Family friendly beach areas

Question

We are traveling to Florida for the Miami F1 race in May, and trying to decide where to stay. We will stay for a full week and would like to be somewhere beachfront with a pool and walking distance to restaurants (but we will have a car). We have a 4 year old who will only go to the race for 1 day, so will also plan to head to the zoo and the Everglades at some point. Our in laws will be in Deerfield Beach, but I was worried that might be a little too far from the race and maybe not enough to do. Lauderdale by the Sea was also recommended to me. We are open to anywhere between Deerfield Beach and Miami. I’ve never been to Southeast Florida, so I’m not familiar with any of the areas. Would love any suggestions for general areas to stay in and/or specific hotel/rental option. Thanks in advance!

Answer

For a family-friendly stay in Southeast Florida during the Miami F1 race, you’ll want to balance proximity to the race, beach access, and family-oriented activities. Since your 4-year-old will mostly enjoy the beach, pool, and local attractions, it’s important to pick a location that is both scenic and convenient for short drives to Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and nearby attractions like the zoo and Everglades.

Here are some areas to consider between Deerfield Beach and Miami:

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea: A charming, quieter beach town with a family-friendly vibe. The beach is calm, great for small kids, and there are nearby restaurants within walking distance. You can also access Fort Lauderdale attractions and Miami within 30–45 minutes by car.
Fort Lauderdale Beach: Offers a lively beachfront with many hotels, restaurants, and a wide promenade for walking. The area has family-friendly hotels with pools and direct beach access, and it’s centrally located for day trips to the Everglades and Zoo Miami.
Hollywood Beach: Known for the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, which is perfect for strollers, casual dining, and cycling. It’s quieter than Miami Beach but still offers many restaurants and easy beach access.
Deerfield Beach: Very family-friendly with a wide beach and calmer atmosphere. Your in-laws will be nearby, but it is slightly farther from Miami for the race day commute.

Specific accommodations or rental options that work well for families include:

Hotels along Fort Lauderdale Beach with pools and kid-friendly amenities, such as mini-fridges and suites. Examples include family-oriented beachfront hotels that offer breakfast and pool access.
Vacation rentals in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea or Hollywood Beach. Many condos or homes offer private pools, full kitchens, and easy beach access—ideal if you prefer more space and flexibility with a child.
Resorts that combine beachfront access with family-friendly activities, including Fort Lauderdale resorts that have pools, kid’s programs, and on-site dining.

For activities outside the beach:

Miami F1 Race: Staying south of Fort Lauderdale, closer to Miami, will shorten your commute on race day. A hotel in Miami Beach or Sunny Isles Beach can balance beach access with proximity to the race.
Zoo Miami: Located about 45–60 minutes from Fort Lauderdale; plan a day trip, and a mid-morning arrival is best with a 4-year-old.
Everglades: Airboat tours can be done from both Fort Lauderdale and Miami areas; choosing a location near I-75 makes driving easier for a day trip.

In summary, for a balance of family-friendly beach time, walking access to restaurants, pools, and convenient day trips, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Hollywood Beach, or Fort Lauderdale Beach are excellent options. Deerfield Beach is more relaxed but farther from the Miami race. Consider booking a beachfront rental or family-oriented hotel in these areas to make your week comfortable and enjoyable.

Family friendly beach areas

More Fort Lauderdale Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions