Pembroke Pines, Florida Travel Guide
City City in Florida, USA
Lining suburban streets with malls and golf courses, Pembroke Pines serves as a practical base for Fort Lauderdale beaches, Miami nightlife, and Everglades tours. Visitors use its parks - like C.B. Smith - and family attractions while avoiding downtown hotel prices.
Why Visit Pembroke Pines, Florida? #
South Broward’s leafy suburbs offer a relaxed gateway to South Florida’s bigger attractions, with C.B. Smith Park and easy access to the Everglades for outdoor enthusiasts. The area’s diverse dining reflects Miami-Dade influences-think Cuban sandwiches and Haitian patties-alongside family-friendly shopping at Pembroke Pines City Center and nearby Sawgrass Mills. Many visitors choose Pembroke Pines as a quieter base for beach days in Fort Lauderdale or nightlife in Miami while enjoying suburban parks and community festivals.
Who's Pembroke Pines, Florida For?
Pembroke Pines is solid for families thanks to C.B. Smith Park with splash pads, camping and playgrounds, plus family-friendly events at the Pembroke Pines City Center. Beaches in Fort Lauderdale are a 20-30 minute drive for day trips.
Close to Everglades access points and nearby Flamingo Gardens in Davie, Pembroke Pines has green space like Chapel Trail and conservation areas for birdwatching. Good for easy outdoor days without heading into Miami traffic.
For low-key date nights try downtown-style dining along Pines Boulevard and evening walks in C.B. Smith Park. It’s an affordable alternative to Miami with nearby beach day trips to Hollywood or Fort Lauderdale.
You’ll find diverse South Florida flavors across local Cuban, Haitian and Caribbean spots plus casual seafood joints. Look around Pembroke Pines Boulevard and nearby Davie for authentic, wallet-friendly meals rather than haute dining.
Top Things to Do in Pembroke Pines, Florida
All Attractions ›
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- C. B. Smith Park - Large Broward County park with water park, fishing lakes, camping, and seasonal events.
- The Shops at Pembroke Gardens - Open-air shopping and dining complex featuring national stores, local boutiques, and frequent events.
- Sawgrass Mills - One of America's largest outlet malls offering hundreds of designer and discount stores.
- Flamingo Gardens - Botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary showcasing native plants, rescued flamingos, and historic Wray Home.
- Topeekeegee Yugnee (T.Y.) Park - Popular county park with lakes, playgrounds, picnic spots, bike trails, and seasonal concerts.
- Anne Kolb Nature Center - Mangrove wetlands with boardwalks and observation tower ideal for birdwatching and quiet strolls.
- Flamingo Gardens - Botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary showcasing native plants, rescued flamingos, and historic Wray Home.
- Topeekeegee Yugnee (T.Y.) Park - Popular county park with lakes, playgrounds, picnic spots, bike trails, and seasonal concerts.
- Everglades Holiday Park - Airboat tours and wildlife encounters that introduce visitors to the Everglades' river-of-grass.
- Fort Lauderdale Beach - Wide beaches, palm-lined promenade, and lively cafes just a short drive east.
- Las Olas Boulevard - Tree-lined avenue offering galleries, restaurants, and boutique shopping through downtown Fort Lauderdale.
- Hollywood Beach Broadwalk - Oceanfront boardwalk lined with restaurants, bike rentals, and classic beachside atmosphere.
- Miami Beach (South Beach) - Art Deco architecture, nightlife, and beachfront promenades in Miami's iconic coastal neighborhood.
Where to Go in Pembroke Pines, Florida #
Pembroke Lakes
A mostly residential corridor centered on lakes, parks and strip-mall conveniences. It’s where locals run, take kids to splash pads and do routine shopping. Suits families and anyone wanting easy access to outdoor space without leaving the suburbs.
Top Spots
- C. B. Smith Park - Large park with water park sections, lakes and weekend events for families.
- Pembroke Lakes Mall - Suburban mall with familiar chains and a food court for easy shopping.
- Chapel Trail - A network of greenways and canals good for walking, biking and a quick escape into nature.
City Center
The practical heart of Pembroke Pines: municipal buildings, community centers and a handful of local cafés. Not touristy, but handy for errands, community events and a taste of everyday life here. Good base if you’re visiting family or passing through.
Top Spots
- Pembroke Pines City Hall / Civic Center - The municipal hub hosting community events and a seasonal calendar.
- Pembroke Pines Country Club - Golf and casual dining in a suburban country-club setting.
- Local cafés on Pines Blvd - A handful of coffee shops and diners popular with residents for breakfasts and meetups.
Flamingo Corridor
A functional stretch of commercial strips and hotels lining major roads - practical more than pretty. You’ll find big-box stores, chain restaurants and budget lodgings here. It’s convenient if you need simple services or a cheap stopover near major routes.
Top Spots
- Strip-mall dining cluster - Quick, reliable national restaurants and takeout spots.
- Local fitness centers - Several gyms and recreation options serving the neighborhood.
- Community parks - Small neighborhood parks for kids and dog-walkers.
Plan Your Visit to Pembroke Pines, Florida #
Best Time to Visit Pembroke Pines, Florida #
Visit Pembroke Pines November through April for mild, dry weather and low humidity - ideal for beaches, golf, and outdoor activities. Summers (June-October) are hot, humid, storm-prone, with hurricane risk peaking late summer.
Best Time to Visit Pembroke Pines, Florida #
Pembroke Pines, Florida's climate is classified as Tropical Monsoon - Tropical Monsoon climate with hot summers (peaking in August) and mild winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 15°C to 32°C. Abundant rainfall (1563 mm/year), wettest in June.
January
January is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 15°C. Moderate rainfall (72 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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February
February is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 15°C. Moderate rainfall (66 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 17°C. Moderate rainfall (73 mm).
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April
April is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 19°C. Regular rainfall (84 mm).
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May
May is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 22°C. Significant rainfall (156 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is hot, feeling like 30°C due to high humidity. The wettest month with heavy rain (242 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is hot, feeling like 32°C due to high humidity. Significant rainfall (165 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is the hottest month, feeling like 32°C due to high humidity. Significant rainfall (183 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is hot, feeling like 31°C due to high humidity. Heavy rain (206 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Significant rainfall (154 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 19°C. Significant rainfall (101 mm).
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December
December is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 16°C. Moderate rainfall (61 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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How to Get to Pembroke Pines, Florida
Pembroke Pines is best reached via Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL); Miami International (MIA) and Palm Beach International (PBI) are also commonly used depending on flight options. There is no direct heavy-rail station in the city - access typically uses Tri-Rail/Brightline hubs in Fort Lauderdale or Hollywood plus local Broward County Transit buses or rideshares.
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL): Located about 10-15 miles east of Pembroke Pines, FLL is the closest major airport. Options to get to Pembroke Pines include rideshare (Uber/Lyft) roughly $20-35 and about 15-30 minutes depending on traffic, local taxi service roughly $35-55 and about 15-30 minutes, or a combination of Tri-Rail/transfer plus a short bus or rideshare leg (Tri-Rail to Hollywood/Fort Lauderdale stations then Broward County Transit) - combined fares typically $5-12 and take 35-60 minutes depending on connections.
Miami International Airport (MIA) and Palm Beach International (PBI): Miami International is 25-35 minutes by car to Pembroke Pines; rideshare fares are commonly $30-55 and taxis $60-90 depending on airport surcharges and time of day. You can also use Metrorail/MiamiAirportStation connections to Tri-Rail and then transfer to local buses or rideshare - expect 45-75 minutes and combined fares around $6-12. Palm Beach International (PBI) is the farthest of the three (about 60-90 minutes by car); rideshare or taxi costs commonly exceed $60-120, while a Tri-Rail trip south plus local transfer will take 90-120 minutes and cost $8-15 depending on distance.
