![\"Aqua](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Aqua-Hotel-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida-3.webp\")
Photo credit: Aqua Hotel<\/p>\nPlanning a trip to Fort Lauderdale and wondering where to stay? We\u2019ve got you covered!<\/p>\n
With beautiful beaches and year-round sunshine, Fort Lauderdale is such a fun place to explore. It\u2019s home to more canals than you can count and is famous for its boating scene, but there\u2019s plenty to do on dry land too.<\/p>\n
However, Fort Lauderdale is pretty spread out, so choosing the right area to stay can make a BIG difference to your trip. Whether you want to be steps from the sand, close to the best dining and nightlife, or somewhere convenient before a cruise, we\u2019ve narrowed down the four best areas to stay in Fort Lauderdale below!<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t miss out!<\/p>\n
Our Top Choice<\/p>\n
Photo credit: Aqua Hotel<\/p>\n
This is the area and hotel we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!<\/p>\n
Our FAVORITE area to stay is Fort Lauderdale Beach! We love having the beautiful beach right on our doorstep, plus tons of restaurants, bars, and hotels along the waterfront.<\/p>\n
Aqua Hotel<\/a> is our favorite stay here! It\u2019s just a block from the sand and has a fun tropical feel, spacious rooms, and access to multiple pools without the luxury price tag.<\/p>\n Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Fort Lauderdale<\/p>\n Fort Lauderdale is a sunny South Florida city known for its beautiful beaches and HUGE network of canals. There\u2019s a big boating community, which might have something to do with the fact that it\u2019s right by Port Everglades, which is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world.<\/p>\n Although the areas below are walkable in their own right, Fort Lauderdale is quite spread out overall. You\u2019ll usually need a rental car or rideshare to travel between different parts of the city, and having your own wheels is definitely useful if you want to explore farther along the coast.<\/p>\n That said, there are some fun alternatives! The Water Taxi is a scenic way to reach selected waterfront spots, while the free LauderGO shuttles are handy for getting around. Downtown also has a Brightline station for onward travel. Just note that Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is technically a separate town, but it\u2019s still a great base for exploring Fort Lauderdale.<\/p>\n Fort Lauderdale Beach \u2013 Best for first-time visitors \u2013 Stay here to be right by the sand and oceanfront promenade. Aqua Hotel<\/a> is our top pick thanks to its two outdoor pools and its fantastic location just a block from the beach.<\/p>\n Downtown Fort Lauderdale \u2013 Best for dining & nightlife \u2013 Downtown is perfect if you want to be close to the bars and restaurants of Las Olas Boulevard, as well as the Riverwalk. We recommend Riverside Hotel<\/a>, a historic hotel right on Las Olas Boulevard.<\/p>\n 17th Street Causeway & Port Everglades \u2013 Best for cruise passengers & short stays \u2013 This is the most convenient area for a pre- or post-cruise stay, with Port Everglades and the airport both nearby. Aloft by Marriott<\/a> is our top pick here for its modern rooms and handy location.<\/p>\n Lauderdale-by-the-Sea \u2013 Best for quieter beach holidays \u2013 This laid-back seaside town is ideal if you want a quieter beach stay with fantastic snorkeling and diving right offshore. We love Plunge Beach Resort<\/a> for its beachfront location and fun, colorful vibe.<\/p>\n Important Tip<\/p>\n Multiple Fort Lauderdale trips have taught us that this city doesn\u2019t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning.\u00a0The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.<\/p>\n The sweet spot for booking Fort Lauderdale accommodations is 3-4 months out\u2014enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you\u2019re locking in plans excessively early.<\/p>\n Where to Stay in Fort Lauderdale<\/p>\n Fort Lauderdale Beach<\/p>\n BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS<\/p>\n Pros<\/p>\n Beautiful beach right on your doorstep<\/p>\n HUGE choice of beachfront hotels, restaurants, and bars<\/p>\n Cons<\/p>\n Hotels and restaurants can be pricey<\/p>\n Parking can be expensive, especially during busy periods<\/p>\n If it\u2019s your first time in Fort Lauderdale, we think the beach is the best place to stay! This is the city\u2019s main vacation district, with miles of golden sand and an oceanfront promenade that\u2019s perfect for walking or cycling.