Palm Beach International is one of the more family-friendly airports in Florida. It is smaller and calmer than Miami or Fort Lauderdale, which makes the post-landing experience with children significantly less stressful.
The airport experience with kids
PBI is compact. From the gate to baggage claim is a short walk with no trams or long corridors to navigate. Baggage claim is on the lower level with restrooms nearby, including family restrooms. There are a few food options in the terminal if you need to grab snacks before heading out. The airport is air-conditioned throughout, which matters in Florida's heat and humidity.
Free luggage carts are not available at PBI, but the distances are short enough that most families manage without them.
Car seats in Florida
Florida law requires children under 5 to be in a car seat or booster, and children 5 and under 6 to use a booster seat. This applies to all vehicles including taxis and ride-shares.
The reality is that most ride-share and taxi drivers at PBI do not carry child seats. Some Uber drivers who frequently serve the airport may have one, but you cannot count on it. If you need a car seat, you have three options: bring your own, rent one from a car rental agency, or book a private transfer with a child seat requested in advance.
A pre-booked transfer is the only option where you can specify the exact type of seat (rear-facing infant, forward-facing toddler, or booster) and have it installed and ready when you arrive.
Handling luggage and strollers
Families headed to Palm Beach resorts or vacation homes often travel with substantial luggage. A standard ride-share sedan can handle two large suitcases. Add a stroller and car seat and you are at capacity. For families with two or more children, an SUV or van transfer is worth the extra cost.
Gate-checked strollers are returned at the jet bridge or baggage claim depending on the airline. Have a plan for getting from the terminal to the vehicle with both the stroller and bags, since the walk to the ride-share garage is slightly longer than the taxi curb.
Getting to family destinations
Many families arriving at PBI are heading to resorts, vacation rentals, or family homes across Palm Beach County. Destinations like Palm Beach Gardens (20 min), Delray Beach (25 min), or Boca Raton (30 min) are all within reasonable driving distance. For these longer rides, a pre-booked transfer with child seats and enough luggage space makes the journey comfortable for everyone.
Rental cars for families
If your stay is more than a few days, renting a car makes sense for families. Palm Beach County is spread out and public transit is minimal. The rental car center at PBI is accessible via a short shuttle from the terminal. Most agencies rent child seats and boosters, though availability is not guaranteed during busy seasons. Reserve them with your car booking.
Practical tips
Bring water bottles for the car ride, even if it is short, as Florida heat dehydrates quickly. Apply sunscreen before leaving the terminal if you will be walking to a parking area. Have your accommodation address ready on your phone. If your hotel or rental has a check-in code, keep it accessible so you do not need to fumble through emails while managing children and bags.
What works best for families
A pre-booked transfer with appropriate child seats is the simplest option for families. The driver meets you at baggage claim, helps with luggage, and has everything ready. For longer stays, a rental car with reserved child seats gives you the most flexibility across the county.