With an average year round temperature of 77 degrees and more than 3,000 annual hours of sunshine, it’s no wonder the Fort Lauderdale website is sunny.org . ‘Hello Sunny’ is not just a slogan in travel literature, it’s a fact of life in this idyllic paradise just two and half hours from New York and 23 miles north of Miami.

As one of the more popular ports of call for cruise ships, with one of the busiest airports in the nation, Fort Lauderdale has probably been part of your travel itinerary in the past. Now with its top notch hotels, superior fine dining, exhilarating nightlife and beautiful beaches, this seaside community needs to be a part of your regular vacation schedule.

Long ago and far away Fort Lauderdale was known for its Spring Break popularity. Those days are long gone. The city now attracts a more sophisticated clientele looking for sun and the finer things in life, with less of the madness just 50 minutes south.

WHAT TO DO

Model Ashley Van Hoey

Beach Baby
Obviously one of Fort Lauderdale’s main attractions are the more than 23 miles of sunkissed beaches – an easy walk from many hotels, restaurants and activities. The destination has undergone a $26-million renovation to modernize the walkways, improve the landscaping and create the wave wall with neon accents that is now one of its trademarks.

Here you can enjoy clean, safe Blue Wave Beaches certified by the Clean Beaches Council. The most popular being Hollywood, Dania Beach, Deerfield Beach, Pompano Beach, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, and Fort Lauderdale.

Water Sports Abound
With 165 miles of local waterways, watersport activities are the most popular forms of recreation. Boating, sailing, fishing, kayaking, local leisure cruises, moonlight and sunset sails, jet skis, and parasailing are some of the favorite ways to pass the time. And with the Atlantic Ocean at your door, snorkeling and diving enthusiasts can enjoy tropical undersea life, sunken ships and coral reefs within minutes.

GETTING AROUND

The Water Taxi
Surrounded by so many waterways, it’s no wonder Fort Lauderdale is known as the ‘Venice of America.’ It’s only fitting that you spend some time getting around on water. The Water Taxi is a great option. There are multiple routes to choose from and your ticket lets you on and off all day. Choose which stops you’d like to explore, or just sit back and enjoy the ride. .

www.watertaxi.com/watertaxi/fort-lauderdale/

WHERE TO GO

Las Olas Boulevard

To get the flavor of Fort Lauderdale take a stroll along Las Olas Boulevard. This eclectic entertainment hub offers over 30 al fresco international dining options, major international art galleries, the Museum of Science and Discovery, the Museum of Art, and diverse shopping – all within a 17 block radius.

East Las Olas starts at SE 1st Ave going up to SE 17th Ave. You’ll find the greatest concentration of venues between 5th and 12th.

www.lasolasboulevard.com

Riverwalk

Just minutes from the beach is the Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District in downtown Fort Lauderdale, home to cultural attractions, shops, parks and restaurants.  This recently completed linear promenade along the New River is often called “Florida’s Most Beautiful Mile,” linking boutiques, restaurants, shops and museums with lush, tropical scenery. Along its paths you’ll find romantic gazebos, a picnic area, native plant exhibits and a butterfly garden. Riverwalk also encompasses Esplanade Park and the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. 

400 SW 2 Street (along the New River from NE 6 Ave to SW 6 Ave.)
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
www.goriverwalk.com

The Everglades

Located just two miles from the Fort Lauderdale Airport, the Florida Everglades are a must-see attraction. Take an exhilarating airboat ride at Sawgrass Recreation Park, Billie Swamp Safari or Everglades Holiday Park.

Billie Swamp Safari

Enjoy and experience the wonders of nature. Glide effortlessly along the Airboat Trail through cypress domes and see alligators, turtles, fish, birds, raccoons and other animals in their natural environment. Splash through the swamp and view native and exotic wildlife such as bison, water buffalo, wild pigs, and ostriches up close while riding through the wetlands on a Swamp Buggy Eco-Tour, or sit back in the shade at the Herpetarium for the Snake Show, or Swamp Critter Show held daily. Try delicious alligator tail nuggets, frog legs or American fare for the faint of heart at the Swamp Water Cafe.

Hollywood Beach Broadwalk
Named one of America’s Best Beach Boardwalks by Travel + Leisure magazine, this brick-paved thoroughfare is a haven for joggers, bicyclists, roller-bladers and all who’d prefer to take in the action from the comfort of one of the countless eateries and cafés along the way. The easy ocean access and village-like feel make this a can’t miss destination with numerous highly-rated restaurants, small inns and hotels right on the boardwalk adding to its charm.

www.visithollywoodfl.org

The Anne Kolb Nature Center:

The Anne Kolb Nature Center at West Lake Park’s 1,500+ acres of coastal mangrove wetlands — one of the largest urban parks in Florida — is rich in native vegetation and wildlife, including many threatened and endangered species. Situated on about 20 acres along the Intracoastal Waterway, it includes an exhibit hall with simulated mangroves, a 3,500-gallon aquarium, and a hands-on EcoRoom; an outdoor amphitheater; the Mangrove Hall rental facility (reservations required); a 68-foot observation tower; an Intracoastal fishing pier; and nature, biking, and boating trails. Free admission weekdays.

751 Sheridan Street Hollywood, FL 33019
Tel: (954) 357-5161
Ann Kolb Nature Center

SHOPPING

The Galleria Mall

In the mood for shopping? You’ve come to the right place. Anchored by three major department stores (Neiman Marcus, Macy’s & Dillard’s) Galleria Mall also includes other famous retailers and specialty shops Apple, Coach, Williams-Sonoma, Cole Haan, J. Crew and Pottery Barn. This is also a premier Fort Lauderdale dining destination, with restaurants like The Capital Grille, P.F. Chang’s, Seasons 52, Blue Martini and Trulucks. You can finish the day at the Red Door Spa by Elizabeth Arden.