<\/p>\n Of course, spending time on the beach is the main reason to stay here! However, there\u2019s plenty going on along Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard too, with tons of restaurants, bars, and shops lining the waterfront. You can also stroll along the promenade and visit Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, or head down towards Las Olas Oceanside Park.<\/p>\n This is also where you\u2019ll find the biggest concentration of beachfront hotels and resorts in Fort Lauderdale, with everything from smaller boutique properties to luxurious oceanfront stays. Plus, you can use the Water Taxi to explore some of the city\u2019s famous canals and waterfront attractions without always relying on a car.<\/p>\n The main downside is the price. Accommodation, dining, and parking can all get expensive during busy periods. Still, if you want a classic Fort Lauderdale vacation with the beach right outside your door, this area is VERY hard to beat!<\/p>\n The Atlantic Hotel & Spa \u2013 $$$<\/p>\n The Atlantic Hotel & Spa<\/a> is a gorgeous luxury option right across from Fort Lauderdale Beach. The rooms and suites are huge, with private terraces overlooking either the ocean or the city, and some even have full kitchens. It\u2019s a great choice if you want plenty of space to spread out!<\/p>\n There\u2019s also a full-service spa for when you want to treat yourself, plus an outdoor pool terrace overlooking the Atlantic. You\u2019ve got several places to eat and drink without leaving the hotel too, including an oceanfront restaurant and Sky Bar by the pool. <\/p>\n Overall, we think this is perfect for a luxurious beach vacation! Rooms start from around $300 USD per night.<\/p>\n Another luxurious option we love is Pelican Grand Beach Resort<\/a>, which sits directly on a private stretch of beach and looks like a big yellow castle. It also has Fort Lauderdale\u2019s only lazy river, which is quite the claim to fame, and a lovely oceanfront restaurant.<\/p>\n Alternatively, Hotel Maren Fort Lauderdale Beach<\/a> is a 4-star oceanfront hotel with an outdoor pool and beach access. It\u2019s also close to Las Olas Boulevard, so you\u2019ll be well placed for dining and exploring.<\/p>\n Aqua Hotel \u2013 $$<\/p>\n Aqua Hotel<\/a> is a fantastic mid-range pick in Fort Lauderdale Beach. It\u2019s just a block from the sand and has a cute, tropical feel, so you still get that beach vacation atmosphere without paying luxury resort prices.<\/p>\n There\u2019s a great range of rooms here too, from studios to spacious one-bedroom and family suites that can sleep up to six people. Guests also have access to the pools and other amenities across the North Beach Village Resort collection, so you get a lot for your money. <\/p>\n Plus, the location is super convenient for enjoying the area on foot. Rooms start from around $150 USD per night.<\/p>\n La Casa Hotel<\/a> is another lovely boutique option in North Beach Village, with a Spanish-inspired design and the beach just a short walk away. We love the four-poster beds here!<\/p>\n Alternatively, Silver Seas Beach Resort<\/a> is worth checking out if Aqua is all booked up. It\u2019s bright and colorful, with a great location close to Fort Lauderdale Beach.<\/p>\n The Hotel Deauville \u2013 $<\/p>\n For a more affordable stay near the beach, The Hotel Deauville<\/a> is a fantastic choice. It\u2019s smaller and more laid-back than the big beachfront resorts, with an outdoor courtyard-style pool at the center of the property.<\/p>\n You can choose from private rooms and suites, as well as cheaper dorm rooms if you really want to keep costs down. There\u2019s also a communal kitchen and lounge, and a BBQ area, which is ideal if you want to do some self-catering while you\u2019re here. <\/p>\n Best of all, you\u2019ll still be within easy reach of the beach without the hefty price tag of many nearby resorts! Rooms start from around $120 USD per night.<\/p>\n Snooze<\/a> is another fun budget option if you want to be right by the ocean. Its standout feature is the open-air rooftop lounge overlooking Fort Lauderdale Beach, and guests can also borrow beach chairs for free.<\/p>\n We also like Green Island Inn<\/a> for a quieter stay just steps from the beach. It has an outdoor pool and apartment-style rooms with kitchenettes, so you get a LOT for your money here.<\/p>\n Downtown Fort Lauderdale<\/p>\n BEST FOR DINING & NIGHTLIFE<\/p>\n Pros<\/p>\n Fantastic restaurants and nightlife<\/p>\n Lots to see and do within walking distance<\/p>\n Cons<\/p>\n You\u2019ll need to travel to reach the beach<\/p>\n Less of a classic vacation atmosphere<\/p>\n If great food and nightlife are high on your Fort Lauderdale wish list, Downtown is the place to stay! This is the city\u2019s lively urban center, with tons of bars and restaurants right on your doorstep, as well as boutiques and galleries.\u00a0<\/p>\n Las Olas Boulevard is the main event here. This famous street runs through Downtown and is packed with places to eat, drink, and shop, so you\u2019ll have plenty to explore day and night. We also love strolling along the Riverwalk, which follows the New River through the heart of the city and connects several parks and cultural attractions.<\/p>\n There\u2019s plenty to do around here besides eating and drinking, too. You can visit the NSU Art Museum, catch a show at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, or hop aboard the Water Taxi to explore Fort Lauderdale\u2019s famous waterways.<\/p>\n Of course, the trade-off is that you won\u2019t be right on the beach. You\u2019ll generally need to drive or use a rideshare app to reach the coast \u2013 or you can jump on one of the Water Taxis, which is our preferred mode of transport around town. But if your priority is food and nightlife rather than the beach, Downtown is an AMAZING base!<\/p>\n Hyatt Centric Las Olas \u2013 $$$<\/p>\n If you want to be right in the heart of Downtown, Hyatt Centric Las Olas<\/a> is hard to beat. It\u2019s right on Las Olas Boulevard, putting some of the city\u2019s best bars and cultural attractions within easy walking distance.<\/p>\n The hotel itself is modern and stylish, but we especially love the rooftop pool and ELEV8 bar, where you can sip cocktails with views over Downtown Fort Lauderdale. There\u2019s also Harborwood Urban Kitchen & Bar downstairs, plus a reservations-only speakeasy called Room Nine01!<\/p>\n If you\u2019re coming to Fort Lauderdale for the dining and nightlife, we think this hotel fits the vibe perfectly. Rooms start from around $220 USD per night.<\/p>\n If Hyatt Centric Las Olas is fully booked for your travel dates, Flow Hotel Fort Lauderdale<\/a> is another fantastic upscale option in Downtown Fort Lauderdale. The rooms have a bit of a Bali vibe, and it\u2019s right by the river.<\/p>\n Riverside Hotel \u2013 $$<\/p>\n Riverside Hotel<\/a> is our favorite hotel in Downtown Fort Lauderdale. This historic hotel dates back to 1936, but you\u2019d never know that from its polished, modern decor. It also boasts an incredible location, as it sits on both Las Olas Boulevard and the New River. The Water Taxi even stops right outside the hotel, so it\u2019s super easy to sail directly to the beach!\u00a0<\/p>\n There\u2019s a palm-fringed outdoor pool overlooking the water, plus several places to eat and drink on site, including a pub and a wine and martini lounge. With lots of character and an unbeatable location, we think this place is an absolutely amazing option. Rooms start from around $160 USD per night.<\/p>\n Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott<\/a> is another convenient option close to Las Olas Boulevard. It\u2019s quite a straightforward hotel, but it\u2019s comfortable and well-reviewed, and it\u2019s easy to visit Downtown\u2019s main attractions from here.<\/p>\n Hampton Inn Fort Lauderdale Downtown<\/a> is another modern option near Las Olas. It has an outdoor pool, and it includes breakfast, plus a gym and games for kids.<\/p>\n Tru By Hilton \u2013 $<\/p>\n For a more affordable Downtown stay, Tru By Hilton<\/a> offers a LOT for the money. It\u2019s only a five-minute walk from the Brightline station, while you\u2019ve got multiple museums and the Broward Center for the Performing Arts are all within a mile of the property.<\/p>\n The rooms here are bright and modern, and you\u2019ll also have access to an outdoor pool, fitness center, and fifth-floor pool bar. Better still, a hot breakfast and Wi-Fi are included in your stay, which helps keep costs down even further. <\/p>\n For an affordable base with easy access to Downtown and onward transport, we think this is a really solid choice! Rooms start from around $100 USD per night.<\/p>\n Another option worth checking out is Courtyard by Marriott<\/a>. It\u2019s very well-decorated, with a rooftop pool and lounge where you can sip colorful cocktails as you look out over the Downtown skyline.<\/p>\n Why We Book Hotels on booking.com<\/p>\n Booking.com<\/a> is a trusted online booking platform for hotels, guesthouses, apartments, and boutique stays around the world. We\u2019ve been using Booking.com to reserve our accommodations for over a decade, and we keep coming back for a few key reasons:<\/p>\n Free cancellation on most properties \u2013 Many hotels on Booking.com offer flexible cancellation policies, which are especially helpful if your travel plans change unexpectedly or you\u2019re still finalizing your itinerary. <\/p>\n Reserve now, pay later\u00a0\u2013 Many properties allow you to book your stay in advance without paying up front, giving you more flexibility when planning your trip. <\/p>\n Verified reviews \u2013 One of the best things about Booking.com is the large number of verified reviews from real travelers. This helps give you a much better idea of what to actually expect before booking.<\/p>\n Peace of mind \u2013 Booking.com offers a secure and reliable way to book accommodations, which is especially helpful when traveling in remote countries or unfamiliar destinations. Their customer service is also very helpful if you ever run into a problem!<\/p>\n Price match promise \u2013 Booking.com offers a price-match policy for many properties. If you find the same room at a lower price after booking, you may be eligible for a refund of the difference. We\u2019ve used this feature many times!<\/p>\n Loyalty rewards and discounts \u2013 Booking.com\u2019s Genius loyalty program offers discounts, free room upgrades, complimentary breakfasts, and other perks at many properties around the world. The more you book, the more benefits you unlock.<\/p>\n 17th Street Causeway & Port Everglades<\/p>\n BEST FOR CRUISE PASSENGERS & SHORT STAYS<\/p>\n Pros<\/p>\n Super convenient for Port Everglades and the airport<\/p>\n Plenty of hotels and practical amenities<\/p>\n Cons<\/p>\n Busy roads make the area less pleasant for walking<\/p>\n Less atmosphere than Fort Lauderdale Beach or Downtown<\/p>\n If you\u2019re spending a night or two in Fort Lauderdale before or after a cruise, staying in the 17th Street Causeway area makes a lot of sense. Port Everglades is right nearby, and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is just a short drive away, so you won\u2019t have far to travel with your luggage!<\/p>\n Unsurprisingly, this area is geared towards travelers. There\u2019s a lot of choice when it comes to hotels around here, and there are also tons of restaurants and supermarkets. The Greater Fort Lauderdale\/Broward County Convention Center is nearby too, so this is a practical base if you\u2019re in town for an event.<\/p>\n You can still squeeze in some sightseeing during a short stay. The 17th Street Causeway crosses the Intracoastal Waterway and puts you within easy reach of the beach, while Downtown and Las Olas Boulevard are only a short drive away.<\/p>\n However, we wouldn\u2019t choose this area for a longer Fort Lauderdale vacation. The busy roads and commercial surroundings mean it doesn\u2019t have the same atmosphere as the beach or Downtown. But for convenience before or after a cruise, you can\u2019t beat it!<\/p>\n Pier Sixty-Six \u2013 $$$<\/p>\n For a luxurious stay near Port Everglades, Pier Sixty-Six<\/a> is our top pick. This iconic waterfront resort originally opened in 1965 and recently underwent a HUGE redevelopment, reopening in 2025. It\u2019s also just minutes from the cruise terminals, so you can start your vacation in style!<\/p>\n The resort is set around a massive marina, with 325 rooms and suites, multiple pools, and a 13,000-square-foot spa. There are also tons of places to eat and drink, including the famous Pier Top revolving lounge, which completes a full rotation every 66 minutes! <\/p>\n We think it\u2019s worth splurging here if you want your pre- or post-cruise stay to feel like an extension of your vacation rather than just somewhere to sleep. Rooms start from around $400 USD per night. <\/p>\n Another option nearby is Embassy Suites by Hilton<\/a>, which offers spacious suites and is super convenient for Port Everglades. There\u2019s a nice pool and garden area, and the beds are large and comfortable.<\/p>\n We also really like Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel<\/a>, which is a brand-new luxury option connected directly to the Broward County Convention Center. Its 10th-floor pool deck has fantastic Intracoastal views, while the Ibis Sky Lounge on the 29th floor is perfect for sunset drinks \u2013 cheers!\u00a0<\/p>\n Aloft by Marriott \u2013 $$<\/p>\n Aloft by Marriott<\/a> is our top pick for cruise passengers. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is just a few minutes away, and the hotel offers a complimentary airport shuttle, plus a paid shuttle service to Port Everglades.<\/p>\n However, this isn\u2019t just a convenient place to crash between journeys! There\u2019s a rooftop pool and bar with 360-degree views, as well as the lively W XYZ Bar downstairs. The rooms are bright and modern, and there\u2019s a 24-hour fitness center up on the 13th floor too. <\/p>\n Overall, we think this is an amazing choice if you want to keep the logistics simple without sacrificing the fun vacation feel. Rooms start from around $150 USD per night.