Picks from Lauderdale-by-the-Sea

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is one of the most unique places to celebrate our favorite American holiday. The days are longer, the nights livelier, and of course, the ever-present draw of our closest neighbor, the Atlantic Ocean—and her gorgeous backdrop for our firework display—makes Independence Day by the sea a truly special event.

The best firework show in the county has to be the City of Fort Lauderdale’s 4th of July Spectacular. From noon until 9:00 p.m., join the festivities on Fort Lauderdale Beach at A1A and Las Olas Boulevard for live music (by The Beach Boys!) and DJs leading up to the glorious fireworks show.

Satisfy your cravings with food trucks and local grub booths, then live a little with exciting beach games and contests. There will even be a Kids' Zone with water slides, face painting, bounce houses, and games. This event is free to the public and all are encouraged to attend. Happy Independence Day!

Sunday mornings are the perfect time to visit the Lauderdale-By-The-Sea Farmers Market. Welcome the freshness of a new week in South Florida with locally grown organic produce, smoothies, honey, handmade pastries, nutrient-packed smoothies, and more. Shopping locally offers you a great way to connect with the surrounding neighborhood, so we recommend you go early to feel the slow-paced life of this sleepy bohemian beach town.

While you take a stroll between each of the stalls, you can look forward to one-of-a-kind artisan products and goods like homemade soaps and lotions, fresh cookies, locally grown fruits, toasty empanadas, natural dog biscuits, and more. There's something special about leisurely browsing local vendors during the early morning hours in Fort Lauderdale when sunshine and tranquility fill the air.

Picking up juicy produce and unique artisan creations will help you start your day with a smile and an eco-friendly tote bag full of goodies. Don’t miss out on this lovely Sunday morning activity during your stay!

Ever wanted to get up close and personal with what lives beneath the waves? Here’s your chance at Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, the Diving Capital of Florida.

Our coastal home is positively teeming with famous underwater sites, the best of which is the Shipwreck Snorkel Trail. The trail is a natural reef system located about a hundred yards off the shore. It has long been the most visited dive site in the area and is also known for its unbeatable visibility and plethora of marine life. Lobsters, along with nurse sharks, sea turtles, parrotfish, and stingrays frequent the area. Fishing is also allowed along the trail. 

Embedded in the reef are five cannons, a ballast pile, and an anchor, all remnants from the days when pirates ruled the high seas. The depth ranges between twelve and sixteen feet, making the site perfect for those who prefer to snorkel or free-dive. No matter your preference, an underwater adventure is waiting beneath the sea.

Take a dive into Fort Lauderdale’s eclectic blend of sights and experiences too Instagram-worthy to go overlooked. Read up on our favorites to help streamline your Lauderdale-By-The-Sea vacation into a memorable life event.

Pegasus and Dragon
Perhaps one of South Florida’s quirkier attractions is the Pegasus and Dragon statue located in Hallandale Beach at Gulfstream Park. This is the second-largest statue in the United States, surpassed only by the Statue of Liberty, and was recently named the largest dragon and equine statue in the world. It’s more than just a convenient selfie background, however. At night, the statue comes to life with help from an impressive fountain show featuring hundreds of lights, water spouts, fog machines, and music.

Las Olas Gondola Tours
For the past 15 years, there has only been one true Venetian gondola operating in the Fort Lauderdale area, offering the privacy and novelty so often now lost to time. A cozy private gondola cabin, unobstructed by engines, drivers, or passengers, is your haven for the journey. Your gondolier stands at the bow of the vessel, out of earshot and out of view, transporting you safely at a lazy pace past million-dollar homes, rare flora and fauna, and into the horizon. If romance is what you’re searching for, this tour will provide you with tableware necessary for a picnic dinner and champagne or snacks, plus a personalized “message in a bottle” gift for the one most important to you.

Experience a spell-binding stay on Lauderdale-by-the-Sea’s golden shores in one of Plunge Beach Resort’s trendy and artistic Bungalows. Perfect for a COVID-conscious getaway, each of these beachfront units features its own entrance. Guests staying in the Bungalows can also avoid the use of elevators and stick exclusively to stairs.

Complete with fascinating wave graffiti art on the walls and an eclectic mix of urban and beach-chic decor, the Bungalows offer a uniquely bohemian Florida vibe that will leave you feeling charmed. In addition to quirky furnishings, ocean views, and enhanced safety measures, the Bungalows offer direct access to our resort’s scenic stretch of beach. Many of the Bungalows also feature kitchenettes and multiple bedrooms, making them perfect for a family trip or group getaway just steps away from the sea.

To book your reservation or learn more information about the Bungalows at Plunge Beach Resort, visit www.plungebeachresort.com/accommodations.

