Things To Do
in Kendale Lakes
Kendale Lakes is a suburban, lake-and-canal-lined neighborhood in Miami-Dade County, Florida, characterized by residential neighborhoods, strip malls, and family-friendly parks. It sits west of Kendall and offers a quieter base that’s still convenient to central Miami, the beaches, and the Everglades. The area is culturally diverse with a strong Latin American influence reflected in language, food, and local businesses.
Kendale Lakes is practical for visitors seeking easy access to outdoor activities, shopping, and day trips around South Florida.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk in the scenic Kendale Lakes Park, where you can enjoy the tranquility of nature. Take a moment to appreciate the beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife that call this park home. After your stroll, grab a coffee from a nearby café to energize you for the day ahead.
Spend your afternoon picnicking in the park, basking in the sun while enjoying a packed lunch with local delicacies. Engage in some friendly competition with a game of frisbee or soccer on the open fields. As the afternoon sun begins to lower, take a leisurely stroll around the pond, keeping an eye out for the vibrant birds and turtles.
As the sun sets, head over to the local dining spots to indulge in a delicious dinner featuring fresh seafood or traditional Cuban cuisine. After your meal, visit a local bar or café for live music, soaking in the lively atmosphere of the Kendale Lakes night scene. Consider wrapping up your evening with a nightcap while enjoying the company of new friends.
Kick off your day by visiting the nearby Museum of Contemporary Art, where you can explore thought-provoking exhibits and engaging installations. Spend time appreciating the creative energy of local artists and understanding the cultural fabric of the Miami area. Don’t forget to stop by the museum café for a light breakfast with an artistic flair.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby HistoryMiami Museum to delve into the rich history of the region. Engage with interactive exhibits that tell the story of Miami's vibrant past, from its indigenous roots to modern-day developments. Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights and ask questions about the artifacts and exhibits on display.
After a full day of learning, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that features local cuisine, perhaps trying some traditional Cuban dishes. Post-dinner, consider attending a cultural event or performance at a nearby theater, where you can experience local music or dance. This immersive evening will deepen your appreciation for the vibrant cultural scene in Kendale Lakes.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-18 |
| ☕️Café coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚕Short ride-share (3–5 miles) | $8-20 |
| 🛒Grocery weekly basic (per person) | $40-70 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel night | $90-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Convenient suburban base with easy access to Miami, beaches and the Everglades
- Strong Latin American cultural and culinary influences with excellent casual dining
- Family-friendly neighborhoods and a relaxed pace compared with central Miami
- Car-dependent; limited public transit within the neighborhood itself
- Not a nightlife or tourist attraction hub—requires driving for major sights and entertainment
- Summer hurricane risk and hot, humid weather may be uncomfortable for some visitors
Places to Visit in Kendale Lakes
Visit one of these nice places.
Canal-lined streets and small lakes offer reflections, sunsets and everyday suburban scenes—good for golden hour photos and local life.
Wide-open vistas, boardwalks and abundant wildlife (alligators, wading birds) make for excellent nature photography—especially early morning or late afternoon.
Colorful tropical plants, fruit trees, and guided tours provide close-up botanical and cultural photos.
Coastal sunrise/sunset shots, skyline views and water-based compositions; ideal if you drive east toward the bay or south to the beaches.
Food in Kendale Lakes
Kendale Lakes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A pressed sandwich with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles and mustard—widely available at cafeterias and Cuban diners in the area.
Must-Try!
Shredded beef in a tomato-pepper sauce; a Cuban home-cooking staple found at many local Latin restaurants and family eateries.
Stone crab claws (seasonal Nov–May) and other fresh seafood at seafood-focused restaurants and markets in greater Miami.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small neighborhood juice stands and mercados offering fresh juices, pastelitos, empanadas and tropical fruit—look for busy local kiosks around shopping centers.
Nearby shopping centers with diverse food court options and restaurants representing Latin, Caribbean and international cuisines.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Many residents speak Spanish and English—basic Spanish greetings and politeness are appreciated but English is commonly used; a friendly tone goes far.
Dress is generally casual; beachwear is fine near the coast but wear appropriate clothing when dining in nicer restaurants or visiting places of worship.
Casual punctuality is normal for social events; be polite, say hello and thank you (gracias), and respect personal space in suburban settings.
Safety
Tipping in Kendale Lakes
Ensure a smooth experience
Typical U.S. tipping norms apply: 15–20% at sit-down restaurants, $1–2 per drink or for bar service, $2–5 for valets/parking attendants, and 10–15% for taxi or ride-share drivers (more for exceptional service).
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common. Cash is useful for small vendors, tips, and some market stalls, but not required for most establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid and rainy with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; high temperatures often in the upper 80s–90s°F (30s°C). Hurricane season is active (June–November), with peak risk in late summer–early fall—plan travel insurance and have a readiness plan.
Still warm with decreasing rains as autumn progresses; hurricane risk remains through November. Late fall offers pleasant days and fewer tourists.
Mild and dry—popular season for visitors. Daytime temperatures typically range from the mid-60s to mid-70s°F (18–24°C); cooler evenings possible.
Warm, generally pleasant weather with increasing humidity toward late spring; busy travel times around spring break in March.
Kendale Lakes at Night
Hiking in Kendale Lakes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A paved 15-mile loop with a tram option and short walking trails—excellent for wildlife viewing, birdwatching and easy cycling.
A short wooden boardwalk trail with guaranteed wildlife viewing (alligators, turtles, wading birds) and great for photography.
North of Miami, offers mangrove trails, kayaking routes and more challenging mountain-bike trails—good for half-day outdoor adventures.
A bit further afield on Key Biscayne, with hiking, beach walking and a historic lighthouse—great for combining history and coastal scenery.
Airports
How to reach Kendale Lakes by plane.
Primary international airport serving Miami—about 15–30 minutes from Kendale Lakes depending on traffic via SW 8th St/Palmetto Expressway and main highways; offers extensive domestic and international connections.
Another major airport north of Miami (approximately 40–60 minutes by car depending on traffic); useful for some domestic and international flights and sometimes a cheaper alternative.
Smaller general aviation and private flights options further north; less relevant for commercial travelers but useful for charters.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large and diverse Hispanic/Latino population (Cuban, Colombian, Venezuelan, Central American and others) shapes the cultural and linguistic landscape.
Many residents are families seeking suburban housing, with schools, parks and community amenities geared toward family life.
There are also older adults and retirees who choose suburban Kendall-area neighborhoods for their amenities and climate.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
NFL games are a major draw in the region and a big part of sports culture—stadium events draw visitors from around South Florida.
Soccer's popularity has grown with MLS and local clubs; matches and fan culture are increasingly prominent.
Baseball is popular, particularly during MLB season and spring training events in the region.
Boating, fishing, paddleboarding and jet-skiing are common recreational activities thanks to nearby bays and coasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kendale Lakes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available (salads, rice and beans, plantain dishes) though traditional Latin menus emphasize meat and seafood—ask restaurants about vegetable-based dishes and request modifications.
Vegan and gluten-free choices are increasingly common in malls and chain restaurants; small local eateries may have limited options, so call ahead or look for markets and health-food cafes in Kendall or central Miami.
Standard U.S. allergy practices apply—most restaurants understand common allergens (peanuts, shellfish, gluten); communicate clearly and consider carrying translation cards if Spanish-speaking staff are present.