What is the best beach in Fort Lauderdale?

Located on the east coast of Florida and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Fort Lauderdale attracts visitors from all over the world. With miles of pristine white-sand beaches, Fort Lauderdale is famous for its breathtaking scenery. With so many great beaches to choose from, locals and tourists alike may find it difficult to decide which beach to visit. This guide provides an overview of some of the best beaches in Fort Lauderdale and highlights a few areas that stand out from the rest.

Fort Lauderdale Beach

When many people think of Fort Lauderdale beaches, they think of Fort Lauderdale Beach. This beautiful destination stretches along the Atlantic Ocean coastline and offers plenty of activities for those looking for fun in the sun. It’s also a popular hotspot for beach-goers, as well as those looking to relax and take in the stunning views.The area has several popular spots, including The Strip, a restaurant and entertainment hub, as well as a number of waterfront locations offering everything from boating and fishing to cultural activities. You’ll also find a wide range of high-end shops and boutiques, as well as a variety of luxury resorts.

Las Olas Beach

Those looking for a more secluded spot should consider visiting Las Olas Beach. Located north of Fort Lauderdale Beach and directly adjacent to the Intracoastal Waterway, this spot features calming waters that are perfect for swimming or relaxing on the shore. Las Olas Beach also consists of a promenade that’s filled with some of the city’s most vibrant restaurants, bars, and shops.

Hollywood Beach

Just to the south of Fort Lauderdale Beach is Hollywood Beach. A bit more low-key than the other popular beach destinations in Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood Beach offers plenty of amenities. Here you’ll find volleyball courts, several family-friendly attractions, and more than two miles of crystal-clear waters that are ideal for swimming, kayaking, standup paddleboarding, and more.

Bahia Mar Yachting Center and Beach

Bahia Mar Yachting Center and Beach is a hidden gem located in northeast Fort Lauderdale and home to some of the best scuba diving spots in the area. The area holds several reefs and plenty of shipwrecks that make it a great place for beginner divers to explore, as well as attractions for those looking for a more challenging experience. Onshore, Bahia Mar offers plenty of amenities, including watersport rentals, beach activities, a pool bar, and more.

Pompano Beach

Just north of Fort Lauderdale is Pompano Beach. This small city is known for its golden-sand shoreline and seaside cafés serving up delectable seafood dishes. Pompano Beach also offers plenty of activities that cater to all types of travelers, from fishing charters and scuba diving excursions to peaceful strolls along their two-mile boardwalk. And with its family-friendly atmosphere and calming atmosphere, Pompano Beach is one of the top beach destinations near Fort Lauderdale.

Dania Beach

For nightlife seekers, Dania Beach is the perfect choice. Located just south of Fort Lauderdale International Airport and minutes from Hollywood Beach, this lively spot offers plenty of attractions during the day as well as late at night. Whether your idea vacation includes water sports activities or simply partying under the stars, Dania Beach will surely have something for everyone to enjoy.

Conclusion

In summary, Fort Lauderdale offers travelers the opportunity to experience a variety of beaches each with its own unique appeal. From bustling Fort Lauderdale Beach to Dania Beach’s vibrant late-night scene, visitors will be sure to find something for everyone to enjoy. For those looking for something a bit more off the beaten path, Las Olas Beach and Bahia Mar Yachting Center from excellent alternatives to explore. And with its calm waters and plenty of family-friendly activities, Pompano Beach is an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil beach experience in the area. Read more about the best beaches in Fort Lauderdale here.

An Insider’s Guide to Fort Lauderdale: More Than Just the Beach

Fort Lauderdale, known as the Venice of America with its intricate canal system, offers more than just a beautiful coastline. While the beach is undoubtedly a draw to the city, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to enjoy as well. Let’s dive into some of the hidden gems, local cuisine, cultural traditions, history, and recommendations only locals know.

Local Attractions

Fort Lauderdale is abundant with hidden gems. One must-visit spot is the Bonnet House, a 35-acre estate with historic buildings and lush gardens. The beautifully preserved property was once home to artist Frederic Clay Bartlett and his wife, who were passionate about conservation and preservation. Another unique stop is the Fort Lauderdale Antique Car Museum, which houses a rare collection of pre-war Packard automobiles.

For a break from typical attractions, take a stroll through the Secret Woods Nature Center. This 57-acre urban wilderness contains nature trails, a butterfly garden, and a small museum about the area’s history. Finally, visit Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, where visitors can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and bicycles to explore the 180-acre park’s natural beauty.

Dining Spots

Fort Lauderdale boasts a thriving food scene with a unique blend of cuisines influenced by Caribbean, Cuban, and Latin American cultures. For a taste of the city’s history, visit Cafe Martorano, a family-owned Italian restaurant that has been a staple in the area for over three decades. Indulge in their signature meatballs served with a side of Sinatra tunes.

Another must-visit spot is the El Camino restaurant, which serves up authentic Mexican street food and specialty cocktails. Don’t miss their homemade guacamole and chips. For a taste of the region’s seafood, head to Coconuts, a waterfront eatery that dishes up fresh fish tacos while offering stunning views of the harbor.

Cultural Experiences

To explore the city’s art scene, visit the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale, which features a variety of collections and exhibitions from around the world. If you’re in town in October, don’t miss the annual Las Olas Art Fair, where over 300 national and international artists showcase their work.

For music and dance, attend the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade, a unique holiday celebration where decorated boats sail down the Fort Lauderdale Beach. Explore local history by visiting the Stranahan House, which serves as a museum for early Fort Lauderdale’s pioneers’ pioneer life. The house is a beautiful example of Florida’s vernacular architecture.

Local History

Fort Lauderdale has a fascinating past that has shaped the city into what it is today. One notable event that changed the city’s course was the 1926 Miami hurricane, which destroyed a large part of Fort Lauderdale’s business district, leaving the city without electricity or water for several weeks.

The area was also a hotbed for rum-running during the Prohibition era, with bootleggers smuggling alcohol along the winding canals. Famous gangsters such as Al Capone visited the city to partake in the illicit activities.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

To experience Fort Lauderdale like a true local, hop on the water taxi for an entirely different perspective of the city. The water taxi can take you to unique neighborhoods such as Lighthouse Point, Coral Ridge, and Lauderdale by the Sea.

If you’re seeking adventure, be sure to visit the Anne Kolb Nature Center, where visitors can explore the Everglades by canoe or take a guided eco-tour. Finally, for those seeking the thrills of a lifetime, consider taking a flight on a seaplane. You’ll get to see Fort Lauderdale from the air, and land among the pristine waters of the Bahamas.

In conclusion, Fort Lauderdale is more than just fantastic beaches; it’s a vibrant and diverse city full of hidden attractions, delicious cuisine, rich culture, and fascinating history. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, the city has something for everyone. Use this guide to experience the city like a local and take back unforgettable memories of your trip to Fort Lauderdale.