Our backyard of Fort Lauderdale is known for many reasons. It’s a great place to relax on the beach, get a drink in any type of setting you’d like, a hub for yachting, and a great place to party. We routinely host friends who love to visit Fort Lauderdale, but for the ones insisting on staying in the action, we decided to create this post about the best places to stay in Fort Lauderdale.
Whether you crave a beachside resort or hotel, something near bustling Las Olas Boulevard, or something near the cruise port, we’ve got you covered with this list of places to stay in Ft. Lauderdale.
What are the Best Places to Stay in Fort Lauderdale?
Everything is going to be based on situations and purpose, so we’ve decided to break down this article into many sub-categories. Of course, if you are like us and have an affiliation with Marriott and prefer to keep your Bonvoy status rocking, we’ve isolated all Marriotts in Lauderdale on this page.
Let’s start with the best bang for your buck.
Plunge Beach Resort
You’ll get that classic feel of old school Florida, complete with a beach view of Lauderdale by the Sea, the northern part of the city. Oversized rooms, a huge pool, and an on-site seafood restaurant are the main features of this very affordable resort.
The Aqua Hotel
This hotel reminds me of some of the Miami Beach hotels you’ll find in South Beach. It’s a modern feel, boutique hotel with 39 rooms. Both couples and family-friendly, you also get large suites here in addition to two swimming pools just a couple minutes from the beach.
Best Beach Hotels for Families in Fort Lauderdale
Marriott Harbour Beach
This is our favorite hotel in Fort Lauderdale, and we aren’t alone. Many locals make this their destination of choice when doing staycations. You’ll find a quarter mile of private beach at this Marriott property that is suited for families, couples, and business travelers. You can find water sports, a kids club, tennis courts, basketball, and even pickleball here. There’s a beach front bar and sprawling pool, and the spa is a regular occurrence for us. Well-appointed with a friendly staff, you can’t go wrong here, especially if you are a family looking for plenty of activities for the kids.
We’ve even written a whole review of Harbour Beach if you are looking for even more details about the property. This is a huge value when compared to the local W Hotel, which commands a higher price point. Myself as well as many locals like this one much better than the W.
B Ocean Front Fort Lauderdale
This isn’t far from the Harbour Beach, and you’ll get a lot of the same activities you can find there, minus tennis and basketball. Direct beach access and an easy walk to the strip of Fort Lauderdale where you can find bars like the Elbo Room and more makes this a great location if you are looking to get off the property and right into the action. On property you’ll also find a great brunch and even Mermaid shows!
The Atlantic Hotel & Spa
Featuring an on site restaurant, spa, gym, and lavish pool all on the beach, you can’t go wrong here. Enjoy watersports and views with the entire family.
Best Hotels for Adults in Fort Lauderdale
Wondering where to stay in Fort Lauderdale for adults? If you are looking for a place that isn’t based on family-oriented activities and has a bit more of a vibe, check out these properties:
W Fort Lauderdale
Another one under the Marriott hotels brands makes the top of my list. The W offers a direct ocean view with a casual vibe. The “Living Room” lobby bar is a great place to meet people and mingle, day or night. At night it turns into a party scene, often with a DJ and a mix of locals and tourists. There are five places to dine on premises, including one of our favorites, Steak 954, which made our list of the top steakhouses in Fort Lauderdale.
The chic, modern hotel ranks #1 for adults in Fort Lauderdale.
The Dalmar Hotel
Another one you can earn Bonvoy points at with Marriott, the Dalmar is located just north of Las Olas Boulevard and provides a great central location to call home base. Inside the Dalmar you can find a vibrant lounge, nightlife, and a bar serving up craft cocktails. The views of the city are unbeatable here and there’s a rooftop terrace.
Ritz Carlton Fort Lauderdale Beach
We’ve stayed here many times on stay-cations and enjoy it thoroughly. The Ritz Carlton Fort Lauderdale offers direct ocean views, multiple bars, including the indoor and outdoor Burlock Coast Bar and Grill, as well as a world class spa. Everything you’d expect from a Ritz Carlton branded property is available at this oceanfront resort.
Best Luxury Hotels in Fort Lauderdale
I’m going to repeat myself here and recommend the Ritz Carlton, because that brand defines luxury. It arguably has the best plot of land in front of Fort Lauderdale Beach on the entire strip, and it really needs no introduction as a brand. After that, here’s my other recommendations for luxury hotels in Fort Lauderdale.
Pelican Grand Beach Resort
The Pelican Grand has it’s own private beach, which is something rare in Ft. Lauderdale. The spa is among the best rated spa’s in Fort Lauderdale, and you will also find a tubing river, swimming pool, and fine dining such as the Ocean 2000 restaurant, on premises. The rooms are very well appointed, featuring marble bathrooms and balconies facing the water.
Four Seasons Fort Lauderdale
Opened in 2022, the Four Seasons in Fort Lauderdale is another name that needs no introduction. With local architect Kobi Karp designing the building, the whit exterior of the building was meant to resemble the super yachts that Fort Lauderdale’s waters are famous for. The entire building is built with a maritime theme, and the chic hotel sits on the beach and offers everything you’d expect in a premier property. There’s a signature seafood restaurant called Evelyn’s that offers the freshest fish around. If relaxing is in the cards, the spa is world class and many treatments are offered. You’ll also encounter two outdoor pools, yoga classes, and a gorgeous backdrop. If you are really looking to disconnect, let the staff set you up on the beach where you will enjoy lounge chairs and umbrellas. Complimentary bicycles are available for all guests as well.
Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach
Located in North Beach, this 290 room hotel is another option for those who seek luxury and elegance. Also themed in a typical nautical vibe, you won’t be dissappointed with the sixth floor Sky Deck, featuring a heated pool, cabanas, a hot tub, a fire pit, and direct views of the beach.
Summary
If you were searching where to stay in Fort Lauderdale, hopefully this guide got you covered. There’s no lack of options, including AirBNB properties as well as budget hotels, but we tried to segment this list to specific types of travelers. Of course, if you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment or email us. We are happy to help you plan the best stay in Fort Lauderdale!
About Tim Schmidt
Tim Schmidt is a 20+ year Entrepreneur and Digital Marketer. A Fort Lauderdale-based "Digital Nomad," he enjoys traveling as much as possible with family and friends. AllWorld is his escape to document all of his adventures, including being a hardcore "foodie." He has property in Costa Rica and visits several times each year and is happy to offer his expert advice for planning your trip.
