Why We Love Bal Harbour

South Florida-based travel writer Sara Liss breaks down why this posh enclave is more than its famous mall (and also shares why the Bal Harbour Shops are actually fabulous).

The storied “village” of Bal Harbour, with its million-dollar penthouses, opulent hotels and upscale shopping has a way of conjuring images of bauble-clad ladies sipping Kir Royal cocktails on café patios next to piles of shopping bags. And yes, this slender mile-long beachfront town has always exuded an air of exclusivity. But this coastal town is constantly evolving, welcoming new shops, restaurants and attractions with each season. The remodeled Bal Harbour Shops is attracting cross-generational shoppers in search of the perfect toro tuna tartare as well as luxury goods. And there’s a cultural presence here, with galleries and a town-sponsored public art program that infuses this enclave with a jolt of creativity and edginess. To usher in the city’s busy season, we’ve gathered the best things to do and see in this beachfront locale.

Contact your Trip Designer or Indagare, if you are not yet a member, to start planning a trip to Bal Harbour and Miami. Our team can match you with the accommodations, reservations and activities that are right for you.

Get Cultured

The city’s “Unscripted” public art program brings art and culture to public spaces throughout the neighborhood with permanent installations and programming like opera performances or classical music concerts on the beach. Many blue-chip pieces are stationed along or near the beachfront, starting at the northern end with Manolo Valdes’s bronze rendition of 18th-century Puerto Rican painter José Campeche y Jordán’s “Dama a Caballo.” (Other works by Valdes on display in Bal Harbour include his bronze “Butterflies” and “Triple Butterfly” sculptures) Further south along the beach, Jeff Koons’s “Seated Ballerina” takes her chrome seat amongst the palms. Next, New York-based, Swiss-born Ugo Rondinone’s “2,000 Year Old Olive Tree” is a captivating white-enameled aluminum cast of an actual Italian olive tree from Naples, Italy. The collection gets updated every year.

Another perk of Bal Harbour life: the city provides all residents and hotel guests with its Art Access Card, granting complimentary admission to many Miami museums including heavy hitters like The Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) and the Bass Museum.

Go Shopping

is reportedly the most lucrative “mall” in America per square foot, with a bevy of luxury brands showcasing everything from ornate watches to exquisite handbags. But the shops are also more of a tropical oasis than the typical retail center, with a focus on creating a serene experience through lush foliage, fountains, koi ponds and lovely spots to sit and have coffee or a glass of wine. While the current roster of boutiques includes houses like Gucci, Stella McCartney, Dolce & Gabbana, and Chanel, the shops are also undergoing a major expansion which will almost double their square footage and welcome new retailers and restaurants to the fold. Celeb-spotting is virtually guaranteed here, and the shops host events throughout the year as part of the Access membership program (its app is free to download and open to all), which includes perks like shopping rewards, cocktail parties, yoga and complimentary coffee and parking.

Get Pierced

Ear candy fanatics were elated when piercing guru Maria Tash opened her only Miami location inside the shops in 2021. The New York-based brand is best known for its earrings—and a myriad of piercings which can be administered in-store. Tash, the company’s founder, has been in the jewelry business since 1993, and created the ‘Curated Ear’ concept, customized piercings designed to the wearer’s ears and style—and tempting brave ones to opt for the “snug” cartilage piercings with her jeweled creations. Be sure to check out her Mohawk collection, inspired by the ‘80s punk scene, and the Faceted collection, which draws on the silhouettes of stilettos.

Get Bookish

Shopping in Bal Harbour isn't all designer goods and bespoke suits. Independent bookseller Books & Books has a charming store in the Shops, in addition to their locations downtown and Coral Gables. While the store carries a variety of literature, the Bal Harbour location focuses on large design and art books, many of which pay tribute to Miami's Deco era.

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