The Well Coconut Grove

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.

Video Blog - Property Spotlight: Tour this $3.4M, 5-bedroom Cul-de-Sac Home in Coconut Grove

Trust our Director of Luxury Sales, Stephanie Bienstock, to find the rarest gems before anyone else does. This time, it’s a two-story, 5-bedroom/4-bath, Mediterranean-style residence with a private pool that ranks highly on family living, character, sustainability, and timeless Grove charm. Follow us on this quick tour around one of Coconut Grove’s homes for sale that’s sure to strike a chord with nature lovers, eco-conscious buyers, and those drawn to the quiet elegance of Grove living. With a very rare five bedrooms, something hard to find in North Coconut Grove, it’s an exceptional opportunity to create your dream residence just blocks from Miami’s best schools. ### Step Inside Residence # 3211 Morris Lane A lush, quiet cul-de-sac off of Tigertail Avenue frames your 3,439-square-foot home that’s poised for a custom transformation. The ground floor houses the main living areas, plus a den or staff bedroom, including an open kitchen with eat-in breakfast nook, a formal dining room, a formal sitting room, and a large living room opening up to the pool, ideal for hosting friends and family. There’s also a full bathroom with access to the pool, a huge walk-in pantry, and a walk-in dining room. The best part is that your bright and airy kitchen opens directly into the backyard, complete with a heated salt-chlorination swimming pool, a jacuzzi, a shaded outdoor lounge and dining area, and two mango trees. It truly is the perfect setup both for fun afternoon dips with refreshments at hand and barbecue nights when you want drinks and conversation to flow freely. Designed to balance privacy and connection, the upstairs reveals a thoughtful family floor plan with your own personal oasis upstairs. The primary suite is complemented by a private terrace, a spa-like bathroom with a soaking tub, his and her vanities, and two generous walk-in closets. The upper level also includes three additional bedrooms, three bathrooms, including a Jack-and-Jill layout, and an expansive terrace running the length of the house, offering incredible privacy and comfort. ### Eco-friendly Living Made Effortless One of the main highlights of this two-story home is its eco-conscious features. With rooftop solar panels, two Tesla Powerwalls, and a two-car garage with an EV charging station, you’re all set to enjoy a sustainable, energy-efficient lifestyle that helps reduce your carbon footprint from the minute you move in. ### Coconut Grove: Wrapped in Tropical Charm & Close to It All Living at 3211 Morris Lane in this iconic Miami neighborhood, you’re a leisurely walk from the dog-friendly, bayfront David T. Kennedy Park and minutes from Miami’s top-rated schools, world-class marinas, and more waterfront green spaces. CocoWalk, Coconut Grove’s main shopping, dining, and entertainment hub, is just a 5-minute drive away. You can also reach Brickell's business core, Downtown Miami's cultural hotspots, and South Beach's legendary shores in less than 20 minutes. Homes like this don’t come around often. Contact us to schedule a private showing or to learn all the details about life in Coconut Grove.

The Best Miami Neighborhood: Coconut Grove vs Coral Gables?