Whether you are visiting for the holidays or using time off for a sunny staycation, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea offers endless fun as the shore diving capital of South Florida. Visitors can experience natural coral reefs and brightly colored fish by swimming just 100 yards offshore--all you need is a set of fins and a mask. This season, take a break from the craziness of holiday preparations and check out two of our favorite dives:

SS Copenhagen - On a clear day, you’ll spot lobsters, sea turtles, nurse sharks, and eel at this diving destination. The SS Copenhagen is one of the only underwater archeological preserves in Florida. The steamship crashed into the coral reef in 1900 and exists only 15-30 feet below the surface, making it perfect for snorkelers and scuba divers alike.

Biorock Project - Located 700 feet offshore is an artificial reef project utilizing two solar-buoys, which speed up the growth of coral. It’s the first one of its kind in the United States and has worked as part of an effort to preserve Florida’s natural coral reefs while maintaining a diverse ecosystem.

This Halloween season, head south of charming Lauderdale-By-The-Sea to see some of Fort Lauderdale’s spookiest historical sites. The weather in October is perfect for outdoor exploration under the shining sun and cool fall breeze, so there’s no better time to visit these storied homes for fun and personal encounters with Floridian history.

Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
900 N Birch Rd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304

Voted by U.S. News and World Report as one of the top places to visit in Fort Lauderdale, the Bonnet House does not disappoint. For a unique look into a bygone era, visit the lush and historic 1920’s plantation home featuring eclectic interiors, gardens, guided tours, and more.

Stranahan House
335 SE 6th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

Step back in time, and explore Broward County’s oldest surviving structure. Dating back to 1901, Stranahan House was originally a trading post and then converted into a family residence. The old house is rumored to be haunted, so keep your eyes peeled for lurking spirits and make sure to ask the tour guide for some ghost stories.

In the spooky spirit of October, balance your vacation with a little bit of local history, then head back to the beach!

Savor the fresh ocean air while walking along South Florida's breathtaking coastline. The health benefits of walking in the sand make morning walks appealing and therapeutic. Strength train while enjoying sweeping views of waves crashing along the shore. Lauderdale-by-the-Sea has the best beaches in town. Burn calories while cruising towards our charming pier that is perfect for sunrise selfies. It’s relaxing to breathe in the salty air while strolling through the uncrowded beaches. Take a break and sit on nautical styled benches scattered throughout your beautiful route. Return to the Plunge with naturally exfoliated feet, because walking barefoot is what being at the beach is all about. Take a dip in our always warm ocean and spend the day relaxing under the vibrant Florida rays. Year-round sunshine is our specialty, and we can’t wait to share it all with you.

Can you imagine anything more relaxing than the waves lapping at your feet during a leisurely beach stroll? It’s impossible not to be swept away by the salty air and stunning vistas of our Atlantic shore. Shelling is one of the simplest ways to bring home a little piece of our tropical oasis.

For the ultimate family fun at Plunge Beach Resort, grab your loved ones and admire the sunrise while foraging the bounty of shell treasures at your feet. Gather pieces of white coral, spotted slipper shells, bright orange conch shells, and softly rounded sea glass in blue and green. Florida seashells make excellent gifts, beach decor pieces, and vacation souvenirs. They can also easily be transformed into meaningful jewelry pieces, or organized as beachy accessories that add to any seaside space.

Plunge Beach Resort is located in the heart of one of Fort Lauderdale’s most unique coastal communities: Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. Away from the hustle and bustle of Las Olas, this quaint and dreamy beach town transports you back to a simpler time on the South Florida shore.

The town of Lauderdale-by-the-Sea doesn’t allow tall buildings to be constructed within its limits, which has helped it maintain its retro Floridian charm. At just 6,000 residents, the Broward County beach town is small and intimate. Local shops and restaurants line Anglin’s Square on either side, a waterfront plaza featuring Adirondack chairs, outdoor games, and live music year-round. A little over 100 feet away, Anglin’s Pier juts out into the Atlantic, offering visitors a fun day of fishing made easy.

The nearby reefs of Lauderdale-by-the-Sea are also a popular destination for scuba divers in South Florida. Snorkelers can find sea turtles, lobsters, and tropical fish swimming in the shallows. Whatever they seek, both locals and tourists can enjoy a more serene side of Ft. Lauderdale in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea.

Social distancing hasn’t slowed down the unique and engaging happenings at Plunge Beach Resort! Although we can’t gather as we used to at the moment, our Lauderdale-by-the-Sea destination’s creativity continues to thrive with one-of-a-kind virtual events.

Join us on Zoom at 6 pm on Friday, June 26th for ‘Plunge Into the Arts: A Virtual Open House with Brian Fitzgerald’. Fitzgerald will be on-site with Director of Guest Excellence Joe Imbrogno and In-House Curator Ellen Cohen-Berman to showcase this month’s new exhibit. Registration is required, so be sure to go online and sign up so you can tune in with your favorite cocktail and raise a glass to beautiful artwork.