<\/p>\n Crowne Plaza Hotel & Resorts<\/a> is another handy option for a short stay, with the airport and cruise port both nearby. There\u2019s also an outdoor pool, so you can still squeeze in some Florida sunshine between journeys.<\/p>\n We also like Hyatt Place Fort Lauderdale<\/a>, which has spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and a convenient location close to Port Everglades. It\u2019s a solid alternative if Aloft is all booked up.<\/p>\n The Lauderdale Boutique Hotel \u2013 $<\/p>\n If you\u2019re watching your budget, The Lauderdale Boutique Hotel<\/a> is worth checking out. It\u2019s a small, no-frills property, so don\u2019t expect the resort facilities of the pricier hotels above, but that\u2019s reflected in the price!<\/p>\n The rooms are modern and comfortable, with everything you need, and there\u2019s a nice patio area where you can enjoy your morning coffee. However, the location is really the main selling point here. You\u2019ll be close to both Downtown and the 17th Street Causeway, making this a convenient base for Port Everglades while still being within easy reach of restaurants and sightseeing. <\/p>\n There\u2019s also free parking, which is another money-saving bonus if you\u2019ve rented a car. Rooms start from around $140 USD per night.<\/p>\n Lauderdale-by-the-Sea<\/p>\n BEST FOR QUIETER BEACH STAYS<\/p>\n Pros<\/p>\n Quieter beach atmosphere<\/p>\n Fantastic shore snorkeling and diving<\/p>\n Cons<\/p>\n Farther from Downtown Fort Lauderdale<\/p>\n Fewer luxury resorts and nightlife options<\/p>\n If you want a quieter beach vacation, we think Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is an amazing choice. Technically, this is a separate town just north of Fort Lauderdale, but it\u2019s close enough to make a great base for exploring the area.<\/p>\n Lauderdale-by-the-Sea has a completely different feel from the busier Fort Lauderdale Beach. It\u2019s a small, laid-back seaside community with a colorful beachfront and a walkable town center, so you can easily wander between the beach and shops without constantly having to jump in the car.<\/p>\n However, this area is especially famous for what lies beneath the water! Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is one of Florida\u2019s top shore diving destinations, with reefs and shipwrecks that you can reach straight from the beach. Even if you\u2019re not a diver, you can grab a snorkel and explore the reefs just offshore.<\/p>\n The trade-off is that you\u2019ll be farther from Downtown Fort Lauderdale, and there aren\u2019t as many big luxury resorts here. However, that\u2019s also part of the appeal! If your ideal vacation involves relaxing beach days and snorkeling, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is perfect.<\/p>\n Ocean Treasure Beachside Suites \u2013 $$$<\/p>\n For a luxurious stay right on the sand, Ocean Treasure Beachside Suites<\/a> is our top pick. This boutique property has an amazing beachfront location, while Downtown Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is just steps away, so you get the best of both worlds.<\/p>\n There\u2019s a great range of accommodations to choose from, including spacious suites with living and dining areas. Most of them have kitchenettes, which is handy if you\u2019re staying for more than a few nights.\u00a0<\/p>\n However, the location is the real selling point for us. You can wake up overlooking the Atlantic, head straight onto the sand, and still walk into town for dinner in the evening. All in all, we think it\u2019s perfect for a peaceful and convenient beach getaway. Rooms start from around $250 USD per night.<\/p>\n Another beachfront option we love is High Noon Beach Resort<\/a>, a family-run resort that has been around for 60 years. It has two heated pools surrounded by tropical gardens, and the offshore reefs are within swimming distance, so it\u2019s a fantastic choice if you\u2019re here to snorkel or dive.<\/p>\n Plunge Beach Resort \u2013 $$<\/p>\n Plunge Beach Resort<\/a> is a really fun pick in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. It sits right on the beach and has a beachy South Florida style with ocean-inspired artwork. We especially love the beachside bungalows!<\/p>\n There\u2019s plenty going on here too, from beach yoga and live music to games on the sand. You can borrow bikes to explore Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, while the resort fee also includes two beach chairs and towels. There\u2019s a heated pool, plus several places to grab food and drinks, including a beach bar. <\/p>\n We think this is perfect if you want a beach resort with plenty of personality! Rooms start from around $200 USD per night.