Around Town
Things to see and do while you’re here.
Boca Raton
This two-mile stretch of beach is staffed by lifeguards during the day. It also offers unique access to three parks: Red Reef, South Beach and Spanish River, each offering something particularly special. Red Reef is known for its crystal clear waters that are perfect for snorkeling and fishing. Spanish River offers plenty of picnic tables and shelters catering to even the largest families and groups. South Beach is perfect for anyone who just wants to soak up the sun and relax. Parking is available by the hour using a mobile app or on-site machines. Boca is an affluent community with tons of fine dining and upscale shopping.
Dining
Rebel House
Hip, cool vibe with a variety of options on the menu. The burgers won’t disappoint. And, you’ll be talking about the Cauliflower Caesar Salad for years to come. It’s that good. To kick things off, you get a serving of popcorn in whatever the day’s flavor is. It can get a little pricey, but shareables can make it wallet-friendly.
Farmer’s Table
Simply good, clean eating. Don’t let the fact that it’s located in a hotel sway you. This is good food that’s sourced with an eco-conscious intent. Their farm-to-table menu offers a variety of options, all packed with delicious flavors. Go on Friday or Saturday night for live music, or hit up the Sunday brunch for live jazz. Outside seating is pool-side, adding to the ambiance. It’s also close to great shopping.
Rocco’s Tacos
A South Florida staple with multiple locations. It delivers authentic Mexican flavors in a casual, fun environment. In Boca, it’s a little farther inland, but it’s worth it. Everything on the menu is delicious, but the tacos are unforgettable. Great for lunch, brunch, happy hour, dinner or cocktails.
Attractions
Gumbo Limbo Nature Center
Coastal preserve with a sea turtle rehabilitation center and butterfly garden. Enjoy a stroll on the boardwalk that leads to a lookout over the Intracoastal Waterway. This is a great way to spend an hour or two if you’re headed to the Red Reef Park. You can get out of the sun for a bit and learn something along the way. Parking at Red Reef is $20 per day, but it’s by the hour at Gumbo Limbo.
Mizner Park
Mizner is a nice, open-air shopping center that’s home to a variety of upscale retailers, restaurants and other shops. It’s got a park-like feel to it so it’s great for just strolling around taking in the sights. It’s also close to the beaches so you can get there and back in a short amount of time.
Sugar Sand Park
This 132-acre park is home to the Children’s Science Explorium, Willow Theatre and The Field House. It’s perfect for the family to burn off some energy, while enjoying an educational experience.
Nightlife
Tin Roof, A Live Music Joint
If you’re in Boca, you’re just too close to Atlantic Ave in Delray Beach to not go there. Atlantic Ave is a safer, more grown-up version of Miami Beach. Tin Roof, A Live Music Joint, offers live music every night of the week. Check the calendar to see who’s on stage during your stay.
Saltwater Brewery
South Florida is home to several microbreweries, but Saltwater Brewery is Delray Beach’s first and only one. The brewery is located a little more inland, but it’s worth the trip. Saltwater Brewery offers a variety of brews on tap so go for the flights and give them all a try. Bonus, they also support ocean-based charities.
Silver Ball Pinball Museum
Flashback to the past. The Silver Ball Pinball Museum has all the classic pinball and arcade games as well as staples like Skee-ball. For just $20, you can play all day, or choose a half day for $17.50. It’s the perfect way to kick off or wrap up an evening on Atlantic Ave.
Dania Beach
Dania Beach is best known for its state park now named Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park in honor of the civil rights advocates who worked to change this former “colored beach” into a Florida state park. It offers a wide range of activities from swimming, snorkeling, surf fishing, and shore diving to roughly 300 picnic areas and 7 pavilions. There’s also a boat ramp with a low launch fee of $9 so it’s perfect for anyone who wants to spend the day offshore fishing. You’ll have access to the Intracoastal Waterway. Just a mile later, there’s inlet access to the Atlantic Ocean. The park also offers a manatee sanctuary, biking and hiking trails, and you can rent kayaks and canoes. There is a $6 fee per vehicle with up to eight passengers to enter. A few words of caution, the park is in the flight path of the Fort Lauderdale Airport so planes will be overhead. It’s also near Port Everglades so cruise ships will be sailing in and out on the regular. Check out the Beach Website for more details on activities available at Dania Beach.
Dining
Tark’s of Dania Beach
We’d be remiss if we didn’t highlight Tark’s of Dania Beach. It’s been a staple in the community for many decades. For years, Tark’s was THE place to go for affordable seafood. It recently changed ownership though so prices have definitely increased. Even so, it’s still got that friendly hometown atmosphere and the great food that made it great in the first place. Be prepared though; it’s a local dive.
