Coconut Grove is locally known as ‘The Grove’. This is a part of Miami which has a more bohemian atmosphere along its pretty parks and lanes. Coconut Grove sits on the Biscayne Bay, not far from Downtown Miami and Brickell. The neighborhood’s limits are, more or less, Rickenbacker Causeway to the north, North Prospect Drive to the south, LeJeune Road to the west and the South Dixie Highway and Biscayne Bay to the east. The town was incorporated in 1919. It has an area of 5.6 square miles and a population of about 20 000 people.
The village was founded in the 19th century and is Miami’s oldest continually-inhabited area. It was initially a stop for sailors looking for freshwater. The name was given by pioneer resident, Dr. Horace Porter, who came up with the name Coconut Grove after seeing a bunch of coconut palm trees around. The natural beauty of the area made it a favorite of the likes of Tennessee Williams and Robert Frost. This is how the Grove has kept its distinction for being a vigorous and freethinking community.
Coconut Grove has not only inspired literature, but also architecture and luxury condos. Renowned figures in the industry are part of the neighborhood’s top projects: Bjarke Ingels, Thomas Christoffersen (BIG Group), Terra Group, Arquitectonica and the Ritz Carlton. The many bungalows and villas in the area are of the Mediterranean style, while some parts have retained the traditional Bahamian or Conch style.
The Grove remains a picture-postcard neighborhood, with boats lazing in the bay and residents leisurely strolling along the streets.
