The value and uniqueness of Miami Beach was acknowledged from its first days as a destination. The city was incorporated in 1915, and forever after became a focal point for investors and adventurers. Today, Miami Beach draws people from around the world to its beautiful beachfront, and you can join the crowds of "beautiful people" strolling along its sidewalks and shopping areas. Miami Beach has become one of the hottest real estate markets in South Florida, not only because of its history, but also because of the diversity, energy and excitement that has become a permanent part of its atmosphere.
The area that became Miami Beach was once occupied by Tequesta Indians. However, encroachment by white settlers soon caused them to move elsewhere. Henry Lun and his son, Charles, purchased the large sandbar in 1870 for agricultural use, but it was later sold to John S. Collins who set about the task of draining the swampy areas to build up more land for development. Carl Fisher providing the funding to build the first bridge that ran from Miami onto the landmass called Miami Beach in 1913. The building boom quickly followed, culminating in the construction of the blocky, pastel Art Deco buildings that appeared during the 1920s. Hotels and apartments arose, and Miami Beach became a playground for vacationers and part-time residents. Today, these buildings are listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
One of the most popular spots in Miami Beach is the Lincoln Road Mall. On any day of the week, this open-air mall is a meeting place for people, young and old, to enjoy dinner together, take in a spa treatment or shop in one of the many stores that line its promenade. On weekends, it is one of the hubs of Miami Beach life, and you will find throngs of young people, couples, families and furry companions, enjoying the beautiful South Florida weather.
Of course, the beach is the favorite attraction for those who enjoy being outdoors. The warm waters of the Atlantic provide ample opportunities for swimming, wind-surfing, snorkeling and sunbathing. South Pointe Park offers jogging trails and all the amenities. The Miami Beach Boardwalk is another spot where runners congregate for a workout. Many resident use bicycles to avoid traffic and get around town easily. Miami Beach has 58 bike courses and miles of trails around the island, which also run through the Art Deco District with its colorful buildings. Tennis fans can choose from either the Flamingo Tennis Center or the North Shore Tennis Center. The Miami Beach Golf Club and Normandy Shores Gulf Club offer opportunities for duffers to practice their skills.
Residents of Miami Beach celebrate food in all its forms. From classic Cuban dishes, to seafood, to vegan and vegetarian options, Miami Beach can provide the right dining opportunities for any discerning taste. Sidewalk cafes line Ocean Boulevard and Lincoln Road provides a variety of dining offerings. French, Italian, pan Asian, and straightforward American fare are just a few of the options available to diners. Many of the areas boutique hotels are also becoming renowned for their chefs, proving yet more venues for diners to enjoy.
Miami Beach is known for its exciting nightlife, with a variety of music styles and atmospheres. You can sign up for a pub crawl to sample a number of offerings, or concentrate on salsa dancing, hip hop, high-energy techno, cabaret style singers or a sultry blues club. Some nightspots offer sports themes, MCs or even a pool for swimming and imbibing responsibly.
When family and friends come for a visit, residents of Miami Beach have a number of attractions available to entertain them:
Miami Beach has taken pains to ensure that residents in the city are able to enjoy a variety of activities and amenities. Careful planning has provided a number of greenspaces to enjoy, such as the Fairway Park, North Shore Park, Flamingo Park and Lummus Park. These facilities offer ball fields, rock climbing wall, playgrounds and classes for children and adults. Farmers markets are also popular among residents, at a number of locations, including Collins Park, Lincoln Road and the Normandy Village Marketplace. Miami Beach also has three branches of the Miami-Dade system, The Miami Beach Regional branch, the North Shore branch and the South Shore branch. Residents also enjoy spending the day picking their own berries at nearby Knaus Berry Farm and Burr's Berry Farm.
Miami Beach offers a high standard of living, while still maintaining prices that attract a diverse population. Demographically, Miami Beach has a large percentage of young people between the ages of 25 and 39. The next largest group is people between 40 to 64 years of age. . Families with children are beginning to come into the Miami Beach area in greater number. However, the area still attracts a senior population, 65 years of age and older, that enjoy the warmth, color and energy of this unique community. Properties in the Miami Beach area maintained their value even during the worst of the Great Recession that touched so many areas during 2007 to 2011. Recently, values have taken another significant jump. A 1,000 square-foot property in Miami Beach gained a hefty 17 percent in the past year.
Over the years, Miami Beach has proven itself to be a stable and upbeat city, with a host of amenities that enhance the experience of living in this area. Buyers looking for a positive community, with historical and architectural interest, can learn more about Miami Beach properties at the Movoto website.
