Living in Coconut Grove: The Real Story Behind Miami's Most Soulful Neighborhood
True Welcome
Here's What Makes This Place Feel Like Home
Living in Coconut Grove offers a unique blend of tropical beauty and vibrant culture. Nestled along Biscayne Bay, this historic Miami neighborhood boasts waterfront homes, lush parks, and a thriving arts scene rooted in Bahamian heritage. With walkable streets, eclectic boutiques, and lively festivals like the Coconut Grove Arts Festival, it’s a community full of life.
Conveniently close to Coral Gables and Downtown, Coconut Grove combines a laid-back village vibe with city access. From sailing at Dinner Key Marina to dining at waterfront restaurants, this soulful neighborhood truly captures Miami’s charm and spirit.
Source: public records and listings
The Roots Run Deep Here
Coconut Grove’s History & Deep Bahamian Heritage
Coconut Grove’s story began in 1825 with the Cape Florida lighthouse, making it Miami’s oldest continuously inhabited neighborhood. Early Bahamian settlers deeply influenced the area’s architecture, culture, and vibe. Dr. Horace P. Porter named the neighborhood in 1873, and with the opening of the Peacock Inn in 1882, artists, sailors, and free spirits were drawn to the area.
Situated in ZIP code 33133, Coconut Grove borders Coral Gables and Brickell, offering a prime bayfront location with convenient access to Miami’s best. Two Metrorail stations—Coconut Grove and Douglas Road—make getting around easy. Despite its growth, the neighborhood has maintained its bohemian soul, thriving as a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment with open-air markets, waterfront parks, and top-notch restaurants.
A Rich Culture Scene Rooted in Bahamian Heritage
Established in the 1800s, Coconut Grove’s culture reflects its Bahamian roots and the influence of early naturalists, sailors, and artists. Historic landmarks like The Barnacle Historic State Park—Miami-Dade’s oldest building in its original location—tell stories of the past. The neighborhood bursts with energy during upcoming events such as the annual Coconut Grove Arts Festival in March, celebrating its vibrant arts scene and community spirit.
This is How Life Should Feel
Live, Dine & Enjoy the Culture of Coconut Grove
Life in Coconut Grove moves at this beautiful, intentional pace that just makes sense. Mornings here? Picture jogging under those massive banyan trees, all that shade and green creating this peaceful escape from Miami’s hustle. Long lunches at sidewalk cafés aren’t rushed, they’re savored. When the sun starts setting, the whole place comes alive with live music and local art that reminds you why The Grove has always attracted creatives.
The bohemian charm isn’t forced, it’s real. You’ll see neighbors walking dogs, browsing those unique boutiques, heading out on the water for sailing or paddleboarding, all within a few peaceful blocks. Those annual festivals like the Coconut Grove Arts Festival and King Mango Strut? They’re not just events, they’re community traditions that bring everyone together.
The marina lifestyle here draws water lovers and creates this relaxed-but-dynamic energy I haven’t found anywhere else. From families who’ve been here for generations to young professionals and artists, Coconut Grove Miami feels more like a close-knit village than a busy city neighborhood. That’s rare in Miami, and it’s exactly why people fall in love with this place.
Nightlife and Dining: Where to Eat, Drink, and Catch Live Music
When the sun sets, Coconut Grove transforms into a lively hub for night owls. There are plenty of bars and restaurants where you can drink craft cocktails, savor delicious food, and catch live concerts that showcase local talent. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual bite at an open-air café or an upscale dinner with bay views, the Grove offers experiences that satisfy every palate and mood.
