Coconut Grove Travel Guide

Explore the cultural and natural attractions of Coconut Grove. Find out the best things to do, eat, and see, where to stay, how to get around, and more.


Introduction to Coconut Grove

Coconut Grove is a charming historic community in Miami, Florida. It is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city and is known for its lush greenery, vibrant artistic scene, and picturesque waterfront views. With a plethora of cultural and natural attractions, it is undoubtedly a destination worth exploring. In this guide, you will find a comprehensive list of places to visit and things to do in Coconut Grove.

List of Places to Visit in Coconut Grove

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you are interested in history, art, or architecture, Coconut Grove has several must-visit destinations:

  • Vizcaya Museum and Gardens - a stunning Italian Renaissance-style villa built in 1916 that houses an extensive collection of European art and furnishings.
  • The Barnacle Historic State Park - a late 19th-century home situated on the shore of Biscayne Bay; tours are available daily.
  • Miami Museum of Science and Planetarium - features interactive exhibits and a planetarium that offers breathtaking shows.
  • The Kampong - a botanical garden that preserves a diverse collection of rare tropical fruit trees and other exotic flora.
  • Espanola Way - a charming Spanish-style street that is home to boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants.

Natural Attractions of Coconut Grove: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you are an outdoor enthusiast, Coconut Grove offers an array of natural wonders:

  • The Kampong - a beautiful botanic garden that also features scenic walking trails.
  • The Barnacle Historic State Park - offers guided tours with access to hiking trails, picnicking, and fishing.
  • Matheson Hammock Park - a scenic park with a man-made atoll pool and a beach.
  • Monty’s Raw Bar - a bar on the bay with live music and beautiful views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Coconut Grove

Coconut Grove offers several scenic routes where you can enjoy hiking or biking:

  • The Commodore Trail - a 5-mile trail that begins at Peacock Park and leads you through the scenic streets of Coconut Grove and along the water’s edge.
  • The Underline - a 10-mile linear park that provides bike and pedestrian access throughout Miami.
  • Miami River Greenway Trail - a 1.25-mile bike/pedestrian path through Miami’s historic riverfront.

Best Things to Do in Coconut Grove: Activities and Tours

Coconut Grove offers a diverse range of activities and tours that offer an insider glimpse into the area’s culture and history:

  • Kayaking on Biscayne Bay - get a unique perspective and a glimpse into the local wildlife while enjoying the bay.
  • Shopping at CocoWalk - with a mix of shops from local boutiques to well-known brands, there is something for everyone at this outdoor mall.
  • Sailing Lessons or Charter - with sailing being a popular pastime in the area, there are plenty of options to explore the bay that cater to sailors of any level.
  • Art Galleries Tour - Coconut Grove has a thriving art scene, with plenty of galleries to visit and art events to attend, making it a must-do for art-lovers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Coconut Grove

Day 1: Take a stroll through the historic streets of Coconut Grove and visit the iconic Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Day 2: Explore the natural beauty of Coconut Grove with a kayaking tour in Biscayne Bay. Day 3: Take a day trip to nearby Coral Gables, Miami’s “City Beautiful,” or enjoy some retail therapy at CocoWalk. Day 4: Get a unique perspective of the area with a sailing lesson or charter. Day 5: Embark on an adventure with a bicycle tour of Miami, including the Commodore Trail. Day 6: Soak up the sun and enjoy the water at Matheson Hammock Park. Day 7: Spend your last day in Coconut Grove with an art gallery tour and dinner and drinks in the area’s charming cafes and restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Coconut Grove

Must-Try Dishes

From satisfying street food to upscale cuisine, Coconut Grove offers a range of delectable dishes that reflect the area’s diverse cultural influences:

  • Cuban Sandwich - a classic sandwich made with roasted pork, ham, and Swiss cheese on crusty bread, typically served with plantain chips and a tangy mojo sauce.
  • Stone Crabs - a local delicacy that is often served steamed or chilled with mustard sauce.
  • Churrasco - a tender and juicy grilled steak that is popular throughout Latin America.
  • Ceviche - a dish of fresh fish and shellfish that is marinated in citrus juice and served with vegetables and herbs.
  • Guava Pastelitos - sweet pastries filled with guava paste, cream cheese filling, and sprinkled sugar on top.

