Miami has been a spring break destination for me since college. Although you won’t catch me up past 11pm nowadays, we still enjoy Miami as a quick and close getaway location with our family. There are so many family friendly activities and events always going on, Miami is truly a place with stuff to do for everyone.
Where to Stay
1. Fontainebleau
We have stayed here numerous times in the past, it’s actually the only hotel we’ve ever stayed in while visiting Miami. The iconic hotel is huge with multiple restaurants and pools. I would consider this more of a fun, party hotel and a great option both with or without kids. Don’t come here to relax. They are constantly booking big names to host pool parties, and it’s always a loud club vibe by the pool. The last time we visited it was right ‘after’ Covid and the service and experience was not the same. Next visit, we will try one of the resorts below.
2. Loews Miami Beach
Loews hotels always offer a great experience, and this one is no exception on gorgeous Miami Beach. With a motto like “Loews Love Kids” I would recommend this hotel for families with young kids with their amazing Kid’s Club & Rec Room for your little gamers after a long day outside.
3. The Edition Miami Beach
The perfect mix for both kids and adults. I don’t think I’m the only one surprised to hear this hotel has an indoor ice skating rink and bowling alley! It doubles as a nightclub for when the kids go to sleep. The Editionoffers a great pool and lawn area for outdoor activities.
4. JW Marriott Turnberry
I am a Marriott stan, so
5. Four Seasons Surfside
Taking a turn here for a total luxury experience. Think breakfast on the terrace, day at the spa, resting in a pool side cabana, champagne toast at Lido, and shopping at the local high end Bal Harbour shops. Beautiful property with Four Seasons style service.
6. Acqualina Resort & Spa
This hotel is on the top of many lists I’ve seen throughout the years and the pictures look Insta-worthy! The Acqualina has several residence type rooms, perfect for families. This is known to be a more quiet spot, located on Sunny Isles Beach, a short 30 minute drive to the lively South Beach.
7. The EAST Miami
This modern hotel is not located on the beach, but still a cute and luxurious alternative if you’re looking for more of a city vibe.
What to Do
Wynwood is such a unique little town in Miami, filled with art, life, and local eats. The main attraction, Wynwood Walls, requires a ticket to get inside the #instaworthy outdoor museum. Outside ‘the walls’ the entire town is alive with culture and color! We walked around and found ourselves at Wynwood Kitchen, Wynwood Brewery, and finally Joey’s Italian Cafe, the first restaurant to open with the walls in 2008. Everything was delicious!
The Wharf Miami
Located on the river, this place is so much fun with live music, ping pong tables, bars, lounge areas, and various food trucks type vendors lining the perimeter. At sundown, it’s 21+ only so make an early dinner out of it if you have kids with you.
Española Way and Lincoln Road Mall
Miami is filled with lively outdoor malls with tons of shops, restaurants, and entertainers. A nice break from beach life for a few hours! You’ll find almost anything you’re looking for and definitely something for everyone in your group.
Vizcaya Museum and Mansion
Built in 1916, the Vizcaya Museum is rich in architecture and history. The lush gardens show off best in Spring/Summer.
Boat Rentals / Tours
If Miami is full of something, it’s boats! My first time in Miami, we took a private boat cruise around to see Star Island, which is where all the celebrity houses are. Now, if they were actually the houses of the celebrities they said, who would even know?
Little Havana | Calle Ocho
Immerse yourself into culture with a tour of Little Havana. Little Havana Walking Tours offers all kinds from Cigar & Rum tours to foodie tours.
South Beach | Ocean Drive
What would a trip to Miami be without a beach day?! Spend some time at the beach and take in Ocean Drive’s art deco architecture, beach shops, and a few outdoor cafes while you’re there.
Jungle Island
A half or full day excursion, pay for as little or as much as you want! General admission doesn’t include much, but you can add on animal encounters (hello capybaras!) and Treetop trekking if you’d like. I wouldn’t waste money eating here, since you’re in Miami with an overabundance of amazing food.
Miami Beach Boardwalk
We rented bikes once and biked the Miami boardwalk taking in the ocean smells and beautiful hotels along the way. The oceanfront bike path is about 10 miles along Miami Beach!
Where To Eat
Cipriani
in downtown Miami for amazing wine, champagne, and bolognese pasta!
Versailles Miami
is located in Little Havana and a huge restaurant for larger groups.You really can’t go wrong with anything on this menu serving traditional Cuban cuisine. Don’t leave without a Cafe Con Leche
Naked Taco
is located in Miami Beach, inside the iconic Dream Hotel. Get a flight of margaritas and the Key West Shrimp Tacos
Spris Pizza
is an outdoor restaurant in Lincoln Rd Mall. You’ll want to try their Rucola e Prosciutto pizza and Nutella calzone.
Rosetta Bakery
has multiple locations for your morning or mid-day coffee and pastry fix.
Kikis On The River
for traditional Greek, oysters and beautiful water views!
La Sandwicherie
Fresh made sandwiches for your pool or beach day (there is a South Beach location!) Get the Magic Sauce on everything if you’re a saucy girl like myself!
Baia Beach Club
is located inside the Mondrian South Beach. This is a must-go restaurant at sunset! Try the Tuna Tartar + Riceless rolls
Big Pink
is a Miami beach staple (look for the big pink building and pink VW bug out front!) with a huge menu for all meals of the day.
