Why Go to Fort Lauderdale
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Fort Lauderdale is classic Florida, beaches, palm trees, shopping and sunshine, without the see-and-be-seen scene of its neighbor Miami Beach. Locals will tell you their wide stretches of soft sand are some of the best in the state, and with great restaurants, plenty to do and generally better value than similar beach towns, it's easy to see why so many visitors agree.
Called the Venice of America, Fort Lauderdale is laced with about 165 miles of canals and waterways lined with yachts and waterfront homes. Hop on a water taxi to see the city from the water, stroll the palm-lined beachfront promenade and shop and dine along Las Olas Boulevard. Explore the Riverwalk, visit Bonnet House and enjoy the lively nightlife.
Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world. Whether you're sailing out or just want a beach getaway, I'll book a beachfront hotel for your pre- or post-cruise stay and handle transfers to the ship.
BEST FOR
Beach lovers, cruise travelers, couples and boat enthusiasts
BEST MONTHS
December to April
EXPLORE
Las Olas Boulevard runs toward downtown shops and restaurants; Fort Lauderdale Beach fronts the Atlantic, while Port Everglades is the cruise gateway to the south.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Fort Lauderdale
North America › Southeast › USA › Florida
Golden beaches, Venice-like canals and laid-back South Florida style.
Coastal & Harbor
Boating
Nightlife
Canals
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Ride the Water Taxi for a scenic tour of the canals and mansions. It's the best way to see the "Venice of America."
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Stroll in the evening for dinner and people-watching.
Las Olas Boulevard
Fort Lauderdale's famous boulevard, lined with boutiques, restaurants and art galleries.
Visit early in the morning for a quiet walk along the sand.
Fort Lauderdale Beach
A wide golden beach with a palm-lined promenade.
Take the guided tour of the house.
Bonnet House Museum and Gardens
A historic estate with gardens, art and wildlife on the beach.
Rent a kayak to paddle the freshwater lagoon.
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
A beautiful state park with beaches, trails and kayaking.
Walk it at sunset for beautiful views.
Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale
A scenic path along the New River, with restaurants and parks.
A luxury beachfront hotel with a pool, spa and ocean views.
The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale Beach / North Atlantic Boulevard
Hotel Tags
A stylish beachfront hotel with suites and ocean views.
Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach
North Fort Lauderdale Beach
Hotel Tags
A stylish beachfront hotel with a lively pool and nightlife.
W Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale Beach / North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard
Hotel Tags
A beachfront resort with a pool and family-friendly amenities.
Pelican Grand Beach Resort
North Fort Lauderdale Beach / North Ocean Boulevard
Hotel Tags
A historic beachfront resort with a private beach and family-friendly activities.
Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club
Harbor Beach / South Fort Lauderdale Beach
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Fort Lauderdale
High 81°F · Low 67°F · Rain 3.8 in
Pleasant weather returns as the busy season begins.
The best time to visit Fort Lauderdale is December through April, when the weather is warm and dry. Summer is hot and humid with afternoon storms, and hurricane season runs June through November.
Best Times to Visit Fort Lauderdale
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
Fort Lauderdale's food scene is all about fresh seafood and waterfront dining.
- Waterfront dining: Enjoy fresh seafood with views of the canals and yachts.
- Las Olas: Las Olas Boulevard is lined with restaurants and cafés.
- Must-try: Stone crabs, fresh fish and key lime pie.
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Walking & Biking
The beach and Las Olas are easy to explore on foot or by bike.
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Taxis & Rideshares
Taxis and rideshares are widely available.
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Water Taxi
The Water Taxi connects Las Olas, the beach and downtown along the canals.
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Brightline Train
Brightline connects Fort Lauderdale with Miami, West Palm Beach and Orlando.
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Cruise Port
Port Everglades is minutes from the airport and beach hotels.
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Flying In
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL) is just minutes from downtown and the beach.
Most visitors fly into Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International, just minutes from downtown. The Water Taxi, Brightline and rideshares make it easy to get around, and Port Everglades is a short ride from the airport and hotels.
Getting Around Fort Lauderdale
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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