Five Favorite Coral Gables Parks

In addition to having a solid understanding of the Coral Gable real estate market, we love to feature the characteristics that are so appealing about our fair city.  Coral Gables is well known for being South Florida’s most beautiful city with unbelievable and elegant architecture, great restaurants and shops, and panoramic Biscayne Bay views.  Another popular attribute of Coral Gables is the large amount of green space and parks. 

Coral Gables has over 20 parks that are well maintained and add to the atmosphere of their close-by neighborhoods.  While some feature green space and picnic tables, others have more to offer the people who live close to the parks.  Additionally, even though the parks encompass varying amounts of space, each has its own features that draw the residents of Coral Gables.  Following are some of our favorite Coral Gables parks and what we like about them.  

Phillips Park, 90 Menores Avenue

With over three acres of green space and areas for activities, Phillips Park sits just north of the Miracle Mile in the heart of Coral Gables.  It is surrounded by some of Coral Gables best neighborhoods like Coral Groves, Coral Estates and Douglas where home values range from the mid-$500s to well over $2 million and have that classic Florida appeal and character of days past.

Phillips Park is one of those parks that appeals to every age group from kids who want to run and play to those who enjoy walking along the paths or spending time in the warm Florida sunshine.  The park has a nice playground for kids, basketball and tennis courts, picnic tables, a pavilion, a large ball field and more.  This is a classic park that just beckons for people to come and spend time.

Jaycee Park, 1230 Hardee Road

Sitting on two acres, this is another of those classic parks.  It has all the bells and whistles in terms of walking paths, a playground, nice park benches scattered about, basketball and tennis courts, picnic table, and more.  Because it is situated in Gables Riviera, it is very popular with families.  Kids love coming to the playground or running on the ball field (provided there are no games…and even then they try).  There is tons of shade with huge, full trees all around so reading or simply enjoying Starbuck’s on a park bench is nice too. 

In terms of real estate around it, this is a great area with excellent options.  There is a broad spectrum of home values and list prices ranging from the mid-$400s to well over $5 million.   Gables Riviera is a wonderfully easy-going, family-oriented neighborhood and Jaycee Park only adds to its appeal. 

Riviera Park, 6611 Yumuri Street

Not far from Jaycee Park is Riviera Park.  This three-acre green space is more for those who simply want to walk, have lunch at a picnic table or (here is the best part), take their pooches to the park.  Yes – it is a pet friendly park which is why we mention it.  With so many parks packed into one fantastic city, it is amazing that less than a handful is happy to have pets.

Riviera Park is situated in Sunset Acres neighborhood where home values top $1 million and climb from there.  It is an established neighborhood with quiet streets that are lined with lots of big trees and sidewalks making it easy to walk to the park.  The park adds a lot to the neighborhood making it that much more inviting. 

George Merrick Park, 400 Biltmore Way

Not really a “park” in the truest sense of the word (no swings, basketball courts, etc.), this is one of our favorites simply because of the events that take place here.  During the winter months (or what we consider winter), January – March, Merrick Park is the home of the Coral Gables Farmers Market on Saturday mornings.   Then in April, the Merrick Festival takes place.  But our favorites occur during the holidays.  Right after Thanksgiving, Merrick Park turns into Santa’s Village until Christmas at which point, it transforms into the start of the Junior Orange Bowl Parade.  Situated across from City Hall and at the north end of the Miracle Mile, Merrick Park is a small plot of green space with two huge old oak trees.

Merrick Park is a great place to take a break from work or the grind of shopping on the Miracle Mile to have lunch on the grass or to take a little breather.  It is just a nice little green oasis in the middle of the city.  Real estate around it runs the gamut with Coral Gables condominium properties.  List prices range from the mid-$300s into the millions for properties close to Merrick Park. 

Salvadore Park, 1120 Andalusia Avenue

At just under four acres, Salvadore Park’s primary focus is its tennis facilities.  With 13 courts, this is one of Coral Gables best places for the sport.  But beyond that, Salvadore Park has a great playground for kids not to mention picnic tables, walking paths and other great features.  There are lots of after school activities and summer camps that are primarily tennis-focused at the park. 

Salvadore Park is centrally situated in a very residential part of Coral Gables.  The Granada, Coral Groves, and Country Club neighborhoods surround it.  This is another very family-oriented area with home values and list prices falling in a broad range from the mid to upper-$300s to well over $1 million.  It is a fantastic park in an even better neighborhood.  That is why we love this park.

So Many Parks in Coral Gables

There are so many parks in Coral Gables.  When walking through them, the common thread is how well they are maintained and the care that is put into each and every one.  Coral Gables is called the “city beautiful” and that sentiment is carried through the park system.  We love our parks almost as much as we love Coral Gables!

