to Miami, and you’re looking for an exclusive, beachfront, luxury neighborhood, two options you’ll likely hear suggested are South of Fifth (SoFi) in South Beach, or the ultra-exclusive Fisher Island. These two areas share some geographic and lifestyle similarities—both are incredibly beautiful neighborhoods that are home to affluent and high net worth (HNW) residents seeking a relaxed but sophisticated waterfront lifestyle with large condo home options—but they also have essential differences that make for very different living experiences. In this blog, we’ll dive deeper into both neighborhoods and their buildings, comparing what makes them stand out in several categories, and why residents choose them. This way, you’ll be well-informed to make a confident decision as to where to start your property search or tell your luxury agent when choosing between South of Fifth vs Fisher Island. ## The Lifestyle South of Fifth or “SoFi,” as it is known locally, is the area of South Beach located south of Fifth Street. It’s the southernmost tip of the island of Miami Beach and offers a lovely, upscale lifestyle and more luxurious properties than the rest of South Beach or Miami Beach for that matter. Most of its desirability comes from being a highly walkable neighborhood surrounded by water while keeping a more serene vibe than the more tourist-friendly lifestyle that the rest of South Beach is known for. ###### SoFi or South of Fifth - Miami Beach, FL Now, although SoFi is an exclusive area by virtue of home prices, Fisher Island is far more exclusive than SoFi because it is its own island accessible only by boat, helicopter, or ferry. In fact, Fisher Island is the most affluent zip code in the entire United States, with median household incomes in the millions. It is also characterized by being a small community. The island is under one square mile in size, and has a population of about 600 people, many of whom use their homes only part of the year as vacation or second homes—a key differentiator when comparing South of Fifth vs Fisher Island lifestyles. ###### Fisher Island. This dynamic results in great privacy for its residents, making Fisher Island a popular choice among VIPs, with celebrities like Oprah, Julia Roberts, Karolina Kurkova, Boris Becker and Caroline Wozniacki having called it home at some point. ## Getting Around SoFi is a highly walkable neighborhood, with everything you need within a short distance from every residence, making car-free living a reality. Also, since it’s part of South Beach, it benefits from having multiple transportation options available, including Miami Beach’s free trolley service, Miami Dade buses—including the Miami Beach Airport Express—, and Citi Bike. If you’re a car owner, moving around is also a breeze, with the MacArthur Causeway being your main way in and out of Miami Beach. To move around the neighborhood, you might take Alton Road on the west side, or the iconic Collins Ave, which runs northbound all the way up through the island. ###### Fisher Island Ferry. Photo courtesy of Fisher Island Club. Fisher Island, on the other hand, is so small that the most popular methods of transportation within the island are golf carts, bicycles, or your plain old feet. The island is completely private—only residents and their guests are allowed in—and accessible only by ferry, helicopter, or boat. To get to and from Fisher Island, most residents drive their cars to Terminal Island and board the ferry, which departs every 10 minutes on weekdays during morning rush hour and every 15 minutes all other times, 24 hours a day. Others access the island via private yachts. ## The Work-Life Flow Because they are primarily residential neighborhoods, neither SoFi nor Fisher Island is an area where you’ll find a lot of commercial business activity, making each retain a distinctly residential feel. However, SoFi has some boutique hotels, a few small private offices, fitness centers and spas, and exclusive establishments, including some of the finest restaurants in Miami and Miami Beach—a perk that often comes up when people consider living in South of Fifth vs living on Fisher Island. Fisher Island has a far less commercial life with only a small bank, post office, and grocery store on the island. The Fisher Island Club and Resort is the only real business in the area, with its small golf course, several restaurants, a market, a marina, a tennis club, and a spa. There is also a fire rescue station and a medical center on the island. ## Outdoor Living & Waterfronts Both have incredible park areas, open access to the water, a marina and beaches. They are truly exceptional neighborhoods to enjoy the unbeatable outdoor lifestyle and weather that South Florida has to offer. The heart of the SoFi community is the beautiful South Pointe Park, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the waters of Biscayne Bay and Government Cut, where the cruise ships head out to port. The park offers direct beach access for swimming and