Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Best Beaches, Things to Do & Cruise Port Guide

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, often called the “Venice of America,” is a vibrant coastal destination known for its beautiful beaches, arts, culture, and bustling waterfront.

Home to Port Everglades, one of Florida’s busiest cruise ports, the city offers plenty to explore before or after your cruise. Stroll along the shops and restaurants of Las Olas Boulevard, cruise through scenic waterways aboard the famous Water Taxi, enjoy outstanding local cuisine, or discover the charm of the historic riverfront.

Add more than 300 days of sunshine each year, and it's easy to see why Fort Lauderdale is a favorite destination for travelers looking for a little sunshine, relaxation, and adventure.

Fort Lauderdale Beach: Sun, Sand & Waterfront Dining

Located just two miles north of Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline lined with upscale hotels, waterfront restaurants, and lively bars.

The beach offers the perfect blend of relaxation and sophistication, whether you're looking to soak up the Florida sunshine or enjoy a little people-watching. Take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront promenade, where you can enjoy the ocean views, browse nearby shops, or stop at one of the many beachfront hotels for a refreshing cocktail or a delicious meal.

It's the perfect place to experience the vibrant coastal lifestyle that makes Fort Lauderdale so popular.

Where to Stay in Fort Lauderdale

Whether you're looking for a luxury beachfront resort, a comfortable mid-range hotel, or a private vacation rental, Fort Lauderdale has accommodations to fit just about every travel style and budget.

If you have a little extra time before or after your cruise, why not extend your stay and experience more of what the city has to offer? Vacation rentals are especially popular here. Imagine renting a waterfront home along one of Fort Lauderdale's scenic canals or enjoying the extra space and convenience of a high-rise apartment overlooking the city.

Many beachfront hotels offer wonderful amenities, including beach chair rentals, saltwater pools, and bicycle rentals, making it easy to enjoy the best of coastal Florida. Whether you're staying for one night before a cruise or planning a longer vacation, you'll find plenty of great options.

Looking for a hotel? Booking.com offers a wide selection of hotels throughout Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding area, making it easy to find accommodations that fit your plans and budget.

Prefer a little more space and privacy? Consider renting an entire apartment or home through VRBO. Having your own space, especially a waterfront property, can make your Fort Lauderdale getaway even more enjoyable.

Shopping, Dining & Nightlife on Las Olas Boulevard

No visit to Fort Lauderdale is complete without exploring Las Olas Boulevard, one of the city's most popular shopping and dining destinations. Located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, this lively boulevard is lined with fashionable boutiques, art galleries, outstanding restaurants, sidewalk cafés, and inviting bars.

Spend an afternoon strolling along the boulevard, popping into unique shops, discovering local art, and enjoying a leisurely lunch at an outdoor café. The shaded walkways and cool breezeways make exploring especially pleasant.

As the sun sets, Las Olas Boulevard takes on a whole new personality. With its lively restaurants, cocktail bars, and vibrant atmosphere, it's the perfect place to enjoy dinner, drinks, and a little Fort Lauderdale nightlife.

Explore Fort Lauderdale by Water Taxi

One of the best ways to experience Fort Lauderdale is from the water! Don't miss the opportunity to hop aboard the famous Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi for a scenic ride through the city's beautiful waterways.

As you cruise along, you'll enjoy up-close views of magnificent waterfront mansions, impressive yachts, and the exclusive Millionaires Row. Along the way, the captains and crew share fascinating stories about Fort Lauderdale's rich history, local attractions, and the celebrities and notable residents who call the area home. They know the waterways well and often have plenty of entertaining stories and local tidbits to share!''

Here's another great perk: Keep your Water Taxi pass handy even after you disembark. Your ticket can unlock special discounts and deals on food, drinks, merchandise, and local attractions through the Water Taxi's Cruise & Save partners.

It's a fun, relaxing way to see the city, learn a little local history, and discover Fort Lauderdale from a completely different perspective.

