Advice on family friendly stay

Question

Hi all

We are flying into Miami from the UK in May for a couple of nights primarily to see Inter Miami play. We are thinking about staying in Fort Lauderdale with our 9 year old child. A few questions:

Can anyone recommend a good family friendly hotel? Ideally on beach and close to restaurants.

We are debating getting a car but realise parking is expensive. What is public transport like? Is it easy to get to places like South Beach to visit?

Are there any must dos / must not dos / areas to avoid?

Thanks all!

Answer

Fort Lauderdale is a solid choice for a family stay, especially if you want beach access and a slightly quieter atmosphere than South Beach. May is warm and sunny, making it ideal for beach activities with a 9-year-old. Here’s a detailed guide for your trip.

1. Family-Friendly Hotels

Pelican Grand Beach Resort: This oceanfront resort offers direct beach access, a pool, kid-friendly activities, and spacious suites. It also has on-site dining and a lazy river-style pool for children.
Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort: Beachfront location, modern amenities, and kid-friendly facilities. Restaurants are on-site or nearby, and the hotel is close to Las Olas Boulevard for dining and shopping.
W Fort Lauderdale: More upscale with a lively atmosphere, ocean views, and pools. Good if you want a stylish stay with easy access to both beach and restaurants.
Residence Inn Fort Lauderdale Intracoastal/Beach: Offers kitchen facilities, suites for families, and proximity to the beach. Ideal if you prefer to cook or have more space for a longer stay.

2. Transportation & Car Considerations

Fort Lauderdale is somewhat walkable along the beach and Las Olas Boulevard, but having a car can make it easier to reach soccer games, grocery stores, and other attractions. Parking in hotels can be expensive, ranging from $25–$45 per night. Alternatives include:

Public Transportation: Broward County Transit buses cover most areas, including routes along the beach and to downtown Fort Lauderdale. However, buses can be slow, and schedules may not always be convenient.
Water Taxi: Fun option along the Intracoastal Waterway for sightseeing, but not the most direct for South Beach trips.
Rideshares: Uber/Lyft are widely available and can be more convenient than dealing with parking, especially for day trips.
South Beach Access: Driving from Fort Lauderdale to South Beach is about 45–60 minutes depending on traffic. Parking in Miami Beach can be expensive and limited.

3. Must-Dos

Beach time at Fort Lauderdale Beach – calm waters, lifeguards, and easy beach access.
Visit Las Olas Boulevard – great for walking, shopping, casual dining, and ice cream stops for kids.
Everglades airboat tour – a short drive west, fun for kids and adults.
Bonnet House Museum & Gardens – family-friendly gardens and wildlife experiences.

4. Areas / Activities to Approach with Caution

Downtown Fort Lauderdale has some areas that are less touristy and may feel unsafe at night; stick to well-lit streets and main areas.
Avoid parking on narrow streets in residential areas without clear signage.
Be mindful of ocean currents on less crowded beaches; always swim near lifeguard stations.

5. Additional Tips

Book your hotel early, especially if it’s beachfront, as May is the start of peak season in South Florida.
Consider hotel amenities like free breakfast, pool access, and on-site dining, especially with a child.
Check schedules for Inter Miami matches and plan arrival times, as traffic can be heavy around stadiums.

Overall, staying in Fort Lauderdale gives you a quieter base, family-friendly beaches, and easy access to restaurants, while still being within reach of Miami attractions if desired. Using a combination of short drives, rideshares, and hotel convenience will maximize your time with your family.

Advice on family friendly stay

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