<\/p>\n If Plunge is all booked up, Coral Key Inn<\/a> is another great option, especially for families. It\u2019s just steps from the beach and provides beach equipment for guests, so you can spend less time organizing and more time on the sand!<\/p>\n Blue Strawberry by the Sea \u2013 $<\/p>\n For a budget-friendly stay, Blue Strawberry by the Sea<\/a> offers a LOT for the money. It\u2019s a small 34-room property just steps from the beach, so you can still score an amazing location without paying beachfront resort prices.<\/p>\n There are two heated outdoor pools, plus free parking and complimentary bikes for exploring the neighborhood. You can also choose a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a full kitchenette, which is a great way to save some money by self-catering. There\u2019s also a barbecue area, which is perfect for summer nights.<\/p>\n And since restaurants and the beach are both within walking distance, you won\u2019t need to spend your entire vacation driving around. For an affordable and laid-back stay by the ocean, we think this\u00a0 hotel is very hard to beat! Rooms start from around $120 USD per night.<\/p>\n Horizon by the Sea Inn<\/a> is another affordable option with a heated outdoor pool and complimentary bikes. It\u2019s just a short walk or ride from the beach and nearby restaurants, making it another convenient base without a hefty resort price tag.<\/p>\n You could also check out Sea Garden by the Sea<\/a>, which is another small property in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. It\u2019s comfortable, with a beachy feel, so it\u2019s a good backup if the other budget options are all booked up.<\/p>\n Related Read: Need help planning your trip? Check out our Fort Lauderdale itinerary<\/a> for a complete day-by-day plan!<\/p>\n Book your Airport Taxi in advance<\/p>\n Start your trip stress-free by booking your airport taxi before you arrive. You\u2019ll skip the long lines, avoid overpriced fares and scams, and won\u2019t have to worry about explaining your hotel address to a driver. Simply prebook your airport pickup online here<\/a>, and your driver will be ready to take you directly to your hotel!<\/p>\n Top Activities in Fort Lauderdale<\/p>\n There\u2019s so much more to Fort Lauderdale than lounging on the beach! We love getting out on the waterways, exploring downtown, and, of course, sampling the local food scene. Here are a few of our favorite activities to add to your trip.<\/p>\n Explore Fort Lauderdale by Segway \u2013 Cover way more ground without wearing yourself out on this fun Segway tour<\/a>! We cruised along the Riverwalk, through downtown, and past luxury homes and mega yachts while hearing plenty of entertaining local stories from our guide.<\/p>\n Watch the sunset from the water \u2013 Fort Lauderdale is famous for its waterways, and this sunset catamaran cruise<\/a> is one of our favorite ways to enjoy them! You\u2019ll sail past the mansions of \u201cMillionaires Row\u201d before heading toward the Atlantic to watch the sunset, with a complimentary drink included.<\/p>\n Taste your way around the city \u2013 Come hungry for this small-group food tour<\/a>! You\u2019ll visit five local restaurants for eight tastings and two drinks while exploring Las Olas Boulevard and learning about Fort Lauderdale\u2019s history along the way.<\/p>\n Cruise the canals on a historic paddlewheeler \u2013 Sit back and enjoy the views aboard the Carrie B! This narrated cruise<\/a> travels along the New River and Intracoastal Waterway, passing waterfront mansions, mega yachts, Port Everglades, and some of the city\u2019s historic sights.<\/p>\n Drive your own mini powerboat \u2013 For something a little more adventurous, we loved cruising the canals in our own two-person mini powerboat<\/a>! You\u2019ll be in control as you zip past mansions and yachts or slow down to take in the mangroves and waterfront scenery.<\/p>\n Renting a Car in the USA<\/p>\n The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country\u2019s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.<\/p>\n We always book with Discover Cars<\/a> and can\u2019t recommend them enough. It\u2019s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Tips for Renting a Car in the USA<\/p>\n Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver\u2019s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!<\/p>\n Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you\u2019ll be driving in.