Guest Guide

Sunny Isles Beach is ideally located between several prime South Florida destinations. Here are some must-see places in and around Sunny Isles, along with what they offer and how to get there:

• Sunny Isles Beach & Pier – Don’t overlook the local beauty right at your doorstep. The beach here is pristine and great for sunrise walks or swimming. The Newport Fishing Pier is a local landmark – by day you can watch fishermen reel in their catch or spot dolphins, and in the evening it’s a lovely place for a stroll with ocean views. Getting there: From King David, the beach and pier are an easy 5-10 minute walk (just head east to Collins Ave and Sunny Isles Blvd). There’s also a city-run Ocean Rescue lifeguard station near the pier for safety. If you have a car, parking is available at the pier parking lot (metered), but walking is easiest since you’re so close.
• Aventura – Just across the Intracoastal Waterway to the northwest lies Aventura, a neighboring city known for shopping and leisure. The centerpiece is Aventura Mall, one of the largest malls in the U.S., boasting 300+ retailers from high-fashion boutiques to big brands. The mall also features art installations, a variety of dining options, and a movie theater. Getting there: It’s about 5 minutes by car or Uber/Lyft to Aventura Mall. Parking at the mall is free in garages. If you’re not driving, you’re in luck – Sunny Isles operates a free shuttle that stops on Collins Ave (two blocks from the condo) and takes you to Aventura Mall in about 10 minutes. Public buses also run frequently along Collins Ave/Biscayne Blvd to the mall. Aside from the mall, Aventura has Tidal Cove Waterpark (mentioned above) and Founders Park (a nice park with a playground and splash pad, great if you have kids).
• Bal Harbour – Located about 4 miles south of Sunny Isles Beach, Bal Harbour is an upscale seaside village known for its luxury shopping and serene atmosphere. The must-see here is Bal Harbour Shops, an open-air luxury mall set in a lush tropical garden setting. Even if you’re not shopping for Prada or Chanel, it’s fun to window-shop and maybe grab lunch at Carpaccio, the popular Italian restaurant where you can dine al fresco and people-watch. Getting there: Bal Harbour is a 10–15 minute drive south down Collins Avenue. If driving, note that street parking in Bal Harbour is limited, but there are parking garages and valet available at the shops. Public bus Route 120 (now Route 100) or Route S (119) runs along Collins Ave and can take you there as well. Bal Harbour’s beach is quiet and beautiful if you want a calmer beach day – there’s public access and a walking path by the water. Just south of Bal Harbour, you’ll find the Haulover Inlet (where the Intracoastal meets the ocean) – a scenic spot to watch boats.
• Miami Beach (South Beach) – No visit to the area is complete without seeing the famous South Beach in Miami Beach. This is the iconic stretch from roughly 1st to 23rd Street in Miami Beach, known for its Art Deco Historic District (take a stroll on Ocean Drive to see the pastel-colored 1930s hotels), vibrant sidewalk cafés, and legendary nightlife. By day, you can enjoy Lummus Park and the beach itself – great for sunbathing, beach volleyball, or rollerblading along the path. Don’t miss Lincoln Road Mall, a pedestrian street at 16th Street with shops, restaurants, and often street performers. Getting there: South Beach is about 12 miles south. Driving can take 30–40 minutes depending on traffic (Collins Ave turns into A1A/Beachfront Ave all the way down). Parking in South Beach can be tricky – look for public garages (the 17th Street Garage near Lincoln Road is a good central spot). Alternatively, consider a rideshare or taxi so you don’t have to park at all. For public transit, the Miami-Dade 100 & 119 buses go down Collins Ave through Miami Beach (it’s a long ride but scenic along the coast). Another option for a day trip: drive or Uber to the Brightline Aventura Station (near Aventura Mall) and take the Brightline train to Miami Central station, then a quick Lyft or Metromover to the beach area – this can bypass traffic and is a comfortable ride. While in Miami Beach, other points of interest include the Miami Beach Boardwalk (a paved path along the ocean from 23rd to 46th Street) and South Pointe Park at the southern tip, which has panoramic views of cruise ships leaving PortMiami.
• Other Nearby Sights: If you have extra time and a car, consider a drive to Downtown Miami/Brickell (for skyscrapers, Bayfront Park, Bayside Marketplace, and rooftop bars) or Wynwood (for colorful street art and galleries). These are about 30–40 minutes away. To the north, Fort Lauderdale (30 minutes via I-95) offers Las Olas Boulevard (dining/shopping district) and a lively waterfront. For nature lovers, the Everglades National Park is about an hour’s drive west – there are airboat tours that will pick you up or you can drive to Shark Valley for a tram ride into the Everglades. These might be beyond the typical 3–7 day stay itinerary, but they’re great options if you’re looking to explore further.