Where to Eat, Shop & Unwind
Best Local Highlights in Coconut Grove
Restaurants, Cafés & Nightlife
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Greenstreet Café – iconic sidewalk café, brunch favorite
- Glass & Vine – modern American dining inside Peacock Park
- Ariete – Michelin-starred New American cuisine with Cuban influence
- Lokal – craft burgers and beer with a sustainable twist
- Monty’s Raw Bar – laid-back waterfront spot for seafood and cocktails
- Jaguar Restaurant – Latin American fusion in a cozy setting
Shopping & Boutiques
-
CocoWalk – open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment hub
- Commodore Plaza – lined with specialty shops and boutiques
- Mayfair in the Grove – shops, cafés, and local artisans
- Streets of Coconut Grove – unique indie boutiques and lifestyle stores
- Nearby Merrick Park (Coral Gables) – luxury mall with Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom
Parks, Outdoor Spaces & Recreation
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Peacock Park – waterfront park with sports courts and open lawns
- The Barnacle Historic State Park – bayfront green space and historic home
- David T. Kennedy Park – dog-friendly park with trails and bay views
- Coconut Grove Sailing Club – sailing and boating access
- Dinner Key Marina – largest marina in Miami
- Kampong Botanical Garden – lush tropical garden and research center
Entertainment, Culture & Community Events
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Vizcaya Museum & Gardens – Italian Renaissance-style estate and museum
- Coconut Grove Arts Festival – annual cultural highlight drawing international crowds
- Cinepolis Coconut Grove – dine-in luxury movie theater
- Live music venues and jazz nights across local bars and lounges
- Coconut Grove Saturday Organic Farmers’ Market – community favorite for decades
Wellness, Fitness & Accessibility
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Tigertail + Mary Street gyms – boutique and traditional fitness studios
- Yoga classes in Peacock Park – popular community wellness activity
- Pilates in the Grove – specialized local pilates studio
- Grove Isle Spa & Club – resort-style spa with bayfront views
- Easy access to US-1 and Metrorail for commuting
- Walkable, bike-friendly neighborhood with shaded streets and waterfront trails
Prime Position
Coconut Grove Miami: Ideal Waterfront Setting
Smooth Access
Getting Around Actually Makes Sense Here
Living in Coconut Grove means you’re connected to everything without feeling trapped in traffic—and that’s saying something in Miami. Those two Metrorail stations (Coconut Grove and Douglas Road) get you to Downtown, Coral Gables, Brickell, even Miami International Airport without the headache. But here’s what I love, this place is actually walkable and bike-friendly. Green bike lanes, shaded sidewalks, pedestrian paths that work, it’s like someone actually planned this for real people.
By car, you’re golden:
- Brickell Financial District – 15 minutes
- Miami International Airport – 20 minutes
- South Beach – 25 minutes
- Shops at Merrick Park – 10 minutes
- University of Miami – 12 minutes
Whether you’re commuting for work, dropping kids at school, or just living life, Coconut Grove’s location delivers that convenience without compromise. The bike-friendly infrastructure isn’t just for show—people actually use it, which creates this active, eco-conscious vibe that feels good to be part of.
Outdoor Freedom
The Grove’s Natural Charm and Outdoor Experiences
Coconut Grove was built for people who want to live outdoors, not just visit it occasionally. That waterfront setting and year-round tropical climate mean you’re never stuck inside unless you want to be.
Here’s where locals actually hang out:
- Dinner Key Marina – Massive marina perfect for boating and sailing—Biscayne Bay becomes your backyard.
- Peacock Park – Community heart and soul, great for kids, sports, weekend events, or just spreading out a blanket.
- Kennedy Park – Exercise paths, dog park, and bay views that’ll make you forget you’re in a major city.
- Coconut Grove Sailing Club – Historic club with regattas and social events—an active community, not just a pretty building.
- The Barnacle Historic State Park – Peaceful walking trails and bayfront views where Miami-Dade’s oldest house still sits in its original spot.
Whether you’re into paddleboarding, sailing, jogging, or walking your dog under those incredible banyan trees, Coconut Grove parks offer endless ways to connect with nature. The commitment to green spaces here isn’t just talk. It’s why this feels like a haven amid Miami’s energy.
