Rusty Pelican - Miami
About
The Rusty Pelican offers families a special dining experience where delicious seafood meets breathtaking waterfront views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline. Kids will be mesmerized watching boats cruise by while enjoying their meals from the dedicated children's menu, making this Key Biscayne staple a favorite for both special occasions and casual island weekend brunches.
Highlights
- ✓Panoramic waterfront views of Biscayne Bay and downtown Miami skyline
- ✓Dedicated kids menu with familiar favorites beyond just seafood
- ✓Outdoor patio seating perfect for families with active children
- ✓Boat-watching and wildlife spotting opportunities during meals
- ✓Weekend brunch options popular with Key Biscayne families
Pro Tips
- 1.Request outdoor patio seating for the most kid-friendly experience,children can move around more freely and enjoy unobstructed bay views without worrying about noise levels
- 2.Visit during sunset hours (typically 6-7:30 PM depending on season) for spectacular views that will keep kids entertained while waiting for food
- 3.Weekend brunch is popular with locals, so make reservations well in advance or arrive right when they open to avoid long waits
- 4.Bring binoculars or a camera,kids love spotting boats, birds, and even dolphins from the waterfront location
- 5.Parking is available on-site but can fill up quickly on weekends; arrive 10-15 minutes early to secure a spot
Best Time to Visit
Weekday lunches or early dinners (4-5:30 PM) offer shorter waits and a calmer atmosphere. Weekend brunches are popular but bustling, so families with energetic kids may prefer quieter weekday visits when staff can be more attentive.
What to Know
This is an upscale restaurant with higher price points ($$$), so expect to budget accordingly for a family meal. The location along Rickenbacker Causeway offers convenient parking, and the venue is stroller-accessible with family-friendly restrooms.
Seasonal Notes
The outdoor patio is most comfortable during fall through spring (October-May) when Miami temperatures are milder. Summer months can be hot and humid, though ceiling fans and bay breezes help. Sunset times vary by season, so check ahead if planning a scenic dinner.
Follow Rusty Pelican - Miami
More Activities Near Key Biscayne
CVI.CHE 105
CVI.CHE 105 brings authentic Peruvian flavors to Key Biscayne with a welcoming atmosphere that puts families at ease. Their famous rotisserie chicken and generous portions mean even picky eaters will find something to love, while the dedicated kids menu and casual vibe let parents actually relax and enjoy their meal without worrying about little ones getting restless.
Boater's Grill
Boater's Grill offers families a laid-back beachfront dining experience right inside Crandon Park, making it the perfect spot to refuel after a morning at the beach or playground. With outdoor seating and ocean breezes, kids can enjoy casual seafood favorites while parents soak in the waterfront views without worrying about keeping little ones too quiet or still.
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is a stunning 400-acre oceanfront paradise at the southern tip of Key Biscayne, featuring a historic lighthouse, pristine beaches, and nature trails. While the venue description mentions playground equipment, this state park is actually renowned for its natural beauty, lighthouse tours, and water activities, making it an ideal destination for families seeking both educational experiences and beach fun.
Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center
The Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center offers an incredible hands-on marine learning experience that kids absolutely love. Children can wade into the water for beach seining adventures, dig for ancient fossils, and get up close with sea creatures in touch tanks,all while learning about South Florida's unique coastal ecosystems from knowledgeable naturalists.