Our City’s Story

The History of Miami Beach

Foundations of Our City

Miami Beach From Its Earliest Days

Dive into our Back in the Day stories and step into Miami Beach’s earliest days, when the island was little more than a quiet coconut farm. From there, follow our Miami Beach timeline to see the key moments that transformed it into the vibrant city it is today. Along the way, meet John Collins, the  man who built the bridge connecting the island to the mainland, and uncover the surprisingly funny story behind how Dade County got its name.. Together, these stories spotlight the people, places, and pivotal decisions that shaped Miami Beach—and still influence it today.

Where Architecture Meets Glamour

Exploring Miami Beach’s Iconic Art Deco District

South Beach’s Art Deco District is a world-renowned treasure, celebrated for its vibrant colors, geometric patterns, and historic charm. Explore the unique architectural details that make this neighborhood stand out and discover the man who defined the city’s iconic style, You can also experience the district up close on the South Beach Art Deco Walking Tour This area is a living museum of Miami Beach’s mid-century design and a must-see for both visitors and locals alike.

Dark Moments in Our City’s Story

True Crime Tales from Miami Beach

Miami Beach isn’t just about sun and fun—it has a darker, fascinating side too. Go down the rabbit hole in our True Crime section, where we explore shocking stories and lesser-known cases that reveal the city’s hidden history. From the infamous Versace murder to other crimes that shaped Miami Beach, these stories dig deep. And for a lighter twist, don’t miss our humorous interview with a disgraced former mayor sharing witty reflections about Miami Beach’s past..

Stars Who Called Miami Beach Home

Celebrities and Notable Locals

Over the years, Miami Beach has attracted an eclectic mix of famous residents. Take, for instance Shaquille O’Neal moving here and joining the police—an unexpected twist in a legendary career. The city has also seen pop culture moments, like Justin Bieber being arrested for drag racing and Lindsay Lohan’s infamous nightclub arrests, From musicians and actors to athletes, the city has been home to figures you will recognize and admire. Discover who has lived here and explore our famous Miami Beach High School alumni for even more local celebrity connections..

Check out our full list of Films About Miami to see the city on the big screen.

Life in the Modern City

Why Living in Miami Beach Is So Special

Today, Miami Beach is more than a vacation destination — it’s a vibrant, diverse city where culture, recreation, and healthy living come together. From world-class beaches to thriving neighborhoods, residents enjoy a lifestyle that blends city conveniences with coastal charm. Here’s what makes living in Miami Beach truly one-of-a-kind:

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Healthy Living: Wellness and fresh markets
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Outdoor Recreation: Beaches, parks, and trails
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Cultural Diversity: Communities and arts thrive
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Urban Life: Dining, shopping, nightlife, entertainment
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Discover the best of Miami Beach! Search above and start exploring today.