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Where to stay in Fort Lauderdale

Picking the right neighborhood in Fort Lauderdale matters more than picking the right hotel — here's how to choose.

Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA· Airport: FLL
Fort Lauderdale — Where to stay | CheapoTrav travel guide

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Key facts

  • Fort Lauderdale Beach offers direct ocean access and a lively atmosphere, but often comes with a higher price tag for beachfront properties.
  • Las Olas Boulevard is ideal for upscale dining, shopping, and art galleries; accommodations here lean towards boutique hotels and urban options.
  • Downtown Fort Lauderdale provides access to the New River, museums, and business districts, often with good public transport connections.
  • Wilton Manors, just north of downtown, is a prominent LGBTQ+ friendly area known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse dining scene.
  • Consider staying near Port Everglades for convenient access if you're departing on a cruise, with several hotels offering shuttle services.
  • Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, a separate town directly north of Fort Lauderdale Beach, provides a quieter, small-town beach experience.
  • Areas west of US-1 generally offer more budget-friendly lodging, but typically require a car or rideshare for beach access.

Fort Lauderdale offers a range of options for visitors, whether you're here for the beaches, the canals, or the nightlife. Understanding the layout of the city can help you choose the right base for your trip. The main areas of interest generally run east-to-west, from the Atlantic coast inland, with a distinct character to each. Getting around is manageable, but relying on your feet alone for distant points isn't always practical.

For those prioritizing beach access and ocean views, the Barrier Island neighborhoods like Fort Lauderdale Beach are the obvious choice. This strip offers direct sand access, a lively promenade, and numerous resorts. If you prefer a more cultural or downtown experience, areas west of the Intracoastal Waterway provide different amenities, often at a slightly lower price point.

Families often look towards quieter sections of Fort Lauderdale Beach or districts like Lauderdale-by-the-Sea just north, which offers a more small-town, laid-back vibe with good dining options. Travelers interested in boating and yachting will find numerous accommodations near the marinas along the Intracoastal. If your visit involves events at the Convention Center or cruise departures from Port Everglades, consider hotels slightly south of the main beach strip for convenience.

Nightlife and dining options are spread across several areas, from the upscale Las Olas Boulevard to the more casual beachside bars. Staying within walking distance of your preferred evening activities can save on transport. Conversely, if peace and quiet are a priority, opt for a hotel a few blocks away from the busiest stretches. Consider what aspects of Fort Lauderdale are most important for your stay, and you'll likely find a neighborhood that fits.

Should you find yourself overwhelmed with the choices, or have specific needs, a travel agent specializing in Florida can offer tailored advice.

In this guide

  • Best for first-timers
  • Best for nightlife
  • Best for families
  • Best on a budget
  • Areas to skip

Frequently asked questions

Which Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods are best for families?
Families typically find the northern sections of Fort Lauderdale Beach, particularly around Galt Ocean Mile, to be a good balance of beach access and relative quiet. Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, just north of the city limits, also offers a more relaxed, community-oriented feel with pier fishing and calm waters, which can be appealing for families with younger children. These areas often have rental condos and hotels with amenities like pools and kitchenettes.
Where should I stay in Fort Lauderdale for nightlife?
For nightlife, Las Olas Boulevard and Wilton Manors are the primary hubs. Las Olas offers a mix of upscale bars, restaurants with outdoor seating, and live music venues. Wilton Manors, a short drive north of downtown, is known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, featuring numerous bars, clubs, and drag shows. For beachside entertainment, the Fort Lauderdale Beach strip also has many bars and casual eateries, particularly around the A1A corridor.
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What's the best area to stay for a cruise out of Port Everglades?
If you're cruising from Port Everglades, staying in hotels along the 17th Street Causeway area is most convenient. Many hotels here cater to pre- and post-cruise travelers, offering amenities like shuttle services to the port and sometimes even parking packages. This area is also a short drive from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and has several dining options within walking distance or a short ride.
Are there walkable neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale?
Yes, several neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale offer good walkability. Las Olas Boulevard is very walkable, with shops, restaurants, and galleries lining the street. The Fort Lauderdale Beach promenade allows for extensive walking or biking along the oceanfront. Additionally, Wilton Manors has a walkable main street, Wilton Drive, with numerous businesses. For most other areas, particularly west of the Intracoastal, a car or rideshare is generally recommended for convenience.
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Which area is best for budget travelers in Fort Lauderdale?
Budget-conscious travelers often find better value in hotels located slightly west of the main tourist areas. Neighborhoods along US-1 or in areas like Hollywood (just south of Fort Lauderdale) tend to have more affordable lodging options compared to properties directly on Fort Lauderdale Beach or Las Olas. Staying further inland may require relying on a car or public transit to reach the beaches and downtown attractions, but can significantly reduce accommodation costs.
Where should I stay to be near the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)?
If proximity to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is your priority, consider hotels along US-1, especially south of downtown Fort Lauderdale and north of Hollywood. There are numerous chain hotels in this corridor that offer convenient access to the airport, often with complimentary shuttle services. These areas are also well-located for quick access to Port Everglades if you're connecting to a cruise.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares

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