Why go?
Miami may not be the first place that springs to mind for a family holiday, but as a destination, it really does have it all: world famous beaches, Caribbean undertones, cool hang-outs and family-friendly adventures.
The famously stylish Fontainebleau is perched right on Miami Beach. It first opened its glamorous doors in the 1950s and has been considered a home-from-home for celebrities for decades. The hotel’s history, coupled with its location means it has a busy atmosphere.
Yes, it’s a great place to party, but it’s also got a chilled-out vibe that’s ideal for families who want more than just a beach holiday.
Activities
Kick-off your family adventure at the Fontainebleau Family Concierge Desk. There you’ll get everything you need to plan activities in and around Miami as well as a heads-up on the facilities provided for younger guests.
Families have their own pool, complete with tube slide, but most prefer the beach.
Here giggling kids join forces to dig trenches and build sandcastles – while parents switch off their smartphones and chill in cabanas. On the beach you’ll find huge Fontainebleau buckets filled with all kinds of toys.
Don’t miss: Talking parrots and pink flamingos at Jungle Island or airboat alligator spotting at The Everglades National Park.
Also explore Ocean Drive. It’s Art Deco icecream-coloured buildings and pedestrianised Lincoln Road are great for an evening stroll.
Food: Children are welcomed at restaurants throughout the hotel and staff are super-friendly, armed with pens and paper, and happy to alter dishes to suit even the fussiest palate.
Cool restaurants you must visit include Hakkasan and Gotham Steak.
Kids club
Your child will also receive an FB KIDS passport complete with maps and discounts for the hotel’s shops and cabanas. The FB KIDS programme for 4 to 12-year-olds includes games, treasure hunts, sports, music and movie nights.
A full day at the club costs $75, while evening sessions, from 7-11pm, cost $60 – both include food.
So while your little one is cared for, you can take advantage of the resort’s gorgeous Lapis Spa, enjoy a romantic dinner for two or do a bit of celebrity-spotting at the famous LIV nightclub.
The lowdown
Price: For a family holiday, we’d recommend Fontainebleau’s Junior Suites. You’ll love the balcony, beautiful views, separate kitchenette and living area. Deluxe rooms start at £195.
How to get there: Fly from London to Miami International Airport with British Airways; from £580 return.
Travel time: It’s a 9 hour and 30 minutes flight, and ten miles in a taxi from MIA to Fontainebleau.