There are a number of places in Miami suitable to the family traveler. For instance, take Miami Beach. This strip of land was, for many years, the premiere vacation destination for visitors to South Florida. It is separated from downtown Miami by the Intracoastal Waterway; in order to go to the mainland, it's necessary to drive over one of six causeways. Miami Beach can be split into a number of smaller districts, including Surfside, Bal Harbour and Sunny Isles Beach. Some of these districts are popular enough to warrant their own separate category; others blend into the city of Miami Beach. Owned and operated by the same family since 1951, the Ocean Surf hotel serves up genuine hospitality and personal service. The Ocean Surf sits secluded on a quiet, palm tree-lined oceanfront drive in the uncrowded North Beach area of Miami Beach and is perfect for the family scene.
Middle Miami Beach is home to a few magnificent highrises that aim to provide the all-in-one vacation experience. Guests can dine at fine restaurants, see live music, relax poolside or oceanside - all without leaving the hotel premises. Wealthy visitors who require maximum comfort and convenience from hotels, will appreciate a stay at one of these resorts.
More modest accommodations can be found in any of a number of moderate hotels, many of which belong to one or another well-known hotel chain. For significantly lower prices than could be found at a mega-hotel or a South Beach hotel, visitors can get the full Miami Beach experience. Although these places usually have their own pools, restaurants and meeting facilities, they can't compare with the attractions of the surrounding area. Staying at one of these hotels is a good idea for families or for international tourists on a budget; room prices are lower, the surroundings are fairly safe, and plenty of attractions are nearby.
Another area particularly convenient for families is Coconut Grove, one of Miami's oldest neighborhoods. Coconut Grove boasts a unique charm that can't be found anywhere else South Florida - perhaps in the entire world. Along the crowded streets of the town's center, bikers mingle with bohemians and with shoppers looking to take advantage of bargains offered in the multitude of stores. Eclectic world-travelers who don't need the hyperactivity of South Beach, but who want to stay in a neighborhood with a distinct flavor, might find the perfect blend of activity and relaxation here.
Just 20 minutes from the excitement of South Beach is Key Biscayne and the Sonesta Beach Resort. Great for families, "Just Us Kids," a daily, supervised program, for kids age 5-13, will keep children busy and happy with activities all day long.
Hotels are pricey here - as they are in most of Miami's popular little towns. They offer a vast array of amenities and services, including fitness centers, tennis courts, and - in the case of the Grove Isle - a private marina. Although there is little in the way of nightlife, there are plenty of excellent restaurants. The famous Cocowalk offers enough shopping to keep visitors busy for days on end.