If you're looking for a new home in Miami or South Florida, you've probably heard about two of Miami's most popular neighborhoods: Coconut Grove and Coral Gables. While these two highly desirable areas share some similarities, each of them has a distinct flavor and differences. For starters, and at the most basic level, Coconut Grove is a waterfront neighborhood in the City of Miami, set on Biscayne Bay, while Coral Gables is a completely separate municipality with its own government. To get a better idea of all their differences and similarities, and to find out which neighborhood is best for you, keep reading our Miami Neighborhood Comparison. --- ## — The Lifestyle Miami's Coconut Grove neighborhood is a high-end but low-key community, established in 1825 on the shore of Biscayne Bay, and it’s known for its rich history and distinct Caribbean flavor. Located just south of Brickell, Miami's financial district, this area lets you stay very close to everything, but also away from it all. A favorite for artists, design lovers, and families, Coconut Grove is also a haven for boating enthusiasts and those who love coastal living, thanks to its many marinas and sailing clubs. Favorites include the Coconut Grove Sailing Club, the Dinner Key Marina, the Coral Reef Yacht Club, and the Biscayne Bay Yacht Club. The Grove’s streets are shaded by lush banyans, grand poincianas, and other tropical trees, giving the neighborhood a serene, almost jungle-like feel. Exotic birds add to its charm, from wild peacocks that roam the streets freely to colonies of parrots that escaped the pet trade and now have made the canopies their home. If you’d like to get a real feel of what it’s like to live in the Grove, watch our walking tour of Coconut Grove. ###### Coral Gables Home Known as the “City Beautiful”, Coral Gables was the third municipality to be incorporated in Miami-Dade County, after Miami and Miami Beach. Originally a community of single-family homes, it began as an upper-middle-class enclave for University of Miami faculty, but has grown into a diverse city with an elegant lifestyle, strong community and popular downtown area. The area has retained its Mediterranean architectural charm, in part due to strict design code regulations, but now boasts varied housing, including beautiful residential waterfront neighborhoods to the south of Coconut Grove along Biscayne Bay, dotted with marinas here and there. Known for its vibrant cultural and academic scene, Coral Gables has long been a haven for those seeking residential tranquility—picture quiet streets, golf courses, and historic gardens—all while staying close to Downtown Miami and Brickell. ## — Getting Around ###### Biking through Coconut Grove and Coral Gables. Photo courtesy of Bike Walk Coral Gables Both neighborhoods offer strong connectivity, which plays a big role in their long-lasting appeal. Coconut Grove has always been one of Miami’s most walkable areas, even back when the city was better known for its car culture. Residents regularly get around on foot, by bike, or via the free Coconut Grove Trolley. The area is also served by the Metrorail’s Douglas Road and Coconut Grove stations, as well as several Metrobus routes that connect to other parts of the city, including south to Coral Gables. For airport access, you can take the Metrorail to the airport by transferring at the Earlington Heights station. To support its pedestrian-friendly vibe, the Grove has added several new parking garages in recent years, making it easier to leave your car and explore on foot. Major roads like US-1 (South Dixie Highway), SW 27th Avenue, South Bayshore Drive, and South Miami Avenue offer direct access to Brickell, Downtown, and Coral Gables. ###### Free Trolley system in Coral Gables. Photo courtesy of Miami and Beaches Coral Gables, while more residential, is still relatively accessible by public transportation. It’s served by the free Coral Gables Trolley, multiple Metrobus lines, and the Douglas Road Metrorail station near its northern edge. Even though it’s a little farther from places like Downtown, Brickell or South Beach—typically a 20-30 minute drive—you can get many daily errands done without a car if you live close to main streets. Residents often walk or bike to local shops, restaurants, and offices, especially around Miracle Mile, Merrick Park, and Downtown Coral Gables. And for those who enjoy a scenic ride, the tree-lined residential streets make walking and cycling a pleasure. However, most residents of Coral Gables will have and will want to have a car. Driving in and out of Coral Gables is fairly straightforward via major roads like US-1, Le Jeune Road (42nd Avenue), and Coral Way, all of which connect to key areas in Miami. ## — The Work-Life Flow ###### Arquitectonica offices. Photo courtesy of Arquitectonica Coconut Grove is primarily residential, but it boasts a vibrant commercial district filled with boutique hotels, small businesses, professional services, retail shops, and a diverse mix of restaurants. Much of the activity is centered around CocoWalk and Bayshore Drive, where you'll find sidewalk cafés, creative offices, and a growing number of luxury high-rises. While the neighborhood doesn’t host major corporate