Picture yourself cruising turquoise waters, eyeing jaw-dropping mansions owned by stars like Oprah or Diddy, with Miami’s skyline sparkling nearby. Star Island Miami is the ultimate VIP escape—a private island dripping with celebrity allure! This exclusive enclave draws millions yearly for its A-list homes and luxurious vibe.
Whether you’re chasing “who lives on Star Island Miami 2025” or dreaming of a boat tour, this 2025 guide covers celebrity residents, maps, rentals, how to visit, and the best things to do. Based on personal and local insights, it’s your ticket to glamour. My tour past those iconic estates was pure magic—ready to dive in?
Download PDF Guide: Star Island Miami
What Is Star Island Miami?
Star Island Miami is a man-made, 86-acre island in Biscayne Bay, just off South Beach. Known for its 30+ ultra-luxe mansions, it’s a celebrity haven with 24/7 security and gated access. Built in 1922, its star-shaped layout inspired its name, and it’s part of the Venetian Islands chain. With a 4.5/5 Tripadvisor rating (1,200+ reviews), it’s a must-see for glamour seekers.
No public beaches or roads keep it exclusive, but boat tours make it accessible for visitors. I love its mix of history and star power!
History of Star Island Miami
Star Island was born during Miami’s 1920s land boom, when developer Carl Fisher dredged Biscayne Bay to create artificial islands. Its star shape and prime location made it elite from the start. By the 1930s, mobster Al Capone owned a mansion here, and in the 1990s, stars like Gloria Estefan moved in.
Today, homes fetch $20–$100 million, cementing their status as Miami’s glitziest address. Fun fact: Limestone from the Florida Keys built its foundations. Pair your visit with a Miami Art Deco tour for more history!
Who Lives on Star Island Miami 2025?
The list of Star Island residents includes some of the most notable figures in business and entertainment, but it changes often due to the dynamic real estate market.
Here are some key figures:
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Vladislav Doronin: Made headlines in 2025 with a record-breaking multi-million dollar property sale on the island.
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Ken Griffin: Billionaire investor owning multiple properties here and nearby areas.
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Shaquille O’Neal: Former resident; his home was bought by Doronin in 2009.
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Rosie O’Donnell: Her former Star Island property was sold recently for tens of millions.
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Jennifer Lopez: Previously linked to Star Island; current ownership status is unclear due to Miami’s fast-moving market.
Other A-list residents include:
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Oprah Winfrey: Owns a stunning 1.9-acre estate purchased in 2022 for around $20 million, featuring breathtaking ocean views.
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Will Smith: Famous for a waterfront mansion with a private dock—perfect for yacht parties.
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Gloria Estefan: Long-time resident with a classic Spanish-style villa.
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David Beckham: Modern mansion equipped with a gym and spa facilities.
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Diddy (Sean Combs): His iconic estate is a highlight on many boat tours.
Residents prioritize privacy, so exact addresses aren’t public. However, boat tours will point out famous homes with exciting celebrity stories.
Star Island Miami Homes for Rent
Renting a home on Star Island, Miami, is rare and pricey, reserved for the ultra-wealthy. In 2025, a few mansions will be available via platforms like Sotheby’s Realty or Luxury Estates:
- Typical Rental: 5–7-bedroom waterfront villa, ~$10,000–$50,000/week.
- Amenities: Private pools, docks, home theaters, and 24/7 security.
- Booking: Requires vetting and deposits (~$5,000+). Contact Sotheby’s or local agents like Miami Luxury Rentals (305-695-6300).
- Availability: Limited to off-season (Jun–Nov) or short-term leases.
For budget stays, book South Beach hotels (~$150–$300/night) via booking.com. Rentals are a splurge, but oh-so-glamorous! See Miami vacation rentals for nearby options.
The Real Estate Market on Star Island
Here’s a glimpse of a recent luxury listing:
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43 Star Island Drive, Miami Beach
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Price: $48,000,000
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8 Bedrooms, 8.3 Bathrooms
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11,104 sq ft of living space
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Built in 1923
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Status: Pending Sale
Star Island’s real estate market is one of Miami’s most competitive. Properties range from Mediterranean Revival mansions to ultra-modern architectural masterpieces with sleek designs and cutting-edge amenities.
Its security and privacy attract buyers seeking refuge from public life.
If you’re curious about Miami’s housing scene, Star Island is the city’s ultimate luxury benchmark. For more info on affordable Miami stays, check out our Miami budget trip guide and where to stay in Miami on a budget.
