Tucked between Biscayne Bay and the buzzing energy of downtown Miami, Coconut Grove feels like stepping into another world. Beneath massive banyan trees and dense tropical canopies, this neighborhood beats to its own, slower rhythm. It’s where peacocks roam freely, indie cafés outnumber chains, and the water sparkles just beyond leafy streets. As Miami’s oldest continuously inhabited area, the Grove isn’t about flash—it’s about soul. Here’s your local’s guide to the Grove’s quiet, irresistible magic.
A Rich Story Rooted in History
Founded in the late 1800s by Bahamian pioneers, seafarers, and artists, Coconut Grove has always attracted those who cherish community, nature, and creativity.
Highlights to Explore:
The Barnacle Historic State Park: Home to Ralph Munroe, one of the Grove’s earliest settlers, this preserved 1891 house offers a glimpse into early bayfront life—and some of the most peaceful green space in the city.
Plymouth Congregational Church: Built from coral rock in 1917, this architectural marvel looks like it belongs in a medieval village, not modern Miami.
Bahamian Roots Walking Tours: Offered seasonally, these tours explore the Grove’s vibrant Caribbean heritage beyond the better-known landmarks.
🌴 Pro Tip: Time your visit for late afternoon—the golden-hour light filtering through the banyans is pure magic.
A Neighborhood Woven with Nature
More than any other Miami neighborhood, Coconut Grove feels inseparable from its natural surroundings. Here, nature isn’t landscaped—it’s lived in.
Must-Visit Outdoor Spots:
David T. Kennedy Park: Perfect for families and dog lovers, with bayfront jogging paths, massive open lawns, and the famous A.C.’s Icees truck.
The Kampong Botanical Garden: Once the private garden of plant explorer Dr. David Fairchild, this hidden gem features mango trees, flowering baobabs, and other rare tropical species.
Peacock Park: Playgrounds, open fields, and bay views—plus, if you’re lucky, actual peacocks wandering freely.
🚴 Pro Tip: Rent bikes or scooters to wander the backstreets between the parks—you’ll discover banyan archways and colorful hidden murals.
Dining Like a Local: Laid-Back but Worldly
Forget velvet ropes and overpriced cocktails—the Grove’s dining scene is about easygoing, sun-drenched flavor.
Standout Spots:
Greenstreet Café: A Grove institution known for relaxed brunches, sidewalk seating, and people-watching.
Le Bouchon du Grove: Tiny, lively, and authentically French—with escargot and steak frites that rival Paris.
Ariete: Creative New American cuisine infused with Cuban roots—ideal for a special night out without leaving the Grove’s casual vibe.
Bodega Coconut Grove: A newer addition blending Mexican street food with a hidden lounge for late-night cocktails.
🥑 Local Tip: Breakfast in the Grove is a thing. Don’t skip it—this neighborhood knows how to start a day right.
Boutiques, Markets, and Local Finds
Beyond the cafés and bayfront paths, the Grove remains a stronghold for independent spirit.
Where to Browse:
The Bazaar Project: A chic concept store blending fashion, home goods, and curated gifts from around the world.
Coconut Grove Saturday Organic Market: Running since the late 1970s, this weekly market offers fresh produce, vegan treats, and local art under the trees.
CocoWalk: Recently reimagined, CocoWalk is now a vibrant, open-air lifestyle hub blending boutique shopping, creative dining, indie coffee shops, and outdoor gathering spaces—all set against the Grove’s lush, tropical backdrop. It’s the perfect place to stroll, sip a cold brew, browse unique finds, and soak up the local vibe.
🛍️ Pro Tip: Walk Grand Avenue, Commodore Plaza, and Main Highway—they’re packed with small, locally owned shops and galleries you won’t find anywhere else in Miami.
Anchored by the Water: The Bayfront Lifestyle
In Coconut Grove, life orbits the water—even if you never set foot on a boat.
Bayfront Attractions:
Dinner Key Marina: Stroll the docks lined with sailboats and catamarans.
Regatta Park: A newer addition with an open-air feel, this park hosts boat shows, art fairs, and local festivals.
Monty’s Raw Bar: An iconic watering hole for locals, where flip-flops are encouraged and the stone crab claws are fresh off the boat.
🌊 Insider Note: Sunset by the marina feels like a secret shared between you and the Grove.
At its core, Coconut Grove isn’t a checklist of places—it’s a feeling. It’s kids climbing trees at the park, a jazz band playing under the banyans, the clink of wine glasses in a breezy courtyard, the call of a peacock breaking the afternoon heat.
It’s Miami’s bohemian soul, still stubbornly intact.
If you want to see Miami’s beating heart—away from the skyscrapers and flashing lights—come to the Grove. Stay a while. Wander slowly.
You’ll get it.
