Sunny Isles Beach--Venice of America & Florida's Riviera

Sunny Isles Beach--Venice of America & Florida's Riviera

History of Sunny Isles Beach

If you know a little about Florida, and a little about Miami, you most like have heard of “South Beach,” one of the most famous beaches in the state. Located on a peninsula-type piece of land situated east of downtown Miami, it is a pristine white sand beach strip that faces the Atlantic Ocean. However, if you want to venture out and away from the popularity of “South Beach,” consider heading just a bit north to Sunny Isles Beach. A thin strip of land, (2.26 square miles, 2.5 miles in length), just 4 miles northeast of North Miami, and 15 miles north of downtown Miami, Sunny Isles Beach was originally purchased for development as a resort area. Five years later, in 1925, the Haulover Bridge was built and development exploded. The bridge connects Miami Beach to this strip of land running up the coast, and further north.  Collins Road runs north and south beginning at South Beach and running up through Sunny Isles and northward. Noting waterways in and around this piece of land the original buyer in 1920, Harvey Baker Graves, initially dubbed Sunny Isles the “Venice of America,” but over the years it has grown to be known as Florida’s Riviera.

Florida's Riviera

Why is Sunny Isles Beach referred to as Florida’s Riviera? With over one million vacationers visiting every year, it is without argument, one of the most beautiful oceanfront vistas in the Miami area. Sunny Isles Beach is a 2 ½ mile band of pristine, golden sand beachfront lining the crystal-blue Atlantic Ocean. Boasting numerous resorts, shops, bistros, international food-faire and attractions along the shoreline, vacationers may engage in outdoor water sports such as jet skiing or experience nature at Oleta State Park, where they may enjoy biking trails, kayaking, or canoeing.  Many other unique activities such a paddleboard tours, go-cart racing, deep-sea fishing and boating and are easily available for those looking for extra adventure. Having initially developed as a resort community, this beachside community exudes an international glitz and glamour flavor—with high rise hotels and high roller names, such as Donald Trump. The Trump International Beach Resort provides 360 guest rooms and suites, each presenting a décor—a stunning blend of tropical charm with Trump style.  The Donald Trump International Hotel has done its part in putting Sunny Isles Beach on the map as one of the top beach destinations in the world. With high-end luxury hotels abounding in this area, you may also consider the option booking a weekly rental in a home near or on the beach.

International Flavor

Some of the top spas in the world are located in Sunny Isles. Award-winning spa at the Donald Trump International Beach Resort features the unique 24 Karat Gold Facial. The facial includes 24 karat gold mixed with a collagen mask to visibly lift, firm, brighten, and energize the skin.  The locals frequent the Seven Seas Spa at Newport Seaside Resort, which offers Happy Hour from 5 to 10 p.m. on Thursdays—two for one spa and salon services, as well as complimentary champagne and valet. Other notable spas include SOLEA BEAUTY LOUNGE specializing in results-oriented treatments, and ACQUALINA SPA BY ESPA, a European Spa and the recipient of the Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Award. Officially becoming a city in 1977, one of Sunny Isles’ first accomplishments was to set aside land for parks, and Sunny Isles now boasts of 10 public parks. The Newport Fishing Pier reopened in the spring of 2014 and visitors can access this popular site for fishing. They may expect to catch a wide variety of fish, including Spanish mackerel, snapper, kingfish and bluefish. The pier also features a public fishing concession and a restaurant. Consider booking a vacation home in Sunny Isles Beach for comfort and affordability and to enjoy all this area has to offer.