How to Enjoy South Beach as a Family

June 13, 2016

South Beach is popularly known for being an area full of beautiful white sand beaches, gorgeous aqua blue water, funky sights to see, and a big party zone. It’s full of amazing hotels and nightclubs making some families think that they can’t enjoy it unless they are a single, 21 year old in the city. This couldn’t be farther from the truth as this area has so much fun to enjoy for all ages.

Families can make memories here enjoying the area like as a tourist in their own city. From the Art Deco hotels and the funk lifeguard stands on the beach to the European-style cafes and the historical architecture, here is a look at some of the cool things your family will want to enjoy during a visit to South Beach.

Enjoy the culture

Make it a cultural day with your family as you enjoy the area’s favorite cultural offerings. Take in the art at the Bass Museum over at 2100 Collins Avenue, featuring the permanent collection of pieces from the Renaissance and the Baroque periods and regular exhibits for more contemporary pieces. You could get through the museum in about an hour’s time, making it perfect for kids who may lose interest or start to get hungry.

After lunch, heck out the Jewish Museum of Florida where you can take a tour with a docent to learn about the restored building and the history of the Jewish community here in Miami Beach. It’s located in two Art Deco synagogues and isn’t too large, making it easy for families to have some fun without getting worn out.

Make it a food day

If you like the idea of trying new restaurants or like to relax over a meal with the family, you’ll love dining outdoors in South Beach. It would just be wrong to dine indoors when you’re in beautiful South Beach. Enjoy some people watching and the beautiful sunshine while eating outside with the kids.

It will be nice not to worry about the kids talking loudly and disturbing other diners because you’re outside where it’s less quiet and confined. Try a local favorite like the Cuban cuisine of Larios on the Beach, Gloria Estefan’s restaurant on Ocean Drive.

If you’re going to be in the area at night, check out the Espanola Way after sunset. It’s where Al Capone used to gamble and you’ll get to see the wonderful Spanish Mediterranean Revival buildings on this narrow pedestrian-only street. The Oh! Mexico Restaurant is a favorite here for the guacamole and the tasty enchiladas.

Beach days are the best

Of course you may want to focus completely on the beach and soaking in the sun. it’s the perfect way to enjoy the family in front of the Art Deco hotels. Build a sand castle, lounge in your beach chair, or go boogie boarding in the ocean. You can rent a chair and umbrella from the vendors and grab something to eat from a local eatery.

Related: Top Dining Spots Found South of Fifth

Child-specific activities

For some families, the fun is going to be based on something designed for children. Check out the Jungle Island over on Watson Island where you’ll find all kinds of exciting animals. The Miami Children’s Museum is a great place to visit where kids can pretend to be adults, from the pretend grocery store to the veterinarian’s office, as well as rock-climbing and ocean odyssey experiences. On a rainy day, check out the New World Center’s free outdoor concerts and movies.

When you have kids to think about in South Beach, check out these local attractions that will be a great experience for the whole family!