A laid-back district steeped in Bahamian culture
Founded in the late 19th century, historic Coconut Grove lies along the shores of Dinner Key Channel just south of central Miami, and has its roots in Bahamian culture. The neighborhood has a bohemian air about it, with tranquil streets lined with shady oaks and flanked by boutiques, world-class restaurants, galleries and Coconut Grove vacation rentals. Just across the Rickenbacker Causeway is Key Biscayne, a secluded island with golf courses, cycling routes and miles of picture-perfect, white sandy beach fringed by coconut palms and the azure, lapping ocean.
Festivals all year round
There's more to Miami than just shopping and dining. While staying at a Coconut Grove vacation rental, you'll be close to the Frost Museum of Science, a fascinating institution which looks at how science is shaping our future. If you like history, a visit to the Miami Museum is a must, as is the lush and sprawling Kampong botanical gardens. Coconut Grove's year-round climate lends itself well to outdoor events. If you're lucky enough to visit the village at the right time, be sure to get stuck into the Coconut Grove Arts Festival, colorful King Mango Strut Parade or the Commodore Block Party.
Shop till you drop in Coconut Grove
One of Miami's top entertainment districts, Coconut Grove teems with modern bars, eateries and the historic Playhouse, an acclaimed theater which has been creating productions for many decades. Shop till you drop in the nearby boutiques and luxury stores which are never far from the Coconut Grove vacation rentals, then rest your weary feet at one of the curb-side cafes for spot of brunch. In the afternoon, head down to the Barnacle Historic State Park, a narrow strip of manicured land on Biscayne Bay that was one home to the influential pioneer, Ralph Middleton Munroe.
Alligators and Florida panthers
While Miami itself is a sleek urban sprawl, the mighty Florida Everglades are only an hour's drive away from Coconut Grove vacation rentals. Over a million acres of wetland and marsh provides a habitat for leatherback turtles and alligators. One of the highlights during an airboat tour which effortlessly glides through the mangroves is spotting manatees, the gentle giants often called sea cows. If you're in luck, you may even be treated to the sight of a rare Florida panther, swimming along the waterways or prowling along the banks in search of prey.