Greater Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Beach, Water and Culture Emphasis

Greater Fort Lauderdale is home to more than 37 kilometers of sandy beaches lining the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean. You can explore eight different beach towns, each with its own personality. Find festive and hip hangouts in Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood. Spend quality time with the family in Deerfield Beach, known for its calm, cove-like waters. There’s excellent snorkeling and sport attractions in Pompano Beach and Hallandale. Nature lovers will enjoy the uncrowded sands and trails at Dania Beach and Hillsboro Beach. For some low-key relaxation, try out Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, where there’s Adirondack chairs waiting.

From the Atlantic to inland waterways, there are plenty of opportunities to spend some time on a boat here. Hop on the Water Taxi, where you’ll see city views, elegant mansions and mega-yachts while touring the Intracoastal Waterway. Make those views even more romantic on a sunset cruise aboard a luxury yacht. For a bit of adventure, rent a kayak and paddle through coastal waterways and canals, or take an airboat tour of the nearby Everglades, where you can spot alligators and native birds.

Fort Lauderdale also has an artsy side. The Flagler Arts and Technology Village, known as FATVillage to the locals, is filled with breathtaking and colorful murals, perfect for a photo op. Take a walk through the Wilton Manors Art Expo, held on the third Saturday of every month, where local businesses showcase the works of talented artists from around the world. Catch the sounds of local musicians at festive bars on the beach, or plan to see your favorite artists at music festivals and performing arts centers.

When it’s time to eat, mainstays include global cuisine and classic American fare served at waterfront restaurants with beautiful views. To taste a little bit of everything this area has to offer, plan your visit in September during Crave GFL restaurant month. More than 50 different restaurants offer three-course gourmet menus designed specifically to show off the area’s best ingredients and dishes.

To commune with the locals, start your day with coffee and end with craft beer. Find a spot at The Alchemist to sip artisanal coffee whole enjoying the garden terrace, or stop by Bean to Brew for a cup and a bite in a funky, modern setting. Later, be sure to follow the Ale Trail, which will take you to popular spots like Funky Buddha Brewery and Invasive Species Brewing.

Be sure to hit up outlet malls for designer and name-brand clothing at a big discount. With more than 350 stores, Sawgrass Mills is one of the largest outlet malls in the USA. Shop luxury stores at the Colonnade Outlets, an extension of Sawgrass Mills, to score even more awesome deals.

Pamper yourself by visiting a spa with an ocean view: Spa Q at the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort features both indoor and outdoor treatment areas; St. Somewhere Spa at Margaritaville Beach Resort will have you relaxing in a serene tropical atmosphere; and Pure Spa at Pelican Grand Beach Resort is a rooftop spa that offers even more grand views.

Fly directly into Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and rent a car or hail a ride to take you to your hotel.