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Pembroke Pines, Florida Travel Guide

City

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.

Pembroke Pines, Florida Map data © OpenStreetMap contributorsHard Rock StadiumPembroke Pines, Florida
In this guide

Pembroke Pines, Florida essentials

Country: United States
Driest months: Dec-Feb
Pay in: Dollar ($)
Language: English

Where to Go in Pembroke Pines, Florida

Sight Pérez Art Museum Miami Pérez Art Museum MiamiContemporary art museum in Miami focusing on global artists Sight Lowe Art Museum Lowe Art MuseumUniversity museum with diverse global art collections Sight Vizcaya Museum and Gardens Vizcaya Museum and GardensHistoric Miami estate with Italianate gardens and art collections Sight Museum of Contemporary Art, North Miami Museum of Contemporary Art, North MiamiContemporary art museum in North Miami Sight Bass Museum Bass MuseumContemporary art museum in Miami Beach Island Venetian Islands, Florida Venetian Islands, FloridaChain of artificial barrier islands in Biscayne Bay Nature Miami Orange Bowl Miami Orange BowlHistoric Miami stadium, longtime college football venue Nature Zoo Miami Zoo MiamiLarge subtropical zoo notable for native and exotic species Nature Bayfront Park Bayfront ParkDowntown Miami waterfront park with bay views Nature Haulover Park Haulover ParkSeaside park and beach with boat launches Nature Museum Park (Miami) Museum Park (Miami)Urban park between museums featuring sculptures and lawns Nature Jungle Island Jungle IslandTropical wildlife park and entertainment complex in Miami
Neighbourhoods

Neighbourhoods of Pembroke Pines, Florida

  • Pembroke LakesResidential suburb with lakes and parks, ideal for families seeking easy outdoor space and conveniences.
    Dining: Casual Nightlife: Quiet Shopping: Mall Stays: Mid-Range
    • C. B. Smith Park: Large family park with water attractions, lakes and weekend events.
    • Pembroke Lakes Mall: Suburban mall with chain stores and a food court for easy shopping.
    • Chapel Trail: Network of greenways and canals for walking and biking escapes.
  • City CenterPractical civic centre with local cafés, good for errands and visiting family.
    Dining: Diverse Nightlife: Laid-back Shopping: Boutiques Stays: Mixed
    • Pembroke Pines City Hall / Civic Center: Municipal hub hosting community events and seasonal programming.
    • Pembroke Pines Country Club: Suburban country-club offering golf and casual dining.
    • Local cafés on Pines Blvd: Coffee shops and diners popular for breakfasts and resident meetups.
  • Flamingo CorridorPractical commercial strip with hotels and chains, suited to budget stopovers.
    Dining: Chain Nightlife: None Shopping: Strip Malls Stays: Budget
    • Strip-mall dining cluster: Cluster of national chain restaurants and quick takeout options.
    • Local fitness centers: Local gyms offering fitness and recreation options.
    • Community parks: Small parks for children and dog walking.

Pembroke Pines, Florida at a Glance

Local Time
11:17 PM
GMT-4
Population
166,611

Costs: $90-$160 per day - typical South Florida suburban costs for food, car rentals, and midrange hotels.

Safety: Generally safe, stay aware - generally safe suburban neighborhoods, but keep typical South Florida awareness in busier areas.

Best Time: November-April - dry, pleasant winter and spring; hurricane season runs June-November.

Pembroke Pines is a family-oriented suburban city in Broward County with sprawling residential neighborhoods, parks and convenient regional access. It’s popular for suburban shopping, family activities and as a quieter base near Fort Lauderdale.

Getting around: Driving is easiest; use I-75, Pines Boulevard (SR 820) and Flamingo Road. Broward County Transit buses serve corridors; use Uber or Lyft for neighborhood trips.

Infrastructure & convenience: Pembroke Lakes Mall, strip malls and supermarkets cluster along Pines Blvd and Sheridan Street; sidewalks vary by subdivision, most errands quicker by car.

Local tips: Expect casual dress, tip 15-20% in restaurants, avoid midday sun and mosquitoes, carry ID for bars; Spanish widely spoken in many neighborhoods.

Dining: Try Cuban sandwiches, stone crab in season, Latin Caribbean plates and seafood at strip-mall restaurants along Pines Blvd and at Pembroke Lakes Mall food court.

Pembroke Pines was incorporated in 1960 and grew from a small development into a city of over 170,000 residents.

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?

Families

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.

Nature Buffs

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.

Couples

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.

Foodies

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.

Plan Your Visit to Pembroke Pines, Florida

Dining
Diverse South Florida flavors
Cuban, Caribbean and family-run eateries; plenty of chain restaurants.
Nightlife
Suburban, low-key nightlife
Neighborhood bars and lounges; major club scenes are in Miami.
Accommodation
Affordable chains and family hotels
Plenty of budget and midrange hotels, good value for Miami access.
Shopping
Strip malls and outlet access
Lots of national retailers; Sawgrass Mills and Aventura nearby.

