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Kendale Lakes, FL

Kendale Lakes is a suburban community and census-designated place in Miami-Dade County, Florida, located about 15 miles from downtown Miami.

About Kendale Lakes

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

Kendale Lakes is formally designated as a census-designated place (CDP), which is a statistical area representing a closely settled community. It functions as a suburb of Miami and is located in Miami-Dade County, Florida, within the larger Miami metropolitan area . It is not an incorporated municipality, so its governance falls under the purview of Miami-Dade County.

Historical Names and Nicknames

Unlike many historic cities, Kendale Lakes does not have a long list of historical names. It developed as a planned suburban community, with its identity tied to its development. The name "Kendale Lakes" itself reflects the area's geography, combining the "Kendall" region name with the numerous man-made lakes that dot the landscape . It is often referred to simply as part of "West Kendall" or "The Lakes" by locals .

Date of Foundation and Age

Kendale Lakes is a relatively young community, primarily developing from the 1960s onwards as a residential area for the growing Miami population. Its period of significant growth was in the mid to late 20th century, transforming from a rural area into a "bedroom community" . It does not have a traditional founding date but has been recognized as a CDP since at least the 1980 U.S. Census, when its population was first recorded .

Geographic Location and Coordinates

Kendale Lakes is situated in South Florida, approximately 15 miles (24 km) west-southwest of downtown Miami . The geographic coordinates provided are 25.7081° N, -80.4078° W. The terrain is generally flat and low-lying, typical of the coastal plain, with an average elevation of just 8 feet (2.4 meters) above sea level . It is part of the greater Miami metropolitan area and is characterized by numerous man-made lakes, which are a result of excavation for construction fill and flood control .

City Type and Economic Specialization

Kendale Lakes is primarily a residential suburb and a commuter town. Its economic base is not industrial or commercial in a large-scale sense, but rather it serves as a residential base for people who work in Miami and other parts of Miami-Dade County. It has local shopping centers, schools, and services that cater to its residents . A notable local landmark is the former Kendale Lakes Country Club, now owned by the Miccosukee tribe, which provides recreational amenities .

Population and Demographics

As of the 2020 census, the population of Kendale Lakes was 55,646 . This places it in the category of a large suburban community or a small city. It is one of many densely populated, unincorporated communities in Miami-Dade County. A defining demographic feature is that the population is overwhelmingly Hispanic or Latino, making up 88.99% of residents as of 2020, a significant increase from 86.53% in 2010 . Spanish is the first language for the vast majority (over 82%) of the population .

"Visiting Card" of the City (Briefly)

For those who know it, Kendale Lakes represents the quintessential modern South Florida suburb—a quiet, family-oriented community of tree-lined streets and lakes, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling energy of nearby Miami, while still being connected to it. It is known locally as a place of nostalgic landmarks like the old Kendale Lakes Mall and the last operating Kmart in the continental United States .

Transport

Main Airports of the City and Region

Kendale Lakes does not have its own airport. However, it is conveniently located between two of South Florida's major international airports.

System of Public Transport

Public transportation in Kendale Lakes is provided by Miami-Dade Transit (MDT) .

Major Highways and Roads

The area's road network is its primary transportation artery.

Climate and Weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

Kendale Lakes has a tropical monsoon climate (Am) under the Köppen climate classification. This is characterized by a long, hot, and extremely humid wet season and a short, warm, and less humid dry season . The weather is heavily influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.

Average Temperatures by Month

Temperatures are warm year-round.

Precipitation and Humidity

Seasonality and Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Kendale Lakes for outdoor activities is during the dry season, from November to mid-April .

Landmarks and Points of Interest

Kendale Lakes Golf & Country Club

One of the most significant local landmarks is the Kendale Lakes Golf & Country Club. Originally built as an amenity for residents, it featured an 18-hole golf course, an Olympic-sized pool, and other recreational facilities. It has since been purchased by the Miccosukee Tribe and remains a key feature of the area, surrounded by tree-lined streets and its namesake lakes . While the pools and pier are now closed, the golf course and the sense of history it provides are central to the community's identity.

The Last Kmart on the U.S. Mainland

A unique and somewhat quirky point of interest is the Kmart store located in Kendale Lakes. As of October 2024, this location became notable as the last operating Kmart store in the continental United States . This has turned the otherwise ordinary retail store into a destination for the curious and nostalgic, representing a piece of recent American retail history.

Nostalgic Local Spots

Nearby Attractions in the Greater Miami Area

Given its suburban nature, major attractions are found in the surrounding areas, especially in Miami.

Museums and Cultural Attractions

While Kendale Lakes itself is primarily a residential community and does not have museums within its immediate boundaries, its location in western Miami-Dade County places it within a short drive of some of the region's most renowned cultural institutions. For residents and visitors, the vibrant museum scenes of nearby Coral Gables, downtown Miami, and even Fort Lauderdale are readily accessible.

Sports, Recreation, and Outdoor Activities

Kendale Lakes offers a surprising variety of sports and recreational opportunities for a suburban community, centered around its well-regarded local parks. For professional sports and major events, the city of Miami is a short drive away.

Local Parks and Recreational Facilities

Professional Sports in Nearby Miami

For residents looking for top-tier professional sports, the teams of Miami are just a drive away.

Universities and Higher Education

Kendale Lakes is situated in an area rich with higher education opportunities, with several major universities and colleges located within a short driving distance. This makes it a convenient residential area for students, faculty, and staff.

Healthcare and Medical Facilities

Kendale Lakes is well-served by the healthcare infrastructure of Miami-Dade County. While it hosts a major urgent care center, it is also in close proximity to some of the region's largest and most prestigious hospitals.

Local Healthcare in Kendale Lakes

Major Hospitals in the Region

For more complex medical needs, several world-class hospitals are located within a short drive.

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

Kendale Lakes is a vibrant and diverse residential community where the local culinary scene is not defined by a single historic dish but rather by the rich, multicultural tapestry of its population. The area is a fantastic place to experience the authentic flavors of Latin America and the Caribbean, blended with classic American suburban dining. The true taste of Kendale Lakes is found in its family-owned restaurants, bustling bakeries, and weekend gathering spots.

The Flavors of Cuba and Latin America

The most prominent culinary influence in Kendale Lakes is Cuban. The neighborhood is dotted with casual spots serving the cornerstones of Cuban-American cuisine.

Other Culinary Influences

The community's diversity extends beyond Cuba.

Proximity to Miami's Culinary Scene

Because Kendale Lakes is part of the greater Miami area, its culinary identity is also connected to the city's world-famous food scene. The diverse restaurants of neighborhoods like Coral Gables, Doral, and Little Havana are all within a short drive, offering everything from high-end Peruvian-Japanese fusion to authentic Nicaraguan street food. For residents, the local spots provide daily comfort, while the broader metropolis offers limitless options for culinary exploration.

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