headquarters, it’s a magnet for boutique firms, creative studios, and media companies, particularly in advertising, architecture, and production. The area has also become especially popular with remote workers and creative professionals, many of whom work from home or out of coworking spaces. Adding to its creative character, the Grove is home to several renowned architecture firms—including Arquitectonica, Revuelta Architecture, Strang Design, and Beame Architectural Partnership—as well as Miami’s top real estate developers, like Terra Group, Alta Developers, ROVR Development, and Swerdlow Group. ###### Miracle Mile. Photo courtesy of Miami and Beaches Coral Gables blends residential charm with a thriving business environment. Its historic downtown is home to a wide variety of businesses, including retail shops, luxury brands, boutique hotels, and professional service providers like attorneys, designers, accountants, and real estate firms. The historic Miracle Mile remains the commercial and cultural heart of the city, lined with cafés, restaurants, and independent retailers that make it a hub for both locals and professionals, including Miami’s most beloved book store, Books & Books. Beyond retail and services, Coral Gables is also home to several healthcare providers, including hospitals and cosmetic medical practices, and hosts regional offices and branches for a number of multinational corporations. At the core of the city’s economic and cultural life is the University of Miami, Coral Gables’ largest employer, which plays a major role in shaping the local economy, contributing to research, education, healthcare, and talent development. There is also a large University of Miami healthcare center in Coral Gables. ## — Outdoor Living & Waterfronts Both Coconut Grove and Coral Gables offer generous access to parks, gardens, and green spaces, which makes them two of the most nature-friendly neighborhoods in Miami. Coconut Grove has a slight edge thanks to its waterfront location, tropical landscaping, and the sense that you’re living in one giant, tree-filled park. It also has a wilder, more organic feel. In contrast, Coral Gables is known for its manicured public spaces, including historic gardens, the Venetian Pool, and the Biltmore Hotel’s golf course, all carefully curated to reflect the city’s classic Mediterranean aesthetic. ###### Vizcaya Museum in Coconut Grove Coconut Grove’s lush, tropical landscape, with its canopy of stately trees, gives the neighborhood a relaxed, nature-forward vibe. Locals enjoy easy access to open green spaces like Kennedy Park and Peacock Park, where you can play volleyball, softball, or simply unwind by the water. With direct access to Biscayne Bay, it's also a haven for water sports like sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing. For those who enjoy a blend of history and nature, The Barnacle Historic State Park offers a quiet escape by the sea, while The Kampong, a botanical garden and former estate of famed botanist David Fairchild, remains one of the neighborhood’s hidden gems. Just nearby, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, with its European-inspired design and breathtaking grounds, adds a touch of historic grandeur to the area, and it’s weekend markets, yoga classes, and monthly nightly events are true locals’ favorites. Coconut Grove is also known for being very pet-friendly, with plenty of green space, leash-free zones, and dog parks where your furry friends can roam freely. ###### Coral Castle Museum in Coral Gables. Photo courtesy of Miami and Beaches Coral Gables is full of outdoor spaces that reflect the city’s elegance and tropical charm. One of the highlights is the aforementioned Venetian Pool: a spring-fed, Mediterranean-style grotto built in 1923 and one of the city’s most beloved historic landmarks—and yes, you can swim in it. That’s the point! The nearby Biltmore Hotel and Golf Course is also an icon, adding to the city’s appeal for golf enthusiasts and history buffs alike, and has a very popular country club and beautiful pool to spend your weekends. Two of Miami’s most treasured green spaces also call Coral Gables home. Matheson Hammock Park, a sprawling waterfront reserve, offers kayaking, paddleboarding, biking, and scenic walking trails—plus a popular atoll pool, a tidal salt water pool, right on Biscayne Bay. Just next door, the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is one of the region’s largest and most beautiful gardens, with tropical plant collections, butterfly exhibits, and monthly and seasonal events. Beyond the major landmarks, Coral Gables is dotted with small neighborhood parks like Ingraham Park, Merrie Christmas Park, and Jaycee Park, all perfect for a quiet stroll or catching a breeze under the shade. ## — Arts & Culture Both Coconut Grove and Coral Gables are rich in arts, culture, and history, and home to some of the earliest buildings in South Florida, including The Barnacle in Coconut Grove, Miami’s oldest house. Coconut Grove has long attracted artists, free spirits, and cultural innovators. It’s home to South Florida’s first hotel, the historic Peacock Inn, and the Coconut Grove Arts Festival, the longest-running art fair in the United States. The neighborhood also