Best Things to Do in Pembroke Pines, Florida

Pembroke Pines, Florida Bucket List

Don't Miss

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.

Hidden Gems

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.

Day Trips

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.

When to Go

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.

Winter

November - February12-26°C (54-79°F)

Dry, comfortable weather with low humidity and mild temperatures - perfect for beach days, golf, and strolling parks; virtually no afternoon thunderstorms or tropical storms.

Spring

March - May18-30°C (64-86°F)

Pleasant early spring turns increasingly warm and humid by May, with more afternoon showers; great for lower crowds but expect sticky afternoons and occasional storms.

Summer

June - October24-33°C (75-92°F)

Hot, very humid days with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and heavy rain; hurricane and tropical-storm risk peaks late summer, so expect interrupted outdoor plans and sudden downpours.

Climate

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.

Air Quality: AQI 30 Good
Best Time to Visit
MarchAprilDecember
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
32°
Warmest Month
6°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
Month Comfort Temp Feels Rain Sky Humidity Wind UV Daylight
January Excellent 15° - 25° 20° 72 mm partly cloudy 75% 4.3 m/s 0.9 moderate 10.6h
February Excellent 15° - 25° 20° 66 mm partly cloudy 76% 4.5 m/s 1.3 high 11.1h
March Excellent 17° - 27° 22° 73 mm some cloud 73% 4.9 m/s 1.7 very high 11.9h
April Excellent 19° - 28° 24° 84 mm some cloud 73% 4.7 m/s 1.9 very high 12.7h
May Very Good 22° - 30° 26° 156 mm partly cloudy 75% 4.3 m/s 2.0 extreme 13.3h
June Good 23° - 32° 30° 242 mm partly cloudy 78% 3.8 m/s 2.0 very high 13.6h
July Good 24° - 32° 32° 165 mm partly cloudy 76% 3.2 m/s 2.1 extreme 13.5h
August Good 24° - 32° 32° 183 mm partly cloudy 77% 3.2 m/s 2.0 very high 12.9h
September Good 24° - 32° 31° 206 mm partly cloudy 78% 3.6 m/s 1.7 very high 12.2h
October Very Good 22° - 30° 26° 154 mm partly cloudy 76% 4.3 m/s 1.4 high 11.4h
November Excellent 19° - 28° 24° 101 mm some cloud 75% 4.5 m/s 1.0 high 10.7h
December Excellent 16° - 26° 21° 61 mm partly cloudy 77% 4.3 m/s 0.8 moderate 10.4h
Getting There & Around

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.

By Air

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.

By Train & Bus

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

Budget

Pembroke Pines - $70-130/night

Affordable motels and limited-service chains near major roads. Expect clean, functional rooms and basic amenities for short stays and road-trip stops.

Comfort Inn & Suites Pembroke Pines - Basic rooms, free breakfast included

Red Roof Inn Pembroke Pines - Simple, wallet-friendly near I-75

Mid-Range

Near Pines Blvd / I-75 - $110-180/night

Mid-range hotels provide reliable service, pools, and fitness centers. Good for families or business travelers seeking comfort without luxury.

Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Pembroke Pines - Modern rooms, fitness center, pool

Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Lauderdale - West/Davie - Reliable chain comfort, free breakfast

Luxury

Fort Lauderdale / Miami (drive) - $250+/night

For higher budgets you’ll find full-service resorts and luxury hotels a drive away in Fort Lauderdale or Miami, with spas and upscale dining.

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

Best for First-Timers

Pines Blvd corridor - $110-170/night

Choose a centrally located chain hotel for ease of getting around, reliable service, free parking, and simple assistance planning local activities.

Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Pembroke Pines - Central location, easy parking and services

Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Lauderdale - West/Davie - Friendly staff, straightforward amenities

Best for Families

Near shopping centers - $120-190/night

Family-friendly hotels offer suites, pools, and complimentary breakfasts. Good locations near parks, shopping, and short drives to beaches.

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

Best for Digital Nomads

Pines Blvd / Flamingo Rd area - $100-170/night

Look for chains with work desks, stable Wi‑Fi, and communal spaces. Good options are near highways with easy access to cafes and coworking spaces.

Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Pembroke Pines - Workspaces and reliable Wi‑Fi

Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Lauderdale - West/Davie - Quiet rooms, complimentary breakfast

Eat & Drink

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.

Local Food

South Florida flavors dominate - Cuban, Caribbean and Floridian seafood are what locals reach for, from casual cafecitos to neighborhood seafood grills.

  • 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.

International Food

You’ll find heavy Latin-Caribbean influence alongside mainstream international chains and casual Asian spots for easy variety.

  • 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.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian choices skew toward healthy bowls, salads and plant-forward sandwiches - plenty of casual cafés and national spots.

  • 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.

Burger
Pizza
Chicken
American
Sandwich
Donut
Coffee Shop
Mexican
Italian
Tex Mex
Seafood
Breakfast
Chinese
Steak House
Sushi
Asian
Cuban
Peruvian
Pancake
Thai

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

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.

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