The following night, join in on a virtual happy hour from 8-9 pm on Facebook Live, featuring "Sounds for Your Soul" performed live by Torri J. Grab a hand-crafted drink and get ready to dance - virtually - with other members of our warm community. No registration is required for this event!

Fort Lauderdale is home to a fascinating past. Before the colonial settlers arrived in Broward County, the Tequesta Native American Tribe resided there for over a thousand years, as well as the Miccosukee Tribe, who had also migrated to the southern part of the Everglades. With Henry Flagler’s construction of the Florida East Coast Railroad in the 1890s, urban development began, and the city was formally incorporated in 1911. With a Naval Air Station and Coast Guard Base, Fort Lauderdale later prospered as a major military hub during World War II. Following the war, the city became a popular spring break location with college students in the 1950s. Throughout the 20th century, Fort Lauderdale continued to expand, with initiatives like the downtown Riverwalk Project in 1986. After years of growth, it has rapidly become the renowned yachting and tourism destination we know it as today.

The program features the work of two local artists at any given time—each artist exhibits their works for 30 days and works can include watercolor, acrylic, ceramic, photography, and more.

Every other Wednesday evening, from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm, an artist's open house will mark the launch of a new exhibit—and it all takes place right here at Plunge Beach Resort! While attendees will have the opportunity to informally meet the featured artist and view his or her works throughout the evening, there is a brief program starting at 7:15 pm, during which attendees can learn more about the artist's history, inspiration, and the pieces on display.

Attendees are invited to enjoy a complimentary glass of wine and light appetizers throughout the event. Occasionally, the reception will include live demonstrations conducted by the featured artist.

Upcoming program dates include March 4th, March 18th, April 1st, April 17th, April 29th, May 13th, May 27th, June 10th, and June 24th. 

We're also very excited to announce that Ellen Cohen-Berman is our new in-house curator for the Plunge Into The Arts program! 

See you there!

On Saturday, February 22nd, Esplanade Park in downtown Fort Lauderdale will be brimming with all types of professional and amateur cooks to compete for the best chili cooking skills.

It gets even better—every team participating benefits Riverwalk and other local charities—all while serving up delicious chili and selling other items at their booths.

Calling all chili lovers! Put your judging hats on and come on out to this family-friendly, free, Fort Lauderdale event. Starting at only $5, visitors can sample multiple chilis and cast their votes for the best chili.

From 12 pm to 4 pm, the afternoon will be complete with live entertainment, arts & crafts vendors, food vendors, and fun activities for all ages.

Sound like fun? Visit Riverwalk’s official website for more details about this upcoming event. 

Right in the middle of Florida’s annual Stone Crab Season, this event will be brimming with delicious seafood, ice-cold drinks, a beer garden, great music, and even hermit crab races. For those looking for the beer, you can buy tickets to the Beer Garden online before the big event. 

Whether you’re in town on a family vacation or for a business meeting, this is a festival you do not want to miss out on! Located in Esplanade Park, the festival is free and open to all ages. Head on over from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm and enjoy an array of fresh seafood starting at just $5! 

On December 7th-13th, we highly suggest checking out the “Holiday Magic Evening Experience” at the historic Bonnet House Museum & Gardens. The house and grounds will be completely lit up and sparkling as you stroll through and enjoy a self-guided tour. From Santa and his elves to strolling carolers and Christmas storytelling, the kids will are sure to feel a world away.

In honor of their 100th anniversary, the staff will be offering bundles of holiday cheer during each tour. General admission is $20, admission with two drink tickets is $30, and just $5 for kids 6-12, and free for kids under 6.

It gets even better! Each night will include a live performance—Pride Jazz Ensemble, Broward Center Spotlights, Dillard Jazz Trio, Yuletide Carolers, and Gey Men’s Chorus of South Florida will all be lighting up the stage. Buy your tickets today!

Lace-up your running shoes and make it an event to remember! The Fort Lauderdale Turkey Trot is just around the corner and will take place on Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 28th, from 7:30 am to 10:00 am. With over 3,000 participants annually, including runners, joggers, walkers, friends, and family, this 5K run/walk race takes place right along scenic A1A, Fort Lauderdale’s iconic each road.

Whether you’re walking, running, jogging, or just watching, the beautiful sunrise is worth the early wake-up call. Plus, if you’re feeling really festive, Thanksgiving-themed costumes are always encouraged. Bringing the kids along? You can sign them up for Kids’ Dash, a sprint on Fort Lauderdale beach for children 10 and under. The best part? All kids will be recognized for participating in the race. Register today!

On Sunday, October 20th, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, Brightline is introducing a Halloween experience called Trick-or-Train Halloween Spooktacular, created just for kids. Departing from the Fort Lauderdale Brightline station, the “Trick-or-Train” will head south to Miami, but the children will think they’re headed to “Trainsylvania.”