Top Five Newest Coral Gables Listings Under $500K

It only takes one visit to Coral Gables to see what all the fuss is over this "city beautiful."   From the unique architecture with a Mediterranean flair to the wonderful shops and restaurants, so many people make the decision to live here instead of simply visit every year. 

For those who are interested in settling in Coral Gables, or at least in spending half the year in paradise, there are lots of real estate options in this glorious city.  Much of the median priced properties are situated in the heart of the city close to the top golf courses, the Miracle Mile's shopping and dining and the University of Miami.  To give an idea of what is out there, following are the top five newest Coral Gables real estate listings under $500K.

918 Ferdinand Street, Gables Granada, List Price:  $500,000

This is an absolutely fantastic home with so much character and detail.  Updated with modern fixtures and finishes, it offers the best of old and new.  Built in 1926, this home features beautiful hardwood floors, arched doorways, clay tile floors in the kitchen and detached garage and more.  Then the new is added with a remodeled kitchen with granite counter tops and stainless steel appliances as well as updated and modern baths.  Outside, the brick driveway is lined with tropical landscaping and leads to a wonderful backyard with brick patio and covered clay tiled porch. This is definitely one of those homes that gets a lot of attention because of its character.  Because it is in the heart of Coral Gables, it is close to everything from golf to shopping to travelling into Downtown Miami. 

1109 Tangier Street, Granada, List Price:  $495,900

Located on a wonderful tree-line street in one of the favorite established neighborhoods in the heart of Coral Gables, this is the perfect home with two large bedrooms and two baths and a den that can easily be converted to a third bedroom.  The front entrance features a shady porch while the backyard offers fruit trees and a beautifully landscaped lawn.  With over 1,600 square feet, there is lots of room to move with open and airy rooms.  The kitchen has tons of counter and cabinet space but could use a little updating to make it more modern.  The garage is large and also has a storage loft.  Built in 1955, this home is full of character with a Mediterranean style architecture that is the epitome of the old Florida.

920 Alberca Street, Granada, List Price:  $485,000

Granada is a section of the Gables that oozes Florida the way it used to be.  With its Spanish-Mediterranean architectural style, its barrel roof, and detailed tiled entry, this 1,492-square foot home, built in 1942, oozes old Florida.  Other details include a huge picture window across the front of the house as well as an open living and dining area that is very inviting.  The newly remodeled kitchen features granite counter tops, custom cabinetry and stainless steel appliances while the bathroom is equipped with designer fixtures.   Additionally, there are upgrades like shutters, a new roof, and crown molding throughout the house.  Outside, there is a beautifully landscaped yard with lots of mature shade trees.  In terms of location, golf courses abound with the Granada Golf Course and the Biltmore just five minutes away.

637 Zamora Avenue, Coral Estates, List Price:  $475,900

This cozy bungalow with a Mediterranean influence is situated in one of Coral Gables most established neighborhoods.  Built in 1940, it features a new kitchen with sleek cabinetry and tons of counter tops.  It has so much style and character with clay tile floors in the entryway, hardwood floors throughout the house arched doorways leading from one room to another.  The newly remodeled bath features ceramic tile walls and floors with updated, designer fixtures.  In the backyard, there is a wonderful bricked in patio and lawn that offers tons of room for expansion.  The brick-paver driveway and sidewalk add a touch of elegance to an already beautiful home with tons to offer.

1607 Ponce de Leon Boulevard, #10A, Ponce de Leon Condo, List Price:  $469,000

Located in one of the premiere buildings in Coral Gables, this gorgeous residence offers beautiful panoramic views of downtown as well as the Miami skyline.  A private elevator opens up to the two-bedroom, two-bath unit that is spacious and features a designer elements throughout each room.  The kitchen has granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances and sleek cabinetry while the baths have updated fixtures and finishes.  Steep out onto a balcony or look out one of the floor to ceiling windows from the city.   Several community amenities are situated on the sixth floor and include a large pool patio, hot tub and lanai with a fitness center and sauna.   Close to everything in Coral Gables, walk to all of Downtown Coral Gables' restaurants & unique shops as well as Publix.

Tons of Character

At $500K and just below, there are numerous single family homes in Coral Gables' most established neighborhoods.  With tons of character and in a peaceful atmosphere, these offer so much to their owners.  But, if condominium life seems more appealing, Coral Gables is full of property in beautiful, centrally located communities that are also popular with buyers.

Top Five Coral Gables Rentals Under $10,000 Per Month

Coral Gables is one of the most affluent cities in all of South Florida.  With high-end boutiques and upscale restaurants along with grand condominiums and stunning waterfront estates in gated neighborhoods, Coral Gables has a lot to offer to those who live here. 

