Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Ultimate 12-Day Miami & Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Family Beach Vacation Itinerary

Viewed by 152 travelers

Day 1: Arrival & Beach Relaxation

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida, USA on January 3, 2026

12:00pm

Check-in at Luna Paradise By The Sea Unit 10

Settle into your oceanfront accommodation and enjoy the stunning sea views from your unit, perfect for unwinding after your trip.
Included with stay, 1h

1:30pm

Lunch at Georgie’s Alibi Monkey Bar & Grill

Enjoy casual lunch menu with fresh seafood and tropical drinks right in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, open until 11pm daily.
USD15-25, 1h

3:00pm

Beach time at Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Beach

Relax on the sandy beach just steps from your unit, enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or a casual beach walk along the Atlantic.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Turtle Beach Grill

Experience fresh seafood and a beachside atmosphere just a short drive away, renowned for its friendly vibe and great fish dishes.
USD25-40, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea

Day 2: Key Biscayne & Miami Exploration

Miami, Florida, USA on January 4, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Luna Paradise Unit or nearby Cafe

Start your day with freshly brewed coffee and light breakfast at a local café near your accommodation.
USD8-12, 1h

9:30am

Drive to Miami and visit Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Tour the gorgeous Italian-style villa and expansive period gardens, open 9:30am-4:30pm, a must-see landmark showcasing history and art.
USD25, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Rusty Pelican, Key Biscayne

Enjoy scenic waterfront dining with views of the Miami skyline and delicious seafood specialties.
USD30-50, 1.5h

2:00pm

Relax at Crandon Park Beach

Spend your afternoon at this pristine park beach offering calm waters and picnic areas, perfect for family relaxation.
USD5 parking fee, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Lauderdale-by-the-Sea

Head back to your accommodation and relax or explore the local nightlife.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Rusty Hook Tavern

A cozy, casual seafood-focused spot in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea known for great appetizers and craft cocktails.
USD20-35, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Miami

Day 3: Fort Lauderdale & Shopping

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA on January 5, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Nanou French Bakery & Cafe

Taste authentic French pastries and coffee in a quaint setting open from 7am, a perfect way to start your day.
USD10-15, 1h

9:30am

Visit Bonnet House Museum & Gardens

Explore this historic estate with lush gardens and art exhibits, open 9am-4:30pm; a serene cultural experience.
USD20, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Coconuts

Enjoy waterfront dining with fresh seafood staples and relaxed vibes, popular with locals and visitors alike.
USD25-40, 1.5h

2:00pm

Shopping at Las Olas Boulevard

Spend your afternoon wandering stylish boutiques, art galleries, and coffee shops along this popular street.
Variable, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Kaluz Restaurant

Dine on fine American cuisine in a waterfront setting, known for excellent service and atmosphere.
USD40-60, 2h
Find Hotels in Fort Lauderdale

Day 4: Everglades National Park Adventure

Everglades, Florida, USA on January 6, 2026

7:30am

Early Breakfast and pack snacks

Prepare for a day in nature with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation or a nearby café.
USD10-15, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Everglades National Park

Travel approximately an hour to the Shark Valley or Ernest Coe Visitor Center entrance for tours.
USD30 park entrance, 1h

10:00am

Everglades Tram Tour or Airboat Ride

Experience wildlife and the unique ecosystem on a guided tram or thrilling airboat tour (~2 hours), open 9am-4pm.
USD30-50, 2h

1:00pm

Picnic lunch in designated park areas

Enjoy packed sandwiches and refreshments in the peaceful surroundings of the Everglades.
Self-prepared, 1h

2:00pm

Hiking and Wildlife Viewing

Explore short nature trails or the Anhinga Trail for birdwatching and spotting alligators.
Free with park entrance, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Lauderdale-by-the-Sea

Head back in time for some rest and light dinner.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Casa Sensei Sushi & Cocktail

Indulge in fusion Asian cuisine featuring fresh sushi in a chic ambiance.
USD30-45, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Everglades

Day 5: Local Beach and Bonfire Evening

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida, USA on January 7, 2026

8:30am

Breakfast at Dr. Feel Good’s

Start with fresh and healthy options including smoothies and avocado toast in a casual beachfront spot.
USD10-15, 1h

10:00am

Snorkeling and Swimming at Anglin’s Fishing Pier

Spend the late morning exploring underwater life or simply enjoying the pier, open daily.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Beach House Pompano

Diverse menu offering fresh seafood and American classics with ocean views.
USD20-35, 1.5h

2:30pm

Rest or Shopping at Nearby Local Boutiques

Relax back at your unit or explore local shops for souvenirs and beachwear.
Variable, 2h

6:00pm

Bonfire and Evening Beach Walk

Gather for a magical beachfront bonfire arranged by local groups or your accommodation, enjoy s’mores and storytelling.
Free, 2h

8:30pm

Light Dinner or Snacks at Luna Paradise Unit

Enjoy a relaxed late meal or snacks prepared in your unit with ocean views to end the day.
Self-prepared, 1h
Find Hotels in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea

Day 6: Miami Art and Culture Day

Miami, Florida, USA on January 8, 2026

7:30am

Breakfast at Panther Coffee Wynwood

Enjoy artisanal coffee and baked goods in Miami’s famous Wynwood Arts District, open early from 7am.
USD8-12, 1h

9:00am

Explore Wynwood Walls

See large-scale colorful murals and street art pieces, open daily 10am-10pm but mornings are less crowded.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Visit Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)