2414 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Tel: (954) 564-1015
www.galleriamall-fl.com

WHERE TO STAY

Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa

Here is one of the best hotels anywhere. Perfect location, great views, excellent service and best of all, plenty of suites. The property has 898 rooms as well as 100 suites, and all rooms have an ocean view. In addition to being fun for a pleasure stay, the Westin Diplomat is perfect for business. The Convention Center is one of the largest in Florida, and can accommodate most special and large group events.

This is a complete resort. Besides the in-house convention center, the spa is top notch and the golf course minutes away.

If you make it to the Executive Level, stop by the Executive Club which includes the 10,000-sq. ft. lounge and offers complimentary continental breakfast, evening cocktail service & hors d’oeuvres.

Worth a special mention is the hotel’s main restaurant Hollywood Prime. Stay tuned for a more comprehensive review of The Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa and Hollywood Prime.

3555 South Ocean Drive • Hollywood, FL 33019
Tel: (954) 602-6000
www.diplomatresort.com

Lago Mar Resort and Club

If you want to feel like you traveled to a tropical island, make Lago Mar your hotel of choice. Hidden away from traffic and interstate highways, this great escape boasts all amenities and a private 500 ft. secluded beach.

This understated property is long on comfort and privacy, and short on noise. You come here to get away from it all, but you’re still minutes away from the action.

1700 S Ocean Ln Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Tel: (954) 523-6511
www.lagomar.com

Sonesta Fort Lauderdale (Formerly B Ocean)

Looking for hip, modern and chic? You’ll find it at the Sonesta Fort Lauderdale. This hotel is just north of the Las Olas Blvd, close to all the shopping and fine dining your heart desires. The simple, understated decor is just what you need. The hotel has a great pool thriving with the excitement of a Las Vegas party, while just outside the front door you find the golden sands and ocean breeze of the Atlantic Ocean.

The property was just been rebranded as a Sonesta and offers 240 guest rooms  including 24 suites, unique restaurants and lounging areas. This AAA approved Four Diamond-rated hotel boasts sweeping views of Fort Lauderdale Beach, a 7-mile stretch of bliss. Check in to this stylish and sophisticated haven … and “check out” from the rest of the world. There’s a spa for luxurious treatments and a fitness center for your daily workout.

999 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Tel: (954) 564-1000
http://www.sonesta.com/FortLauderdale

WHERE TO EAT

When you visit Fort Lauderdale be prepared to indulge in top notch dining. Options are extensive, here we bring you some  favorites from our most recent visit.

Grille 401

For fresh ingredients, varied menus and sophisticated ambiance this is the spot. The chef has created an impressive menu that includes seafood sourced daily, excellent cuts of beef, even sushi. Never mind the mouthwatering desserts. It’s all prepared on the wood burning grill.

To add to the experience Grille 401 offers an 800sf outdoor deck, live entertainment and a long wine list and handcrafted cocktails featuring seasonal fruits and herbs.

401 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Tel: (954) 767-0222
www.grille401.com

Mancini Modern Italian

By now Jack Mancini is a Fort Lauderdale institution, having owned several popular eateries throughout the years. His latest, Mancini Modern Italian continues the tradition of classic Italian cuisine, prepared by a respected international chef served in a fun stylish environment.

The menu offers moderately priced hand-crafted pastas, Neapolitan oven pizzas, crudo bar and tableside, hand-pulled mozzarella service. This is a multisensory culinary experience. Everything on the dish serves to enhance all your senses, from the minute the aroma arrives ahead of the lovely presentation to the instant you savor that first bite.

HOMBRE Magazine’s Francisco Romeo and HOMBRE TV’s Ashley Van Hoey discover Fort Lauderdale’s Mancini Modern Italian

401 E Las Olas Blvd #150, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Tel: (754) 200-8602
http://mancinilasolas.com/

Bimini Boatyard Bar & Grill

For a quintessential Fort Lauderdale dining experience visit Bimini Boatyard Bar & Grill. This waterfront restaurant serves fresh seafood, caught daily, expertly prepared and infused by their Caribbean Wood-fire Grill. You can dine indoors or step outside and be surrounded by the fresh air and cruising boats. You can even dock your own boat and just step to your table.

1555 SE 17th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Tel: 954-525-7400
www.biminiboatyard.com

Thasos Greek Taverna
For an exotic taste that retains the local flavor try Thasos Restaurant, named after the Greek island in the northeastern part of the Aegean Sea. The white decor and breezy cocktails are sure to transport you to a Mediterranean Sea state of mind. Start with the creative and tasty cocktails and move on to a wide selection of appetizers and main courses. The service is top notch and the atmosphere lively and fun. Bring your appetite.

3330 E Oakland Park Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308
Tel: (954) 200-6006
thasosgreektaverna.com

Hollywood Prime

Our favorite Fort Lauderdale restaurant is Hollywood Prime located at The Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa. This is AAA Four-Diamond Rated Steakhouse and a true dining experience.   Delicious offerings include the finest cuts of beef including 21-day, dry-aged beef as well as Long Island Duck and Domestic Rack of Lamb.

With over 600 wine selections Hollywood Prime was awarded Wine Spectator 2012 Best of Award of Excellence. It was also voted Best Steakhouse in SE Florida – we agree.

Lobby of The Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa
3555 South Ocean Drive, Hollywood, FL 33019
Tel: 954-602-8347
Reservations: 954-602-8347
www.hollywoodprime.com