Retreat like a rockstar and elevate your girl’s trip with a getaway that pairs high-end luxury with genuine fun for a quick dose of rejuvenation. Fort Lauderdale Beach is 25-miles north of Miami and offers a plethora of lodging, dining and activities.
Highlights
- Beautiful, walkable beachfront: A wide, sandy beach paired with a scenic boardwalk perfect for biking, strolling and oceanfront lodging.
- Vibrant dining and nightlife: Easy access to restaurants, bars and shopping along Las Olas Boulevard.
- Unique water experiences: Boat tours, water taxis and canal cruises that showcase why Fort Lauderdale is known as the “Venice of America.”
Editor’s Note: The writer was hosted.
As a travel writer who can pick anywhere to spend my birthday, I chose Fort Lauderdale Beach this year for an extended weekend trip with a group of gal pals ranging in age from late 20s to 60! Even with the differences in ages, we found activities that made everyone happy. Consider this destination for a mom and daughter trip or a group getaway.
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1. Sunrise Walk on the Beach
The average air temperature is in the low 60s Fahrenheit, and the water temps remain warm year-round.
The beaches are well-maintained and clean.
I felt safe walking here solo for a sunrise stroll in the surf. I used the GPSMyCity app on my phone for a self-paced audio tour to learn about the landmarks and history of the area shoreside, which helped me keep my sense of direction.
Every one of the rooms at this all-suite property has an ocean view. Those of us who didn’t wake up in time for a beach walk could enjoy the sunrise from the hotel room balcony.
Spa Services at Beach House
Onsite facials and massages with a full fitness center made our stay relaxing and invigorating.
We also enjoyed an outdoor sunrise yoga class. Beach service is available with a dedicated section for hotel guests.
- Total Units: 375 all-suite rooms.
- Amenities: Ocean views, full kitchens or kitchenettes and separate living/sleeping areas.
- Location: Situated on Fort Lauderdale Beach
- Parking: Valet only
- Dining: There is a strong focus on hospitality here, from the time you check in. The front desk offers a complimentary mojito station upon arrival, which is refreshing after traveling. Four other restaurants onsite mean you don’t even have to leave the property!
- Pricing
- Day pass: starts at $75 and include access to the pool or beach area. For $200 you can book a facial or massage and it includes the day pass as well. Overnight stay: room rates begin at $360 per night. Daily resort charge: a mandatory daily resort fee of $61 per room includes all access to resort amenities
3. Biking to the Grove
One of the resort amenities at Beach House by Hilton is daily two-hour bike rentals.
It’s about a three-mile roundtrip from the hotel to the beautiful Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, otherwise known as the Grove. There is a dedicated bike lane next to the beach boardwalk, making this safe to ride.
This area includes many mangrove trees, a butterfly garden and you may even spot a tortoise or manatee in the channel as you ride next to the inland water area. Multiple bike rental companies have pop-ups along the way if you aren’t a hotel guest.
4. Evening Gondola Ride on the Channel
Explore the canals of Fort Lauderdale, the Venice of America with a super comfortable gondola ride. These boats seat up to eight plus a captain who points out the sights.
A 90-minute dinner cruise option is available: either bring your own food or have it catered by Casa Sensei, the restaurant on the canal next to where the boats dock.
This is a fun and affordable way to spend an evening at $249 for the entire group (catering extra).
Nubé is a reservation-only rooftop cocktail lounge providing panoramic ocean vistas. This is the crowning jewel of the Beach House by Hilton and the only rooftop bar in Fort Lauderdale Beach with incredible 26-story views of the beach. It is a favorite of locals and visitors.
More about Fort Lauderdale Beach
Fort Lauderdale Beach is a year-round destination for escaping cold weather during winter or having a sunny vacation during summer. It offers a mix of free and upscale activities for the ultimate mix to rejuvenate.
Must-Dos
- lounging on the beach
- taking a sightseeing cruise on the Intracoastal Waterway
- brunching on Las Olas Boulevard
- booking a spa day
- enjoying the nightlife along the beachfront
Safety
- very visitor-friendly, especially in the main beachfront and entertainment districts
- stick to well-lit areas at night
- use rideshare services when exploring nightlife
Best Dining
- many trendy, Instagram-worthy restaurants and rooftop spots near the beach or along Las Olas Boulevard
- seafood, cocktails and lively atmospheres perfect for groups
Group Experiences
- boat tours and sunset cruises
- paddleboard or kayak rentals
What to pack
Getting There
- Fly into Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport – Located about 15–20 minutes from the beach and the most convenient airport for visitors.
- Drive from nearby cities – Easy access via Interstate 95 or Florida’s Turnpike if traveling from places like Miami or West Palm Beach
FAQs
The sweet spot is between December and April, when the weather is warm, sunny and less humid. This is peak season, so expect higher prices. If you’re looking for fewer crowds and better deals, consider late spring or early fall—just keep an eye on hurricane season (June–November).
Yes! Fort Lauderdale Beach is very pedestrian-friendly, especially along the beachfront promenade. You can easily walk to restaurants, shops and hotels, and there’s even a scenic path perfect for morning strolls or sunset walks.
Beyond the sand, visitors can explore the canals by water taxi, stroll along Las Olas Boulevard for shopping and dining or visit nearby parks and cultural attractions. Boat tours and paddleboarding are especially popular ways to experience the “Venice of America.”
Absolutely. It’s generally considered a safe and welcoming destination, with plenty of well-lit areas, organized activities and friendly locals. As with any destination, it’s smart to stay aware of your surroundings and stick to populated areas at night.
Not necessarily. If you’re staying near the beach, you can walk, bike or use rideshares and the water taxi to get around. However, if you plan to explore beyond the main areas, renting a car can be helpful.
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