Introduction to North Miami Beach, Florida
North Miami Beach, Florida, in Miami Dade county, is 3 miles NE of North Miami, Florida (center to center) and 11 miles N of Miami, Florida. It's situated along the Intracoastal Waterway. The city has an ethnically diverse population and includes a substantial middle-class Haitian community. The neighborhoods have distinctive identities which are enhanced by neighborhood community and resource centers. Situated midway between the popular cities of Miami and Fort Lauderdale provides residents and visitors easy access to the popular tourist destinations in South Florida. North Miami Beach is a prominent regional shopping location.
North Miami Beach History
Henry Flagler constructed the Florida East Coast Railway from the West Palm Beach area to Miami in 1896. Small communities developed near the train stops he created. A large number of the settlers arrived due to the offer of 160 acres of free land by the United States Government. In the 1890's farms were established along the Oleta River. In 1912 Lafe Allen arrived in Florida and along with an associate bought a large acreage. He began selling lots in 1922.
It was originally known as Filford By-The-Sea. The devastating hurricane of 1926 caused extensive damage and put a halt to the real estate boom. The real estate market did not thrive again until after WW II ended. In 1931 the city was renamed North Miami Beach in order to prosper from the national advertising for Miami Beach.
North Miami Beach Attractions
- The St. Bernard de Clairvaux is an authentic Medieval Spanish monastery. The cloisters of the monastery were built in Spain during the 12th century. William Randolf Hearst bought the structure and had it dismantled and transported to the United States. After it was reassembled it became a popular tourist attraction.
- Littman Performing Arts Theater.
- Senator Gwen Margolis Amphitheater.
- Fulford Monument.
North Miami Beach Activities
Popular scenic beaches are nearby. The Fort Lauderdale area is well known for excellent beaches and snorkeling and diving locations. The beautiful Greynolds Park is a good location for boating, canoeing, picnicking and bird watching. Oleta River State Park is one of the largest urban parks in Florida. The park is used for bicycle riding, kayaking and canoeing and includes a sandy swimming beach and a fishing pier. The region features a large number of quality golf courses.
North Miami Beach Higher Education
The Nova Southeastern University - Miami campus is nearby.
North Miami Beach Transportation
The Miami International Airport and the Fort Lauderdale International Airport are close by.