Tour contemporary art exhibits by international and local artists, open 10am-6pm Tue-Sun (closed Monday).
USD16, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Verde at PAMM

Enjoy light, fresh fare with beautiful views of Biscayne Bay inside the museum cafe.
USD20-30, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Miami Design District

Explore high-end shops, galleries, and public art installations indulgently in an open-air district.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Michael's Genuine Food & Drink

Dine on creative New American cuisine in a stylish setting, popular for special occasions.
USD50-70, 2h
Find Hotels in Miami

Day 7: Historic Sites & Riverwalk

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA on January 9, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at O-B House

Relax with health-conscious, flavorful breakfast options in a cozy café environment.
USD10-20, 1h

9:30am

Stranahan House Museum visit

Tour the oldest surviving structure in Fort Lauderdale, a historic 1900s trading post open 9:30am-5pm.
USD12, 1h

11:00am

Walk and Boat tour on the Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk

Enjoy scenic walking paths alongside the New River and opt for a one-hour water taxi tour of the canals.
Water taxi USD25, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Kalpna Indian Bistro

Try flavorful Indian cuisine near the riverwalk with excellent vegetarian and meat options.
USD15-25, 1h

2:30pm

Exploration of Museum of Discovery and Science

Interactive science exhibits and an OMNIMAX theater, open daily 10am-5pm, great for all ages.
USD22, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at YOLO (You Only Live Once)

A lively dining destination offering American cuisine in a fun atmosphere along Las Olas Blvd.
USD40-60, 2h
Find Hotels in Fort Lauderdale

Day 8: Shopping and Relaxation

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea & Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA on January 10, 2026

8:30am

Breakfast at The Alchemist

Freshly brewed coffee and gourmet breakfast options in a boutique café in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea.
USD8-15, 1h

10:00am

Shopping at Sawgrass Mills Mall

Visit Florida’s largest outlet and value retail shopping center, open 10am-9pm (Mon-Sat) and 11am-7pm (Sun).
Variable, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Cheesecake Factory at Sawgrass Mills

Wide-ranging menu with generous portions, good for families and groups.
USD20-30, 1h

2:30pm

Relax back at Luna Paradise By The Sea

Enjoy beach time or poolside relaxation after a busy shopping day.
Free, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at St Tropez Ocean, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea

Enjoy elegant dining with spectacular ocean views specializing in Mediterranean cuisine.
USD40-70, 2h
Find Hotels in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea & Fort Lauderdale

Day 9: Miami South Beach & Art Deco

Miami Beach, Florida, USA on January 11, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Big Pink

Famed for oversized portions and eclectic diner classics, located in South Beach and open 24/7.
USD10-20, 1h

9:30am

Art Deco Historic District Walking Tour

Discover iconic architecture and colorful buildings on a guided or self-guided tour, starting from 9:30am.
Free or USD25 for guided, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Joe’s Stone Crab

Legendary Miami institution famous for stone crab, open seasonally but also with alternatives year-round.
USD40-70, 1.5h

2:00pm

Beach and Ocean Drive Stroll

Relax on the iconic South Beach and enjoy a scenic walk along vibrant Ocean Drive.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Return to Lauderdale-by-the-Sea

Relax after a vibrant day with a casual dinner near your accommodation.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Rusty Hook Tavern

Casual and fun seafood dining option to unwind closer to your accommodation.
USD20-35, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Miami Beach

Day 10: Day Trip to Hollywood Beach Broadwalk

Hollywood, Florida, USA on January 12, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Louis’ 620

Iconic Hollywood Beach landmark offering hearty fare and ocean views, open from 6am.
USD10-15, 1h

9:30am

Hollywood Beach Broadwalk

Walk or rent bikes along this 2.5-mile pedestrian promenade with shops, eateries, and beach access.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Le Tub Saloon

Famous for burgers and locally loved, situated right on the Intracoastal Waterway.
USD15-25, 1.5h

2:00pm

Relax at Hollywood North Beach Park

Less crowded beach park with picnic areas and dunes, perfect for a calm afternoon.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Lauderdale-by-the-Sea

Relax and refresh before dinner.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Casablanca Cafe

Scenic dining with a garden terrace right on the beach offering Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
USD40-60, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Hollywood

Day 11: Relaxation & Final Shopping

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida, USA on January 13, 2026

8:30am

Breakfast at Luna Paradise Unit or nearby

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in your unit or nearby café to start your last full day relaxed.
USD8-15, 1h

10:00am

Local Beach & Water Sports

Optional paddleboarding, kayaking or simple beach lounging near your accommodation.
USD25-50 for rentals, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Local Palm Restaurant & Bar

Popular spot for contemporary American dining with fresh ingredients and local charm.
USD20-35, 1.5h

2:30pm

Shopping at nearby shops and art galleries

Browse local boutiques for final gifts and souvenirs.
Variable, 2h

6:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Billy’s Stone Crab

End your trip with famous stone crab and seafood dishes in a laid-back setting.
USD40-65, 2h
Find Hotels in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea

Day 12: Departure Day

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida, USA on January 14, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast and packing

Enjoy a final breakfast at your accommodation or a local café then prepare for check-out.
USD8-15, 1h

10:00am

Check-out and depart

Leave Luna Paradise By The Sea Unit 10 and proceed to your next destination or airport.
Included with stay, 1h
Find Hotels in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed