The city of Miami Beach has its own government, services, distinct geography and vibe as many locals will argue. Primarily a swath of barrier island bordered by the azure blue Atlantic Ocean, dolphin-filled Biscayne Bay, Government Cut and the town of Surfside at the island’s northern end, Miami Beach’s domain extends west to exclusive bay islands such as Star, Palm and Hibiscus off MacArthur Causeway; the Venetian Causeway islands from Belle to San Marino, and the string of Sunset islands that runs parallel to North Bay Road, one of the city’s toniest residential streets.

The city’s compact, walkable grid is flush with commerce and culture such as Frank Gehry’s New World Symphony, Lincoln Road pedestrian mall, the Wolfsonian and Bass museums, the famed Epicure market, Miami Beach Cinematheque and Art Basel Miami Beach, the nation’s top annual art fair.

Natural beauty highlights are the masterfully renovated Miami Beach Botanical Garden by landscape architect Raymond Jungles and South Pointe Park, the place to be for a Sunday stroll as cruise ships glide out to sea. Residents enjoy Miami Beach Golf Club’s challenging, 18-hole course designed by Arthur Hills, as well as private country clubs and beach clubs, and a well-maintained park system including dog parks, playgrounds and Flamingo Park, the island’s version of Central Park with clay tennis courts. 

Sun-kissed from a day of boating or beach, locals dine at one of the island’s internationally renowned restaurants and end at a hot nightclub. It’s the ultimate South Florida life style that turned Miami Beach into a brand.