This sun-kissed south Florida city has been dubbed the “Venice of America.” The Fort Lauderdale beachfront Promenade attracts millions of visitors each year with its stunning golden sand and easy access for divers and snorkelers to explore the undersea life of the coral reef and sunken ships off the coast.
Before You Go: Need-to-know info
Language: English
Flight time: 3 hours from New York City; 5 hours from LA
Getting around: Car, taxi, water taxi and public transit
When to Go: Fort Lauderdale at its best
Best weather: Year-round, Fort Lauderdale sees highs in the mid-80s and winter lows in the mid-60s.
Best prices: Summer (it’s hurricane season, so you might want to splurge for the insurance)
What to Do:
The waterfront: Whether you travel by yacht, sailboat or gondola, you’ll want to explore the some of the region’s 300-plus miles of intracoastal waterways. In addition to viewing historic mangroves and million-dollar mansions from your boat, you can also drop anchor and dine in one of the many waterfront restaurants, take in an exhibit at a nearby art gallery or have your own little shopping spree.
Luxury hotels: Like Miami, Fort Lauderdale is experiencing a hotel renaissance. From luxury resorts to boutique hotels, couples can choose to stay in one of these fine establishments, or simply enjoy their amenities (think: posh spas and fine-dining restaurants). Fort Lauderdale is home to a trendy W Hotel and Residences and the brand-new B Ocean Resort.
Water sports: If you want to do a little more than sunbathe in Fort Lauderdale, the city’s 23 miles of blue wave beaches offer endless opportunities for water sports. Aside from Jet Skiing and parasailing, the region boasts an underwater paradise, with a three-tier natural reef and more than 80 shipwrecks to explore.