• Groceries & Essentials (Walking Distance): You have convenient options very close to the condo. Just a few blocks away (5–10 minute walk) are Milam’s Market (17100 Collins Ave) and a Publix Super Market (at 18320 Collins Ave). These stores carry all the groceries, fresh produce, and general supplies you might need. Milam’s is a beloved local market with a gourmet touch, while Publix is a large supermarket chain known for its bakery and deli (be sure to try a “Publix sub” for a quick lunch!). For pharmacy and basic toiletries, there’s a Walgreens at 175th & Collins and a CVS Pharmacy nearby as well – both within walking distance (5 minutes) of King David, ideal for picking up any prescriptions, sunscreen, or snacks. Also, scattered along Collins Avenue you’ll find convenience stores and specialty markets (such as European delis like Kalinka and Matryoshka for Eastern European groceries) if you’re interested in international products.
• Fashion & Malls: The Aventura Mall is the go-to for a comprehensive shopping experience. As mentioned, it features over 300 retailers ranging from department stores (Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom) to luxury brands and popular retailers. The mall has something for everyone: high-end fashion, a massive Apple Store, home goods, an indoor playground for kids, and even an art slide structure you can slide down. It also houses dozens of dining options (from the Cheesecake Factory and Shake Shack to upscale restaurants like Serafina and Pubbelly Sushi). Getting there: Aventura Mall is a 5-10 minute drive or easily reachable by the free Sunny Isles shuttle or a short bus ride (or quick Uber). Another must-visit is Bal Harbour Shops (10 minutes south in Bal Harbour). This exclusive open-air mall is home to top luxury brands (Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, etc.) in a lush garden setting. Even if you’re just window shopping, the ambiance is lovely. There are also a few eateries like Makoto (Japanese) and Le Zoo (French bistro), aside from the famous Carpaccio restaurant. Dress code tip: Bal Harbour Shops tends to be upscale, so you might feel more comfortable in casual chic attire (shirts and shoes required, beachwear cover-ups if coming from the beach).
• Local Boutiques & Other Shopping: In Sunny Isles Beach itself, along Collins Avenue, you’ll encounter various small shops for beachwear, souvenirs, and sundries. For instance, the Sunny Isles Shopping Center (175th & Collins) and RK Town Center (Sunny Isles Blvd & Collins) have stores like beach apparel shops, swimwear boutiques, sunglasses outlets, and more. If you need tech or larger retail stores, the area along Biscayne Boulevard in Aventura/North Miami Beach (10–15 minutes away) has big-box stores like Target, Best Buy, and Whole Foods Market (if you prefer organic groceries). Another nearby open-air shopping/dining area is Gulfstream Park Village (Hallandale Beach) which, in addition to the casino and racetrack, has stores like Crate & Barrel, upscale clothing boutiques, and home décor shops, plus a night market on certain evenings.
• Luxury & Designer Bargains: If you’re into luxury shopping, Bal Harbour is the pinnacle, but for more options you could venture to the Miami Design District (about 30 minutes drive) which has designer fashion houses and cutting-edge architecture, or to Sawgrass Mills Outlet Mall (a huge outlet center about 40 minutes away in Sunrise) for discounted brand-name shopping. These are further out, but some guests make the trip for a dedicated shopping day

Sunny Isles Beach and its surrounding areas offer a diverse culinary scene. Here are some recommendations to satisfy any craving – from casual bites to fine dining:

