Nautica - Miramar, FL

Incorporated in 1955, Miramar, FL holds Nautica within its boundaries. The word Miramar translates from Spanish to mean view of the sea. Nautica came about as the city of Miramar rapidly expanded since its inception, beginning at around 2.9 square miles and standing at approximately 31 square miles currently.

Miramar includes the Miramar Cultural center, the cultural hub of the area. Residents enjoy plays, concerts, art festivals and entertainment at this state-of-the-art facility. The Ansin Family Art Gallery hosts special events throughout the year. This gallery hosts a variety of acts for all age groups, from date-night events to family-friendly plays and musicals.

Countless dining options surround the neighborhood of Nautica. Family and date-night options abound along the major roadways, with many chains located along Miramar Parkway and The Shoppes at Pembroke Gardens, an outdoor mall. You'll find many locally owned restaurants scattered through the area as well.

One local favorite, Ruchi Indian Restaurant, houses an Indian buffet that serves as an excellent take-out or dine-in option. If you can handle spicy, try the chicken phaal. The kerala mutton roast provides guests less heat and loads of flavor as a goat on a bone dish.

Another local favorite provides residents South American flavors at an affordable price. I Love Tacos serves up some of the tastiest tacos in South Florida. If your appetite can handle it, the habanero enchiladas can feed a small family, but suits one hefty appetite as well. Tacos locos satisfies the taco craving many guests walk through the door looking to appease.

Locals frequent the Shoppes at Pembroke Gardens outdoor mall area for happy hour and drinks after work. Bokamper's Sports Bar and Grill provides locals a laid-back environment and a sports bar atmosphere with typical bar food and drinks specials every day.

Residents have access to public transportation via the Broward county transit system. The cost of a one-way ticket runs $1.75 to reach downtown Fort Lauderdale. You can call for taxi service, but drivers don't frequent the area as it is mostly gated communities. The streets provide safe routes for bikers and exercisers of all speeds, and parking can be found within the retail plazas of most major retail centers at no cost to shoppers. Uber operates in the area, but requires a longer wait than in a more densely populated area.

Residents and visitors have access to Interstate 75, which takes travelers to Western Florida as well as routes south to Miami and the Florida Keys.

Nautica contains one family- and dog-friendly park within its boundaries — Miramar Regional Park. Free admission to this park ensures spending days with friends and family doesn't have to cost a thing. Featuring athletic fields for a variety of sports, walking and jogging paths for those looking to up their fitness level, and nature trails for those who wish to enjoy the great outdoors in all its beauty, this park makes the perfect destination for exercise-minded individuals. Locals also visit the park to enjoy relaxing walks through tree-filled areas that surround lakes and waterways.

Annual events include a Latin music festival in the fall, back to school block parties as school kids begin heading back to school, and Family Fun Day in January to enjoy the mild South Florida winter.

The cost of living in Winston Park sits 12 percent higher than the national average, but only 10.9 percent above the Florida average. The diverse mix of national retailers and grocery chains make Nautica an affordable place to raise a family. It costs $1.75 via public bus to reach downtown Fort Lauderdale. A taxi service costs more than $30 due to the distance. One-bedroom apartments cost an average of $1,575 thanks to an abundance of apartment complexes near the shopping hubs. The typical price of a pint of beer runs about $4 at any of the local bars and restaurants. Gas prices sit 7.7 percent above the national average, which remains consistent with most suburban residential South Florida neighborhoods west of Interstate 95 in Broward County.

Nautica sits in close proximity to several major shopping areas, and the shops along Miramar Parkway give residents access to many major retail stores and major chain restaurants. The Shops at Pembroke Gardens house major mall staples, such as Banana Republic, Ann Taylor and Victoria's Secret. This outdoor mall sits surrounded by some of the finest restaurant groups in South Florida, including Brimstone Woodfire Grill.

Shoppers looking for unique fashion choices visit Voga Style Boutique for both casual wear and more upscale attire. The owner loves helping shoppers find exactly what they need for any occasion. Unique accessories and evening wear options help you achieve a classy look that doesn't break your budget.

The Desi Bazar provides locals with the taste of other worlds, introducing visitors to new flavors and options. Publix, Trader Joe's, and Whole Foods service Nautica residents and provide easy access to all grocery staples.