snorkeling, as well as fishing from the South Pointe Pier, and you can kayak, paddle board, and jet ski from the marina on the west side of the neighborhood. It also features beautifully landscaped paths, a large children’s playground with water features, a cafe and juice bars, and a Smith & Wollensky restaurant, where you can sit outside and watch the boats come in and out. The park is also a favorite of dog lovers, yoga practitioners, and those just seeking to spend some time outdoors. On Fisher Island, waterfront residences surround a small, but competitive 9-hole golf course designed by P.B. Dye, and the Fisher Island Spa Club and Resort provides 17 tennis courts featuring all four Grand Slam surfaces, plus 4 pickleball courts. There is a small natural area for bird-watching and one mile of private beach graced with imported, powdery white sand. There are also two deep-water marinas. ## Arts & Culture If you live in SoFi, you’ll have easy access to all of the cultural offerings in South Beach (and Downtown Miami for that matter), including: * The yearly Art Basel fair at the Miami Beach Convention Center in South Beach and all of Art Week Miami * The South Beach Wine and Food Festival * Fashion Week Miami * Several other music, art, and street festivals Beyond the events, South Beach is also home to iconic venues like the Fillmore Miami Beach at the Jackie Gleason Theater, which hosts a diverse lineup of concerts, comedy shows, and live performances, as well as other entertainment places of smaller scale and art galleries. And the Frank Gehry-designed New World Center, home to the New World Symphony. All of Downtown Miami’s cultural and sporting venues, like the Perez Art Museum Miami, the Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, the Frost Science Museum and the Kaseya Center are all a 10-minute drive over the causeway from SoFi. Fisher Island on its own has no public festivals or venues because it is so private and its residents prefer it this way. It has the Vanderbilt Theater at the Fisher Island Club, and its residents may occasionally hold private parties that include live entertainment by well-known celebrities. If you want to venture out to mainland events, you will have to take the ferry to the causeway, or travel by boat or helicopter. For both neighborhoods, cultural life is tied to their proximity to South Beach and Downtown Miami, where residents can enjoy the same festivals and events. The only difference is that SoFi residents can return home more quickly and easily after a night out, while Fisher Island residents have a slightly longer commute, relying on the ferry service or their private yacht as transportation. ## The Shopping Edit Being mostly residential, neither SoFi nor Fisher Island is particularly renowned for its shopping options. However, this doesn’t mean there isn’t any retail offering. South of Fifth provides a charming and curated shopping experience with several boutiques selling unique fashion, artisanal goods, and accessories. For everyday essentials, there’s a Publix a block away from Fifth Street, as well as a Target, a Best Buy, and a Walgreens. Whole Foods is also about 5 blocks away on 10th Street. And then you are only about another mile away to a Trader Joe’s and Fresh Market. The Lincoln Road pedestrian shopping mall will be your closest shopping, whether you are living on Fisher Island or in SoFi. So there is little difference there. On the island, Fisher Island’s shopping is much more exclusive and limited due to its private island status. Retail options here are mainly the boutiques within the Fisher Island Hotel and the island’s private club, selling luxury resort wear, fine jewelry, and exclusive designer items. For everyday items, residents rely on the in-island grocery store or private delivery services. For a wider range of shopping options, residents of both neighborhoods would have to venture out to mainland Miami or into Bal Harbour, which would require a 20-30 minute drive. ## Signature Flavors Although South of Fifth is a low-key neighborhood where you can bypass the hustle and bustle that characterizes South Beach, the area is home to some of the finest restaurants in all of in all of Greater Miami, and in some cases, the world: * The famous Joe's Stone Crab Restaurant has been a Miami Beach icon for decades * The South Pointe Tavern serves up food and drink fit for celebrities * Stubborn Seed, one of Miami’s Michelin-starred restaurants, allows you to taste the creativity of one of Miami’s top chefs * Azabu Miami, located inside the Stanton Hotel, serves exquisite Japanese cuisine * Call Me Gaby is where locals stop by for comforting pizza, pies, and pasta * Nikki Beach is best known for its amazing brunch menu, followed by a haute club scene * Carbone Miami serves Italian fare along with cocktails and wine in an opulent environment Fisher Island, on the other hand, doesn’t have any restaurants open to the general public, but the club’s seven restaurants all have excellent