Train: South Florida commuter rail (Tri-Rail) and intercity Brightline both serve the region. Tri-Rail stations nearest to Pembroke Pines are in Hollywood and Fort Lauderdale (Cypress Creek / Fort Lauderdale stations); a Tri-Rail trip from Fort Lauderdale to nearby stations is typically $2.50-$7.50 one-way depending on distance and takes 10-25 minutes to get into the Broward County core, with onward local bus or rideshare transfers required to reach neighborhoods in Pembroke Pines. Brightline runs faster intercity service between Miami, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach (Fort Lauderdale Brightline station); fares are dynamic (often $10-$30+), and a Brightline trip to Fort Lauderdale takes about 20-30 minutes from Miami - you will still need a short taxi/rideshare (10-20 minutes) to reach most parts of Pembroke Pines.
Bus: Broward County Transit (BCT) operates local bus routes that cover Pembroke Pines and link to Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood transit hubs. Single-ride fares are typically $2.00 (reduced fares available), and travel times vary by route and traffic - expect 20-60+ minutes depending on origin. Regional connections (Broward buses plus Tri-Rail) are the most affordable option but are slower and require planning around schedules and transfers.
How to Get Around Pembroke Pines, Florida
Pembroke Pines is a car-oriented suburban city - driving or rideshare is usually the quickest and most practical way to get around. Public transit (Broward County Transit buses and regional rail hubs) works for budget travelers but involves transfers and longer journey times; walking is only practical for short, local trips.
- Driving / Car (35-70 USD/day (rental)) - Having a car is the most convenient way to get around Pembroke Pines and the wider South Florida region - parking is plentiful and many attractions are spread out. Expect typical daily rental costs of roughly $35-70 depending on season; short drives across Broward County are usually 15-40 minutes but can be much longer in rush hour. If you plan day trips across the metro area, a car gives the most flexibility.
- Uber / Lyft (Rideshare) (8-35 USD) - Uber and Lyft are widely used and often the fastest public option for door-to-door travel in Pembroke Pines. Short intra-city trips commonly cost $8-25; airport rides from FLL to central Pembroke Pines usually run $20-35. Surge pricing applies during peak times and events - compare app prices and consider shared/rider-pooling options when available to save money.
- Broward County Transit (Bus) (2.00 USD) - Broward County Transit (BCT) operates the local bus network that serves Pembroke Pines and connects to Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood. A single-ride fare is typically $2.00 (discounts for seniors/students apply); buses are the cheapest option but trips often take longer and require transfers. Check route maps and schedules in advance - frequency can be limited outside peak hours.
- Tri-Rail & Brightline (Regional Rail) (2.50-30+ USD) - Tri-Rail commuter trains and Brightline intercity service connect South Florida cities - use nearby Fort Lauderdale or Hollywood stations and then transfer to local transit or rideshare for Pembroke Pines. Tri-Rail fares vary by distance (short trips often a few dollars; longer trips more), and trains run roughly every 20-60 minutes depending on time of day. Brightline is faster for Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach travel but requires a final ground transfer into Pembroke Pines and has dynamic fares.
- Car rental / Taxis (30-90 USD (airport taxi / short trip)) - Traditional taxis are available but more expensive than rideshare for many trips; expect airport taxi fares to start higher due to surcharges. Car rental is convenient for multi-day stays and exploring beyond Broward County; compare prices and fuel/parking costs. Taxis remain useful for short hops when rideshare surge pricing is in effect or for travelers who prefer fixed fares.
- Walking - Walking is fine for short errands around local shopping centers, parks and residential streets but Pembroke Pines is largely suburban and not very walkable for long-distance sightseeing. Use walking for first/last-mile trips from parking or transit stops; sidewalks are generally present in newer developments but vary by neighborhood.