Beyond its urban appeal, Coconut Grove is a haven for outdoor lovers. With easy access to the marina and sailing clubs, water enthusiasts can enjoy boating or paddleboarding on Biscayne Bay. Parks like Peacock Park and Kennedy Park provide green spaces for jogging, picnics, and dog walking under iconic banyan trees. It’s a place where nature and city life blend seamlessly.
Family First
Coconut Grove’s Best Schools & Academics
Coconut Grove is one of Miami’s most trusted places for raising a family, and the schools here are a big reason why. Parents appreciate that the neighborhood offers a true mix of top-rated public, magnet, charter, and private schools, giving them real options without sacrificing quality. Coral Gables Senior High School serves grades 9–12 and provides strong college-prep pathways, while Ponce de Leon Middle School and George Washington Carver Middle School—a respected public/magnet program—cover grades 6–8 with solid academic performance.
Younger children benefit from Coconut Grove Elementary School, a beloved PK–5 public school known for its nurturing environment. Families looking for a charter option often turn to Mater Grove Academy, which serves Kindergarten through 8th grade and consistently earns high praise. On the private side, the prestigious Ransom Everglades School offers an elite college-prep education for grades 6–12.
Beyond academics, Coconut Grove gives families something rarer: walkable streets, shaded parks, and green spaces that support healthy, everyday living. It’s a neighborhood where kids can grow up grounded, active, and connected—exactly what many parents are searching for when choosing Coconut Grove real estate.
Local Learning
Public & Private Schools Near Coconut Grove
Name
Type
Levels
Location
Coral Gables Senior High School
Miami-Dade
public
High School (serves grade 9-12)
450 Bird Rd. Coral Gables FL. 33146
Ponce de Leon Middle School
Miami-Dade
public
Middle School (serve grades 6-8)
5801 Augusto St. Coral Gables FL. 33146
George Washington Carver
Miami-Dade
public-magnet
Middle School (serves grades 6-8)
4901 Lincoln Dr, Coral Gables, FL 33133
Coconut Grove Elementary School
Miami-Dade
public
Elementary School (serves grades PK-5)
3351 Matilda St., Miami FL. 33133
Mater Grove Academy
Miami-Dade
public charter
Kindergarten through 8th grade
2805 SW 32nd Ave, Miami, FL 33133
Ransom Everglades School
Miami-Dade
private
College-prep School (serves grades 6-12)
3575 Main Hwy, Miami, FL 33133
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
Living Comfort
Coconut Grove Homes With Lasting Real Value
Coconut Grove homes for sale span the full spectrum—from historic bungalows and Key West–style cottages to modern estates, refined townhomes, and luxury high-rise condos. Tree-lined streets showcase true architectural character: lovingly preserved Mediterranean Revival homes, sleek contemporary townhouses, and waterfront villas with bay views that never lose their appeal. Single-family homes range from about $1 million to the mid-$20 millions, while townhomes typically fall between $900K and $4 million.
For condos, buyers have real choices. 1- to 2-bedroom residences start in the low $300Ks and reach up to $3 million, while 3-bedroom and larger condos range from roughly $1.4 million to $20 million in premier buildings. Popular options include Park Grove Residences, Grove at Grand Bay, Mr. C Residences, L’Hermitage, and Grove Isle.
Living here means walkable dining, shopping, marinas, and culture—all part of daily life. Whether as a primary home, second residence, or investment, Coconut Grove remains competitive because the lifestyle still delivers, year after year.
Begin Discovery
Find Your Perfect Home in Coconut Grove Miami
Thinking about making Coconut Grove home? Whether you’re interested in townhomes, luxury condos, or waterfront homes for sale, I know this market inside and out — not just the numbers, but what it feels like to live here.
From cozy bungalows to sprawling estates, the neighborhood offers options that fit real life, not just real estate fantasies. Ready to see what’s available and find a home that feels right? Browse Coconut Grove Listings or Contact Me to set up a showing.
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Let’s Talk
Ready to make Coconut Grove 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
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