reputations. Among the most popular eateries on the island are: * Fisher Island Beach Club Restaurant * Porto Cervo * Garwood Lounge * Theapolis & Library * Snooker Club * Greenside * La Trattoria ## Top Schools SoFi residents are served by South Pointe Elementary School, Nautilus Middle School, and Miami Beach Sr. High, all of which are highly ranked public schools. Still, many residents may prefer to send their children to local private schools such as St. Patrick’s and the Hebrew Academy, located in Miami Beach, or to private schools located on mainland Miami. ###### Hebrew Academy. Photo courtesy of the Hebrew Academy. Fisher Island is also served by Miami Beach public and private schools, but the Fisher Island Day School is a small private elementary school exclusively for island residents, serving about 150 students in kindergarten through 8th grade (K-8 students). Contact us for specific school recommendations if you are considering either of these neighborhoods. ## Architecture & Design South of Fifth, similarly to the rest of South Beach, is characterized by a blend of beautifully restored Art Deco buildings from the 30s, 40s, and 50s, and a selection of modern luxury condo towers ranging in architectural styles from sleek minimalism to Mediterranean-inspired design. One common thread across all condos is that they feature top-tier amenities such as multiple pools, state-of-the-art fitness centers, concierge services, and on-site spas, with some offering panoramic ocean views with direct beach access. Some of the most luxurious condos on South of Fifth include: * 321 Ocean Drive, a modernist-designed boutique enclave, featuring only 21 exclusive residences. * Apogee South Beach, renowned for its artistic interiors by Yabu Pushelberg and top-of-the-line amenities. * Ocean House, Art Deco restored building with 28 residences and beachfront access. * Continuum South Beach North and South Towers, iconic beachfront towers with expansive units and resort-style amenities. If you’re looking to buy a pre-construction instead, the upcoming Villa Sofia Residences is the only development in the area, offering 27 modern residences, allowing short-term rentals. Fisher Island, on the other hand, is known for its single-family-sized condo residences, almost like condo mansions, private villas, and super-exclusive multi-family condo towers designed for privacy. The residences often feature oversized terraces, multiple balconies, and ample interior spaces. Some of the projects on the island include: * Palazzo del Mare, * Palazzo del Sol, and * Palazzo della Luna, which are the most recent constructions. The island’s only new development is The Residences at Six Fisher Island, an ultra-luxury, 10-story boutique tower offering just 50 units with expansive floor plans and ultra-exclusive amenities. View all currently available properties for South of Fifth to find your perfect condo. ## Prices & Perspective The average listing price for South Beach residences is about $788,389, or $512 per square foot; however, listings in South of Fifth tend to run higher than that, with some of the highest-priced properties reaching around $33,990,000, or $45,320 per square foot. Meanwhile, Fisher Island residences list for an average of about $5,567,078, or $1,489 per square foot, while the most luxurious properties can reach $50,000,000 or about $5,338 per square foot. Another factor to consider when making the South of Fifth vs Fisher Island cost consideration is HOA fees. In Fisher Island, these can go anywhere from $3,500 to $7,000 per month, while South of Fifth’s HOA fees are significantly lower. And you will want to be a member of the Fisher Island Club to enjoy living there, which has membership fees and dues. Additionally, part of your HOA fees living on the island pay for your ferry service. Discover all available Fisher Island properties and find your perfect condo. ## Which is the Better Choice? South of Fifth or Fisher Island? While both SoFi and Fisher Island provide an upscale lifestyle with exclusive privileges and perks, the two neighborhoods attract different residents, mainly based on how much privacy and exclusivity you may desire. If you dream of or need a very private resort living with golf and yachting as the center of your world, you may fall in love with Fisher Island. But if you prefer more accessibility and a laid-back lifestyle with easy access to urban offerings, we definitely recommend South of Fifth. So, whether you’re considering South Beach’s South of Fifth or Fisher Island, or evaluating Miami’s many other neighborhoods, our team has over 20 years of expertise in Miami’s luxury condo market, which makes us the ideal choice to help you find the right Miami property for you. --- _Let us get to know your preferences, desires, and budget and direct you to the most suitable neighborhoods and listings while sharing with you our knowledge and expertise of Miami and the South Florida area._ **LET'S GET SOCIAL!** Connect with us on Instagram and Youtube.