By Erica Corsano
In a city where luxury towers rise against the backdrop of Atlantic blue and multigenerational families stroll palm-lined promenades, Mayor Larisa Svechin stands at the center—an emblem of dedication, transformation, and heart. Since arriving in Sunny Isles Beach as a child immigrant from the former Soviet Union, Svechin has witnessed—and helped shape—its evolution from sleepy seaside outpost to global destination for luxury living. Her leadership style blends old-school civic duty with a modern, resident-first approach, balancing development with soul. In this candid conversation, she reflects on her upbringing, accomplishments, and the magnetic charm of Sunny Isles Beach—including the enduring impact of icons like Acqualina.
You’ve lived in Sunny Isles Beach for many years. What first drew you to the area, and what keeps you inspired to serve this community?
It actually wasn’t my choice—we came here as immigrants from the Soviet Union and landed in South Beach in the 1980s. It was a tough time in Miami Beach…and my parents, like many others, slowly made their way north to Sunny Isles Beach. Back then, it was mostly motels and retirees. I went to junior high and high school here and couldn’t wait to leave. I moved to New York and told myself I’d never come back. But over time, I saw the value in what this place had given me. Once I had kids, I wanted them to grow up with the same grounding I did. And when I stopped working crazy 80-hour weeks, I poured my energy into volunteering—treating it like a job. That’s when I realized: I could actually make a difference here.
As Mayor, you’ve overseen a period of dynamic growth and transformation. What are you most proud of accomplishing during your time in office?
I tend not to take credit individually because it’s always a team effort. But if I had to name one thing, it’s safety. Not just policing—but the infrastructure, the support, and the intention behind making Sunny Isles Beach a place where families feel secure. The school system, especially our local K-8, was at risk of becoming overcrowded, and we worked hard to bring it back to a level that’s almost comparable to a private school. That, paired with a visible and empowered police presence, created a unique sense of peace. We have a major highway running through our city, yet we still feel like a small town. That’s rare.
Speaking of growth, Acqualina and the Trump family really helped shape Sunny Isles as a luxury destination. Can you comment on their impact?
Absolutely. Acqualina helped establish a new standard—not just for luxury, but for authenticity. They didn’t try to be something—they simply were. Their family-friendly ethos combined with impeccable service set a tone that elevated our entire city. I’ve been there as a commissioner, as mayor, and as a guest. What’s remarkable is how genuinely their staff interacts with kids. I saw it firsthand during a visit—the way a team member remembered a child’s name and asked about his day. That kind of emotional luxury? It’s powerful. It mirrors what we try to create on the civic level.
Sunny Isles Beach is known for its blend of luxury living and family-friendly charm. How do you maintain that balance as the city continues to grow?
It’s a constant dance. Residents want amenities, green space, and community—so we listen. We’re building a new sports park on the south end with basketball and tennis courts because people asked for it. We’re also working on ways to purchase more land for future parks and city projects. At the same time, we try to mirror some of the integrated lifestyle offerings that places like Acqualina have created spaces where kids, teens, and families can thrive, not just visit.
What do you believe sets Sunny Isles apart from other South Florida destinations—from both a civic and lifestyle perspective?
We’re vertical, yet intimate. You can walk around and feel safe. You know your neighbors. You can raise your kids in a luxury setting without sacrificing warmth or community.
Can you share a favorite memory or personal tradition that takes place right here in Sunny Isles Beach?
The pier. Always the pier. It was once part of the historic Newport Hotel. It’s one of only two in Miami-Dade County and it holds so many memories—for me and for generations of locals. It’s city-run now, and every time I walk it, I think about its history and its future. It’s a landmark that connects the Sunny Isles of the past to the Sunny Isles of today…and now, places like Acqualina are becoming part of the next generation’s core memories.
Looking ahead, what exciting projects or initiatives are you most enthusiastic about for Sunny Isles Beach?
We’ve recently launched a teen center that’s getting a lot of interest. It’s state-of-the-art with everything from virtual reality to gaming setups—and it offers teens a space where they feel seen and safe. I’m also exploring ways to partner with Acqualina to integrate visiting teens into these spaces, creating opportunities for them to meet locals and engage in something more meaningful than just hanging out at a hotel. That’s the future I see—blending tourism and community, luxury and authenticity, all in one city.