hosts several beloved cultural events, including the Caribbean-inspired Goombay Festival, the quirky King Mango Strut, and The Taste of the Grove Food & Wine Festival. Beyond festivals, the Grove features a number of art galleries and artist studios, as well as the iconic Coconut Grove Playhouse, currently under renovation and expected to be a key pillar of the local arts scene. Coral Gables, meanwhile, has a more structured but equally vibrant cultural footprint. Theater lovers can take in performances at the acclaimed Actors’ Playhouse at Miracle Theatre and the GableStage (located in the Biltmore Hotel), which produces everything from Broadway and Shakespeare to contemporary plays. Film buffs frequent the Gables Art Cinema, one of Miami’s top destinations for indie, foreign, and documentary films. The annual Carnaval on the Mile brings jazz, funk, and Latin music to outdoor stages along Miracle Mile. And at the University of Miami, the Lowe Art Museum, along with the university’s music and theater departments, offers a wide range of exhibitions and performances that enrich the city’s creative pulse. ## — The Shopping Edit If it’s laid-back local finds or high-end designer pieces you desire, both neighborhoods deliver distinct shopping experiences that reflect their unique personalities. From open-air shopping centers and weekly markets to luxury boutiques and timeless streetscapes, there's something for every kind of shopper. Coconut Grove offers a casual but stylish shopping experience, centered around CocoWalk—a partially open-air commercial hub with boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and a movie theater. The surrounding streets are lined with small, locally owned shops that reflect the Grove’s relaxed and creative energy. On Saturdays, the Coconut Grove Organic Farmers Market is a favorite stop for locals and visitors alike, open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the corner of Grand Avenue and Margaret Street. ###### Merrick Park in Coral Gables. Photo courtesy of The Shops at Merrick Park Coral Gables, by contrast, is known for its elegant and upscale shopping options. The Shops at Merrick Park, anchored by Neiman Marcus, offer a luxury retail experience with top international brands, while the iconic Miracle Mile is lined with unique boutiques, designer furniture showrooms, and fine jewelry stores. Whether you're browsing for high-end fashion or one-of-a-kind finds, the Gables delivers a polished shopping experience. ## — Signature Flavors Miami’s food scene wouldn’t be complete without the flavor-packed offerings of Coconut Grove and Coral Gables. Each neighborhood brings its own culinary style, offering everything from sidewalk cafés and global fusion to fine dining institutions and long-time local favorites. Coconut Grove may be smaller than Coral Gables, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to dining. The neighborhood is known for its casual charm, with trendy cafés, sports bars, and easygoing eateries tucked into lush, walkable streets. Foodies will find everything from vegan spots and street food to upscale seafood and steak. Among the highlights are Michelin-starred Ariete, serving new American and classic French influences, and the Mexican restaurant Los Felix, boasting both a Michelin star and a Michelin Green Star. More notable spots include Bellini and Il Giardino, offering world-renowned Cipriani cuisine at Mr. C Hotel, and local favorites Lulu, for Mediterranean dishes, and Sapore Di Mare, for fine Italian dining. We also recommend Peruvian fusion at Jaguar, traditional Indian at Bombay Darbar, French classics at Le Bouchon Du Grove, and standout Mexican at Koko. For pizza lovers, Harry’s Pizzeria delivers one of the best artisan pies in town. Coral Gables has one of Miami’s most diverse and refined dining scenes. Shingo, for example, is a Michelin-starred, 14-seat omakase experience serving a standout 18-course menu; while Fontana Italian, at the Biltmore Hotel, has one of Miami’s most romantic outdoor dining settings. Local favorites include Caffe Abbracci and Luca Osteria for Italian at its finest, and Graziano’s for top Argentine steaks. You’ll also find unique gems like Threefold Café, the city’s only Australian restaurant serving up a unique brunch menu, and Caja Caliente, known for its inventive Cuban fusion dishes. ## — Top Schools ###### Ransom Everglades in Coconut Grove Coconut Grove is home to some of Miami's most highly-ranked private and public schools, including the famed Ransom Everglades School and Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart, with their elegant and spacious campuses and elite private education. Other private schools in the area are Saint Hugh, Saint Stephen's Episcopal Day School, Coconut Grove Montessori, the Vanguard School, and LaSalle High School. Public schools that serve the area include Coconut Grove Elementary, Frances S. Tucker Elementary, and George W. Carver Elementary and Middle Schools. Private schools in Coral Gables include Gulliver Academy and Gulliver Preparatory Schools, Riviera Day School and Riviera Preparatory School, Saint Philip's Episcopal School, Saint Theresa Catholic School, and Saint Thomas Episcopal Parish School. Among the public