Jaxon’s Ice Cream Parlor
Honestly, if you’re in Dania Beach, you just have to visit Jaxson’s. This is legit everything you ever wanted from a diner and ice cream shop. Do your body a favor though and share. The portions are crazy enormous. There will also probably be a line to get in because it’s that popular. Stick with it.
The Field Irish Pub & Eatery
For a taste of Ireland in Florida, head here. This authentic Irish pub offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with traditional Irish décor. The menu features classic Irish dishes like shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash and fish and chips. Pair your meal with a pint of Guinness or your favorite Irish whiskey, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the Emerald Isle.
Attractions
Dania Beach Pier
Stretching out into the Atlantic Ocean, the Dania Beach Pier is a popular spot for fishing, sightseeing and enjoying breathtaking ocean views. Whether you’re an angler looking to catch your dinner or simply seeking a peaceful stroll along the water, this historic pier offers a serene and picturesque setting.
Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World
Dania is about the outdoors, so it makes sense that this massive retail and entertainment complex lives here. Inside, you’ll find everything from fishing and hunting gear to clothing and accessories. It’s not just a store; it’s an immersive experience with an indoor waterfall, aquariums, wildlife displays and dream-worthy boats, making it a unique destination for shopping and entertainment.
Secret Woods Nature Center
For nature lovers, the Secret Woods Nature Center is a hidden gem in Dania Beach. This tranquil nature preserve features a network of boardwalks and hiking trails that wind through lush tropical hammocks and mangrove forests. It’s a haven for birdwatching, wildlife spotting and simply enjoying the serene beauty of Florida’s natural landscapes.
Nightlife
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Yep, the famous guitar hotel. It’s a must-see, especially at night when it’s lit up. If casinos are your thing, you’ll enjoy the Hard Rock, but if not, you’ll still find some great shows and entertainment. There are plenty of bars and shows that will keep you entertained. Be aware, while there are smoke-free areas within the hotel, the casino floor is not smoke-free. If nothing else, do a drive-by and take some photos. It really is stunning.
The Casino at Dania Beach
This historic venue offers not only gaming and entertainment but also a lively nightlife scene. The Casino features slot machines, poker rooms and live Jai-Alai matches, providing plenty of excitement. In the evenings, you can catch live music performances and enjoy a drink or two at the on-site bars.
Deerfield Beach
Designated a “Blue Wave” beach by the Clean Beach Council, Deerfield Beach is one of the more pristine beaches in Broward County. With extremely clear waters and an unusually wide sand area that’s bordered on the street-side by a shaded, grassy section, you have the option to enjoy the beach in the sun or shade. Generally, the beach is not overly crowded, and it sits within a cozy little beach town with great restaurants and shopping right on the beach. It’s also home to the International Fishing Pier that attracts thousands of fishermen annually. During very hot days, the sand can be extremely hot so be sure to grab shoes. Otherwise, this is a favorite local beach. Parking is available by the hour using a mobile app or on-site machines.
Dining
Oceans 234
Situated right on the beach next to the Deerfield Beach International Fishing Pier, Oceans 234’s food is upscale, but the atmosphere is casual and friendly. The menu offers a variety of options from seafood to sushi to burgers to sandwiches and salads. It can get pricey especially with drinks, but we find it’s best to order a mix of menu options and share.
Burger Craze
It’s all about the chili and the burgers here. Yes, it’s located in the Wyndham Resort, but the resort is independently owned and the restaurants have their own chef who creates the menus. If you’re going to eat on the beach, this is an affordable and delicious way to do it. Burgers (or hot dogs), chili and beer, what could be better?
JB’s on the Beach
The mojitos here are topnotch. If you’re looking for a happy hour on the beach or a weekend brunch, this is a great option. Good food. Good vibes. And beautiful beach views. Plus, you can’t visit Florida without enjoying a piece of Key Lime pie, and JB’s delivers a really good slice.
Playa Bowls
Need a mid-day refresher to cool off and regenerate? You won’t regret a block-and-a-half walk off the beach to visit Playa Bowls. You’ll find fresh, high quality ingredients in the most delicious açaí, pitaya, coconut bowls and smoothies that promote healthy, sustainable living. Make sure you get the granola.
Attractions
Deerfield Beach International Fishing Pier
The pier attracts thousands of fisherman and sightseers annually. It’s just $4 to fish off the pier, and if you don’t have your own equipment, the visitor center offers everything you need including rod rental, bait, tackle, ice and accessories. If you just want to take in the sights from the pier, it’s merely $1 for residents or $2 for non-residents. Discounts are available for active military, veterans and first responders.
