Fort Lauderdale, Florida, may be less than an hour away from the vibrant energy of Miami, but feels like you're worlds away thanks to the enormous network of winding canals. With a beach that stretches for an impressive 24 miles, and no less than 300 miles of navigable waterways, it’s a city that's bursting with waterside bars and restaurants, boutique shopping, luxury hotels and a thriving arts and culture scene. But, best of all, getting around in Fort Lauderdale means hopping onto a water taxi - which, no matter your age, never fails to be fun.
The Vibe
Known for its huge coastline boasting beaches, art, culture and canals, Fort Lauderdale draws in a real mix of tourists - whether it's yacht enthusiasts, activity-seeking families or couples looking for a luxury beach break. The city is famous for its beachfront promenade, with many soaking up the sun at the laid-back cafés lining the Riverwalk, and the white wave wall and paved path are dotted with five star hotels and endless boutiques on the 'style mile', Las Olas Boulevard. It's an undeniable pocket of opulence, with residents living in mega mansions and lounging on super yachts.
Where to Stay
You won't be short of options when it comes to accommodation in Fort Lauderdale, with a huge selection of five star hotels as well as smaller, but equally luxurious, boutique stays. I checked in to Beach House Fort Lauderdale, a Hilton Resort, which is a 374-bed resort on North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard.
The oceanfront penthouse, a three-bed suite with 360-degree sea views, is perfect for those who want elevated comfort. With a fully functioning kitchen and three and a half bathrooms, it's your very own ultra-luxe home away from home. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer guests an unparalleled view of the ocean, with the endless sea and sky making mornings - and sunsets - feel extra magical.
As for the facilities, the resort has a spa, fitness centre and oceanfront pool terrace for guests to enjoy during their stay. The pool, with its panoramic views and beach club vibe, quickly becomes my favourite spot, the perfect sun spot for lounging between dips. The location, sitting directly on North Beach, makes it easy to walk to the ocean and nearby beach bars. And as for the food? There are multiple eateries around the hotel, with options for every palate. But my favourite spot for a bite to eat quickly becomes Ilios, a rooftop restaurant with a wide selection of drinks and plenty of fresh, flavourful Mediterranean-style dishes.
Dining
From seafood restaurants to ramen bars, French bakeries to ice-cream parlours, Fort Lauderdale has something for everyone. Personal highlights include the uber-fun Mai-Kai Restaurant and Polynesian Show, a South Seas experience which has been entertaining visitors since 1956, with tiki décor, waterfalls, and mouth-watering food. The cocktails were divine and the show was unforgettable.
Don't miss the beachfront dining at S3 during your trip; set right on the beach with stunning views of the ocean, the sushi is utterly delicious. The menu is packed with fresh seafood and juicy steaks, and the atmosphere is relaxed - the perfect place to unwind after a day by the pool.
Activities
Catching a water taxi is now my all-time favourite thing to do. Cruising along the waterways offers a front-row seat to the city’s glamorous super yachts and enormous waterfront mansions. Palm trees line the canals, and the water taxis are hop-on, hop-off - so you can explore at your own pace.
Fort Lauderdale is also the gateway to the Everglades National Park, but if you want more city-based activities my top picks include the 1920 Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, which is a little slice of calm in the busy city. The Museum of Discovery & Science, which is full of STEM activities, simulators, immersive eco-discovery zones and animal encounters, is great for families; my toddler daughter loved playing there.
How to Book
You can find out what's on in Fort Lauderdale by visiting visitlauderdale.com. For more information about Beach House Fort Lauderdale, a Hilton Resort, visit hiltonbeachhouse.com.