While it may be true that the Venetian Islands are technically “artificial” in that they were created by man and not Mother Nature, everyone agrees that the breathtaking waterfront beauty and quality of life here is very real.
Idyllically set along the Venetian Causeway that connects the City of Miami to Miami Beach’s South Beach area, the Venetian Islands are comprised of Biscayne Island, San Marco Island, San Marino Island, Di Lido Island, Rivo Alto Island and Belle Isle, as you drive west to east. (There are actually 11 islands total, but only 6 are inhabited). While there were some truly impressive singlefamily estate properties on Belle Isle when it was first developed – retail pioneer J.C. Penney had a majestic home there – today it is home to some of the Beach area’s most impressive condominium buildings, including the beautiful Nine Island Avenue and Costa Brava. People also travel to Bell Isle from around the world to visit and stay at the world class Standard Hotel, a truly luxurious spa and resort located along the sparkling waters of Biscayne Bay on the north shore of Belle Isle.
The other islands are comprised primarily of single-family homes, with a mix of stately, original early Florida architecture and stunning new residential masterpieces. The islands were created to offer residents there some of the most impressive water views in all of South Florida, and the easy access to the open waters of the Atlantic makes it a perfect spot for boaters and fisherman to call home.
Originally connected by a wooden bridge, the current Venetian Causeway began construction in 1925, and is currently undergoing a complete refurbishment. Not only does it provide quick access between Miami’s downtown and the City of Miami Beach, the toll road is also a popular route for joggers, cyclists or those just taking the family dog for a beautiful waterside stroll.
The Venetians now represent some of the most desirable and hottest real estate properties in the area, thanks to the availability of condominiums from around $300,000 and up, and truly affordable waterfront homes starting at around $2 million. Here you’ll find everything from a small, 1930’sera Mediterranean bungalow to a stunning 10,000+ square foot contemporary work of architectural art.
The Venetian Islands are home to an eclectic array of residents, including young families, business executives and entrepreneurs, affluent retirees and even world-renowned celebrities. But the appeal of these waterfront gems to all who live here remains the neighborhood feel that one may not find in other parts of the area. And with the convenience of venues like the American Airlines Arena and Adrienne Arsht Performing Arts Center just off the western tip of the Causeway, to the cosmopolitan class of Miami Beach’s Lincoln Road Mall on the east side, Venetian Isle residents are fortunate to have the best of all worlds just outside their doors.
Some have called the Venetian Islands Miami’s best kept secret, as it has generally fallen under the radar of some of this area’s more famous, or infamous in some cases, islands like Star Island and Fisher Island just to the south. And for those who call the Venetians home and others who are looking closely at the prospect of living there, that suits them just fine.
Aleksandra Marzec
Broker-Associate Coldwell Banker
305-760-9121
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