• Local Favorites in Sunny Isles: For a healthy start or a casual bite, try Miami Juice (Collins Ave at 163rd). It’s a local institution known for fresh-squeezed juices, smoothies, big salads, and organic meals – perfect for breakfast or lunch (very vegetarian-friendly). If you’re craving something hearty and authentic, El Tropico Cuban Cuisine (Collins Ave at 170th) is a nearby diner-style restaurant serving Cuban favorites like roast pork, Cuban sandwiches, and café con leche. It’s family-friendly, reasonably priced, and gives you a taste of Miami’s Latin flavor. Another beloved spot is Baires Grill (Collins Ave at 174th), an Argentine steakhouse known for excellent grilled meats and empanadas – great for a casual dinner (they have outdoor seating too). Sunny Isles also has a significant Eastern European community, so you’ll find unique eateries like Family Fresh Café/Bakery for Russian pastries or the deli Kalinka (mentioned earlier) for a quick bite of borscht or pierogi.
• Oceanfront Dining: For dining with a view, Beach Bar @ Newport Pier is a top choice – it’s literally on the Newport Fishing Pier over the water. They serve seafood, burgers, and tropical drinks; imagine enjoying a mojito with the ocean beneath your feet. It’s informal and kids are welcome (they might enjoy spotting fish from the pier). For a more upscale oceanfront experience, BALEENkitchen at the Solé Miami hotel (17315 Collins) offers creative cuisine with beachside seating; it’s known for its Sunday brunch and sunset cocktails by the shore. Keep in mind that resort restaurants often add a service charge, so check your bill for included tip.
• Upscale & Date Night: If you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a fine dining night out, Sunny Isles has several high-end restaurants. Il Mulino New York at the Acqualina Resort is a standout – a sister of the famed NYC restaurant, offering exquisite Italian dishes (homemade pastas, veal chops) in an elegant setting. Reservations are recommended. Another excellent choice is Timo (176th & Collins), a Mediterranean-Italian restaurant that has been a neighborhood favorite for years. Timo offers a romantic ambiance, wood-fired pizzas and seasonal chef specials – perfect for a nice dinner with wine. Just south in Bal Harbour, Makoto (at Bal Harbour Shops) is a chic spot for sushi and Japanese fusion, and Carpaccio (also at Bal Harbour Shops) is legendary for people-watching and delicious Italian fare (it’s lively and can get busy, so expect a wait unless you go early). In Aventura, Bourbon Steak at JW Marriott Turnberry is a top-tier steakhouse by Chef Michael Mina, known for its butter-poached steaks and craft cocktails. And for lovers of Asian cuisine, Lique Miami (on Intracoastal, just across the bridge in North Miami Beach) offers a trendy waterfront lounge vibe with seafood and sushi.
• Family-Friendly & Casual: If you have kids or want something casual, there are plenty of options too. Pizza & Burgers: You can grab a classic slice or pie at Tony’s Pizza in RK Center or Papa John’s for delivery. Thunderburg in nearby North Miami Beach is a fun burger spot with creative toppings. Duffy’s Sports Grill (at Intracoastal Mall, 5 min away by car) is great for families – it’s on the water and has a broad menu (wings, sandwiches, salads) plus TVs for sports and even a swimming pool. For dessert or a sweet treat, check out Chaykhona (a bakery café with European cakes) or simply hit up Gelato-Go on Collins for Italian gelato. And of course, being in South Florida, you’ll find Latin American Cafeterias around – there’s often a ventanita (walk-up window) at places like El Tropico or nearby Cuban cafes where you can get a quick cafecito (Cuban coffee) or a guava pastry.
• Dining Delivery & Takeout: Prefer a quiet night in? Most local restaurants offer takeout, and services like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub are widely available here. You can have everything from sushi to pizza delivered to the condo. Some nearby quick options for delivery: Chinese takeout (Hing Chinese on Collins), sushi (Moshi Moshi in North Miami Beach), Italian (Family Trattoria on Collins) or even Publix grocery delivery if you want to cook. If ordering delivery, be sure to include your condo unit number and inform the front desk/security if needed for driver entry.

Sunny Isles Beach is a narrow island city, which makes it easy to get around locally, and it’s well connected to surrounding areas. Here are tips on transportation:

