Few other places can match the sheer volume of recreational activities in such a picturesque setting as Miami. The mixture of scenic coastline, resorts and parks makes it easy for parents to find fun recreational sports for their kids all year long. The local government, professional sports teams and even private resorts provide a wide range of free kids' activities.
Soccer
With large soccer-loving Latin American and Caribbean populations, Miami offers an abundance of youth soccer leagues. Clubs are available for every youth age group, from pre-school-aged tykes to high school students. There are competitive leagues that travel and more fun-oriented recreational teams that play at city parks. The Miami-Dade Country government maintains a list of soccer clubs in the area on its website. County-sponsored soccer programs include leagues as well as instruction and opportunities for children who are physically challenged to participate in the sport
Professional Sports Teams
Miami's professional sports teams offer year-round fun activities for children. Teams like the NBA Miami Heat and the NFL Miami Dolphins sponsor camps, after-school activities and game day fun like pre-game festivals and halftime contests. Pro athletes visit schools and community centers teaching kids fitness drills and participating in school yard games. Many of the pro team activities target underserved communities, giving poor children the chance to participate in sports and receive social services.
Swimming and Water Activities
Children in Miami can go swimming and participate in other water sports year-round due to the region's subtropical climate. Miami's beaches include waterparks and kid's play areas. Miami-Dade County parks have a full slate of aquatic activities, from swimming lessons to water polo teams, and include water jungle gyms and elaborate slides. Kids can learn about aquatic life at the Miami Seaquarium and watch whale, dolphin and sea lion shows. The Seaquarium also has a shallow water facility for kids to have an interactive lesson in training dolphins.
Golf
Kids can get an early start on learning golf at the numerous courses in Miami. There are six public courses run by the local government and all welcome children. Lessons and tournaments also take place at the public parks. Private golf resorts feature children's activities, with some offering free rounds when kids are accompanied by a paying adult. There are also courses designed specifically for kids at private clubs.
Tennis
South Florida is a tennis mecca for amateurs and professionals alike. With world-class tennis academies run by famous athletes and high-level tournaments, with participants like area residents Venus and Serena Williams, the area is teeming with all kinds of youth tennis opportunities. Free and low-cost lessons or just general hit-the-ball time is available at municipal parks. The Florida chapter of the United States Tennis Association also sponsors fun fitness activities as part of its outreach programs.
