Curator’s statement
Over the past 30 years, I’ve stayed in a dozen different cities in Florida. I was a diehard fan of the Tampa Bay area until we took several trips to Fort Lauderdale. After our recent stay in Pompano Beach, I can confidently say that the area has captured a piece of my heart. The beauty of the white sandy beaches, dotted with palm trees, and the endless options for lively bars and excellent restaurants simply can't be beat!
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Where to stay in Southeast Florida
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Things to do in Southeast Florida
For the ultimate river experience, arrange a private ride on a gondola!
A boat ride down the river in Fort Lauderdale should be at the top of your list when visiting the area! I’ve been on a large group tour in which we stopped to swim in a popular spot frequented by boaters of all types. I once rode on a private boat captained by a friend. Recently, my family arranged for a private gondola ride to celebrate my birthday. They were all pretty spectacular, but if you want something extra special, hire Riverfront Gondola Tours and arrange for sushi to be served from Casa Sensei! With the ocean nearby, the choices of activities are endless. From snorkeling and parasailing to sunset cruises and bar-hopping on a water taxi, there’s truly something for everyone.
I also love spending an afternoon shopping near Lauderdale Beach and enjoying drinks at one of the area’s many popular bars, including the infamous Elbo Room. If you stay in Pompano Beach, I highly recommend grabbing a nightcap at the rooftop bar at Tru by Hilton (note that you don’t have to be a hotel guest) and finishing your night with a stroll along the pier. It’s one of the most magical views I’ve ever witnessed!
My absolute favorite activity in the Fort Lauderdale area, however, is soaking in the sunshine on one of its many pristine beaches where the palm trees sway above!
Places to eat & drink in Southeast Florida
Both Pompano Beach and Lauderdale Beach offer vibrant nightlife and a variety of cuisine!
Restaurants within walking distance of either Pompano Beach or Lauderdale Beach are plentiful.
Some of my favorite spots for appetizers and refreshing drinks while enjoying the beach include Sandbar Grill on Lauderdale Beach and Lucky Fish & Beach Bar in Pompano Beach.
I love Tacocraft Taqueria & Tequila Bar and the Drunken Taco on Lauderdale Beach for delicious Mexican cuisine.
For special occasions or just an excuse to dress up, I highly recommend the Beach House or Oceanic in Pompano Beach, or Sea Watch on the Ocean in Fort Lauderdale. In addition to excellent seafood, they each offer stunning ocean views!
My favorite breakfast involves an omelet or eggs Benedict along with a bloody Maria at Tinta, located in the Fort Lauderdale Westin. If you’re in the area on a Sunday, head to Galuppi’s in Pompano Beach for unlimited bloody Marys and mimosas on a beautiful patio overlooking the Pompano Beach Municipal Golf Course. Considering we walked there and called a driver for the way back, you could say we drank our share!
Need to know
In addition to a lively nightlife, both Lauderdale Beach and Pompano Beach provide ample choices for restaurants and bars within walking distance. It’s a 15- to 20-minute drive between the two, so I would recommend staying in one city and planning to visit the other. If you stay in the Fort Lauderdale area, it’s fairly easy to arrange for a ride share (Lyft, Uber, etc.). While there’s even more to do in downtown Fort Lauderdale, plan ahead as driving from the beach can take up to an hour, depending on traffic.
The restaurants and bars closer to Miami tend to have an elevated dress code, higher prices, and more intense crowds. For a more relaxed atmosphere, stay on Pompano Beach, where you won’t need a car unless you want to head into Fort Lauderdale or other nearby areas. If you sip on a nightcap at one of the bars across from Lauderdale Beach, you’ll probably witness several drag races and see a few custom sports cars.
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