Discover Fort Lauderdale's History at Stranahan House

Want to learn a little about Fort Lauderdale's history? Make time to visit the Stranahan House, one of the city's most treasured historic landmarks. Built in 1901 by Frank Stranahan, often called the founding father of Fort Lauderdale, and his wife, Ivy Cromartie Stranahan, the area's first schoolteacher, this beautifully preserved home offers a fascinating glimpse into South Florida's early days.

Furnished with antiques and period pieces, the house tells the story of the Stranahan family and the early settlers who helped shape the community. As the oldest surviving structure in Broward County, Stranahan House is a wonderful stop for history lovers and anyone interested in discovering how Fort Lauderdale grew from a small riverfront settlement into the vibrant coastal city it is today.

Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show: A Must-See Event

If you're visiting Fort Lauderdale in October, you may want to plan your trip around the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS). Known as the world's largest in-water boat show, this spectacular five-day event is a major attraction for boating enthusiasts, luxury yacht lovers, and curious visitors alike.

Held at multiple waterfront locations just steps from the beach, the show features an impressive collection of boats, yachts, marine products, and accessories. With exhibits ranging from sunglasses and boating essentials to extravagant superyachts, there's something to catch everyone's attention.

It's an incredible opportunity to see some of the world's most impressive mega yachts up close, explore the latest marine innovations, and experience Fort Lauderdale's reputation as the Yachting Capital of the World.Planning to attend?

Be sure to check the official Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show website for event dates, ticket information, and admission details. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended.

Getting to Port Everglades: Cruise Port Transportation & Parking

If you're planning to board a cruise ship after exploring Fort Lauderdale, you'll be happy to know that Port Everglades is just a short drive from many of the city's hotels and attractions. Getting to the cruise terminal is relatively easy, whether you're staying overnight or enjoying a few extra days in South Florida before sailing.

From your hotel, you can reach the port by taxi, hotel shuttle (if offered), or rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft. If you're driving your own vehicle, you'll find several parking options available. Port Everglades offers convenient parking garages and facilities near its cruise terminals, and off-site parking providers are another option.

Some Fort Lauderdale hotels also advertise cruise parking packages that allow you to leave your vehicle while you're sailing. However, don't assume every hotel parking lot is a secure option. Be sure to research the property's security measures and read recent reviews before leaving your car for an extended period. A hotel parking package doesn't necessarily guarantee secure or monitored parking.

My tip: Compare the cost, location, and security features of official port parking and reputable off-site parking providers before making your decision. A little planning before embarkation day can make the start of your cruise much smoother!

Where to Shop Before Your Cruise: Convenient Stores Near Port Everglades

Need to pick up a few last-minute supplies before boarding your cruise ship? Fort Lauderdale makes it easy! Just a short distance from Port Everglades, along 17th Street near the port's back entrance, you'll find several convenient shopping options, including Publix, ABC Fine Wine & Spirits, and Total Wine.

Whether you need bottled water, soft drinks, snacks, wine, or other cruise essentials, these stores make a handy stop before heading to the cruise terminal.

Several hotels are also within walking distance of these shopping options, which is especially convenient if you're staying overnight before your cruise. It's a great opportunity to stock up on those last-minute items without having to travel far from your hotel or the port.

Make the Most of Your Fort Lauderdale Getaway

Whether you're visiting for a night before your cruise or staying a few extra days to explore, Fort Lauderdale is a wonderful place to slow down and enjoy the Florida sunshine. Relax on the beautiful beaches, savor delicious local cuisine, explore the scenic waterways, and take time to soak up the laid-back coastal atmosphere. Before you know it, you'll be feeling refreshed, relaxed, and ready for your next adventure!

Want to make your visit even more memorable? Browse tours, excursions, and unique local experiences through Viator. From sightseeing cruises and waterfront adventures to local attractions and guided tours, you'll find plenty of ways to make the most of your time in Fort Lauderdale. Plan ahead and reserve the experiences you don't want to miss!

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