Living in Sunset Islands Miami Beach: Real Estate, Lifestyle & Community
Island Living
Life on Miami Beach’s Exclusive Sunset Islands
Here’s what life on Sunset Island in Miami Beach feels like, it feels special the moment you arrive. After years showing Miami Beach properties, the Sunset Islands stand out. Nestled in Biscayne Bay, this waterfront community offers stunning homes and a rare mix of privacy and accessibility. The Sunset Islands in Miami Beach are comprised of four islands known as Sunset Islands I, II, III, and IV.
Whether you crave the peaceful island vibe or proximity to South Beach, these islands deliver. From quiet, spacious lots on Islands I and II to vibrant, walkable areas near Sunset Harbour on Islands III and IV, it’s a perfect blend of tranquility and excitement. Many clients fall in love with this unique paradise.
Source: public records and listings
Timeless Roots
Sunset Islands History and Prestigious Location
From 1920s Vision to Iconic Gated Community
Here’s what I love about the Sunset Islands—they’re literally built on ambition and vision. Back in the 1920s, S.A. Lynch, the former president of Paramount Pictures, had this brilliant idea to create four man-made islands using sand dredged right from Biscayne Bay. Can you imagine the audacity? And now, nearly a century later, these islands sit perfectly positioned between the Julia Tuttle Causeway and Venetian Causeway, offering some of the most spectacular views of the Miami skyline you’ll find anywhere. I’ve watched countless sunsets from these shores with clients, and let me tell you—it never gets old.
Prime Positioning
The beauty of Sunset Islands I, II, III, and IV is how each has its own personality while staying connected through thoughtfully designed bridges and gated entrances. From my experience, clients drawn to Islands I and II along North Bay Road tend to crave that extra quietude and larger lots—perfect for families who want space to breathe. Sunset Islands I and II are more family-oriented with generally larger lots and homes. Meanwhile, those who choose Islands III and IV love being steps away from the energy of the Sunset Harbour neighborhood with its incredible dining scene. It’s like having the best of both worlds in your backyard.
Elegant Lifestyle
Lifestyle and Community on the Sunset Islands
Relaxed Elegance and Neighborly Connections
What strikes me most about life on the Sunset Islands is how it slows you down in the best possible way. I’ve walked these tree-lined streets countless times with clients, and there’s something almost magical about those majestic royal palms swaying overhead. The community has this wonderful way of bringing people together—I’ve seen neighbors become lifelong friends at the park on Sunset Island II, sharing weekend barbecues and watching their kids grow up together. Sunset Island II features a large park for residents to enjoy picnics and outdoor activities. It’s that small-town feel you don’t expect to find so close to all the Miami Beach action.
Waterfront Living
As someone who’s spent weekends on these waters with friends and clients, I can tell you that boating enthusiasts absolutely fall in love here. Many of the waterfront homes come with private docks that open right onto Biscayne Bay’s calm, emerald waters. The homes on Sunset Islands are available for sale, featuring luxury waterfront and non-waterfront options. I’ve watched clients go from never owning a boat to becoming weekend sailors within months of moving here. The bay is perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing—activities that quickly become part of your daily routine rather than special occasions.
Vibrant Yet Private
This is where the Sunset Islands really shine, and why I recommend them so often. You get this incredible sense of peaceful seclusion, yet you’re literally minutes from South Beach’s white sand beaches, the iconic Art Deco District, and all the restaurants and nightlife that make Miami Beach famous. The Art Deco Historic District is characterized by colorful, pastel Art Deco buildings. I’ve had clients tell me it’s like living in a resort where you happen to own the room—private when you want it, exciting when you need it.
Island Nearby
Top Attractions Near Sunset Islands
Restaurants, Cafés & Nightlife
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Lucali Miami – iconic Brooklyn-style pizza in Sunset Harbour
- Stiltsville Fish Bar – seafood and cocktails with coastal charm
- Pubbelly Sushi – trendy sushi and Asian fusion spot
- Macchialina – rustic Italian wine bar and eatery
- Pura Vida – Bright, healthy café for relaxed coffee moments
- Sweet Liberty Drinks & Supply Co. – award-winning cocktail lounge in South Beach
Shopping & Boutiques
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Sunset Harbour Shops – trendy boutiques, wellness studios, and gourmet markets
- Lincoln Road Mall – pedestrian shopping promenade with international brands and galleries
- Bal Harbour Shops – luxury mall featuring Chanel, Dior, and Gucci (short drive)
- Miami Design District – designer boutiques, flagship stores, and art showrooms
- Collins Avenue – resort wear and lifestyle boutiques
Parks, Outdoor Spaces & Recreation
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Maurice Gibb Memorial Park – bayfront park with skyline views and playgrounds
- Miami Beach Boardwalk – scenic route for biking, jogging, and strolling along the ocean
- Flamingo Park – public sports complex with pool, tennis, and fitness center
- South Pointe Park – waterfront park with pier, trails, and dog-friendly areas
- Miami Beach Marina – full-service marina minutes away
Entertainment, Culture & Community Events
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New World Center – symphony hall designed by Frank Gehry
- The Fillmore Miami Beach – concerts, comedy, and live performances
- Bass Museum of Art – contemporary and modern art exhibitions
- Miami Beach Botanical Garden – cultural programs and seasonal events
- Lincoln Road Farmers’ Market – weekly outdoor market with local produce and artisanal goods
Wellness, Fitness & Accessibility
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Anatomy Sunset Harbour – luxury fitness and wellness club
- Green Monkey Yoga – boutique yoga studio in South Beach
- Exhale Spa – yoga, barre, and spa treatments
- The Standard Spa – holistic wellness retreat on Belle Isle
- Convenient access to I-195 and Venetian Causeway for mainland connectivity
- Walkable and bike-friendly streets linking to Sunset Harbour and South Beach
Strategic Location
Perfectly Positioned In South Beach
Easy Access
Transportation and Accessibility from Sunset Islands
One of the things I always point out to clients is how surprisingly connected you feel despite being on an island. The bridges off North Bay Road and Alton Rd make getting to downtown Miami, Miami International Airport, or the Port of Miami incredibly straightforward. Sunset Islands are a gated community providing high levels of security and privacy to residents. I’ve timed it myself—you can be at the airport in under 30 minutes on most days. The Julia Tuttle Causeway, Mc Artur Causeway, and Venetian Causeway become your reliable lifelines to reach the Miami side, but honestly, you might find yourself wanting to leave the islands less than you’d expect.
