Fort Lauderdale beach made its first impression as the ultimate spring break destination in the 1970’s. Since that time, the selection of restaurants and hotels have changed, but the inviting atmosphere has remained the same. Just north of the renowned “Fort Lauderdale Strip” lays a quaint beachside stretch known as Lauderdale by the Sea.
Lauderdale by the Sea Hotels
Although there are plenty to choose from, most travelers enjoy the convenient location of beachside hotels near the Fort Lauderdale Pier, located directly off of Commercial Boulevard. The pier offers a fun vibrant atmosphere with public beach access. Nearby hotels include Buena Vista Hotel & Conference Center. Buena Vista is pet friendly. It has cozy rooms and accommodates small wedding parties. The off-season rates start at $99 per night.
The Captain’s Quarters Resort is another beachside option. There is a spacious pool area providing barbeque grills and comfortable seating. Volleyball nets are located nearby on the beach, along with equipment rentals. Off-season rates start at $105, and discounts are available for extensive stays.
Costa Del Sol is a hotel and timeshare resort. There is a laundry facility on the premises and beachside amenities. Additional popular hotels in the immediate area are Coral key Inn and Blue Seas Courtyard.
Beachside Dining
After a long day at the beach, the body deserves a sensational meal. Lauderdale by the Sea offers several restaurants with an assortment of platters- from fresh fish to mouthwatering pizza. Enjoy the sunset and the calming sound of waves from the Aruba Beach Café, located beachside (moderately priced). Village Pump and Village Grill is known for large tasty salads and wonderful breakfast omelets. Located directly across the street from Village Grill is 101 Ocean- a tasty pizzeria serving delicious flatbreads by day and transforming into a lively bar and dance floor by night. If dessert is a priority, Kilwins is the answer. The homemade ice creamery and selection of chocolate dipped fruit is a vacationer’s dream. Kilwins is open until 11 pm, so late diners can enjoy the sweet spot.
Jungle Queen Side Trip
With so many options- fishing, scuba diving, skimming, walking, shopping- it is difficult to leave Lauderdale by the Sea after arriving. However, tours on the Jungle Queen Riverboat are well worth the time away from the sunshine and sand. The Jungle Queen is a large double-decked riverboat that glides along the New River through downtown Fort Lauderdale. Guests will enjoy spectacular views of original Fort Lauderdale houses, built in the 1930’s, and exquisite passing yachts. The Jungle Queen travels to a private island where passengers can watch alligator shows and encounter exotic wildlife.
Planning a Lauderdale by the Sea Vacation
Whether travelers plan on enjoying a weekend or an entire week, Lauderdale by the Sea is the perfect getaway for couples, families, and friends. The ocean is clear and warm, and all activities and sights are within walking distance of hotels. Summer time hotel rates are significantly lower than the high-season holiday rates. Regardless of the time of year, sunshine is usually in the forecast and the visitors are always welcome.
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