<\/p>\n Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.<\/p>\n Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it\u2019s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.<\/p>\n What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA<\/p>\n A valid driver\u2019s license from your home country.<\/p>\n An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it\u2019s best to check in advance.<\/p>\n A credit card in the driver\u2019s name is typically required for the security deposit.<\/p>\n Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.<\/p>\n Ready to hit the road and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms?<\/p>\n AIRALO e-SIM<\/a> Up To 15% Off With Code \u201cDTRAVEL15\u201d<\/p>\n What\u2019s an eSIM? <\/p>\n An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card. Instead of buying a little plastic chip and swapping it into your phone, you just download it. It connects your phone to a local network in whatever country you\u2019re visiting \u2014 no stores, no waiting, and no fiddling with tiny cards.<\/p>\n In simple terms, it\u2019s the easiest way to get data and stay connected while traveling.<\/p>\n We\u2019ve tested a bunch of eSIMs over the years, and after a few frustrating experiences, we\u2019ve found our favorite \u2014 Airalo<\/a>. It\u2019s fast, reliable, and incredibly easy to use. You can set it up in minutes (even my mom managed it solo on her first try!), and the prices are some of the best out there.<\/p>\n \ud83d\udca1 Bonus: We\u2019ve got an exclusive 15% discount for our readers. Use the codes:<\/p>\n Thanks for reading!<\/p>\n Fort Lauderdale has so many great areas to choose from, and we love that each one offers a totally different experience! You can wake up steps from the sand, stay near the restaurants and nightlife of Las Olas, keep things convenient before a cruise, or escape to laid-back Lauderdale-by-the-Sea.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re planning more of your US adventure, check out our other USA blogs here<\/a>! We\u2019ve spent lots of time exploring the states and have plenty more firsthand tips, itineraries, and guides to help with your trips. Or, keep reading with a few of our favorite blogs below. Safe travels!<\/p>\n How to Spend THREE DAYS on Siesta Key, Florida: 3-Day Itinerary<\/a><\/p>\n![\"Palm](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Palm-Trees-on-Fort-Lauderdale-Beach-Florida-at-sunset.webp\")
We love it here!<\/p>\n![\"A-large-sea-turtle-swims-while-snorkeling-at](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/A-large-sea-turtle-swims-while-snorkeling-at-Lauderdale-by-the-Beach-near-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida.jp.jpeg\")
A sea turtle seen while snorkeling at Lauderdale by the Beach<\/p>\n![\"Daniel-and-Bailey-relax-on-the-beach-in-Fort](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Daniel-and-Bailey-relax-on-the-beach-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida.webp\")
Soaking up the sun!<\/p>\n![\"An](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/An-umbrella-and-sand-on-Fort-Lauderdale-Beach-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida.webp\")
This is such a great beach<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/The-Atlantic-Hotel-Spa-in-Fort-Lauderdale.webp\")
Photo credit: The Atlantic Hotel & Spa<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/The-Atlantic-Hotel-Spa-in-Fort-Lauderdale-1.webp\")
Photo credit: The Atlantic Hotel & Spa<\/p>\n![\"Aqua](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Aqua-Hotel-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida-2.webp\")
Photo credit: Aqua Hotel<\/p>\n![\"Aqua](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Aqua-Hotel-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida-4.webp\")
Photo credit: Aqua Hotel<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/The-Hotel-Deauville-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida.webp\")
Photo credit: The Hotel Deauville<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/The-Hotel-Deauville-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida-1.webp\")
Photo credit: The Hotel Deauville<\/p>\n![\"Bailey-enjoys-a-cocktail-while-out-in-Fort](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Bailey-enjoys-a-cocktail-while-out-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida.jpg\")
This is where the nightlife is at!<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/The-Fort-Lauderdale-Riverwalk-Florida.webp\")
The Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk<\/p>\n![\"Hyatt](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Hyatt-Centric-Las-Olas-Fort-Lauderdale-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida.webp\")
