4 Bay Harbor Shuls You’ll Want to Know About

By Joyce Azria

If you’re exploring a life in Bay Harbor Islands — whether you’re moving from New York, LA, or just crossing the causeway from Miami Beach — there’s something really beautiful about the community here. As someone who deeply values tradition, connection, and lifestyle, I can honestly say that Bay Harbor offers a rare blend of elegance, intimacy, and Jewish warmth.

For families like mine — or for anyone wanting to stay spiritually grounded in a modern, fast-paced world — finding a local shul isn’t just about where to daven. It’s about where you’ll build friendships, send your kids to Hebrew school, or simply feel at home.

Here are four Bay Harbor shuls I personally love sharing with new residents:

1. The Shul of Bal Harbour

📍 9540 Collins Ave, Surfside (just steps away from Bay Harbor)
This iconic Chabad house is truly a community anchor. With stunning architecture, a deeply welcoming vibe, and an incredibly diverse crowd — from young professionals to multi-generational families — The Shul feels vibrant and rooted at once.

Why I love it:
Rabbi Lipskar has built more than just a synagogue; it’s a full ecosystem. Classes, youth programs, mikvah, kosher café, women’s circles — it’s all here.

Joyce’s note: If you’re new to town and want to feel connected immediately, this is your starting point.

2. Chabad of Bay Harbor

📍 1111 Kane Concourse, Bay Harbor Islands
A cozy, growing community right in the heart of Bay Harbor. Chabad of Bay Harbor is led with warmth and depth, offering everything from inspiring Shabbat services to community holiday events that draw kids and parents alike.

Perfect for:
Young families, part-time residents, and anyone who wants approachable Judaism without judgment.

Joyce says: It’s where tradition meets modern family life, and you’ll always be greeted with a smile. I love going there for an easy connecting place without a crowd.

3. Young Israel of Bal Harbour

9592 Harding Ave, Surfside
This Modern Orthodox shul brings together a thoughtful, educated crowd with a serious love for Torah, Israel, and family values. The rabbi is inspiring, the crowd is tight-knit, and the Shabbat experience feels elevated and warm.

Great for:
Families seeking strong Torah values with a contemporary mindset.

Joyce’s insight: If you are coming in from NY Upper East or West Side this might feel like your home away from home it has that city feel.

4. Hechal Shalom Sephardic Congregation

1003 Kane Concourse, Bay Harbor Islands
A gem tucked right into Kane Concourse, Hechal Shalom is a quiet but devoted Sephardic shul that embodies dignity, tradition, and reverence. It's ideal for those looking for an authentic prayer experience in a more intimate setting.

Ideal for:
Those who value the beauty of Sephardic tefillah and a smaller, soulful crowd.

Joyce’s note: I always say this place feels like a whisper — gentle, sacred, and full of history.

Living Near Your Shul

One of the most thoughtful parts of buying in Bay Harbor is being close to your shul. If you’re dreaming of a home that’s close to the community and aligned with your values, I’d love to help you find it. This is more than real estate — it’s about creating a life that feels elevated, meaningful, and deeply yours.

With heart,
Joyce Azria