Where to Live: Aventura, Florida

The Towers that line the left side of the street are beautiful spots that overlook the bay and the ocean beyond. One standout complex is the Hamptons Condominium, a collection of luxury condos where each tower tells its own story; a story that you could be a part of.

Each building has units that can be bought or rented, ranging from two to six bedrooms. The condominiums have multiple towers providing their residents with views to die for. Hampton South Condominium overlooks Turnberry Isle Resort. Another fabulous feature is the Waterfront views and the Golden Isles located north of this condo. To the West is the beautiful Skyline, the perfect location for photos to be taken, with stunning views of the Intercoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. No matter which side you choose with the Hamptons condominium, you will find a scene that suits your style. Location is key. By living in one of these condos, you have the luxury of closeness to the famous Aventura Mall, some of the best schools, and minutes away from I-95 and the airport.

Another wonderful Community located on Country Club Drive is Country Club Estates, on the right side of the road. Established in 1993, this location is filled with single-family homes that are the epitome of luxury and leisurely living. Each two-story home is beautiful, with views of a breathtaking Florida landscape. Country Club Estates also offers a variety of amenities, including the security and peace of mind that comes with a gated entrance. Being here also provides outstanding golf course views, a spa, and a children's play area. This location has something for the whole family to enjoy.

Keep following the GPS around the golf course – our next stop is the club itself, where you’ll find plenty of entertainment options.

The 300-acre Turnberry Isle Country Club sprawls out on the right side of this street. Turnberry has two championship golf courses, the Soffer Course and The Miller Course. Both are great for beginners, casual afternoon tee times, or competitive training.

For those who are more active, Turnberry Isle Country Club is home to the Canas Tennis Center and a three-mile jogging trail. The club's closeness to everything makes this the perfect location if you want to explore other aspects of Aventura, especially the mall.

In the vicinity, we also have the JW Marriott Resort & Spa. The resort was rated #1 in Florida by Condé Nast Traveler. While they also enjoy the amenities of the country club, the resort has its own merits. The rooms are spacious, and guests rave about the politeness of the staff. The employees are a part of what makes the experience great. Guests have also enjoyed the food! They offer poolside dining, and the Corsair Kitchen and Bar will satisfy any craving for light meals and appetizers.

Keep heading down this small looping street, which will bring you back to the main road.

Looking for a way to keep your kids or grandkids entertained for a day? Try out Tidal Cove. This 5-acre water park experience has everything one could desire, from a lazy river to exciting rides to relaxing Cabanas. It’s a great place to relax while the young ones expend some excess energy.

The water park has seven water slides, each more adventurous than the last. For those younger children, they also have a kids cove that's shallow enough to watch and play with your little one as they splash around. But be prepared for the giant bucket. If they like gallons of water falling over their heads, be prepared for loud giggles because there should be plenty.

A few other attractions include the Master Blaster, the world's first uphill water slide taking you on the water coaster experience of a lifetime. We can't forget the FlowRider Triple: a surfing simulator that lets you ride the waves in style or learn how. Do you want some time away from the crowd? Maybe some preferred seating in a cabana? Try out the Oasis pool, where you can sip a cool drink and soak up the sun.

When you get back to the main road, you’ll hang a right and then make an immediate left to cross over the street and head to the next stop.

This next stop is sure to bring out your inner fashionista – welcome to the Aventura Mall. This chic 3-story mall is a fun way to get your steps in while exploring the luxe designer shops. With over 300 boutiques and department stores, you are sure to find what you need, whether you’re looking for a gift or shopping for yourself.

The mall has over 50 spots to grab a bite, including Treats Food Hall, whether you’re looking for a healthy meal or craving classing mall food, Treats has dozens of vendors. They even have several vegan options for those with dietary restrictions, so don't think you have to stop your shopping trip just to eat. Whether you’re in the mood for jerk chicken, dim sum, or poke, you’ll find something delicious at Treats Food Hall.

