East of North Miami and west of Bal Harbor/Surfside are two small kidney-shaped islets called the Bay Harbor Islands. They lie to the north of the archipelago of small islands that encloses Biscayne Bay.
For Miamians who want to escape the buzz of the big city, the Bay Harbor Islands, particularly the west island, provide a leafy green oasis to call home. Many locals are boat owners, and some of the more luxurious waterfront properties provide moorings and decks. The Islands are lush and tropical with shady gardens and tall palms.East Island has a more mixed population, with mid-rise condominiums, hotels, and higher population density, whereas the West Island retains a neighborhood vibe, with single homes. The Bay Harbor Islands are only a 20-minute drive from Miami International Airport, and Downtown Miami can be reached in half an hour on the I-95.. It is an upscale Jewish community that is both diverse yet unified. It boasts of four different shuls to cater to Ashkenazim, Chabad, Morrocan Sephardim and Syrian Sephardim, and any Jew who wants to join this welcoming community. A short walk from the beach, it is currently the hub of the frum tourist industry featuring kosher supermarkets and an array of popular world-class restaurants. The community has many adult shiurim as well as exciting youth programs for all ages. With plenty of parks to choose from, an array of shuls and programs, fine dining, and the beach at your becking call, Bay Harbor Islands is one of the top Jewish destinations to live in South Florida.
Bal Harbour Village has begun construction on its first Waterfront Park. This enclave, nestled across from the current Village Hall, will feature open lawn areas for passive activities, strolling gardens, meditative spaces, progressive exercise zones, and a “Mother Earth, Cycle of Life”-themed playground designed by award-winning Danish firm, Monstrum. The 1.5 acre property also includes a terraced garden, a splash pad, and additional Raymond Jungles-designed landscaping with a forest-style canopy that leads visitors into the new Community Center, designed by Zyscovich Architects.
The intimate, three-story jewel has a mirrored-glass design which will reflect the park from the outside and bring nature inside. This 24,000 square foot facility will house multi-purpose event spaces, an indoor toddler playground, as well as the administrative offices for the Recreation, Arts & Culture department. A third-floor landscaped and covered roof deck will have magnificent water and city views and can be multifunctional for use as party and pre-function spaces or for relaxation.