Deerfield Beach Arboretum at Constitution Park
The Arboretum, also known as the “Tree Zoo,” is home to more than 200 species of trees and palms from five continents around the world, with more than 50 different species of flowering trees. Free guided tours of the Arboretum are available the first Saturday of the month at 10 a.m. between September and June.
Quiet Waters Park
You’ll find a little bit for everyone at this park. It’s known for its Splash Adventure Water Park for kids, camping where you can rent a tent or a teepee, seven miles of biking trails and Woofing Waters Dog Park & Marina, both of which are open seasonally.
Nightlife
Two Georges at the Cove
It’s a family-owned and operated boat-up bar right on the Intracoastal Waterway. The menu offers something for everyone, and the Friday happy hour has shot specials and giveaways between 4 and 7 p.m. and a DJ starting at 6 p.m. It’s a good place to relax and unwind. If you’re a sports fan, and your team is playing, Two Georges is where you want to catch the game.
The Funky Biscuit
Technically in Boca, the Funky Biscuit is less than a 10-minute drive from the Deerfield Beach pier. It’s a musician-owned and operated bar with live music performed by local, regional and national musicians. It’s got a bit of a Nashville vibe with bands offering a variety of genres from rock and roll to blues to jazz and everything in between. Its Southern-style menu and down-home vibe will make you forget you’re in South Florida for a minute.
Fort Lauderdale
There’s not much more to say about Forth Lauderdale Beach. There’s a reason it’s one of the premier destinations for Spring Breakers and tourists from near and far. The beach is absolutely stunning. It is well-maintained. There are really good bars and restaurants right on the beach. There’s ample parking. And jet ski rentals, parasailing, kiteboarding, paddle boarding or anything else your heart desires is available at Fort Lauderdale Beach. You can book boating trips, take a Water Taxi or walk to Los Olas for food that even the most discerning foodie would swoon over. Families should consider avoiding Spring Break season during March and April, but every other month, this beach is paradise.
Dining
The Market Deli
It’s not fancy, by any means, but it’s affordable. This little spot steps from the beach on A1A is a nice step up from your average convenience store. You can get sandwiches, snacks, pizza, yogurt, smoothies — and a 12-pack or two. No need to leave paradise to refill your cooler.
Shooters Waterfront
With its prime location on the Intracoastal, Shooters Waterfront offers a dining experience with some of the most spectacular water views. Known for its seafood and American cuisine, this place delivers a diverse menu and lively atmosphere. Dine on the expansive waterfront patio, or stay indoors, and just soak in the delicious food and vibrant energy at this local eatery, a staple in Fort Lauderdale since 1982.
Casablanca Café
Set in a beautifully restored historic home with Mediterranean-inspired architecture, Casablanca Café offers an elegant dining experience with dare-we-say romantic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy a menu of crazy delectable seafood, steaks and Mediterranean dishes while savoring the ambiance of this charming beachfront restaurant. Casablanca Café is renowned for its upscale dining, perfect for celebrating any special occasion Chef’s kiss.
Attractions
FAT Village (currently being redeveloped)
It’s Fort Lauderdale’s smaller version of Miami’s Wynwood. Super cool vibe with so many photo ops for your Facebook or Instagram stories. Murals, murals and more murals. Be sure to check out BREW Urban Cafe while you’re there. You’ll never see coffee shops the same way after you visit this local gem. FAT Village hosts an artwalk on the last Saturday of the month with galleries open between 6 and 10 p.m.
Jungle Queen
This riverboat takes you on a tour of some of the most iconic homes in Fort Lauderdale. You’ll see homes and massive yachts of some of the most rich and famous who call Fort Lauderdale home. On the right day, they may even wave to you from their waterfront property. Jungle Queen offers several tour options including some with a stop or a dinner show on its private island. There’s a bar on board so you can sit back and enjoy the cruise.
Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
This historic estate is a hidden gem just a short distance from the beach. The Bonnet House is a beautifully preserved 1920s waterfront home with lush gardens, art and a fascinating history. Visitors explore the house and gardens while learning about the intriguing story of the Bartlett family, who once called it home.
Nightlife
Los Olas Boulevard
While not directly on the beach, Las Olas Boulevard is a must-visit for its shopping, dining and cultural attractions. This trendy boulevard is lined with art galleries, boutiques, cafes and restaurants. It’s also home to the NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale, where you can explore a diverse collection of art and exhibitions. If you’re visiting during the holidays, Los Olas offers a can’t-miss extra sparkle to your trip.
