Fort Lauderdale has become one of our favorite beach getaways. From its laid back vibe, family friendly atmosphere, to amazing restaurants, and beautiful emerald water, it’s a destination we never get tired of visiting.
There are plenty of beautiful beach destinations in Florida, but we always find ourselves coming back to Fort Lauderdale. With its relaxed pace, family-friendly atmosphere, incredible restaurant scene, and beautiful blue water, it’s become our favorite place to unwind.
Our love for Fort Lauderdale actually started in 2019 after reconnecting with an old coworker and friend. She invited me down for a weekend, and that one invitation was all it took. From that very first trip, I was hooked on South Florida.
Every time I step off the plane at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, something changes. The warm Florida sunshine hits my face, and I instantly feel lighter, happier, and full of energy. It’s hard to explain, but it happens every single time.
Texas has sunshine too, but it feels different. In Texas, the heat can be relentless. In Fort Lauderdale, the sun feels energizing. Maybe it’s the ocean breeze, the salty air, or the sound of the waves rolling onto the beach. Whatever it is, I leave feeling refreshed instead of drained.
While Miami gets most of the attention, Fort Lauderdale is the city we choose every time. The pace is slower, traffic feels more manageable, and the atmosphere is much more relaxed. It feels welcoming for families without sacrificing great restaurants, beautiful beaches, or plenty of things to do.
One of our absolute favorite activities is riding the Water Taxi. It’s one of the best values in the city and doubles as a sightseeing cruise. You can spend the day hopping on and off while cruising through Fort Lauderdale’s scenic waterways, then head downtown before catching a ride back later in the evening. They even serve drinks onboard, making the ride just as enjoyable as the destination. I’ll share a complete guide to the Water Taxi in a future post because it deserves one of its own.
When choosing where to stay, we usually prefer the southern end of Fort Lauderdale Beach near the harbor. It’s within walking distance of several of our favorite restaurants, offers easy access to the Water Taxi, and is just a short trip to Las Olas Boulevard. Everything feels connected, so it’s easy to leave the car parked and simply enjoy the area on foot.
Florida has no shortage of beautiful beaches, and honestly, you could have a wonderful vacation at many of them. For us, though, the deciding factor is the atmosphere. Fort Lauderdale has the easygoing, laid-back vibe we’re looking for. It’s lively without feeling overwhelming, which keeps us coming back year after year.
If you’re planning your first visit, I have one recommendation: go in late May if you can. Spring Break is over, schools are still in session, and the beaches are noticeably quieter. It’s the perfect time to experience Fort Lauderdale more like a local and less like a tourist.
For us, Fort Lauderdale isn’t just another beach destination—it’s the place we look forward to returning to again and again.
Quick Take: Fort Lauderdale is family friendly, laid back, has excellent dining experiences, and beautiful scenery who would want to go anywhere else? It’s a favorite domestic destination for sure.
Forward Always, Shannon
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