Discover
Fort Lauderdale is far more than just a cruise port. Linger longer to explore its postcard beaches, innovative cuisine and maze of mansion-lined canals.
Plan
December to April brings the best weather, but also the biggest crowds. The shoulder months of May and November are compelling alternatives. Avoid the college spring-break crowds in March and peak hurricane season from July to October.
Book
Opposite the beach, the stylish AC Hotel by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Beach has 171 spacious rooms, many with views of the Atlantic Ocean or the Intracoastal Waterway. Facilities include a gym, pool, communal lounge and complimentary beach chairs and bike hire.
Several airlines offer one-stop services to Fort Lauderdale, including Qantas, United and Delta.
Flying out of Orlando or Miami? Consider catching Brightline, an excellent high-speed rail service that runs between Miami and Orlando, with stops in Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton and West Palm Beach.
The writer was a guest of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau.