How to Live Like A Fort Lauderdale Local

September 21, 2022 | Read Time: 5 minutes

When you imagine your perfect day – it’s a pretty good bet that soft sand, blue water, and sunny skies are part of the picture. But with the colorful lifestyle of Fort Lauderdale Beach, it’s no wonder why the world is drawn to this part of the Florida coastline. Although Fort Lauderdale Beach is profoundly known to beach lovers, it’s the one-of-a-kind mix of spectacular natural scenery, vibrant arts and culture, delectable and diverse dining options, world-class boating, and a spirit for life that’s captured the heart of its residents. See why so many are drawn to “live like a local.”

The Boating Capital of the World and The Gateway to the Bahamas

They call it the “Venice of America” – a community built around endless canals that connect to the Intracoastal Waterway, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Gulfstream waters. Here, boaters from around the world flock for fun on the water, whether close to home, or crossing over to The Bahamas. Head out for world-class fishing and diving offshore or take a water taxi or sunset cruise to numerous dining venues throughout the area. There’s a party-like atmosphere on the waterfront throughout the town, celebrating the water-oriented resort lifestyle. Once a year, the world descends on Fort Lauderdale for the International Boat Show, where thousands of people get a taste of the boating lifestyle.

Coconuts to Casablanca – Walk, Ride, or Glide to Dining Delights

There are few places in the world where such a diverse array of dining venues is concentrated on the sand. The iconic curved walls and pillars along the Fort Lauderdale shoreline serve as landmark guides for a restaurant row unlike any other. For those fortunate to live nearby, the car never has to leave home. Whether you set out to the north or south, a stroll along the beach brings so many dining venues, you need more days in the month to take them all in.

Luxury resorts are a great place for visiting family and friends, but they are also home to some of the freshest dining concepts. At the W hotel, Steak 954 or Sobe Vegan provide options for the carnivore or herbivore. Looking for a little international flair, Tinta at the Westin or El Vez at the W are highly rated. And when you’re ready to be transported to Asia, Takato at the Conrad won’t disappoint. The Hilton’s LaMarche outside terrace is a popular choice. Or many hit the Cornucopia Gourmet Market to take home a variety of savory tastes from around the world.

Nearby five-star resorts also provide exceptional fine dining venues. Evelyn’s at the Four Seasons, the Ritz-Carton’s Burlock Coast or The Atlantic Hotel’s WildThyme Oceanside Eatery are all top-rated culinary destinations. Along the beach, relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of South Florida. Raise a drink and listen to live music at a variety of places where the names set the tone for the evening. Step out into the Quarterdeck, kick back at Coconuts, or meet up with friends at Casablanca.

Fort Lauderdale Beach – The Epicenter of South Florida

It’s said that Las Olas Boulevard is the melting pot of South Florida. Designer shopping and contemporary art museums are nestled along fun-filled music venues, oyster bars and coffee houses. From morning to midnight, living near Las Olas Boulevard means you’ll never be bored. Catch a water taxi to Pier 66, take a walk over to the Performing Arts Center for a live performance, or be whisked away to a rooftop bar to take in the nightlife overlooking the city skyline.

Throughout the year, endless festivals and events are held throughout the region. At the intersection of Las Olas Boulevard and the Atlantic shoreline, a palm-tree lined public park and open-air amphitheater play hosts to a variety of live performances. The Tortuga Music Festival, the Las Olas Arts Festival, and the annual Land, Sea & Sky air show are among some of the most talked about events in the country.

Just a short 10–15-minute drive from Las Olas Boulevard offers even more arts and shopping scenes for the family fashionista. Explore dozens of global luxury retailers at The Galleria Mall or explore Lauderdale-by-the-Sea’s quaint walkable streetscape with fabulous restaurants, nightly live music, and shopping. Head to the Broward Center for the Performing Arts or The Parker Playhouse to watch the latest Broadway musical. Or head to Hard Rock, DRV PNK, and FLA Live stadiums for live music from international celebrities, and where the Miami Dolphins, Florida Panthers, Inter Miami CF, and the Florida Marlins provide constant action.

Direct Flights From Nearly Everywhere

Getting to Fort Lauderdale is exceptionally easy by air. The Hollywood/Fort Lauderdale International Airport is the gateway to Florida and welcomes a high volume of travelers embarking on cruises from Port Everglades. The demand results in an enviable number of direct flights from around the country, all touching down just 10 minutes from Selene. Once you’re in town, getting home from Miami or Fort Lauderdale Airports is a breeze on the Brightline high-speed train, with a station just off Las Olas Boulevard for easy access. The Brightline also brings the best of South Florida within reach, with seamless connection spanning north to Palm Beach’s Worth Avenue and south to Miami’s South Beach for easily accessible day trips.
 
 

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