schools, you will find Coral Gables Preparatory Academy, Coral Gables High School, and Ponce de Leon Middle School. Charter schools include Somerset Academy and Coral Gables Preparatory Academy. ## — Architecture & Design ###### The Fairchild in Coconut Grove Coconut Grove offers one of Miami’s most eclectic architectural landscapes, blending lush tropical charm with modern luxury. Here, you’ll find everything from mid-century bungalows and historic homes to sleek high-rises and waterfront mansions, all surrounded by abundant green space. Architecturally celebrated condos like One Park Grove and Two Park Grove (by Rem Koolhaas/OMA), Grove at Grand Bay (by Bjarke Ingels), and The Fairchild (by Max Strang) have made the Grove a hub for design-forward living, while classics like Grovenor House and Grove Isle I, II, & III remain favorites for their marina views and resort-style amenities. The neighborhood also boasts new developments like the Four Seasons Residences Coconut Grove (Revuelta Architecture) and Vita at Grove Isle (CallisonRTKL), which continue to raise the bar with boutique luxury and world-class hospitality in mind. ###### Padua Condo Deering Bay in Coral Gables Coral Gables, by contrast, is one of Florida’s most carefully planned cities, founded in the 1920s as part of the City Beautiful movement. Its Mediterranean Revival architecture and strict design codes preserve a timeless, cohesive look. Most of the housing inventory consists of elegant single-family homes and estates, though luxury condos have become a growing part of the mix. Some of Coral Gables’ most luxurious condos include Villa Valencia, a boutique-style building with just 39 large residences; The Gables Club, a waterfront two-tower community with a private marina and tennis courts; and Siena and Verona at Deering Bay, which offer a gated, resort-style lifestyle with golf and boating access. New developments like Cassia Miami, The Avenue, and Gables Village are bringing fresh energy to the area, combining classic design elements with modern conveniences like short-term rental flexibility, rooftop gardens, and highly walkable layouts—all while preserving the city’s enduring elegance. ## — Prices & Perspective When it comes to condo pricing, Coconut Grove is considered a high-end and wealthy area, being notably more expensive than Coral Gables particularly when it comes to condos, attracting high-profile residents and luxury buyers with its waterfront setting and design-forward developments. As of the time of publishing, the average condo listing in Coconut Grove comes in at $1,795,528, or $883 per square foot. On the high end, listings can reach as much as $22.5 million, with prices soaring to $4,080 per square foot in some of the most exclusive buildings. Coral Gables, while more affordable on a per-square-foot basis for condos, still offers a wide range of options. The average condo listing in Coral Gables currently stands at $628,753, or $430 per square foot, with top-tier listings reaching up to $7.35 million or $1,614 per square foot. It’s also worth noting that single-family homes in the Gables typically start around $1 million and can climb much higher, especially in historic or waterfront areas. And Coral Gables was recently considered one of the country’s most expensive zip codes. Part of the pricing difference comes down to geography: with Coconut Grove being bordered by Biscayne Bay on multiple sides, waterfront views and marina access often command a premium. That said, both neighborhoods generally offer better value on a per-square-foot basis compared to other luxury Miami areas like South Beach or Downtown. But if you are looking for historic, estate sized single family homes, Coral Gables wins. If you’re ready to find your perfect address in either of these neighborhoods, use our free and customizable condo search tools to browse available luxury homes in Coconut Grove and Coral Gables. ## — Should I Move to Coconut Grove or Coral Gables? Coconut Grove and Coral Gables are close neighbors with many shared perks—great schools, green spaces, and a high quality of life—but each has its own distinct personality. Coconut Grove is tropical and laid-back. Its bohemian roots, lush setting, and walkable vibe attract self-made entrepreneurs, creative professionals, and families looking for a relaxed but sophisticated lifestyle with a side of sailing and sidewalk cafés. Coral Gables, on the other hand, is all about timeless elegance. With its manicured streets, Mediterranean architecture, grand estates, and cultural institutions, it appeals to families, professionals, and those who appreciate a more curated, traditional sense of community. Both offer fantastic access to the outdoors—Coconut Grove skews woodsy and wild, while Coral Gables feels polished and landscaped. ## Need Help Deciding? As locals who know these neighborhoods inside and out, we’re here to help you figure out which part of Miami fits you best. Whether you're just starting your search or narrowing it down, feel free to reach out by text, chat, email, or (our favorite) a good old-fashioned phone call. Let’s explore together. **ARE WE FRIENDS ON SOCIAL MEDIA?** 📣 Connect with us on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube. 📣