How to Get to Star Island, Miami
Star Island Miami is private, but here’s how to see it:
- Boat Tours: 90-minute cruises from Bayside Marketplace (400 Biscayne Blvd) pass by mansions. Cost: $26–$38/adult, $21–$25/child, free for infants. Hourly departures (10:30 AM–4:30 PM). No disembarkation.
- By Car: Drive via MacArthur Causeway (no toll), but gates block entry without resident approval.
- Public Transit: Bus 120 ($2.25, 10 min from Downtown) or free Metromover to Bayside Marketplace.
- Rideshare: Lyft/Uber from South Beach to Bayside (~$10–$15).
- Parking: Bayside Marketplace (~$9/hr). Use SpotHero for deals.
- Bahamas Ferries: Depart from Fort Lauderdale (~30 miles), not Miami.
Pro Tip: Take the free Metromover (till 10 p.m.) to Bayside and book a budget-friendly Miami tour to save.
5 Must-See Attractions on Star Island Miami
Since Star Island Miami is private, attractions are viewed via boat tours or nearby activities. Here are the 5 must-see attractions and best things to do on Star Island Miami in 2025:
1. Celebrity Mansions
See Oprah’s 1.9-acre estate or Will Smith’s waterfront villa on a 90-min boat tour ($26–$38). Guides share juicy celeb stories.
2. Biscayne Bay Views
Tours offer panoramic views of Star Island’s shoreline and Miami’s skyline. Sunset cruises (~$30–$40) are magical.
3. Star Island Drive (from water)
The island’s main road, lined with 30+ mansions, is a highlight. Look for Diddy’s iconic estate with its mega yacht dock.
4. Nearby Venetian Islands
Cycle the Venetian Causeway ($3.00 SunPass, $3.75 Toll-by-Plate, bike rentals $15/hr) for views of Star Island from afar.
5. Bayside Marketplace
Post-tour, explore this vibrant hub with shops and dining ($10–$20/meal). Free live music adds flair.
Pro Tip: Book a sunset boat tour for golden-hour views. Check miamistarislandcruises.com for schedules.
5 Things to Do Near Star Island
Although you cannot freely explore Star Island on foot, the surrounding areas offer plenty to see and do.
- Take a Miami on a budget trip to nearby Miami Beach. Enjoy free things to do in Miami, like strolling along the beach or exploring art districts.
- Savor local flavors with cheap eats in Miami at nearby food trucks and local markets.
- Rent a bike or car through Top Car Rental in Miami to explore the wider area at your own pace.
- Visit the Miami Zoo or take a ferry to the best Miami island destinations for a full day of nature and fun.
- Explore budget-friendly neighborhoods in Miami for affordable dining and accommodation options.
Pro Tip: Pair your tour with a free thing to do in Miami, like Bayside Park, for a budget day.
Best Star Island Tours and Cruises (Highly Recommended)
- Biscayne Bay Millionaires’ Homes Sightseeing Cruise
Duration: 1.5 hours | Skip the line
⭐ 4.5/5 (5,400+ reviews) | Booked 55 times yesterday
Price: From $20 (discounted from $31) per person
See luxurious waterfront estates and enjoy stunning bay views. - Miami Open-Top Bus Night Tour with Live Guide
Duration: 1.5 hours
⭐ 4.2/5 (400+ reviews) | Booked 6 times yesterday
Price: From $35 per person
Experience Miami’s nightlife with a fun guided bus tour. - Miami Snorkeling for Beginners from Bayside Marketplace
Duration: 1.5 hours
⭐ 4.4/5 | Price: From $50 (was $100)
Discover Miami’s underwater world with a beginner-friendly snorkeling trip. - Celebrity Homes Boat Tour with Guide
Duration: 1.5 hours
⭐ 4.6/5 (90+ reviews) | Booked 7 times yesterday
Price: From $30 (discounted from $36) per person
Get close to Miami’s famous celebrity mansions by boat. - Miami City Tour: 5 Sites, 4 Stops
Duration: 3.5 hours
⭐ 4.8/5 (100+ reviews) | Booked 6 times yesterday
Price: From $24 (discounted from $30) per person
Explore Miami’s top attractions on one epic guided tour. - Self-Drive Jetski Adventure
Duration: 1 hour
⭐ 4.1/5 (230+ reviews) | Booked 9 times yesterday
Price: From $25 per person
Thrill yourself by driving your own jetski around Miami waters. - Sightseeing Speedboat Tour
Duration: 45 minutes
⭐ 4.7/5 (1,600+ reviews) | Booked 9 times yesterday
Price: From $45 per person
Fast-paced fun with breathtaking views of Miami’s coastline. - Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour with Boat Cruise
Duration: 2 days
⭐ 3.6/5 (320+ reviews) | Booked 5 times yesterday
Price: From $35 per person
Flexible city tour combined with a relaxing boat cruise.
Costs for Visiting Star Island Miami
- Solo: ~$30–$50/day (boat tour $26–$38, parking ~$9/hr, snacks $5–$10).
- Couple: ~$60–$100/day (shared tour $52–$76, parking, snacks).
- Rentals: Rare, ~$10,000–$50,000/week for mansions ([web:9]).
Savings Tip: Use the free Metromover to Bayside and pack snacks to skip boat bar costs (~$5–$10).
Best Time to Visit Star Island Miami
- Spring (Mar–May): 70–80°F, low crowds, ideal for boat tours.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): 65–75°F, peak season, book early.
- Summer (Jun–Aug): 85–90°F, rainy but cheaper tours ($21–$26).
- Fall (Sep–Nov): 75–85°F, hurricane risk, fewer crowds.
Pro Tip: Check miamiandbeaches.com for events like the Miami Boat Show (Feb).
Star Island Miami Celebrity Homes Map
A Star Island Miami celebrity homes map isn’t publicly available due to privacy laws, but boat tour operators provide onboard maps or guides. The island’s star-shaped layout includes one main road (Star Island Drive) with 30+ mansions along the waterfront.
Tours highlight homes like Oprah’s or Will Smith’s, using landmarks like docks or unique architecture.
For example, Gloria Estefan’s villa has Spanish red tiles, visible from the water. Some operators offer digital maps via apps like miamiandbeaches.com. My tour guide’s map made spotting Diddy’s estate a breeze! Check miamistarislandcruises.com for tour-specific maps.
Map of Star Island, Miami
Star Island Miami’s layout is simple: a star-shaped island with Star Island Drive looping around 30+ waterfront mansions. Public maps are limited due to privacy, but boat tours provide guides or digital maps showing key homes (e.g., Oprah’s estate at the northern tip).
Location on Map:
The island sits between South Beach and the Venetian Islands, accessible via MacArthur Causeway. For a visual, download the miamiandbeaches.com app or check tour operator sites like miamistarislandcruises.com for onboard maps.
Tips for Visiting Star Island Miami
- Book Early: Reserve boat tours 1–2 weeks ahead, especially in winter.
- Safety: Stay in lit areas at Bayside after dark; it closes at 10 p.m.
- Apps: Use Google Maps for Bayside navigation or SpotHero for parking deals.
- Combine Activities: Pair with a Miami on a budget visit to South Beach’s free neon-lit walks.
Pro Tip: Follow @VisitMiami on Instagram for tour discounts and celebrity updates.
FAQs About Star Island Miami
Is Star Island Miami open to the public?
No. Star Island is a private gated community with no public access.
Who owns Star Island?
The island consists of private properties owned by wealthy individuals, including billionaires and celebrities.
How can I see Star Island?
The best ways are by boat tours, kayaking, or sightseeing cruises that circle the island.
Is Star Island part of the Venetian Islands?
No. Star Island is a separate man-made island near but not part of the Venetian Islands.
Are there any famous homes on Star Island?
Yes. Homes once owned by celebrities like Shaquille O’Neal and Rosie O’Donnell have made headlines.
Author’s Take: Why Star Island Is a Must-See Miami Landmark
From my experience, Star Island represents Miami’s luxury lifestyle at its peak. You cannot enter, but the views from the water are breathtaking.
Seeing the grand homes set against Biscayne Bay’s turquoise waters is a memorable experience. The exclusivity and architectural beauty combine to make Star Island a unique Miami treasure.
For visitors who love free things to do in Miami and want to explore beyond the tourist spots, viewing Star Island by kayak or boat is an unforgettable way to enjoy the city’s charm without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
Star Island Miami stands as a symbol of wealth, privacy, and architectural splendor. While it is off-limits to the public, its presence enriches the Biscayne Bay landscape and Miami’s allure.
Whether you are fascinated by real estate, celebrity culture, or simply want to see one of Miami’s most iconic landmarks, Star Island is worth experiencing from a respectful distance.
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