Continuum South Beach: Why This Massive Resort-Style Layout Still Dominates the Market

So, you’re looking at South of Fifth. It’s the most expensive, most exclusive slice of Miami Beach, and yet, one project always seems to hog the spotlight. It's the Continuum South Beach. You’ve probably seen the twin towers—North and South—standing right at the tip of the island where the Atlantic meets Government Cut. It’s massive.

Honestly, most high-end condos in Miami feel like glass boxes stacked on top of each other. They’re beautiful, sure, but you’re often stuck on a balcony looking at another balcony. The Continuum is different because of the acreage. We are talking about 12 acres of private oceanfront land. In a city where every square inch is fought over by developers, having 12 acres for just two buildings is basically unheard of. It creates this resort-style bubble that makes you forget you’re actually in one of the densest cities in Florida.

People often ask if the North Tower or the South Tower is better. It depends on what you're after. The South Tower (100 Ocean Drive) came first in 2002, and it’s the one with that iconic curved architecture. The North Tower (50 Ocean Drive) followed in 2008. While the South Tower has more of that "classic" Miami luxury feel, the North Tower is often preferred by those who want a slightly more boutique, intimate experience because it has fewer units per floor.

The Real Reason People Pay $3,000 Per Square Foot

It’s not just the marble. It’s the gate.

The Continuum South Beach is one of the very few truly gated communities in Miami Beach. You can’t just wander onto the property. For the high-net-worth individuals, celebrities, and CEOs who live here, that level of "keep-out" is the primary selling point. Once you pass those gates, the noise of South Beach just… stops.

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You have two lagoon-style pools. There’s a full-service beach club where you don’t have to lift a finger to get a towel or a drink. But the real kicker is the Sporting Club. It’s a three-level fitness center that puts most Equinox locations to shame. We’re talking about a rooftop lap pool, private tennis courts (three of them, clay), and a spa that actually feels like a spa, not just a room with a massage table.

Let’s Talk About the Units and the Floor Plans

If you’re looking at a unit here, you’ll notice the ceilings are high—usually 10 feet. The floor-to-ceiling glass isn't just a gimmick; it’s designed to pull the ocean into the living room.

One thing most people don't realize until they tour a unit is the "flow-through" layout. In many of the larger residences, you get views of both the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Miami skyline/cruise ship alley to the west. You get the sunrise with your coffee and the sunset with your wine.

• Studio and 1-Bedrooms: These usually start around 1,200 square feet. They’re popular for seasonal residents or as pied-à-terres.
• 3+ Bedrooms: This is where the Continuum shines. These units often exceed 3,000 square feet and feel more like villas in the sky.
• Penthouses: These are the unicorns. They rarely hit the open market, and when they do, they break records.

The South of Fifth (SoFi) Factor

Location is everything, but at the Continuum South Beach, it’s about a specific kind of location. You are at the southernmost tip of the city. To your south is South Pointe Park, which is easily the most beautiful park in Miami. You can watch the massive cruise ships glide out to sea from your balcony, and it feels like you could reach out and touch them.

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The dining scene right outside the gate is legendary. You’re within walking distance of:

1. Joe’s Stone Crab: An absolute institution. No reservations, just high-stakes waiting for the best claws in the world.
2. Smith & Wollensky: Located right in the park. It’s the spot for a steak while watching the sunset.
3. Milu by Milos: Some of the best Greek seafood you’ll ever have, period.

Living here means you don't really need a car for your day-to-day. You can walk to the grocery store, the park, and five-star restaurants. In Miami, that's a luxury in itself.

Managing Expectations: The Cons

It’s not all perfect. Let’s be real. Because the buildings are a bit older (early 2000s), some units might still have those "original" finishes that look a bit dated—think beige marble and heavy cabinetry. Many buyers come in and immediately gut the place to bring it up to 2026 standards with minimalist Italian kitchens and wide-plank oak floors.

Also, the HOA fees. They are high. You’re paying for a massive staff, 24-hour security, beach service, and the upkeep of 12 acres of landscaping. If you aren't using the tennis courts or the gym, those monthly fees might sting a little.

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Investment Potential and Market Resilience

While the rest of the Miami condo market can be a bit of a rollercoaster, South of Fifth stays remarkably stable. There is no more land. You can't build another 12-acre resort next door. This scarcity keeps the resale values at the Continuum South Beach incredibly high.

Even during market dips, the "trophy" assets—the condos with the best views and the best amenities—tend to hold their ground. Investors like it because it’s a "blue chip" building. Renters love it because it offers a lifestyle you can't get at the smaller boutique buildings nearby.

Interestingly, we've seen a shift lately. It used to be a lot of international buyers using these as vacation homes. Now, it's more domestic buyers moving from New York, Chicago, or California who are making this their primary residence. They need the office space, the high-speed fiber, and the full-service lifestyle because they’re actually living here year-round.

What You Should Do If You're Serious About Buying

Don't just look at Zillow. The best units at the Continuum often sell "off-market" or before the professional photos are even taken.

1. Get a SoFi Specialist: Work with an agent who lives or breathes South of Fifth. They’ll know which lines in the building have the "unobstructed" views and which ones might be getting a new neighbor soon.
2. Check the Reserves: Always have your attorney review the condo association’s financials. The Continuum is well-managed, but you want to see what major projects (like glass restoration or elevator upgrades) are on the horizon.
3. Visit at Night: The vibe changes. See how the security handles guests and how the lighting feels. It’s a different world after the sun goes down.
4. The North vs. South Decision: Spend time in both lobbies. The South Tower has a more grand, bustling energy. The North Tower feels a bit more like a private residence. Decide which "vibe" fits your personality.

The Continuum isn't just a building; it's a compound. If you want the beach, the park, the tennis, and the privacy all in one place, there isn't another address that competes on this scale. It’s the reigning heavyweight of Miami Beach for a reason.