7 Best Beaches Near Fort Lauderdale For 2024!

Top Rated Beaches Near Fort Lauderdale

The Fort Lauderdale area is renowned for its pristine beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, each offering its own unique vibe and amenities for visitors.

Check out the list of beaches near Fort Lauderdale that you shouldn’t miss below!

Las Olas Beach

Las Olas Beach is well-loved for its tropical palm trees, turquoise waters, and the abundance of shops and eateries nearby.

Visitors can rent beach chairs and umbrellas to relax under the Florida sun.

Fort Lauderdale Beach

Fort Lauderdale Beach stands out with its signature wave wall and brick-paved promenade with plenty of picnic tables, this popular beach is adjacent to a wide array of upscale outdoor restaurants, boutiques, and luxury hotels.

Hollywood Beach

Hollywood Beach features the famous Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, a 2.5-mile-long pedestrian promenade lined with quirky shops, cafes, and entertainment options, ideal for those who enjoy walking, jogging, or biking.

Dania Beach

For a quieter beach experience, Dania Beach offers a serene retreat with its gorgeous pier and less crowded space, it’s a great place for families seeking a peaceful day by the sea.

Pompano Beach

Pompano Beach offers various recreational activities for beach lovers such as swimming, snorkeling, and fishing.

Also, one of the best things to do here is to spot wildlife such as sea turtles.

Hillsboro Beach

Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway is Hillsboro Beach with an unspoiled shoreline and white sandy beach, it is a perfect place for tranquility and relaxation.

​Deerfield Beach

Located in Broward County, this public beach offers magnificent beaches.

With an inviting playground, a bustling pier, and beachfront parks, Deerfield Beach is one of the best family-friendly destinations in Florida that you shouldn’t miss.
 
I also love eating at Whale’s Rib, which is a popular restaurant just a couple of blocks from the beach and pier.
 
Try their famous whale fries and a burger or some oysters, or both!
 

Best Times To Visit

Visitors seeking the ideal combination of pleasant weather and manageable crowds should consider the nuances of Fort Lauderdale’s seasons.

Seasonal Weather

Fort Lauderdale’s weather is typically warm year-round, but the best conditions are found between December and April.

During these months, temperatures range from the mid-60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit, and humidity is at its lowest.

Travelers need to note that Florida from June through November is the Atlantic hurricane season, with August and September being peak times for storms.

Winter (December – February): Cool and comfortable, with average highs of 75°F.

Spring (March – May): Warmer with temperatures around 80°F.

Summer (June – August): Hot and humid, with average highs in the upper 80s°F.

Fall (September – November): Similar to summer, with hurricane risks.

Tourist Peak Seasons

Fort Lauderdale’s peak tourist season coincides with the winter months of December to February when northern visitors come to escape the cold.

Consequently, beaches and attractions can be crowded, and hotel rates are at their highest.

Off-Peak (June – September): Fewer tourists due to heat, humidity, and storm risks.

Shoulder Season (March – May and October – November): Visitors can find a balance between good weather and lower numbers of tourists.

Activities And Attractions

Fort Lauderdale’s beaches offer a diverse range of activities and attractions, from thrilling water sports to serene nature parks.

Visitors can indulge in fine dining at beachside restaurants or engage in various water activities in Fort Lauderdale.

Water Sports

Kayaking & Paddleboarding: For a peaceful but active beach day, visitors can rent kayaks or paddleboards.

The calm waters near Fort Lauderdale Beach provide an ideal environment for both beginners and experienced individuals.

Jet Skiing & Parasailing: Those seeking more adrenaline can try jet skiing or parasailing, available at various rental spots along the coastline.

Beachside Restaurants

Casual Eats & Fine Dining: The Fort Lauderdale beachfront is lined with a mix of casual eateries, beach bars, and upscale dining options.

Many establishments offer fresh seafood and spectacular ocean views.

Sea Level Restaurant & Ocean Bar: Enjoy oceanfront dining in this local favorite with a selection of fresh seafood.

Steak 954: A luxury steakhouse for those who appreciate gourmet food and a sophisticated atmosphere.

Nearby Nature Parks

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park: This park offers visitors a break from the beach scene with its tranquil lagoons, walking trails, and diverse wildlife.

