City Announces Student Writing Contest and Upcoming Events
The City of Sunny Isles Beach is encouraging its young residents to participate in the Florida City Week Writing Contest, which was announced on October 15, 2026. This initiative invites students in grades 6 through 8 to showcase their writing skills. In other city news, residents can look forward to a series of community events. The popular ‘Booogie by the Beach’ is scheduled for October 23 and 24, offering festive fun for all ages. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, a ‘Full Moon Yoga on the Beach’ session is planned for October 26. These events are part of the city’s ongoing efforts to foster a strong sense of community and provide engaging recreational activities for its residents. The city also continues to highlight its recent accolades, including the 2026 FLGISA Technology Excellence Award, which recognizes the innovative use of technology in public service.
New Luxury Towers Approved Amidst Sinking Concerns
The skyline of Sunny Isles Beach is poised for further transformation with the approval of several major luxury residential projects. The St. Regis Residences, a dual tower 62 story condominium, and The Miami Beach Club, another 62 story tower, have both received the green light from the city. These new developments will add hundreds of new residential units to the city’s housing stock. Construction is also progressing on the Bentley Residences, another prominent luxury high rise. However, this period of rapid development is accompanied by a note of caution. A recent study has raised concerns about the sinking of numerous high rise buildings along the coast, a phenomenon known as subsidence. While engineers have stated there is no immediate danger, the potential for ‘differential settlement’, where different parts of a building sink at varying rates, has become a topic of discussion among property owners and potential buyers. The local real estate market for existing properties is showing signs of being a buyer’s market, which could present opportunities for some investors. Market data reveals a wide spread in closing prices for properties in the area.
Beach and Ocean Conditions
Beachgoers in Sunny Isles Beach should exercise caution today. The daily beach conditions report from the Ocean Rescue division indicates that yellow and purple flags are flying. The yellow flag warns of moderate surf or currents, making it a medium hazard for swimmers. The purple flag indicates the presence of dangerous marine life, specifically jellyfish. The water temperature is a warm 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29 degrees Celsius). The UV index is rated at 7, which is considered high, so sun protection is strongly advised for anyone planning to spend time on the sand. High tide is expected at 1:48 PM, with low tides at 7:15 AM and 7:57 PM. Winds are coming from the south southeast at 5 to 10 miles per hour. Swimmers are always encouraged to check with a lifeguard for the latest safety information before entering the water.
Man Arrested in High Rise Shooting
A disturbing incident occurred in a Sunny Isles Beach high rise condominium on Thursday, October 15, 2026, leading to the arrest of a 53 year old man. The man, Joseph Christopher Mattina, is accused of shooting his longtime friend in the heel during a dinner on the balcony of the apartment. According to the arrest report, the two men had been drinking heavily before and during the meal when an argument developed. The victim told detectives that Mattina became upset, went inside the apartment briefly, and returned with an uneasy expression. A firearm then discharged, grazing the victim’s heel. The victim reported punching Mattina and throwing the gun off the 19th floor balcony onto the beach below to prevent it from being used again. He then called 911. Investigators later recovered the firearm on the beach. Mattina was arrested and faces a charge of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.
Weather Forecast
The weather in Sunny Isles Beach for the remainder of today and the next three days will see a mix of sun and storms. Today, October 17th, expect a few thunderstorms with temperatures reaching a high of 87°F (31°C) and a low of 79°F (26°C). Winds will be from the east at around 9 mph. There is a 71% chance of precipitation. Sunday, October 18th, will bring more thunderstorms with a high of 83°F (28°C) and a low of 78°F (26°C). The wind will shift to come from the northeast at a brisker 18 mph. The chance of rain increases to 74%. Monday, October 19th, will also see a few thunderstorms with a high of 83°F (28°C) and a low of 78°F (26°C). Winds will be out of the northeast at 13 mph, and there is a 66% chance of precipitation. Tuesday, October 20th, will have isolated thunderstorms with a high of 85°F (29°C) and a low of 78°F (26°C). The wind will be from the northeast at 17 mph with a 48% chance of rain.