Where to Stay in Pembroke Pines, Florida #
- Comfort Inn & Suites Pembroke Pines - Basic rooms, free breakfast included
- Red Roof Inn Pembroke Pines - Simple, wallet-friendly near I-75
- Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Pembroke Pines - Modern rooms, fitness center, pool
- Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Lauderdale - West/Davie - Reliable chain comfort, free breakfast
- The Breakers (Palm Beach area - high-end option) - Historic oceanfront resort, full-service spa
- Four Seasons Hotel Miami (nearby Miami) - Upscale rooms, top dining and services
- Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Pembroke Pines - Central location, easy parking and services
- Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Lauderdale - West/Davie - Friendly staff, straightforward amenities
- Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Pembroke Pines - Family-friendly rooms and pool area
- Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Lauderdale - West/Davie - Complimentary breakfast, larger suites available
- Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Pembroke Pines - Workspaces and reliable Wi‑Fi
- Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Lauderdale - West/Davie - Quiet rooms, complimentary breakfast
Where to Eat in Pembroke Pines, Florida #
Pembroke Pines eats reflect its Broward County position: lots of Cuban and Caribbean flavors, affordable family restaurants, and enough chain variety to satisfy picky groups. Think Cuban sandwiches, fried plantains, fresh seafood plates and cafecitos for breakfast; dining leans casual and convenient rather than haute cuisine.
If you want to explore, drive toward nearby Pembroke Lakes or Pines Boulevard for concentrated options. You’ll find a mix of long-running Latin cafés, neighborhood Italian spots, and mainstream chains that make it easy to feed a crowd.
- La Carreta (nearby) - Classic Cuban sandwiches and roast pork, family-style portions.
- Akashi Japanese Steakhouse - Local spot for hibachi and sushi rolls.
- La Spiga Ristorante - Neighborhood Italian pasta and hearty entrees.
- Ceviche 305 - Peruvian-style ceviche and seafood plates.
- Sergio's Restaurant - Miami-style Cuban fare and cafecito classics.
- P.F. Chang's - American-Asian chain for approachable Chinese dishes.
- Greentime Café - Salads, bowls and veggie-forward sandwiches.
- Smoothie King - Fruit smoothies and vegan-friendly options.
- Panera Bread - Reliable soups, salads and vegetarian sandwiches.
Breakdown of cuisine types found across Pembroke Pines, Florida's restaurants and food venues, based on OpenStreetMap data.
Nightlife in Pembroke Pines, Florida #
Pembroke Pines is largely residential, so nightlife tends to be low-key and car-focused. Most evenings mean neighborhood bars, sports bars, or driving 20-30 minutes east to Fort Lauderdale/Las Olas or south to Hollywood for clubs and casinos. For big events and concerts you’ll head to nearby arenas and casinos; dress is casual-to-smart depending on venue. Expect most bars to wind down around 2 AM; stick to main boulevards after dark and use rideshares if you plan to drink.
Best Bets
- The Shops at Pembroke Gardens - Mixed restaurants and bars - easy, casual pre-night out meetup spot.
- Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino (Hollywood) - Major casino and concert venue about 15-20 minutes away.
- Gulfstream Park (Hallandale Beach) - Races, restaurants and nightlife - good for dinner-plus-show nights.
- Las Olas Boulevard (Fort Lauderdale) - Beachfront bars and late-night restaurants, lively weekend crowds.
- Pembroke Pines City Center - Local cluster of casual bars and chain restaurants, family-friendly.
- Hard Rock Stadium (events nearby) - Concerts and big sporting events draw late-night crowds nearby.
Shopping in Pembroke Pines, Florida #
Pembroke Pines is a car-centric suburb whose shopping is concentrated along Pines Boulevard and near Pines Boulevard/Miramar Parkway. Expect typical South Florida mall and strip-center offerings, plus grocery-anchored plazas and occasional weekend markets - bargain for discounts at independent stalls, but fixed pricing is the norm in major stores. For bigger choices, drive north or east to larger Miami-Fort Lauderdale malls.
Best Bets
- Pembroke Lakes Mall - Regional mall with national retailers and family-friendly dining options.
- Pines Boulevard retail corridor - Long strip of big-box stores, electronics shops, and discount outlets.
- Pembroke Pines Farmers Market - Weekend market with fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal foods.
- The Shops at Pembroke Gardens - Small cluster of boutiques and restaurants near central Pembroke Pines.
- Pines Plaza - Convenient plaza with specialty shops and neighborhood services.
- Miramar Town Center (nearby) - Larger shopping and dining complex a short drive away.
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