Guide to Coconut Grove, Miami

Coconut Grove sits just south and east of US-1, and is best reached by car. The Metrorail has a Coconut Grove stop, but it’s a long walk to get to anything you’d want to see, so your best bet is driving or getting a taxi/rideshare.

The Barnacle State Historic State Park is a look back at how early settlers lived in Miami. Built by Miami pioneer Ralph Middleton Monroe in 1891, the home sits right on Biscayne Bay, which was the only way to access the city when it was built. The two-story wooden house is among the last of its kind, and its lawn is a perfect spot for a picnic, or to just enjoy the views out to the modern city.

Coconut Grove is the only place in Miami you can take a boat tour to Biscayne National Park. The Biscayne National Park Institute runs regular trips from Dinner Key Marina, going to the lighthouse at Boca Chita, Stiltsville, or the reefs on the parks’ Marine Heritage Trail. Tours start at $66.

Coconut Grove is effectively the endpoint of the city’s most scenic road, which begins on Ingraham Highway and continues down Old Cutler Road. The ride is best done by bicycle but can also be done in a car, and winds under a canopy of banyan trees as coral rock walls guard stately mansions lining the streets. The trip takes you to Matheson Hammock Park, a secluded crescent-shaped beach that’s popular with local families.

Did you know America has five National Tropical Botanical Gardens? One sits on the former estate of botanist Dr. David Fairchild in Coconut Grove. Its gardens seamlessly combine imported exotics from Asia and South America, as well as over 50 different types of mango trees and dozens of different fruits. The highlight, though, is the Kampong’s rare 80-year-old baobab tree, which was imported from Tanzania and weighs over 50 tons.

Coconut Grove has transformed itself from a collection of college bars and chain restaurants into one of the most dynamic dining neighborhoods in the city. Still, old standards like Greenstreet are perfect places to enjoy a light meal outside. Though Glass and Vine, set inside Peacock Park, is an equally alluring place to dine al fresco. Michelin-starred Los Felix imports most of its ingredients from Mexico, and its casual vibe keeps it sidewalk chic. Planta Queen puts a plant-based spin on Chinese food, while Bombay Darbar is an Indian institution that’s been a local favorite for over a decade. For a cocktail by the water, stop into the Bayshore Club, where elevated views of the bay are paired with craft beer and creative cocktails.

The shady streets of Coconut Grove are lined with interesting little boutiques, where you’ll find everything from breezy tropical clothes to Moroccan oddities all within a few blocks. Hit Unika, who’s been a mainstay in the Grove since 1989, for modern fashion. The Bazaar Project in the Mr. C Hotel has stuff from all over the world. Moorish Ambiance has shelves upon shelves of items imported from Morocco. And if you’re looking for something with a little personality, hit LoveShackFancy on Main Highway.