Fort Lauderdale Beach Park: It offers a family-friendly atmosphere with playgrounds, picnic areas, and a basketball court, highlighting the city’s outdoor experiences.

Family-Friendly Options

Fort Lauderdale offers various beaches ideal for families, providing lots of swimming areas, relaxation, and plenty of fun activities for children.

Notable Beaches

Fort Lauderdale Beach Park: This park is known for its certified lifeguards who are on duty daily, ensuring a safe environment.

The beach is also equipped with playgrounds and picnic areas, making it a popular spot for family outings.

Lauderdale-By-The-Sea: A favorite for families, this picturesque area is walkable and has a shallow reef for snorkeling, just off the coast.

Kids’ Activities

LauderDeals: Fort Lauderdale has many child-friendly activities.

They range from water parks to museums and are especially beneficial for traveling families.

Museum of Discovery and Science: Located nearby, this interactive museum features a variety of exhibits designed to engage young minds, from the science park to animal experiences to an IMAX theater.

It’s a perfect diversion for days when families want a break from the sun and sand.

Accommodations

Visitors have a variety of beachfront accommodations to choose from in Fort Lauderdale, each offering a unique stay with comfort and convenience at the forefront.

Beachfront Hotels

Fort Lauderdale boasts a diverse selection of beachfront hotels, ranging from luxurious resorts to family-friendly options.

Travelers can enjoy easy access to the sand and surf, along with amenities such as swimming pools, restaurants, and fitness centers.

Here are some of the best places I recommend you stay in Fort Lauderdale.

The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale: This 5-star hotel features opulent rooms with private balconies overlooking the ocean, a full-service spa, and a heated infinity pool.

📍 Address: 1 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304

📞 Phone: (954) 465-2300

Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club: A family-owned resort that offers exclusive beach access, spacious suites, and activities for all ages.

📍 Address: 1700 S Ocean Ln, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316

📞 Phone: (954) 523-6511

The Atlantic Hotel & Spa: An upscale all-suite hotel that presents guests with a more intimate experience and includes a spa, oceanfront dining, and a private balcony in every room.

📍 Address: 601 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304

📞 Phone: (954) 567-8020

Each hotel provides visitors with a unique atmosphere and experience that caters to their specific vacation needs, always ensuring a memorable stay on the shores of Fort Lauderdale.

Transportation Tips

When visiting beaches near Fort Lauderdale, efficient transportation is key. Here’s how to navigate parking and fees.

Parking and Fees

Fort Lauderdale Beach Park: Expect to pay around $4 per hour for parking in the metered lot.

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park: Parking fees are $6 per vehicle for 2-8 people or $4 for a single-occupant vehicle.

Visitors are advised to use credit cards or mobile apps for seamless parking payments.

Arriving early is recommended, as spaces can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

Note: Parking rates and policies are subject to change, so it’s wise to check the latest information before your trip.

Safety Information

When visiting beaches near Fort Lauderdale, safety should always be a top priority.

It’s important to be aware of swimming conditions and local wildlife to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

✅ Swimming Safety

Rip Currents:

Fort Lauderdale’s beaches can experience rip currents. Swimmers are advised to:

✓ Stay calm and don’t fight the current.

✓ Swim parallel to the shore until out of the current’s pull.

✓ Signal for help if unable to reach the shore.

Lifeguards:

✓ Presence: Always swim near a lifeguard when available.

✓ Hours: Heed to lifeguards’ instructions and be aware of their duty hours.

✅ Wildlife Awareness

Jellyfish:

✓ Season: Jellyfish can be more prevalent from May through October.

✓ Response: If stung, rinse with vinegar and seek medical help if necessary.

Sharks:

For safety when sharks are present:

𝙓  Avoid swimming at dawn or dusk.

✓ Stay in groups, as sharks are more likely to approach a solitary individual.

Local Culture And Events

Fort Lauderdale’s beaches are not only about sun and sand; they are pulsing with a fun cultural scene and a variety of events throughout the year.

Locals and visitors can immerse themselves in the wide variety of festivities that reflect the area’s diverse heritage and artistic flair.