Convenient Transit
What I appreciate about this location is how walkable and bike-friendly it feels. The quiet streets practically invite you to stroll or cycle, and when you do need to venture out, ride-sharing and public transit options are always available. Lincoln Road is a popular pedestrian mall featuring shops, galleries, and restaurants, within a short distance from the islands. It’s that perfect balance where you have urban conveniences without urban chaos—something I think more people are looking for these days.
Active Living
Parks & Outdoor Recreation
Green Spaces & Water Activities
The park on Sunset Island II has become one of my favorite spots to meet clients for casual conversations about the neighborhood. There’s something about sitting under those shade trees, watching families enjoy picnics and kids play, that really captures the community spirit here. The waterfront walking paths along Biscayne Bay are where you’ll find me most weekend mornings—they’re perfect for clearing your head or having those important life conversations. And if you’re a golf enthusiast, the nearby Miami Beach Golf Club offers some of the most stunning bay and skyline views you’ll find on any course. The historic Miami Beach Golf Club is located adjacent to the Sunset Islands.
Strong Options
Top School Choices Near Sunset Islands
Public, Private, and Magnet School Options
I help many families, and strong schools are always high on their list. The good news is that families here have access to some excellent options within the Miami-Dade County Public School system, including several highly-rated magnet and charter schools that I’ve seen work wonderfully for different types of learners. Sunset Islands are gated and provide 24-hour security for residents. There are also strong private school options nearby that offer specialized programs. I always recommend families visit the Miami-Dade County Public Schools website to explore specific enrollment details, and I’m happy to connect you with other parents in the community who can share their firsthand experiences.
Local Learning
Public & Private Schools Near Sunset Islands
Name
Type
Levels
Location
Miami Beach SHS
Miami-Dade
public
High School (Serves grade 9-12)
2231 Prairie Ave. Miami Beach FL. 33139
Nautilus MS
Miami-Dade
public
High School (Serves grade 9-12)
4301 N Michigan Ave. Miami Beach FL. 33140
North Beach ES
Miami-Dade
public
Elementary School (Serves grades PK-5)
4100 Prairie Ave. Miami Beach FL. 33140
Hebrew Academy RASG
Miami-Dade
private
Serves grades PK-12
2400 Pine Tree Dr, Miami Beach FL 33140
St. Patrick Catholic School
Miami-Dade
private
Serves grades K-8
3700 Garden Ave, Miami Beach FL 33140
Montessori Academy at St. John’s
Miami-Dade
private
Serves ages 18 months to 11 years
4760 Pine Tree Dr., Miami Beach FL 33140
Disclaimer: The school information shared on this page is intended as a helpful overview, not a complete list. We encourage you to verify current details directly through trusted sources such as Miami-Dade School Attendance Boundaries, GreatSchools.org, and Niche.com
Prime Market
Sunset Islands Real Estate Market Overview
Diverse & Luxurious Homes
Sunset Islands real estate feels like a carefully curated collection of architectural standouts. You’ll find everything from elegant 1930s Mediterranean estates with original details that still tell a story, to sleek modern mansions that wouldn’t look out of place in a design magazine. The variety is part of the appeal—whether you lean toward Art Deco character or contemporary luxury, there’s usually something that fits. Most properties are single-family homes, and many offer what buyers value most here: waterfront settings and private docks.
Homes on the Sunset Islands are firmly in the luxury category. Single-family residences generally range from about $4 million to the high $30 millions, depending largely on whether the property is inland or directly on the water. Waterfront estates command a premium, and for good reason.
What I tell clients is simple: this is a gated community where location, privacy, and views come together in a way that holds value. Demand consistently exceeds supply because once people experience life here, they rarely want to leave. If you’re looking at Sunset Islands homes for sale, understanding these dynamics is key—and it’s what makes this market such a solid long-term play.
Let’s Connect
Thinking of Moving to Sunset Islands? Let's Talk.
If this look at Sunset Island Miami Beach real estate has sparked your interest, or if you’d like to experience these neighborhoods firsthand, we’d be glad to continue the conversation. There’s nothing quite like walking these streets and seeing the homes in person to truly understand what makes this community special. Reach out anytime to schedule a private showing, or simply browse the latest listings together. After all, finding the right home isn’t just about the property—it’s about finding a place where your life feels right.
Contact
Let’s Talk
Ready to make Sunset Islands home? Contact us today to learn more about available properties and schedule a private tour of the area. Your ideal community is waiting.
- Office: eXp Realty Miami
- (786) 564-7790
- jerome.morlot@exprealty.com
- Office: eXp Realty Miami
- (786) 564-7790
- jerome.morlot@exprealty.com
If any of our persons ask for cash payment, kindly call or inform directly at (786) 564-7790
or raise your complain to jerome.morlot@exprealty.com