Fort Lauderdale has always been a popular destination for the young and old, singles, couples and families. When you visit, take it one sunny day at a time. Experience as much or as little as you like because Fort Lauderdale is a no-pressure, just-relax zone.
Many destinations have beaches, but only a few can claim the designation of Blue Wave-certified beaches. Since 1999, the non-profit, Washington-based Clean Beaches Coalition has been recognizing communities for responsible beach management. It is based on strict criteria including water quality, safety, habitat conservation, cleanliness and public education.
Every year since 1999, the 37 km of beaches here, including Fort Lauderdale Beach in the Greater Fort Lauderdale area, have earned the Blue Wave designation.
Water is a big part of the daily rituals of visitors and locals. Catching a taxi here usually means a water taxi. Hop on and off at the various stops along the way, including the Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District. You can easily go between landscaped trails, event venues, boutique shops and alfresco restaurants.
In Fort Lauderdale, many homes line the canals and waterways. For the more romantic types, this “Venice of America” even offers motorized gondola rides.
Always wanted to try diving? Take a diving course, complete with certification. Explore the 80 artificial reefs and shipwrecks that lie close at hand. Some are as close as 110 metres from shore.
Or try a sport that's a favourite with locals: paddle boarding. Stand on a surf-like board and, with a single paddle, cruise through the water and keep your balance.
In Fort Lauderdale, just minutes from the carefree atmosphere of the beach, you can be transported (by water taxi or trolley) to a world of art – from the classical to the whimsical. Art galleries, like the renowned Museum of Art, await your viewing pleasure. After spending time at the museum, take a leisurely walk along Las Olas Boulevard, the main upscale shopping and restaurant area.
When you travel to Fort Lauderdale, pack your sense of fun and adventure. This destination rolls out the welcome mat for everyone. The Wilton Manors area, just north of downtown, is a popular gay and lesbian area and welcomes travellers with its collection of shops, boutiques, bars and restaurants.