Rivo Alto Island, Miami Beach, FL: Community Guide

Rivo Alto Island is one of the six Venetian Islands situated in the emerald waters of the Biscayne Bay. The island is strictly residential and features extremely upscale waterfront estates that boast a high level of privacy and exclusivity.

Rivo Alto Island is a part of the city of Miami Beach and Miami-Dade County and is in close proximity to vibrant Downtown Miami, the Miami International Airport, and all of Miami Beach’s hottest spots.

Be sure to check out all Rivo Alto Island homes for sale

Satellite photo of Rivo Alto Island (center)

History

In the early 1900s, a group of visionaries and businessmen joined forces to transform the Miami Beach area from swampland into the tropical paradise it is today. Part of that plan included the creation of the Collins Bridge to link Miami Beach to the Miami mainland and the construction of six artificial islands all to be interconnected along this route. The Collins Bridge was the brainchild of farmer and landowner, John S. Collins and partially financed by entrepreneur, Carl G. Fisher. 

When it was completed in 1913, the Collins Bridge was a monumental achievement as the longest wooden bridge in the world and helped to put the Miami Beach area on the map as a luxurious tropical destination. Rivo Alto Island was constructed using dredged sand from the Biscayne Bay and was completed in 1926. During this same year, the Venetian Causeway was completed and replaced the Collins Bridge as the thoroughfare between the new Venetian Islands, Miami Beach, and mainland Miami.

From the 1930s to 1940s, homesites were plotted out and sold on Rivo Alto Island, attracting the wealthy elite in search of privacy, prestige, the tropical climate, and the stunning waterfront views from the island. More than half a century later, Rivo Alto has maintained its notoriety as a luxurious tropical paradise for the wealthy seeking pristine waterfront mansions, serenity from city life, and the privacy and status only this exclusive island can provide.

Rivo Alto Island boasts pedestrian-friendly infrastructure

Lifestyle & Amenities

Rivo Alto Island exudes a vibe of exclusivity and affluence all while being in close proximity to the most popular and up-and-coming spots in the area. The island is bisected by the Venetian Causeway which has become a popular stretch for cyclists, runners, and walkers alike. The length of the causeway provides spectacular glimpses of Biscayne Bay and the surrounding beaches, sights of Venetian Island mansions, and views of bustling downtown Miami and Miami Beach.

The Miami Beach Golf Club is just a few minutes away from Rivo Alto Island and features a pristine 18-hole course set amongst swaying palm trees and shimmering water features. The club boasts a full-service restaurant and numerous social and tournament events throughout the year. 

For Rivo Alto residents craving delicious, unique dining experiences, the Sunset Harbour neighborhood is a mecca for South Florida foodies. From tapas to fine Italian restaurants to hip coffee bars, Sunset Harbour has become a popular destination for dining and shopping or just taking an evening stroll to take in the sun setting over the ocean. 

Lincoln Road is another nearby trendy spot for Rivo Alto residents. Featuring community events like weekend farmer’s markets and outdoor yoga classes, it has become a central gathering place for locals. Hundreds of shops and restaurants make up the highly walkable Lincoln Road area and numerous events such as jazz festivals and antique fairs are regular occurrences. 

Luxury homes on Rivo Alto Island often feature lush, tropical landscaping.

Real Estate

Rivo Alto is an enclave of stunning waterfront and interior lot mansions and estates set against the backdrop of sparkling Biscayne Bay. Throughout the island, the work of high-profile architects can be seen from sleek, contemporary modern works of art to inviting Meditteranean-style villas. Exotic and high-end materials are seen throughout the homes on the island from hand-carved gates and entry doors to top-of-the-line gourmet kitchens. 

Residents value the anonymity that the island provides and many home entrances feature impressive gates and lush landscaping to ensure the utmost privacy. Many of the bayfront homes on Rivo Alto have docks allowing direct access into Biscayne Bay and the ability to store a boat. Most homes also have gorgeous swimming pools and seamless indoor to outdoor spaces perfect for entertaining and taking in the Miami skyline and sunset views. 

Real estate on Rivo Alto Island is highly sought after by extremely wealthy entrepreneurs, business executives, and even celebrities seeking the respite and exclusivity the island provides. Homes on the island vary in price from the low million dollars to the multi-million dollar range. 

Additional Reading

Learn more about other islands in the Venetian Island chain:

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