Miami - and family travel? You may think that Miami is not a family destination. Things couldn’t be further from the truth. Miami has something for everyone - including families with kids. You've got beaches galore, great food, art, culture, and a fun vibe. Here are a few activities your family will enjoy:

Oleta River State Park

Head to Miami North Beach, as it is kid-friendly. In Biscayne Bay, you can go swimming with your kids, since the waters are as calm as you would want them to be. Also, there are various trails, picnic tables, drink vendors, food vendors, and outdoor showers (thank you!). 

Fisher Island

You can get to Fisher Island via a ferry from the Miami Beach for some food. Island resorts are definitely fancy, but if you are just interested in a day visit, you will not have to spend much money. The little ones will probably enjoy the ferry rides so much more than the actual destination. This way, the trip starts early. 

Luxury Fishing Charter

A luxury fishing charter is a truly great option for entire families that love fishing. Tour operators like Ultimate Fishing Charters give you access to many packages, taking you to truly stunning destinations around Miami Beach. Just make sure that you choose one that will be perfect for all people that will come with you. 

Miami Beach Botanical Garden

This is a beautiful natural attraction that covers 2.6 acres. It is great for children and parents. Various touring options are available, including mini wetlands, orchids, unique wildlife, and mangrove trees. Look at the schedule before you visit, since there are so many kid-friendly and family friendly events you can enjoy. You may want to plan your entire trip around that. 

Bigfoot Sculpture, By Idan Zareski, Miami Beach Botanical Garden. Photo: Flickr cc juggernaut.

Crandon Park

This is a lovely spot for families that want to enjoy a picnic. You will find a level and smooth beach with gentle water, all perfect for small kids. When low tide is present, the shallow waters are quite enjoyable near the sand bar. Older children will be allowed to go beyond for some deep thrills. Family strolls are the quintessential beach pastime, and you should also consider Crandon Family Amusement Center. Going rollerblading is fun for many kids, and the fact that you can see an iguana will surely make your day. Crandon Park is located on the northern end of Key Biscayne.

Jungle Island

If kids love animals and you visit Miami Beach, you want to visit Jungle Island, an interactive zoological park. Go there to play among rainforests that have quiet streams and witness some beautiful cascading waterfalls. Children will love riding a bike there and the foods are quite tasty. Make sure that you consider Manu Encounter since kids can hang out with squirrel monkeys, macaws, and parrots there. 

Photo: Jungle Island

Sports, Sports, Sports

If your kids are into sports, they’ll enjoy catching a game! The Miami Heat basketball team plays at American Airlines Arena. The Miami Dolphins football team plays at Hard Rock Stadium. The Miami Marlins baseball team finds its home in Marlins Park. And the NHL team, the Florida Panthers, can be found at BB&T Center. There is a major league soccer team coming soon, and you also have college sports (Miami, Florida International University), tennis tournaments, jai alai, and professional auto racing.

Colorful lifeguard towers

Miami has 35 lifeguard towers (and more coming!), located from 87th street all the way down to South Pointe. After Hurricane Andrew came through, the city created new, brightly colored, unique lifeguard towers. Now iconic, the Art Deco designs delight beach-goers and art-lovers alike. See if your family can find all of them!

What are your favorite things to do in Miami?