Miami Lakes, Florida, is a well-established master-planned community in Miami-Dade County known for its blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to major urban centers. The residential area often referred to as Don Shula's Golf Club in real estate contexts centers around the historic golf course that has long been a defining feature of the town. Developed by the Graham Companies, Miami Lakes emerged from former dairy farmland into a thoughtfully designed community featuring tree-lined streets, green spaces, and recreational opportunities.
The golf course itself traces its roots to 1962 when it opened as an 18-hole championship layout designed by Bill Watts. Spanning more than 500 tree-shaded acres, the course—now known as Miami Lakes Golf Club or The Senator Course—offers a Par 72 challenge that has welcomed golfers of all skill levels for decades. It underwent significant updates in 1998 by architect Kipp Schulties, enhancing its classic parkland style with lush tropical landscaping. The facility remains a semi-private destination conveniently positioned between Miami International Airport and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, making it popular with visitors and locals alike.
Location and accessibility define much of the appeal. Situated in northwest Miami-Dade County, the neighborhood provides easy connections via major highways including the Palmetto Expressway (SR 826) and proximity to Interstate 75. This positioning allows residents quick commutes to downtown Miami, the beaches of Miami Beach, and business districts while enjoying a more relaxed residential environment away from the hustle of South Beach.
Lifestyle in the Don Shula's Golf Club area emphasizes outdoor recreation and community-oriented living. The presence of the championship golf course fosters a golf-centric culture, with residents and visitors enjoying rounds amid scenic fairways bordered by mature trees and water features. The broader Miami Lakes setting includes ample green spaces and a suburban pace that appeals to families and professionals seeking balance between work and leisure.
Real estate in the area features a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and properties that benefit from the golf course adjacency. Listings often highlight proximity to the fairways, mature landscaping, and the established character of the neighborhood developed over decades by the Graham family. The market reflects steady interest in this pocket of Miami Lakes due to its recreational assets and location advantages.
Nearby attractions enhance daily life and weekend options. Residents are close to Main Street in Miami Lakes with its shops, dining, and entertainment, as well as larger Miami destinations including the Hard Rock Stadium, Dolphin Mall, and cultural sites in Coral Gables or Wynwood. The area's central South Florida location also supports easy travel for business or leisure.
Parks and recreation opportunities extend beyond the golf course. Miami Lakes features various community parks, walking paths, and recreational facilities that complement the golf offerings. The athletic club and spa associated with the nearby hotel property provide additional fitness and wellness options for those seeking active lifestyles.
Shopping and dining are readily accessible. The town center and Main Street area offer a variety of retail and restaurant choices, while the original Shula's Steak House remains a local landmark tied to the area's history. Broader Miami dining and shopping scenes are just a short drive away.
Transportation options include major roadways for driving, with Miami International Airport approximately 10-15 minutes distant. Public transit via Miami-Dade Transit connects to broader county services, though the area is primarily car-oriented given its suburban layout.
Demographics reflect a diverse mix typical of Miami Lakes, with professionals, families, and retirees drawn to the golf and
Community Amenities
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Local highlights include the enduring legacy of the golf course, which has hosted notable figures and remains one of Miami's respected public-access championship venues. The transition in naming from Don Shula's to Miami Lakes Golf Club reflects evolving branding while preserving the facility's reputation.
People choose to live in this community for its unique combination of golf access, established suburban charm, convenient location between two major airports, and the overall quality of life offered by the Graham Companies' vision for Miami Lakes. The neighborhood provides a peaceful retreat with strong recreational focus in a dynamic region.
Community Amenities
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Notes Management company: Graham Companies. Source URLs: https://www.shulasgolfclub.com/welcome-to-don-shula-s-golf-club; https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/nfl/miami-dolphins/article257094177.html. Context from official site and news reports (2022-2026).
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