One of my favorite aspects of this shopper’s paradise is its location. Centrally located, the mall is accessible on foot for many of Aventura’s residents, meaning your trip to the mall may also count as your workout for the day. Carrying all those full shopping bags may even count as arm day!

The mall was built in 1983 and has since expanded quite a bit. Two of its original anchor stores, Macy's and JCPenny, are still an essential part of the Aventura shopping experience.

Another thing that mustn't go unnoticed is the experimental Arts Aventura Mall program featuring 20 museum-quality art installations in various media. Keep an eye out as you shop, you may find yourself unexpectedly inspired.

Leaving the mall, we’re heading underneath the Lehman Causeway to the southern section of town.

The green space on your left is called Founder’s Park. This scenic park offers beautiful walking trails and a playground to enjoy. What’s more, they have a fun water area called the splash pad where kids can enjoy the coolness of falling water on the warmest of days. Patrons say it’s just as good as any water park, especially if that means you can use the natural sun after to dry off. The park offers sun shelters and picnic areas, accessible if you need shade from the sun or a break.

If the walking trails and splash pad are not enough to enjoy Founder’s Park, try out one of its many sports courts or the athletic field for a game of football or soccer. They are sure to have plenty of space, especially since the park is for Aventura residents only. The city even hosts plenty of events and festivals for the residents to enjoy. The activities offered make Founder’s park an excellent place for the whole family. It’s certainly a great spot to meet your neighbors; you may even make some lifelong friends along the way.

Our next stop really gets me excited. We’re headed to Town Center Aventura, a 187,000 square-foot shopping center. The shopping mall has 34 stores and restaurants, making this the gathering ground for many locals. The open-air shopping center is the heartbeat of Aventura, allowing its shoppers to have an everyday experience and walk from shop to shop as they take in the wonderful Florida air. The selection of boutiques and restaurants is phenomenal, including other locations to even fuel your other interests.

Among the stores, they have Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Elan, Swimland, and much more. As for restaurants, they range from casual to fine dining, so no matter the event, Town Center Aventura has you covered with setting the desired mood. Some restaurants include Kura Revolving Sushi Bar, Taco Box, Novecento, and many more. If you’re in need of self-care, Town Center Aventura also offers plenty of ‘Feel Good’ places, like Blo Blow Dry, YogaSix, and Tammy Nail and Spa.

The town center also offers a great way to reach the necessities, such as a grocery store in the vicinity, Publix. For those with aching or unaligned spines, The Joint Chiropractic is close by. Along with a close chiropractor, there is also a dentist and Orangetheory fitness center. There is a reason Town Center Aventura is a hub for Aventura’s residents. They offer so much to meet your needs.

Make a left to take a detour down to the end of 188th street and back.

We are now reaching some of my favorite places on this tour, Peace Park and Aventura Arts and Cultural Center. Peace Park consists of 1.3 acres and includes an open play area and a playground with screening that protects kids from the dangers of too much sun. Visitors say Peace Park is a quaint park and definitely the best option if you are looking for a nice small city park. Peace Park also offers an adult exercise area for those that like to get in their morning or afternoon workouts outside. The workout area includes a walking path and actual workout machines. You can find nearby street parking, or much like many of the city’s amenities, you can easily access Peace Park on foot.

Now, to my favorite place of inspiration and expression, the Aventura Arts and Cultural Center. The Aventura Arts and Cultural Center is a modern theater, with a diverse collection of performances ranging from plays to touring comedians and world musicians. Patrons are in awe of the architecture – it’s featured heavily on the Instagram stories of local influencers. The location is excellent with plenty of parking, and it’s located right on the water. Shows and performances change regularly, so stay up to date on their most recent showings.

Heading back down 188th, we’ll turn left and cut down onto the next peninsula south of here. Along the way to our final stop, we’ll drive past the shaded playground called Veterans Park and pass Peninsula II, a luxury spa with gorgeous outdoor gardens.

After that, we’ll cross a small bridge to some of Aventura’s best apartment homes, located on their own private island in Dumfoundling Bay.