Sunny Isles Beach takes its name from developer Harvey Baker Graves, who purchased a 2.26-square-mile tract of land in 1920 for development as a tourist resort, naming it "Sunny Isles, the America Riviera." The completion of the Haulover Bridge in 1925 ushered in development, providing easier access from Miami Beach and attracting developers who created canals, inlets, and waterfront properties along Biscayne Bay. During the 1950s and 1960s, Sunny Isles experienced significant growth with "Motel Row," featuring over 30 unique and exotic motels along Collins Avenue, including the Ocean Palm, designed by Norman Giller in 1948 as the first two-story motel in the United States. The motels featured whimsical themes and architectural flourishes including concrete camels, mermaids, and pyramids, attracting families and retired northerners to low-key accommodations. The area was known as North Miami Beach until 1931, then Sunny Isles until 1997, when citizens voted to incorporate as a municipality and renamed it Sunny Isles Beach. The early 2000s real estate boom brought major redevelopment with high-rise condominiums and hotels replacing historic one- and two-story motels along Motel Row, creating the 14th tallest skyline in the United States and transforming Sunny Isles Beach into a sophisticated coastal city.
The beach features pristine white sand and crystal-clear Atlantic Ocean waters ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding are popular activities taking advantage of the calm ocean conditions and endless sunshine. Newport Pier extends into the Atlantic Ocean, providing fishing opportunities and panoramic ocean views. The wide beach accommodates volleyball, beachcombing, and seaside picnics with ample space for spreading out. Lifeguards monitor designated swimming areas during daylight hours. The beachfront promenade allows walking and jogging along the ocean with views of the Atlantic and the city's impressive high-rise skyline. Beach equipment rentals provide chairs, umbrellas, and water sports gear for visitors. The proximity to Haulover Park to the south and Bal Harbour to the east provides additional recreational opportunities. The beach attracts diverse international visitors, creating a multicultural atmosphere that reflects South Florida's cosmopolitan character. The consistent warm weather allows year-round beach activities, while the modern condominium towers provide a dramatic backdrop contrasting with the natural ocean environment.
Dining at Sunny Isles Beach showcases world-class cuisine ranging from casual bistros to five-star restaurants. BALEENkitchen offers fine dining with local ingredients inspired by international adventure, featuring daily happy hour specials from 5:00 to 7:00 PM with waterfront views. Newport Pier serves fresh seafood extending out into the Atlantic Ocean with panoramic water vistas. Timo has been a neighborhood icon since 2003, offering Chef Tim Andriola's innovative themed Italian dishes with fresh ingredients. Mykonos Kitchen & Bar provides authentic Greek and Mediterranean flavors with vibrant culture and breathtaking waterfront views. Chayhana Oasis serves delicious authentic Uzbek cuisine and has been called one of South Florida's best Russian/Uzbek restaurants. The Village Grill offers American classics in a casual atmosphere. Il Mulino New York serves upscale Italian cuisine, while Etaru features Japanese izakaya-style dining with fresh sushi and innovative dishes reflecting Sunny Isles Beach's diverse international culinary scene.