Photo credit: Hyatt Centric Las Olas <\/p>\n![\"Hyatt](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Hyatt-Centric-Las-Olas-Fort-Lauderdale-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida-1.webp\")
Photo credit: Hyatt Centric Las Olas<\/p>\n![\"Riverside](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Riverside-Hotel-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida.webp\")
Photo credit: Riverside Hotel<\/p>\n![\"Riverside](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Riverside-Hotel-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida-1-1.webp\")
Photo credit: Riverside Hotel<\/p>\n![\"Tru](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Tru-By-Hilton-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida.webp\")
Photo credit: Tru By Hilton<\/p>\n![\"Tru](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Tru-By-Hilton-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida-1.webp\")
Photo credit: Tru By Hilton<\/p>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/A-cruise-ship-at-Port-Everglades-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida.webp\")
If you\u2019re here to catch a cruise, 17th Street Causeway & Port Everglades is the place to stay<\/p>\n![\"Pier](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Pier-Sixty-Six-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida.webp\")
Photo credit: Pier Sixty-Six<\/p>\n![\"Pier](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Pier-Sixty-Six-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida-1.webp\")
Photo credit: Pier Sixty-Six<\/p>\n![\"Aloft](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Aloft-by-Marriott-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida.webp\")
Photo credit: Aloft by Marriott<\/p>\n![\"Aloft](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Aloft-by-Marriott-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida-1.webp\")
Photo credit: Aloft by Marriott<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/The-Lauderdale-Boutique-Hotel-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida.webp\")
Photo credit: The Lauderdale Boutique Hotel<\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/The-Lauderdale-Boutique-Hotel-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida-1.webp\")
Photo credit: The Lauderdale Boutique Hotel<\/p>\n![\"Lauderdale](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Lauderdale-By-The-Sea-beach-entrance-portal-near-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida.webp\")
Lauderdale By The Sea beach entrance<\/p>\n![\"A-woman-snorkels-in-Fort](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/A-woman-snorkels-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida.jpg\")
A premier snorkeling and diving destination in Florida<\/p>\n![\"Ocean](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Ocean-Treasure-Beachside-Suites-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida.webp\")
Photo credit: Ocean Treasure Beachside Suites<\/p>\n![\"Ocean](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Ocean-Treasure-Beachside-Suites-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida-1.webp\")
Photo credit: Ocean Treasure Beachside Suites<\/p>\n![\"Plunge](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Plunge-Beach-Resort-in-Fort-Lauderdale-2.webp\")
Photo credit: Plunge Beach Resort <\/p>\n![\"Plunge](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Plunge-Beach-Resort-in-Fort-Lauderdale-1.webp\")
Photo credit: Plunge Beach Resort <\/p>\n![\"Blue](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Blue-Strawberry-by-the-Sea-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida.webp\")
Photo credit: Blue Strawberry by the Sea<\/p>\n![\"Blue](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Blue-Strawberry-by-the-Sea-in-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida-1.webp\")
Photo credit: Blue Strawberry by the Sea<\/p>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/A-sunset-seen-on-a-cruise-in-Fort-Lauderdale.jpg\")
What a view!<\/p>\n![\"The-fort-lauderdale-riverwalk-seen-on-a-Segway-tour](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/The-fort-lauderdale-riverwalk-seen-on-a-Segway-tour-Florida.jpg\")
We got amazing city views on the Segway tour<\/p>\n![\"Car](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Car-rental-photo-for-the-United-States-1.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Daniel,](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Daniel-Bailey-and-family-take-a-selfie-on-a-cruise-ship-leaving-Fort-Lauderdale-Florida-2.webp\")
Thanks for reading!<\/p>\n