The Rhythm and Vine
This hip, laid-back outdoor bar is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, The Rhythm and Vine offers a relaxed garden setting with picnic tables, food trucks and a diverse drink menu. It’s an ideal spot to unwind with friends, enjoy live music and sip on craft beers, cocktails or wine.
Blue Martini Fort Lauderdale
If you’re in the mood for a sophisticated and upscale nightlife experience, Blue Martini is, for sure, the right choice. This stylish lounge and nightclub is known for its extensive martini menu, live music and oh-so chic ambiance. It’s a great place to enjoy cocktails with friends, listen to live bands or DJs and shake your groove thing on the dance floor. It’s elegant. It’s lively. And it’s perfect for a night of socializing and dancing.
Hallandale Beach
Nestled along the stunning Atlantic coast at the border of Fort Lauderdale and Miami, this vibrant city is like a year-round vacation destination for the young at heart. If you’re a betting enthusiast, you’re in luck! Hallandale Beach is home to the Gulfstream Park Racing & Casino, where you can try your luck on the ponies or at the slot machines. It’s an adrenaline-pumping, heart-racing good time! Looking to unwind, instead? there’s no shortage of stunning beachfront resorts and spas where you can pamper yourself silly. A hub of cultural diversity, at Hallandale Beach, you can explore the local markets, dance to the rhythms of salsa and reggae and savor global cuisines that’ll take your taste buds on a world tour.
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Hillsboro Beach
Tranquility meets luxury. You won’t find bustling boardwalks or crowded casinos here; instead, Hillsboro Beach is a haven of relaxation and refinement. It’s where you come to escape the hustle and embrace the timeless beauty of the sea. Hillsboro Beach is best known for its exclusive waterfront estates and upscale condominiums. With private beaches and world-class amenities, it’s a paradise for anyone seeking seclusion and luxury. If you appreciate natural beauty, the Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse stands as a majestic sentinel at the northern tip of the town. It’s an historic landmark with unique charm, offering stunning photo opportunities and a glimpse into the area’s maritime history. Don’t expect rows of beachside bars here though. That’s not its thing. Hillsboro Beach encourages intimate sunset picnics and moonlit walks along the shore instead.
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Hollywood
Prominently recognized by several travel media outlets as a best beach in Florida for a variety of reasons, Hollywood Beach has been a long-time favorite among locals. It’s the perfect beach to see and be seen — or not be seen at all. It’s your choice. Home to Jimmy Buffett’s famously named Margaritaville Beach Resort, Hollywood Beach’s most notable feature is its nearly 2.5 mile-long Broadwalk that’s perfect for strolling, biking, skating or other activities. Toward the southern and northern ends of the Broadwalk, you’ll find peaceful, uncrowded beach areas, while the center is more active and lively. The city of Hollywood offers an active arts and cultural district around its Arts Parks at Young Circle and a bustling downtown with a variety of dining and boutique shopping options. Parking is available by the hour using a mobile app or on-site machines, but the best part is that you can get around town easily using the Sun Shuttle by Circuit for just $1 per person. You know what Jimmy Buffet would say, “It’s 5 o’clock somewhere.”
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Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
History buffs will appreciate the park’s unique charm. It’s home to the Terramar Visitor Center, a historic home that offers a glimpse into the area’s past. Learn about the legacy of Hugh Taylor Birch, the park’s namesake, and his dedication to preserving this natural wonder for future generations. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape, an active day in nature or a family-friendly adventure, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park has it all. It’s a slice of Florida’s natural beauty nestled amidst the excitement of Fort Lauderdale, so you can reconnect with the wilderness while you enjoy the conveniences of the city. Pack a picnic, grab your binoculars and get ready to immerse yourself in nature in this urban oasis. Urban nature, we say? Yes, indeed.
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Lauderdale Beach
The low-rise beachfront homes and cozy cottages here exude a nostalgic charm that harkens back to the Florida of yesteryears. Here, you’ll find friendly locals and welcoming faces, making it easy to strike up a conversation with fellow beach lovers. Lauderdale Beach’s relaxed atmosphere extends to its dining scene, with quaint cafes and seafood shacks serving up fresh catches and tropical delights. It’s just a stone’s throw away from the bustling shops and vibrant restaurants of Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, a charming coastal town known for its welcoming atmosphere and lively events. This might be the place if you’re in search of a tranquil escape where the sand is soft, the water is inviting and the atmosphere is uber relaxing.
