Nestled along Biscayne Bay between Bal Harbour and mainland Miami, Bay Harbor Islands comprises two small islands connected by Kane Concourse. For decades, it was a sleepy enclave of mid-century apartments and single-family homes. Today, a surge of new development is transforming its skyline and lifestyle: old low-rise buildings are giving way to bespoke towers with expansive residences, resort-style amenities, and direct marina access. With zoning changes encouraging boutique projects and a prime waterfront location, Bay Harbor offers larger floor plans, quieter luxury, and better price points than nearby Miami Beach.

Bay Harbor Islands: Boutique Charm & Waterfront Living

Bay Harbor delivers a rare blend of small-town tranquility and cosmopolitan convenience. Comprising two petite islands joined by Kane Concourse, this post-war town has long been prized for its mid-century charm and close-knit feel. Today, as 1950s buildings are replaced by bespoke condos, it still retains its peaceful character.

What makes this island community unique:

• Serene island lifestyle
  On the West and East Islands, life moves at a slower pace. Tree-canopied streets and pocket parks make the neighborhood feel secluded, while new zoning has preserved its intimate eight-story skyline. Despite being minutes from Bal Harbour Shops and the Design District, the islands remain clean, quiet, and family-oriented with a strong sense of community.
  
  
• Waterfront access and marinas
  Boaters and paddleboarders will love Bay Harbor’s sheltered waters. Several projects provide private marinas—La Baia North will have a 20-boat marina with 24/7 access and direct ocean access via the Haulover Inlet, while Bay Harbor Towers offers a 13-slip marina with a water-sports launch dock. Residents can kayak straight into Biscayne Bay, dock their yachts steps from home, and soak up sunsets from oversized terraces.
  
  
• Boutique, low-rise buildings
  Zoning caps heights at eight stories, so every development feels boutique. New towers offer generous residences often 1,200 sq ft and up with flow-through layouts, 9- to 11-foot ceilings, and broad terraces. Expect double-height lobbies, European kitchens, and high-end finishes curated by top designers.
  
  
• Proximity to top schools and shopping
  Families appreciate having the top-rated Ruth K. Broad Bay Harbor K-8 Center within the neighborhood, with elite private schools nearby. The islands sit a ten-minute walk from Bal Harbour’s beaches and luxury boutiques and a short drive from Surfside restaurants, Aventura Mall, and Miami International Airport.

Preconstruction Highlights

La Baia North

Developed by Ian Bruce Eichner’s Continuum Company, this eight-story boutique tower will offer 57 fully finished residences ranging from 1,400 to 2,100 sq ft with one- to four-bedroom layouts. Each home enjoys a den/home office, imported European wide-plank flooring, floor-to-ceiling glass, and a private terrace, while the building’s lushly landscaped entrance and double-height lobby set a serene tone. A 20-boat private marina provides 24/7 ocean access, and the 20,000-sq-ft amenity program includes over 8,500 sq ft of tropical landscaping, a 10,000-sq-ft rooftop deck with relaxation pool, children’s splash pad, heated spa, pergolas, summer kitchen, and fire pits. Additional amenities include business offices, a clubroom, fitness center, and play lawns, with services such as 24-hour concierge and a Tesla for residents.

Alana at Bay Harbor

Alta Developers and Revuelta Architecture have teamed up on this seven-story, 30-residence modern retreat. The minimalist glass façade, curvilinear lines, and lush landscaping echo Miami’s Art Deco heritage while keeping things thoroughly contemporary. Homes range from 1,229 to 1,662 sq ft and are designer-ready with wraparound terraces, walk-in closets, and master baths featuring double sinks and glass-enclosed showers. Residents enjoy a rooftop pool with whirlpool, sky lounge, summer kitchen, Zen garden, and outdoor fitness area. Kitchens feature quartz countertops and Bosch appliances by Italkraft.

The WELL Bay Harbor Islands

Designed by Arquitectonica and curated by wellness brand THE WELL, this eight-story sanctuary will house 54 bespoke residences ranging from 1,150 to over 3,200 sq ft. Interiors by Meyer Davis integrate aromatherapy diffusers, circadian-rhythm lighting, and meditation spaces to appeal to all the senses. Over 22,000 sq ft of holistic amenities include a rooftop pool with cabanas, private beach club, reading and tea lounge, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The wellness club blends modern and ancient healing practices, offering features such as a caldarium, Halotherapy steam rooms, organic produce delivery, and toxin-free cleaning services.

Origin Residences by Artefacto

On the western edge of the islands, Origin rises seven stories with 27 fully furnished residences curated by Artefacto’s design team. Floor plans span two to four bedrooms with 9-foot ceilings (11 ft in penthouses), imported Italian kitchens, porcelain flooring, marble baths, and oversized walk-in closets. Owners receive private consultations to personalize furnishings and finishes. Building amenities include an eight-slip marina with direct Atlantic access, panoramic rooftop pool deck, summer kitchens, private cabanas, a gym, storage on each floor, EV charging, and 24-hour security.

Bay Harbor Towers

PPG Development’s signature project will feature two eight-story buildings joined by an Italian-furnished lobby and interiors by Steven G. Only 44 turnkey residences will be offered, each with flow-through floor plans starting at 1,870 sq ft, sunrise and sunset terraces, direct water views, and large-format Italian porcelain flooring. Amenities include a 13-slip private marina, water-sports dock, beach-club access, rooftop infinity pool, jacuzzi, and a 50-foot indoor saltwater lap pool. Residents also enjoy a wellness spa, landscaped gardens, fitness center, and an owner’s lounge with a news café.

Lifestyle Takeaway

Bay Harbor Islands’ waterfront revival offers something for everyone. From empty nesters seeking boutique tranquility to boaters desiring private slips. Each project delivers resort-style amenities and generous floor plans without the hustle of Miami Beach. Choose Bay Harbor if you want intimate luxury, modern design, and the ability to step from your condo to your yacht.

Download my Free Miami Buyer Guide to learn about the buying process and the unique advantages of Bay Harbor’s new condo market. If you’re considering a relocation, request your Free Miami Relocation Guide for insights on schools, taxes, and lifestyle.

Embark on Your Bay Harbor Adventure!

Schedule a private tour of Bay Harbor’s newest developments and find your perfect home by the water. As a local real estate expert, I can help you compare floor plans, amenities, and investment potential across all projects. Contact me today to start your Bay Harbor journey.