• Walking: Many essentials are within walking distance of King David. The neighborhood is pedestrian-friendly with sidewalks along every street. You can walk to the beach, grocery stores, pharmacies, and several restaurants in 5-10 minutes. Collins Avenue (the main road) has crosswalks at major intersections – always use the crosswalks and wait for the pedestrian signal, as traffic on Collins can be busy. In the evenings, the area is generally safe and well-lit, but as anywhere, stay aware of your surroundings when walking at night.
• Free City Shuttle: Sunny Isles Beach provides a free SIBshuttle bus that loops around the city and even connects to nearby areas like Aventura and Bal Harbour. This is a convenient way to get to Aventura Mall, local parks, or even across the causeway. The shuttle runs on a schedule (approximately every 30 minutes) and picks up at designated stops (look for the blue “SIBshuttle” signs). One of the stops is just two blocks from King David on Collins Ave. The shuttle is free and convenient for getting around Sunny Isles Beach and neighboring cities – check the city’s website or the front desk for a route map and schedule. It’s a great option if you don’t have a car and want to explore nearby without calling a taxi.
• Public Transit Buses: Miami-Dade Transit buses run along Collins Avenue frequently. The main routes are 119 (Local “S” bus) and 120 (Beach MAX Express), though note that the 120 has been renumbered to Route 100. These buses can take you north to Aventura and Hallandale, or south through Bal Harbour, Surfside, Miami Beach, and all the way to downtown Miami. The bus stop is typically on Collins Ave at 175th Street (check both northbound and southbound stops). Fares are around $2.25 (contactless payment via phone app or exact change). While buses are economical and air-conditioned, keep in mind that travel by bus to South Beach or downtown can take an hour+ due to many stops. But it’s a scenic route along the coastline. For schedules, you can use Google Maps transit option or the Miami-Dade Transit Tracker app.
• Ride-Sharing & Taxis: Uber and Lyft are readily available in Sunny Isles Beach and are a preferred way for many visitors to get around quickly. Just input “King David Sunny Isles” as your pickup if GPS has trouble with the exact address. Wait times are usually just a few minutes since this is a populated area. For reference, an Uber ride to South Beach might cost around $25-40 depending on time of day, and to Fort Lauderdale around $30-50. Local taxis are also an option; you can call Miami-Dade taxis or find them at stands by big hotels. Taxis are metered and tipping around 10-20% is customary for good service. If you need a larger vehicle (for a big group or lots of luggage), you can request UberXL or ask the concierge to arrange a van taxi.
• Driving & Parking: If you have your own car or a rental, King David Condominium provides parking (check with your host/owner about the designated spot or guest parking). Be aware that Collins Avenue (A1A) is the main north-south artery and can get congested, especially during rush hour (8-9am and 4-7pm) or weekends. Patience and defensive driving are key. Speed limits in Sunny Isles are typically 35 mph on Collins and are strictly enforced by local police (there are often speed traps and red-light cameras). When driving to nearby cities, you have two main routes: Collins Ave for scenic coastal driving or Biscayne Blvd/US-1 via the causeways for typically faster routes inland. Parking in Sunny Isles: Many restaurants and plazas offer free or valet parking. For beach access, the city has public parking lots (e.g., at 174th Street by the Govt Center, or at the pier) – use the PayByPhone app or kiosks to pay. In Aventura Mall, parking is free. In Bal Harbour Shops, they have valet and paid parking lots. For Miami Beach, look for municipal garages (which are cheaper than private lots; for example, the 17th Street Garage is $2/hour vs. $20 flat at private lots). Street parking in Miami Beach is via meters or app, and be mindful of resident-only zones. If you plan to drive downtown, note that some highways have toll express lanes (like I-95 Express) – you’d need a SunPass device or you’ll be billed by tag photo. It might be easier to stick to regular lanes or use US-1.
• Biking: Sunny Isles Beach has a lovely pedestrian/bike path called the “Off-Collins Bike Route” which runs parallel to Collins Ave for much of the island. If your rental provides bicycles (or you use a CitiBike rental from a station in Miami Beach, though there might not be stations this far north), you can safely bike around the island. The bike route keeps you off the main road. A scenic bike outing is to ride over the William Lehman Causeway (Sunny Isles Blvd) west toward Oleta River Park – there’s a bike lane and you’ll get great views of the Intracoastal and skyline. Always wear a helmet and be cautious at crosswalks.

Pharmacies & Medical: The nearest pharmacy is Walgreens (17534 Collins Ave, ~5 min walk) and there’s also a CVS a few blocks north – handy for any toiletry needs, over-the-counter meds, or prescription refills. They also sell beach essentials (sunscreen, snacks, bottled water). For medical needs, the closest hospital with an emergency room is Aventura Hospital and Medical Center (20900 Biscayne Blvd, ~15 min drive). Additionally, Mount Sinai Medical Center – Aventura has an emergency and urgent care facility near 207th St on Biscayne (~10 min drive). For minor issues, several urgent care clinics are in the area (e.g., UHealth Clinic on Biscayne Blvd). Of course, in any serious emergency, dial 911 and give your location (Sunny Isles Beach, and condo address). The city has its own police and Miami-Dade fire rescue station nearby, so response is typically quick.