For some, their residency is part time or temporary while others simply do not want the responsibility of home ownership making it more beneficial for them to lease a Coral Gables rental.  Following are the top five Coral Gables rentals under $10,000 per month:

Gables Riviera Available Rentals

725 Villabella Avenue, Coral Gables Riviera, Monthly Rental Rate:  $9,900

Built in 1950, this gorgeous home is large and features five bedrooms and four baths along with dining and living rooms, a family room, and a maid’s room.  Recently remodeled and updated, there are so many beautiful fixtures and finishes that make this home outstanding.  The gourmet kitchen has dazzling granite counter tops and high-end stainless steel appliances including a Miele stove, Fisher and Paykel dishwasher and a Sub Zero refrigerator.  Outside there is a spacious bricked-in patio and outdoor living and dining area that is perfect for entertaining.  It is surrounded by lush tropical landscaping and faces a wood dock on a canal with easy access to open water.  

3701 Durango Street, Coral Gables Country Club, Monthly Rental Rate:  $8,400

This distinctive two-story 'old-Spanish' style home has so much character and beautiful design and resembles a Spanish villa.  In perfect condition, this 1920s home sits on a large corner lot and features a gorgeous and perfectly maintained center courtyard that adjoins a landscaped backyard and large pool.  Inside, there is a recently remodeled, eat-in kitchen with granite counter tops, a Viking stove and beautiful tiled backsplash.  Additionally, there is a one-bedroom, one-bath apartment over the two-car garage.  This annual rental is located close to excellent public and private schools as well Biltmore Golf Course not to mention a short drive from the Miracle Mile. 

Gables By the Sea Available Rentals

13005 Zambrana Street, Gables by the Sea, Monthly Rental Rate:  $7,800

A perfect home for boaters, this home is ideal for boaters as it sits on a wide and deep canal with a 100-foot sea wall and a dock with lift.  It is just a couple of minutes by boat to the Bay.  The 2,900+ square foot home features four bedrooms, three baths, and great screened in patio with a hot tub and panoramic water views.  There are two master suites as well as two other spacious bedrooms with walk-in closets.  The laundry room offers tons of storage.  Additionally, there is a large kitchen with tons of work space and covered parking for four cars. 

13040 Nevada Street, Gables by the Sea, Monthly Rental Rate:  $7,500

This is the perfect combination of a great house in the exclusive Gables by the Sea and an even better monthly rental rate!  With three bedrooms and three baths, this remodeled home with a gorgeous, sleek contemporary design sits at the end of a canal with 80 feet of waterfront and easy access to the Bay...and of course, there are no bridges.  Leading out the water is a fabulous backyard with a pool and room for a swing set.  Inside, the split floor plan offers both formals with a kitchen that is recently updated and has fantastic contemporary cabinets, stainless steel appliances and tons of counter space.  It opens to a wonderful and airy family room.  There is also the possibility of a fourth bedroom.  Enjoy living in this home that is ideal for families and corporate executives as it is close to excellent public and private schools.  This is, without a doubt, a great house. 

Coral Gables Country Club Available Rentals

4516 University Drive, Coral Gables Country Club, Monthly Rent:  $7,500

Built in 1950, this beautiful, 4,000+ square foot home is located in a classic and established neighborhood in the Gables.  It has recently been remodeled with refinished hardwood floors, fresh paint, a new kitchen and new baths.  Additionally there are five bedrooms (with new plantation shutters), five baths and a two-car garages.  It is situated on a golf course lot and showcases breathtaking views of the Riviera Golf Course.  Other attributes include a huge formal dining room and elegant French doors that lead to the outdoor patio overlooking the golf course. The lush landscaping is mature and green just like the tree lined streets all over this exquisite neighborhood. 

Luxurious Living

With Coral Gables real estate, there are tons of opportunity for luxurious living.  In terms of Coral Gables rentals, there are beautiful homes and units in condominiums that allow people to live in a home that is at the level of their main residence.  Whether a family, business executive or retirees, Coral Gables is a great place to live.

Top Five Coral Gables Single-Family Homes

At the beginning of the year, we highlighted the top five Coral Gables single-family homes listed for sale.  As the year has progressed and the market has gained some strength so too has this list.  Coral Gables, for the most part, is an upscale community that features wonderful neighborhoods with a variety of homes from classic ‘old Florida’ style homes with tons of character to elegant and beautiful estates in some of the most exclusive communities.  Many local and national celebrities as well as some of the wealthiest people in South Florida choose to live in Coral Gables.