Local Beverages

Coconut Grove is renowned for its cocktail scene, with some local favorites including:

  • Mojitos - a Cuban cocktail made with fresh mint leaves, lime juice, sugar, and rum, and is incredibly refreshing in the Florida heat.
  • Café con leche - a strong coffee made with steamed milk.
  • Havana Lager - a crisp beer created in Miami with roots from Cuba.
  • The Golden Monkey Martini - a vodka-based cocktail with a sweet and sour twist served at Monty’s Raw Bar.

Where to Stay in Coconut Grove: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Coconut Grove offers a range of accommodation options that cater to all tastes and budgets. Upscale options include:

  • The Ritz-Carlton - a luxury hotel that overlooks the stunning Biscayne Bay.
  • The Mayfair at Coconut Grove - an elegant hotel that offers lavish amenities, such as a rooftop pool, a spa, and an on-site restaurant.

Budget-friendly options include:

  • The WPH South Bch - a hip hostel located in the South Beach neighborhood in Miami.
  • The Miami Hostel - a budget-friendly hostel that offers free Wi-Fi and continental breakfast.

What to Buy in Coconut Grove: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some local products to bring home as souvenirs:

  • Chocolate from Abuela Mami - locally-made by a family-owned business, try their dark chocolate bars with Cuban coffee or other innovative flavors.
  • Latin Spices - add some Cuban flare into your cooking with traditional seasoning blends, like Adobo or Sazón.
  • Cigars - hand-rolled cigars are a Miami specialty make for an excellent souvenir.
  • Artisanal Jewelry - artisan-made jewelry can be found at Fairchild’s Tropical Botanic Garden and many local galleries.

Local Culture and Customs of Coconut Grove

Coconut Grove is a diverse and tolerant community. Respect the local customs, and you will find the residents to be welcoming and hospitable.

Best Time to Visit Coconut Grove

Winter months, from December to February, offer comfortable weather with average highs of 75°F and low humidity.

Do’s and Don’ts of Coconut Grove

Do:

  • Take a sunset cruise - one of the best ways to see the Grove is from the water, and the sunset views are breathtaking.
  • Visit the farmer’s market - take a stroll through the local market, which offers fresh produce, exotic plants, and handmade crafts.
  • Partake in Coconut Grove Art Walk - the art walk is a monthly event that features galleries, street performers, and food vendors.

Don’t:

  • Touch wildlife - please observe the wildlife from a safe distance.
  • Ignore the rules - respect posted signs and park accordingly.

Safety and Health

Safety in Coconut Grove

Crime is relatively low in Coconut Grove. However, tourists should still take standard precautions such as traveling in groups, not displaying cash or valuables, and avoiding desolate areas at night.

Health in Coconut Grove

Keep yourself safe by bringing mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and staying hydrated while on outdoor excursions.

Getting to Coconut Grove: Transportation Options and Logistics

Coconut Grove is easily accessible through a range of transportation options:

Airports Near Coconut Grove:

  • Miami International Airport: 10 miles away from Coconut Grove

Bus Stations Near Coconut Grove:

  • Coconut Grove Metrorail Station
  • Douglas Road Metrorail Station

Other Options:

  • Taxis: available throughout the area as an efficient alternative for traveling.
  • Lyft and Uber: ride-sharing services are available in and around Coconut Grove.

How to Get Around in Coconut Grove

Coconut Grove has a relatively small walkable area, and bike rentals are a popular choice to explore the neighborhood. Public transportation options such as the local bus and Metrorail are available.

Where to Go Next from Coconut Grove: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Key Biscayne: escape to your own private island paradise and enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. A short drive south from Coconut Beach.
  • Coral Gables: just 3-miles away, this city features Mediterranean styled architecture, plenty of shopping, and dining options.
  • Miami Beach: a short drive across the causeway, Miami Beach has a world-famous art deco district, boutique hotels, and vibrant nightlife.

Conclusion

Coconut Grove is a charming destination that offers the perfect mix of natural beauty, rich history, and modern entertainment options. Whether you want to explore museums and galleries, experience outdoor adventure, or soak up the Florida sun, Coconut Grove has something to offer everyone.

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