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Lauderdale-By-The-Sea
Just 8 minutes north of Fort Lauderdale Beach, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea is a tropical paradise that offers a unique and memorable vacation experience. This clean, well-maintained beach makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a Caribbean or Mexican tourist hotspot. But what sets it apart is its small-town charm, walkability and easy access to the ocean. With numerous beach access points and well-maintained public restrooms, you can spend your days lounging in the sun or taking part in a variety of water sports like kayaking, paddle-boarding and kiteboarding. And for those seeking adventure, take a dive and explore the coral reefs that are teeming with marine life just off the shore. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an exciting outdoor adventure, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea has something for everyone. Pack your bags, put on your flip-flops and get ready to “Relax, You’re Here!”
Dining
Mulligan’s Beach House
Locally owned and operated, Mulligan’s Beach House is a great option for breakfast. You can also enjoy happy hour specials everyday between 2 and 6 p.m. Or, check out live music Wednesday and Thursday evenings or a DJ on Friday and Saturday nights. Mulligan’s supports a variety of local charities doing good work in the community.
Aruba Beach Cafe
If you’re craving some delicious seafood, Aruba Beach Cafe is the place for you. The executive chef has been serving up tasty creations at Aruba for over 30 years. Plus, daily drink specials Monday through Thursday deliver variety, or enjoy happy hour specials at the bars Monday through Friday between 4 and 7 p.m.
Anglins Beach Cafe
Situated right next to the pier, Anglins offers some of the best beach views, particularly at sunset. You’ll find a variety of cuisines offered here including fresh, organic salads and omelettes as well as some Greek and Mediterranean dishes. But really, it’s the views that will win you over.
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Nightlife
Sloan’s
Got a sweet tooth or want to treat your family to a sweet little treat. Sloan’s is the right place. It’s gourmet ice cream, made right here in South Florida at its original location in West Palm Beach. Plus the atmosphere is so cute and quaint you’ll fall in love.
Hot Leggz
This is a pleasant little find. It’s definitely got a bar vibe so it might not be right for younger children, but the food was good. Every patron has an opportunity to hang a dollar bill on the wall. During the pandemic, the owner took all the dollar bills down and split them among the staff. Word is it was nearly $10K. A small gesture, but a meaningful act.
Lighthouse Point
Located along the Intracoastal Waterway, this exclusive community is a beacon of elegance and serenity in the heart of South Florida. Imagine a place where stately waterfront mansions create a picturesque setting reminiscent of a Mediterranean village. Lighthouse Point is where the privileged few come to embrace the quintessential Florida lifestyle, where boating and waterfront living are a way of life. The town takes its name from the iconic Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse that not only guides ships safely through the inlet but also serves as a symbol of the area’s maritime heritage. Lighthouse Point offers easy access to the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a boater’s paradise with private docks and marinas aplenty. This is where you go if. you want to boat or watch boats. The water beckons, at Lighthouse Point.
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Pompano Beach
Having recently received a major makeover, Pompano Beach offers some of the newest amenities in the area. It’s also known for its underwater shipwrecks that make for great snorkeling and diving experiences. The fishing pier, uniquely shaped like the pompano fish, just opened in 2019 and offers great fishing and sightseeing 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. At Pompano Beach, you’ll also find modern, shaded and padded workout stations and play areas along with freshly remodeled bathrooms and shelters. The beach has abundant lifeguard stations that are staffed between 9 a.m. and 4:45 p.m., 7 days a week. During daylight savings time, the hours are extended to 6:45 p.m. A recently constructed parking garage offers ample parking in addition to street parking that’s available by the hour using a mobile app or on-site machines. Shuttle services are also available free of charge via Circuit.
Dining
9Face Sushi
Family-owned and operated, this sushi restaurant is just steps away from the beach. Great service. Go ahead and go for the Sake and the Spicy Miso Soup to get started. Then, order a variety of sushi or other menu options and try them all. You won’t be disappointed. It’s all delicious.
Beach House
Go here, and make your way upstairs to enjoy the ahh-mazing view. It’s. Worth. Every. Second. Beach House is a favorite among the local fishing community, which is abundant in Pompano Beach. The menu offers a variety of seafood and American cuisine. But, you can also just order the smoked fish dip and cocktails and take in the beautiful view. The weekend brunch menu offers generous portions, and if grits are your thing, you’ll find them on the menu here.
Briny Irish Pub
If you’re thinking traditional Irish pub, forget it. Briny’s is an eclectic mix of cuisine and decor. While there is a shepherd’s pie on the menu, even the servers will tell you to get the nachos, shepherd’s pie style. And they’re not wrong. The menu offers everything from seafood and burgers and fries to NY strip steak to Philly Cheesesteak to New England Clam Chowder. The best part about Briny’s is its rich history and local, community-vibe atmosphere. You’re going to feel right at home here.
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