On the train, the kids will enjoy exciting interactive performances by the Florida Children's Theatre, followed by festive Halloween crafts and games in Miami—don’t worry, this experience is not intended to scare, just delight!

Once they reboard the train and head back to Fort Lauderdale, they’ll have bags full of treats and unforgettable memories. Tickets will range between $15 and $20 and kids 12 and under are half off. Sound like a plan? Book your Brightline Halloween experience today!

This is a free event open to the public of all ages and will run rain or shine. Come join the fun and honor the rebirth of the Autumn season coastal-style this year! Guests to the festival can expect to see the traditional fall-themed fare along with some inspired Florida vibes. Spend the day savoring seasonal favorites—like cider and pies—made from organically grown apples and pumpkins, and enjoy carnival-themed games and contests, face painting, train rides, live music and entertainment, as well as hundreds of craft vendors. Remember, no outside food or drink is allowed in the park. Otherwise, just be sure to stop into some of the locally-owned businesses located around the Riverwalk and make the most of your day at the Fall Festival.

But Florida’s breathtaking coast is also home to the ancient Florida Reef, an underwater coral formation lining the Eastern Coast. As beautiful as the reef is to dive and snorkel, it’s also treacherous to passing ships. The Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse has long stood watch over the majestic shoreline, guiding ships to safety.

During its time, the lighthouse has been the site of underdog tales, a slew of unexplained mysteries involving fires and German U-Boats, weathered powerful storms, and served as a beacon of neighborly engagement for the Hillsboro community. Today, guests can visit the Hillsboro Lighthouse (including the inside, all the way to the top) and uncover these mysteries for themselves. Meet your guide at Sands Harbor Boat Dock and cast off into an adventure.

This historic home was built in 1895 and housed two generations of artists on the property. The real showstopper is the gardens at Bonnet House, as the property is built on a coastal barrier island that has been protected from commercial development over the years. Stroll the official Nature Trail and take in the flora and fauna that once flourished, but is now rare to the area. Once you’ve had your fill of the outdoors, step inside the mansion and learn the story of two families who transformed a rough and ready piece of land into an artistic sanctuary. The Bonnet House is open Tuesday to Sundays. Take a look at their website for specific tour times and upcoming events. 

As if the bright, blue skies, crystal-clear water, and bustling center of nightlife and shopping weren’t enough, the ocean itself offers more for your health and vitality than any other natural wonder. Seawater is packed with sodium, chloride, sulfate, magnesium, and calcium all of which are essential for a proper chemical balance in humans.

Dive into the sea and watch your skin begin to glow, your breathing capacity increase (outside the water, of course), and your energy level skyrocket. Studies show that travelers with diabetes or hypertension report an almost immediate difference in their quality of life. Now that you have all of the reasons you need to book your Lauderdale-by-the-Sea vacation, be sure to pack extra sunscreen, your best bathing suit, and a comfy beach towel. We’ll see you soon.

For more than fifteen years, guests have come to explore the vast kingdom of nature at this 2,200-acre eco-heritage wildlife park preserved by the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Go the classic tourist route with a thrilling airboat ride through the waterways of wetlands or find your pace with the slower and less intense swamp buggy, putting you high above the marshy prairie edge. Once your tour concludes, take the time to watch our exciting critter, snake, and alligator shows where you can meet the animals up close and learn about the role they play in the wilderness. Once you're finished with the tour, stop by the Swamp Water Cafe and feed your cravings for alligator tail, frog legs, and other South Florida delicacies. For more information, visit Billie’s website here.

Let us point you in the right direction for sun and fun in the sand starting with the largest, free block party in town at Anglin’s Square Beach Pavilion, not far from our hotel.

Anglin’s Square is home to a variety of exciting events for locals and visitors alike like dance classes, beach yoga, and markets, but our favorite event is by far is the Friday Night Music series from November to May at the corner of El Mar and Commercial Boulevard. This live music block party is a weather permitting event and features some of Florida’s favorite regional musicians. No reservation is necessary, but be sure to take a look at the calendar of events for the lineup.

“Laudy-Daudy” Since 1930

Spring break has a long and surprising history in the area, dating all the way back to 1930! College-aged visitors flocked from all around the world for years until 1986 when the city began transforming itself to the year-round destination and opened the shops, eateries, and activities you see today.

Fort Lauderdale Airport Couldn't Be Busier

The sheer number of flights in and out of this airport may surprise you. On average there are more than six hundred departures and arrivals each day with an average of 80,000 people moving through the airport each day.

Feeling Lucky?

Florida has quickly become a haven for gamblers of all kinds and is now the third most active gambling state in the United States. From free-standing casinos, table games, slot machines, and races, this town has everything you need to tempt Lady Luck to your side.