Palm Island

Living on Palm Island, Miami Beach

Palm Island is one of Miami Beach’s most exclusive residential enclaves, a man-made island in Biscayne Bay between South Beach and Downtown Miami. Entered through a guarded gate off the MacArthur Causeway, the island offers a rare mix of privacy, waterfront living, and a central location, with tree-lined streets and sweeping views of the bay and the Miami skyline.

Palm Island Homes for Sale

Palm Island real estate is exclusively single-family homes, from historic Mediterranean Revival residences built in the island’s early decades to dramatic new modern estates. Buyers can choose between waterfront homes with direct bay frontage and private docks, and interior “dry lot” homes that offer gated island living at a lower entry point.

Because the island is small and demand is high, homes come to market infrequently, and many of the best properties trade quietly or off-market.

A Bit of History

Palm Island was created by dredging in Biscayne Bay, completed in 1922, the same year its neighbors Hibiscus Island and Star Island were finished. Over the following century, the island became known for its elegant estates and colorful cast of past residents, and it remains one of the most storied addresses in Miami Beach.

Palm Island Amenities

Guard-Gated Privacy

Palm Island is accessed through a staffed guard gate off the MacArthur Causeway, and the island is served by a dedicated security district with off-duty police patrols, giving residents an exceptional level of privacy and security.

Waterfront Living & Boating

Many homes feature private docks on Biscayne Bay, with quick access to the Atlantic through nearby Government Cut.

Views

Depending on the home’s position, residents enjoy views of the Downtown Miami skyline, Biscayne Bay, and the Miami Beach waterfront, with beautiful sunsets from the island’s western side.

Neighboring Hibiscus Island

Palm Island connects by bridge to Hibiscus Island just to the north, and the two islands share a close-knit, residential feel.

Location & Lifestyle

Palm Island’s location is one of the most convenient in Miami. From here you’re minutes from:

• South Beach, Ocean Drive, and Lincoln Road
• Downtown Miami, Brickell, and the Design District
• Cultural venues like the Pérez Art Museum Miami and the Kaseya Center
• Miami International Airport (MIA)
• Marinas and yacht services throughout Biscayne Bay

It’s a private island lifestyle at home, with Miami’s best dining, culture, and beaches just a few minutes across the causeway.

Insider Tips for Buying on Palm Island

Palm Island is a small, specialized market. Here’s what I tell buyers before they start looking:

Waterfront or Dry Lot

Waterfront homes command a significant premium for their docks and views. Interior lots offer the same gated privacy and location at a lower price point, and can be a smart way to get onto the island.

Position on the Island Matters

Views, sun exposure, and proximity to the causeway vary around the island. Skyline-facing and sunset-facing lots tend to be the most sought-after, so look at the home at different times of day.

Check Dock and Water Depth

If you own a larger boat, confirm dock length, water depth, and any permits needed for dock improvements before making an offer.

Know the Rules Before You Rebuild

Miami Beach has some of the strictest design review and historic preservation rules in South Florida, and older homes can face review before demolition or major renovation. Confirm what’s allowed before buying a property you plan to rebuild.

Factor In Elevation and Flood Zone

Elevation requirements for new construction in Miami Beach continue to evolve. Newer homes built to current standards can carry very different flood insurance costs than older homes.

Expect Off-Market Opportunities

Many Palm Island homes trade privately and never appear publicly online. Working with an agent who has access to off-market opportunities can make all the difference.

Buying a Home on Palm Island

With limited inventory and steady demand, buying on Palm Island takes patience, discretion, and access. Whether you’re looking for a historic waterfront estate, a modern home with a dock, or an interior lot to build on, contact Gilles Rais to explore Palm Island homes for sale or schedule a private tour.

Palm Island FAQ

Where is Palm Island in Miami Beach?

Palm Island is in Biscayne Bay between South Beach and Downtown Miami, just north of the MacArthur Causeway and just south of Hibiscus Island.

Is Palm Island gated?

Yes. Palm Island is accessed through a staffed guard gate off the MacArthur Causeway.

Do Palm Island homes have boat docks?

Many waterfront homes do, with access to Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic. Dock size and water depth vary by property.

What zip code is Palm Island in?

Palm Island is in Miami Beach, FL 33139.