5 Private Islands and Waterfront Estates in Miami and the Keys

Along the water’s edge in Biscayne Bay, Bird Key offers a rare chance to hold an uninhabited island framed by clear, sparkling blue water and sights of Miami’s skyline. Identified as the only privately owned island in the bay and zoned residential, the setting promises a singular sense of remove—described as having no traffic or people—while remaining just 500 yards offshore, south of the 79th Street Causeway. The property is presented as a 37.5-acre residential opportunity, with 4+/- acres of land surrounded by 33+/- acres of submerged land. With only four owners having claimed it to date, Bird Key carries a deep scarcity value, whether envisioned for environmental mitigation, as a public environmental treasure, or as an exceptionally private Miami address.

Size: 37.52 acres

Along the water’s edge in Plantation Key, this newly completed private oceanfront estate unfolds across 2+ acres, balancing rare scale with a sense of seclusion. Set behind a gated entry, the residence is designed for luxury coastal living, entertaining, and extended stays, with over 9,000 square feet of interior space and more than 15,000 square feet under roof. Five ensuite bedrooms are paired with five full baths and three half baths, while multiple flex spaces allow the layout to adapt over time. An elevator connects the home’s levels, and expansive covered porches encourage an easy rhythm of indoor-outdoor living. For work and retreat, dedicated amenities include an in-home theater, a private gym, and a massive ocean-overlooking office—each offering the potential to serve as additional bedrooms.

Along the water’s edge in the Florida Keys, Howell Key unfolds as a 9.69-acre private island retreat defined by extraordinary privacy, open-water views, and a true off-grid luxury lifestyle. At the center, a beautifully crafted residence features cathedral ceilings, refined coastal interiors, and walls of impact-rated glass that frame water views from sunrise to sunset. A separate guest wing adds breathing room for family and visitors, complete with its own living area and morning kitchen. Outside, the island reads like a personal playground: a saltwater pool, sandy beach, pickleball court, acres of groomed trails, an expansive barn-style garage, pasture, and a dock for days on the water. Built for island living, SIP construction, impact windows and doors, solar power, and whole-house reverse osmosis support comfort and self-sufficiency from daybreak to dusk.

Along the water’s edge in Marathon, Morton Manor unfolds as a gulf-side waterfront compound spanning 2.82 private acres in the heart of the Florida Keys. Designed for gathering on a grand scale, the estate pairs a 5-bedroom, 4.5-bath main residence with two detached guest homes and a garage apartment—11 bedrooms and 8.5 baths in total—offering exceptional flexibility for family and guests while preserving privacy throughout. Outdoors, lush tropical grounds set a private resort rhythm, with a pool, private saltwater lagoon, multiple tiki huts, a pickleball court, and a putting green. For life on the water, a 100-foot dock with shore power, yacht dockage, and two boat lifts creates a serious setup with easy access to fishing, sandbars, and sunset cruises, shaping days around sea breezes and evening light.

Within the prestigious guard-gated community of Sunrise Harbour in Coral Gables, this extensively renovated contemporary estate pairs 100 feet of waterfrontage with a private dock and direct no-bridge access to Biscayne Bay—tailor-made for days on the water. Inside, dramatic volume sets the tone: soaring 25-foot ceilings, walls of glass, a sculptural floating staircase, and a striking glass-enclosed wine room. The six-bedroom layout includes a chef’s kitchen with an oversized island and premium appliances, a sleek bar, custom dressing rooms, a private office, and light-filled living spaces oriented to water views. Downstairs, an expansive flex space—with an adjoining storage room—invites use as a gym, studio, executive office, or recreation area. Outdoors, a resort-style pool with spa and water features is framed by tiered terraces, tropical landscaping, and a covered entertainment area with a fully equipped summer kitchen, setting the stage for effortless waterfront evenings.