Key Biscayne, FL
County: Miami-Dade
History
Key Biscayne, located in Miami-Dade County, Florida, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Tequesta Native Americans, who lived on the island for centuries before the arrival of European explorers.
In the early 16th century, Spanish explorers, including Juan Ponce de León, began exploring and colonizing Florida. It is believed that Ponce de León may have visited Key Biscayne during his expeditions, though there is no concrete evidence to support this claim.
It wasn't until the 19th century that Key Biscayne began to see significant development. In 1825, the United States acquired Florida from Spain, and the island eventually became part of the vast areas granted by the government to landowners for farming and development.
In the mid-1800s, a Danish seaman named William Augustus Brickell established a trading post on the island. Brickell and his wife, Mary, played a crucial role in the development of Key Biscayne and the surrounding region. They owned large portions of land and were responsible for cultivating coconuts, limes, and other crops on the island.
The arrival of the Florida East Coast Railway in the early 1900s brought about more opportunities for growth and development in Key Biscayne. In 1947, the Rickenbacker Causeway, a bridge connecting Miami to Key Biscayne, was completed, facilitating easier access to the island and leading to further development.
One of the most notable events in Key Biscayne's history occurred in 1962 when President Richard Nixon purchased a waterfront home on the island. This brought national attention to the area and increased its reputation as an exclusive and affluent community.
Over the years, Key Biscayne has continued to grow and develop into a popular residential area and tourist destination. It offers beautiful beaches, stunning natural beauty, and a range of recreational activities. The island is also home to the popular Crandon Park, which features a golf course, tennis center, and the Miami Open tennis tournament.
Today, Key Biscayne remains an affluent and sought-after destination for residents and visitors alike, with a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and modern amenities.
Attractions
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
A scenic park with a historic lighthouse, beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and picnic areas.
Crandon Park Beach
A popular beach with clear waters, white sand, and various amenities like restrooms, lifeguards, and food concessions.
Miami Seaquarium
A marine-life park featuring dolphin shows, sea lion exhibits, and interactive experiences with marine animals.
Key Biscayne Yacht Club
A private yacht club offering sailing, boating, and social events.
Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort
A golf course designed by Greg Norman with picturesque views of the ocean and Miami skyline.
Key Biscayne Heritage Village
A historic museum showcasing the island's history and culture through exhibits and artifacts.
Crandon Golf at Key Biscayne
An 18-hole golf course known for its challenging fairways and scenic vistas.
Key Biscayne Tennis Association
A tennis center with clay courts, lessons, and tournaments.
Cape Florida Lighthouse
A historic lighthouse that offers educational tours and provides scenic views of the surrounding area.
Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center
A nature center offering educational programs about the local environment, including exhibits, trails, and wildlife viewing areas.
Climate
Key Biscayne, Florida has a tropical climate, typically characterized by hot and humid weather throughout most of the year. The summers in Key Biscayne are very warm, with temperatures ranging from the mid-80s°F (around 29°C) to the low 90s°F (around 32-35°C). High humidity levels make the heat feel more intense during this time. Thunderstorms are quite common in the afternoons, providing some relief from the heat.
Winters in Key Biscayne are mild and pleasant, with temperatures averaging in the low 70s°F (around 21-24°C) during the day and dropping to the mid-60s°F (around 18-20°C) at night. It is the driest and least humid season, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. However, occasional cold fronts can bring colder temperatures, especially during December and January.
Spring and fall in Key Biscayne are transitional seasons characterized by warm and comfortable weather. Temperatures during these seasons range from the high 70s°F (around 25°C) to low 80s°F (around 27°C) with increasing humidity levels as summer approaches.
Key Biscayne experiences a good amount of rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months occurring during the summer. The region is also susceptible to tropical storms and hurricanes, particularly during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30.
Overall, Key Biscayne's climate is characterized by hot and humid summers, mild and pleasant winters, and transitional seasons with warm temperatures. Its coastal location and tropical climate make it an attractive destination for beach and outdoor enthusiasts.
Neighborhoods
Key Biscayne, Florida is an island town located just south of Miami, and it is known for its stunning beaches, beautiful parks, and exclusive living. While Key Biscayne is not a large town, it does have several distinct neighborhoods that offer unique residential experiences. Here are some of the different neighborhoods of Key Biscayne:
Village of Key Biscayne
This is the main neighborhood and the central hub of the island. It is the most populated area and offers a vibrant community with a mix of residential and commercial properties. Here, you'll find a range of housing options, including apartments, condos, and single-family homes. The Village of Key Biscayne is also home to various shops, restaurants, and recreational facilities.
Grand Bay
Located on the southern end of Key Biscayne, Grand Bay is a luxury waterfront neighborhood. It is known for its high-rise condominiums, offering spectacular views of the ocean and the city skyline. Grand Bay residents enjoy exclusive amenities, such as private beach access, pool areas, tennis courts, and marinas.
Ocean Club
Situated on the eastern side of Key Biscayne, Ocean Club is a prestigious gated community. It is known for its lavish single-family homes, townhouses, and high-rise condominiums. Ocean Club offers its residents access to a private beach, pools, a spa, tennis courts, and a fitness center. The lush landscaping and meticulously maintained properties contribute to the neighborhood's serene ambiance.
Casa del Mar
Located in the northeastern part of Key Biscayne, Casa del Mar is a waterfront neighborhood comprising several condominium buildings. Here, residents enjoy amenities such as a private beach, swimming pools, a fitness center, and a clubhouse. Casa del Mar offers a mix of spacious condos with ocean or bay views.
Key Colony
Situated in the southeastern part of the island, Key Colony is a gated community of condominium buildings. It offers a mix of residential options with some buildings fronting the ocean and others facing the bay. Key Colony provides residents with numerous amenities, including pools, tennis courts, a gym, and direct beach access.
These are just a few of the neighborhoods in Key Biscayne, each offering its own unique charm, amenities, and lifestyle. No matter which neighborhood you choose, Key Biscayne provides a tranquil and upscale living experience amidst the beauty of tropical surroundings.