Fisher Island


Fisher Island

 A barrier island provides luxurious amenities and tropical allure

Surrounded by the crystal waters of Biscayne Bay, Fisher Island offers true opulence for those seeking a home in a private, glamorous, and unusual setting. This 216-acre refuge, accessible only by ferry or private boat, is dotted with majestic waterfront villas, breathtaking mansions, elegant condominiums (for purchase or rent), and many world-class amenities, such as beach clubs, restaurants and shopping. And yet, this magnificent barrier island sits a mere three miles from cosmopolitan Miami!

But, really, there’s little reason to go off-island. Residents of this distinguished community can relax in an opulent Roaring 20's mansion. Add to that deepwater marinas, a world-class golf course and racquet club, fine dining establishments and posh cocktail lounges, upscale shopping, a sumptuous spa, parks, and private beachfronts—your tropical paradise is here!

The storied history of Fisher Island began in the early 1900s when Carl Fisher purchased a piece of wild from South Florida millionaire Dana A. Dorsey. Then in 1924 Fisher whimsically traded of a 250-foot yacht to William Kissam Vanderbilt II for the undeveloped island. The famous millionaire intended to create a private sanctuary superior to the leisure retreats of his peers, and a year later his palatial estate was complete. Today this Mediterranean-style mansion serves as the nucleus of the Fisher Island Club, the exclusive residential community and resort at the center of life on the island. Set amidst elegantly landscaped grounds the Vanderbilt Mansion houses stately clubs and lounges, distinctive restaurants, a grand ballroom, library, and boutique hotel. Restored guest cottages from 1925 add to the charm.

The historic estate features an elegant piano bar, the Garwood Lounge. Serving sophisticated meals, and inventive cocktails and desserts, this unique restaurant abuts the island’s aviary of rare and tropical birds. If you’re looking for something completely different, you can try the relaxed City View Café. This upscale eatery offers casual dining and light fare, and through the windows you can view the ever-evolving skyline of Downtown Miami. For those intrigued by true exclusivity, the Snooker Club, a private billiards and gaming room, is available only to residents of the island. Just outside the Vanderbilt Mansion is the popular Beach Club restaurant. This celebrated island establishment overlooks a half-mile of private beach. Here diners enjoy gourmet meals crafted from local ingredients, all while taking in the waterfront view from open-air tables.

For those seeking active pursuits, the Fisher Island Club offers many options. The Grand Slam Tennis Center features 18 courts with clay, grass, and hard surfaces suitable for professionals and amateurs alike. Prefer a leisurely game of croquet? Yes, you can do that too.

Golfers enjoy the beautiful -- and challenging -- 9-hole championship course designed by legendary architect P.B. Dye. In addition to the course, The Links at Fisher Island boasts a double-ended driving range, a 10,000 square foot club and pro shop, and the Golf Grill restaurant, which serves casual dishes either indoors or on an outdoor terrace that overlooks the verdant course.

To unwind post-game, or whenever the desire to be pampered strikes, visit the 22,000 square foot Spa Internazionale and full-service Salon di Bellezza, located just off the peaceful Vanderbilt Marina. Skilled staff provide therapeutic massage, body wraps, skin treatments and facials. The spa also hosts relaxation rooms, a Roman waterfall, a pool and jacuzzi, a sauna, and a steam room. For those wanting something more vigorous, this state-of-the-art facility houses a fitness center with the up-to-the-minute equipment and a roster of classes.

But despite the island’s extensive array of leisure and recreation amenities, the business of day-to-day life is also easily accomplished close to home. Fisher Island’s Office of the GM offers members accounting services as well as a Regions Bank branch, a dry cleaner, a florist, and an upscale boutique. Also on-island are a Post Office, a Security Center to address any member’s security needs or concerns, and an established Fire Station and Emergency Medical System. So despite the island’s otherworldly aura, all the necessities of daily life are conveniently within reach.

Fisher Island provides an unparalleled lifestyle built on natural beauty and man-made convenience. Nestled between sparkling bay waters and the endless Florida sky, this island home is truly an opulent delight that you can call home.