Highlights of the Year:

Lauderdale Air Show: Held annually in the spring, spectators can witness high-flying stunts and aerial acrobatics over the ocean.

Tortuga Music Festival: A multi-day event in April that combines top country, rock, and roots performances with marine conservation awareness efforts.

Stonewall Pride Parade and Festival: A summer event celebrating the LGBTQ+ community with a parade, live music, and local vendors.

Fort Lauderdale also has its deep connections to the waters with events like the Winterfest Boat Parade, where boats show off with dazzling lights and cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway.

Local Art Scene:

They celebrate the arts with events such as:

Las Olas Art Fair: Artists showcase their work along the famous Las Olas Boulevard.

Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival (FLIFF): Filmmakers from around the globe screen their movies and documentaries.

One cannot miss the Riverwalk Sunday Arts, where every first Sunday of the month, an outdoor market unfolds, with art, crafts, and live music along the picturesque Riverwalk.

Cultural Celebrations:

The area’s culture is showcased with festivals like:

Sistrunk Parade & Festival: An homage to the African-American community’s culture, history, and traditions.

Fort Lauderdale Greek Festival: This February event is a blast with traditional Greek food, music, and dance.

Each event is an opportunity for visitors to experience the warmth and inclusivity that Fort Lauderdale has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Exploring the beautiful beaches near Fort Lauderdale can lead to many questions.

This section aims to answer some of the most commonly asked queries by visitors.

What Are The Top-Rated Beaches To Visit In Fort Lauderdale?

Fort Lauderdale Beach is a highly acclaimed destination known for its expansive shoreline and vibrant atmosphere.

Additionally, Las Olas Beach offers visitors a picturesque setting and is popular for its proximity to local shops and eateries.

Are There Any Dog-Friendly Beaches In The Fort Lauderdale Area?

Canine Beach in Fort Lauderdale welcomes dogs and their owners during specific hours, usually on Fridays through Sundays.

It’s a great spot for visitors looking to enjoy the sand and sea with their furry friends.

What Are Some Family-Friendly Beaches Near Fort Lauderdale?

Lauderdale-By-The-Sea is a charming beach town ideal for families, featuring a fishing pier, playgrounds, and safe swimming areas.

Hollywood Beach is also family-friendly with its boardwalk, bike rentals, and calm waters.

How Can I Find The Less Crowded Beaches In Fort Lauderdale?

For a more secluded beach day, consider visiting Dania Beach, which tends to be less crowded.

It offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful natural scenery away from the bigger crowds of the other beaches.

Are There Good Snorkeling Spots At Beaches Close To Fort Lauderdale?

Vista Park Reef is a favored snorkeling location near Fort Lauderdale, with crystal-clear waters and teeming marine life.

Another spot, the SS Copenhagen shipwreck off the shores of Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, provides a historical snorkel experience.

Which Beaches In Fort Lauderdale Offer The Best Amenities?

Fort Lauderdale Beach Park is notable for its amenities, including picnic areas, outdoor showers, and volleyball courts. 

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park also offers beachgoers a range of facilities like BBQ grills, nature trails, and canoe rentals.

Booking a last-minute trip to Fort Lauderdale?  

If so, we have you covered.  

Top Tours in Cape Coral FL 

Florida Everglades Adventure and Wildlife Encounter – Top-rated Everglades tour from Fort Lauderdale

Public Guided Snorkel Tour of Fort Lauderdale Reeds – Best snorkel tour in Fort Lauderdale

Shared Sportfishing Trip from Fort Lauderdale – Small-group deep-sea fishing tour

4-Hour Fort Lauderdale Sailing Charter – Half-day sailing in Fort Lauderdale

Top Hotels & Accommodations In Fort Lauderdale

Hyatt Centric Las Olas Fort Lauderdale – (Top Rated Hotel Located At Downtown)

Hotel Maren Fort Lauderdale Beach– (Highly Rated Hotel Near Ft Lauderdale Beach)

Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach – (Luxury Hotel With Beachfront View)

Soleado Hotel – (Top-Rated Apartment Nearby Beach )

Looking To Get Around In Cape Coral FL? 

Check out rental car rates here! 🚗