Curator’s statement
Arriving in Fort Lauderdale a day before a cruise is one of the best decisions you can make. Not only does it help you avoid flight delays or travel stress, it also lets you begin your vacation early. I’ve done this twice before boarding Royal Caribbean cruises from Port Everglades, and both times were worth it. On my most recent trip, I stayed at the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa, which I loved. I’ve also stayed at the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina and would recommend it as well. Below are my favorite ways to spend one relaxing day in Fort Lauderdale before setting sail.
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Where to stay in Fort Lauderdale
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Things to do in Fort Lauderdale
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood
The beach & pools
One of the reasons I enjoyed staying at the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa was its oceanfront location. I could walk straight to the beach in minutes. Most hotels in this area also have pools, making it easy to unwind with a drink or a book before your cruise.
Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale
When we arrived, the skies were overcast, so we decided to take a walk along the Riverwalk after lunch. It turned out to be a great way to stretch our legs, enjoy the scenery, and get a first look at the city.
Jungle Queen Riverboat
This classic riverboat cruise is a fun evening activity. We booked the four-hour dinner cruise on a Thursday night for $75 per person. It included dinner, live entertainment, and views of the waterfront mansions along the river.
Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
This historic property was a pleasant surprise. The home and gardens tell the story of early Fort Lauderdale and its artistic past. The guided tour costs $35 per adult and is well worth it. It’s peaceful, educational, and full of charm.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood
Our friends wanted to try their luck before we set sail, so we took a shared ride to the Hard Rock. Even if you don’t gamble, it’s worth visiting for the dining, shopping, and people-watching. We stayed for a few hours and had a great time.
Places to eat & drink in Fort Lauderdale
Sea bass at 3030 Ocean Restaurant
Boatyard: This was one of our favorite meals in Fort Lauderdale. If you like seafood, order the paella… it was excellent. The bread was warm and flavorful, and the service was friendly. They even surprised our friend with a small birthday treat since we were celebrating the cruise departure.
Whiskey Neat: A stylish cocktail lounge with an impressive drink menu. The atmosphere was relaxed and modern, and every cocktail we tried was well-made. A great place for a pre-dinner drink.
3030 Ocean Restaurant: This dinner was outstanding. Located inside the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa, it delivered a truly memorable dining experience. Our waiter, Roshan, provided excellent service. The lobster and crab cold salad, truffle fries, and sea bass were all perfectly prepared. We skipped dessert only because we were too full.
Sea Level Restaurant: We had lunch here shortly after checking in at the Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa. The drinks were refreshing, and the chicken wings were surprisingly well-executed. It’s a great option for a casual bite with an ocean view.
Quarterdeck Restaurants: A casual option with good service and fair prices. The Mahi Mahi sandwich with fries was the standout item. Perfect for a quick lunch before exploring the city.
Need to know
These suggestions come from several stays in Fort Lauderdale, both as a former Floridian and as a traveler preparing for cruises.
Transportation: Port Everglades and the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport are only a short ride apart, making this one of the most convenient cruise departure cities in the US.
Getting around: I highly recommend using Lyft or Uber instead of traditional taxis. On one occasion, a taxi driver overcharged and attempted to double-bill us. Rideshare apps provide transparent pricing and peace of mind.
Timing: Arriving a day early reduces stress and ensures you won’t miss your cruise if your flight is delayed.
Where to stay: All suggested hotels are comfortable, well-located options with easy access to the port. Thinking about somewhere else, let's chat!
If you have a cruise leaving from Fort Lauderdale soon, take the extra night to settle in, enjoy the sunshine, and start your vacation a little early. It makes all the difference.
Travel Advisor
Alfredo Oliveira
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