The current Coral Gables real estate market features over 270 single family homes that, for the most part, are priced from about $200K.  The interesting thing to note is that of the total number of homes on the market in Coral Gables, almost 160 of them are priced at $1 million or higher.  With this in mind, here are the top five Coral Gables single family homes listed for sale:

For Sale in Gables Estates

110 Arvida Parkway, Gables Estates, List Price:  $35,000,000

Just pulling up to the entrance of this exquisite estate says everything about this listing.  Its ivy covered columns and tree-lined circular drive leads up to a gorgeous 12,000+ foot Mediterranean home situated on a 1.8-acre bay front lot with more than 200 feet of dockage and a boat lift – not to mention immediate access to Biscayne Bay.  Inside, there are 12-foot ceilings throughout the home with 30-foot ceilings in the living room and foyer.  Other highlights include six bedrooms, nine and a half baths with a separate in-law quarters, a library, exercise room, billiard room, an air-conditioned four-car garage and so much more.  Outside there is lush and tropical landscaping that surrounds the home along with the unbelievable limestone patio and pool area.  On top of all of this, the backyard is perfect for families with children as there is plenty of room to play. 

Cocoplum Real Estate For Sale

4 Tahiti Beach Island, Cocoplum, List Price:  $25,000,000

Living on Tahiti Beach Island is like really living on a Tahitian island.  This enormous 21,000+ square foot home sits on a one and a half acre-lot with a white sandy beach on a private lagoon looking out over Biscayne Bay.  Inside, this enormous home features 10 large bedrooms, a home office, a two-story living room, formal dining room, theater, private elevator, maid’s quarters, and a four-car garage.  The kitchen is simply incredible with a sleek, contemporary design and high-end appliances along with a huge window looking out over the Bay.  The master suite takes your breath away with panoramic views and an enormous, private balcony and an enormous marble spa-like bath.  Outdoors, there is a resort style infinity-edge pool that is adjacent to the private beach on Biscayne Bay.  The outdoor living area is as big as many homes with a full-service outdoor kitchen and living and dining areas.  This is an estate like no other and has so much that it needs to be seen to be believed.  It is probably one of the most exquisite homes in all of Miami-Dade County. Be prepared to be in awe!

9151 Arvida Lane, Gables Estates, List Price:  $18,000,000

In January, this was the most expensive listing in all of Coral Gables.  Located in gated Gables Estates, this gorgeous 15,000-square foot estate sits on a beautiful point lot with unbelievable water views and easy, direct access into Biscayne Bay.  The front of the home features a circular drive and a welcoming entrance.  Because of its location, it features 900 feet of waterfront along with two docks and easy access to Biscayne Bay.  Inside the home, there are eight bedrooms and 10 baths as well as a guest house with two bedrooms and two baths – all with every update and modern convenience imaginable.  Some of the impeccable fixtures and finishes include high cypress ceilings, Brazilian cherry floors and huge floor to ceiling windows.  Other amenities in this estate consist of a two-story library, private observatory and home theatre, this estate rivals most any five-star resort.  Outside, the perfectly landscaped grounds surround a resort-style heated pool and spa, outdoor kitchen with barbecue area, and two-stories of balconies that look out over the beautiful grottos.  There is no end to what this gorgeous estate has to offer…all for less than $20 million. 

601 Leucadendra Drive, Gables Estates, List Price:  $13,495,000

Built in 1982, and contemporary in its architectural design, this 11,700-square foot stone and wood home is perfectly situated on a waterfront lot facing a canal with two ways to get into Biscayne Bay.  Over 1.5 acres of tropical landscaped grounds surround the home as well as private tennis court. Additionally there are 300 feet of waterfront with multiple docks to accommodate various sized vessels.  Inside the home there are huge windows with amazing views from every vantage point, tons of detailed woodwork, limestone flooring, a huge living room with two-story windows and so much more.  The large gourmet kitchen features vaulted ceilings and lots of granite counter space along with custom designed cabinetry and high-end stainless steel appliances.  Along with all of this, there is a great family room and game area with wood carved ceilings and a beautiful and welcoming entry.

Homes For Sale in Coral Gables  

2 Casuarina Concourse, Gables Estates, List Price:  $12,500,000

What can we say about this home?  Interesting is the first word that comes to mind.  The location of the home on a peninsula is one of the best lots in Gables Estates.  Situated on about two acres, it features the most glorious views from every vantage point as well as 580 feet of waterfront making it ideal for yacht owners.  Inside, this unique home needs some modifications and restoration as it resembles of the inside of a large ship.  While it is unique and filled with beautiful details, it takes a little creativity to realize the home it can be especially given its location. 

Extraordinary Real Estate

Coral Gables in and of itself offers some of the most extraordinary real estate in all of South Florida.  These exquisite homes only add exceptional options for those seeking the ultimate in Coral Gables real estate.  With such unbelievable properties, Coral Gables is at the top of the list among the most elite cities in all of Florida.