Planning the Perfect Fort Lauderdale Vacation: What to Know Before You Go

Fort Lauderdale is one of the premier vacation destinations in the United States. From pristine beaches to vibrant nightlife, there is something for everyone in this tropical paradise. But before you pack your bags and head south, it pays to do a bit of research to make sure that you get the most out of your trip. In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the key elements of planning the perfect Fort Lauderdale vacation, so you know what to expect before you go.

Know the Weather Before You Go

No matter what time of year you plan on visiting Fort Lauderdale, it pays to know what the weather is going to be like. Fort Lauderdale has a tropical climate, with high humidity and temperatures that range from the high seventies in winter to the low nineties in summer. Rain is also common in Fort Lauderdale, so it pays to plan your days accordingly and bring an umbrella.

If you plan on spending a lot of time outdoors, it pays to bring plenty of sunscreen and a good hat. The sun in Fort Lauderdale can be strong, so you need to make sure you protect yourself from UV rays.

One of the best things about Fort Lauderdale is that it is an ideal place for water activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and boating. But you need to be aware of the ocean conditions before you set out. The Atlantic Ocean can get rough at times, so make sure you check the forecast before you go out.

Where to Stay

Accommodation is an important part of planning any vacation, and Fort Lauderdale has plenty of options. From luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hotels, there is something for everyone. If you are looking for a beachfront stay, there are plenty of hotels and condos that offer a view of the Atlantic Ocean. If you prefer a more urban experience, there are a variety of downtown hotels and apartments to choose from.

If you are travelling with family or friends, you may want to consider renting a vacation home. There are plenty of vacation rentals in Fort Lauderdale that offer plenty of space and amenities. Plus, they are often cheaper than staying in a hotel.

No matter where you stay, it pays to book ahead of time. During peak season, hotels and vacation rentals fill up quickly, so it pays to book early to ensure you get the best deals.

What to Do

Fort Lauderdale is full of exciting activities, so it pays to plan ahead. From relaxing on the beach to exploring the city’s nightlife, there is something for everyone. The city is full of cultural attractions, like the Museum of Discovery and Science, as well as art galleries, theaters, and shopping centers.

If you are looking for a bit of adventure, you can take a boat tour of the Intracoastal Waterway or explore the nearby Everglades National Park. If you enjoy water sports, you can rent a kayak or go snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

No matter what you decide to do, it pays to make a list of activities before you go. This will help ensure that you make the most of your time in Fort Lauderdale.

Where to Eat

Fort Lauderdale is home to a variety of excellent restaurants, from upscale seafood bistros to beachside cafes. If you are looking for a casual bite to eat, you can find plenty of fast-food options, as well as local eateries that serve up traditional Floridian fare. For a more upscale dining experience, there are plenty of fine-dining establishments that specialize in seafood and steak.

If you are looking for a unique experience, you can go on a food tour of Fort Lauderdale. These tours take you to some of the best restaurants in the city, and you get to sample a variety of dishes and learn about the local cuisine.

No matter what you decide to eat, it pays to do some research beforehand. Many restaurants in Fort Lauderdale offer special deals and discounts, so it pays to do a bit of research before you go.

Nightlife

Fort Lauderdale is known for its vibrant nightlife. From beachside bars to trendy nightclubs, there is something for everyone in this city. If you are looking for a casual night out, you can find plenty of local bars and pubs that serve up cold beer and great music.

If you prefer a more upscale experience, there are plenty of nightclubs and lounges that offer DJs, live music, and signature cocktails. No matter what you decide to do, make sure you check out the dress code before you go. Many clubs and bars have strict dress codes, so it pays to be aware of these before you head out.

Shopping

Fort Lauderdale is home to a variety of shopping options, from high-end malls to quaint boutiques. If you are looking for luxury brands, you can find plenty of upscale stores in the city’s many malls. If you prefer something more unique, there are plenty of local shops and boutiques that specialize in handmade items.

For a more unique shopping experience, you can head to one of the city’s weekly markets. These markets are full of local vendors selling everything from homemade food to handmade jewelry. Make sure you bring some cash, as many of the vendors do not accept credit cards.

No matter what you decide to buy, it pays to be aware of the sales tax. In Florida, the sales tax is 6%, so make sure you factor this into your budget before you go shopping.

Day Trips

Fort Lauderdale is a great base for exploring the rest of Florida. From the city’s many beaches to the nearby Everglades, there is plenty to see and do in the area. If you want to explore further afield, you can take a day trip to Miami, Key West, or the Florida Keys.

If you are looking for a bit more adventure, you can take a boat tour of the Everglades or go scuba diving in the Florida Keys. No matter what you decide to do, make sure you bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the sun in Florida can be strong.

No matter what you decide to do, it pays to do some research before you go. Many of the attractions in Florida require tickets or reservations, so it pays to plan ahead.

Getting Around

Fort Lauderdale is a relatively easy city to get around, and there are a variety of options for getting from one place to another. The city is served by two airports – Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Miami International Airport – so it is easy to get to and from the city.

Once you are in the city, you can get around by car, taxi, or bus. There are plenty of car rental companies in Fort Lauderdale, as well as taxi and ride-sharing services. The city also has a public bus system, which is a great way to explore the city and save money.

No matter how you choose to get around, it pays to be aware of the traffic. Rush hour in Fort Lauderdale can be busy, so it pays to plan your trips accordingly.

Staying Safe

Fort Lauderdale is generally a safe city, but it pays to be aware of your surroundings. As with any large city, it is important to keep an eye on your belongings and not leave them unattended. Make sure you avoid walking alone at night, and stick to well-lit and populated areas.

If you are travelling with children, make sure you keep them close and teach them not to talk to strangers. It is also important to be aware of the local laws and customs, so you can avoid any potential legal issues.

No matter where you go, it pays to be aware of your surroundings. If you need help, make sure you find a trusted local who can point you in the right direction.

Summary

Planning the perfect Fort Lauderdale vacation can be a daunting task, but with a bit of research and preparation, it is possible to make the most of your time in this tropical paradise. From knowing the weather to finding the best places to stay, eat, and explore, there are a few key elements that will help ensure you have a memorable and enjoyable trip. With this blog post, you should now be well-equipped to plan your perfect Fort Lauderdale vacation.