If you’re a beach lover in Fort Lauderdale, you’re in luck! This article will take you on a virtual journey to discover the best day trips from Fort Lauderdale that will satisfy your love for sandy shores and turquoise waters. From the famous Miami Beach to the serene sands of West Palm Beach, get ready to explore stunning beaches just a short drive away from Fort Lauderdale. So grab your sunscreen and beach towel, because we’re about to embark on a beach lover’s paradise!
1. Key West
Fast overview
Key West is a charming island located at the southernmost point of Florida. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning sunsets, and vibrant culture, it is a popular day trip destination from Fort Lauderdale. The island offers a unique blend of historical sites, beautiful beaches, and a lively nightlife.
How to get there
To get to Key West from Fort Lauderdale, you have a few options. The most popular and convenient way is to take a ferry from Fort Lauderdale to Key West. The ferry ride takes approximately 3.5 hours and offers scenic views of the ocean along the way. Another option is to drive, which takes around 3.5 hours and allows you to enjoy the scenic Overseas Highway.
Highlights
Some of the must-visit attractions in Key West include the iconic Duval Street, known for its vibrant bars, unique shops, and lively street performers. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where you can learn about the famous writer’s life and see the six-toed cats that still roam the property. For beach lovers, Smathers Beach is a popular spot to relax and soak up the sun. Finally, be sure to catch the breathtaking sunset at Mallory Square, where street performers entertain the crowds as the sun dips below the horizon.
2. Miami
Fast overview
Miami, the vibrant and diverse city located just an hour away from Fort Lauderdale, offers a perfect blend of stunning beaches, cultural attractions, and a buzzing nightlife. Known for its art deco architecture, Cuban influence, and world-class dining, Miami is a must-visit day trip destination.
How to get there
Getting to Miami from Fort Lauderdale is a breeze. You can opt to drive, which takes about an hour, or take the train or bus, both of which offer convenient transportation options. The Brightline train, in particular, provides a comfortable and scenic ride, allowing you to sit back and relax as you make your way to Miami.
Highlights
Miami is famous for its beautiful beaches, most notably South Beach. Here, you can soak up the sun, stroll along the iconic Ocean Drive, or take a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean. If you’re interested in art, make sure to visit the Wynwood Walls, a vibrant outdoor gallery featuring colorful street art created by local and international artists. For a taste of Cuban culture, head to Little Havana, where you can enjoy delicious Cuban cuisine, listen to live music, and even try your hand at salsa dancing.
3. Palm Beach
Fast overview
Palm Beach, located just north of Fort Lauderdale, is known for its luxurious resorts, upscale shopping, and pristine beaches. With its manicured streets lined with palm trees and beautiful waterfront mansions, Palm Beach exudes elegance and charm.
How to get there
To get to Palm Beach from Fort Lauderdale, you can drive north for about an hour. Alternatively, you can take a scenic boat ride along the Intracoastal Waterway, which allows you to enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline along the way.
Highlights
A visit to Palm Beach would not be complete without exploring Worth Avenue, a world-famous shopping destination known for its high-end boutiques and designer stores. For nature lovers, a visit to the Mounts Botanical Garden is a must, where you can marvel at the diverse collection of plants and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Of course, no trip to Palm Beach is complete without a visit to the beach. Head to Midtown Beach, located near the iconic Palm Beach Par 3 Golf Course, for a relaxing day by the crystal-clear waters.
4. Delray Beach
Fast overview
Delray Beach, located just south of Palm Beach, offers a laid-back and friendly atmosphere, making it a popular day trip destination. With its charming downtown area, beautiful beaches, and thriving arts scene, Delray Beach has something for everyone.
How to get there
To get to Delray Beach from Fort Lauderdale, you can drive south for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the Tri-Rail or a local bus, both of which offer convenient and affordable transportation options.
Highlights
One of the highlights of Delray Beach is Atlantic Avenue, the main street lined with charming boutiques, art galleries, and delicious restaurants. The downtown area is also home to the Arts Garage, a cultural hub where you can catch live music performances, art exhibitions, and theatrical shows. When it comes to beaches, Delray Beach offers a beautiful stretch of coastline with crystal-clear waters. Don’t forget to visit the stunning Wakodahatchee Wetlands, a nature preserve known for its abundance of wildlife and beautiful boardwalk trails.
5. Hollywood Beach
Fast overview
Hollywood Beach, located just south of Fort Lauderdale, is a lively and family-friendly destination known for its wide sandy beaches and vibrant boardwalk. With its charming atmosphere and abundance of recreational activities, Hollywood Beach is perfect for a day of sun, sand, and entertainment.
How to get there
To get to Hollywood Beach from Fort Lauderdale, you can drive south for about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a local bus, which offers convenient transportation options to the beach.
Highlights
The Hollywood Beach Broadwalk is the main highlight of this coastal town. Stretching for 2.5 miles, the boardwalk offers a multitude of dining options, shops, and live entertainment. Rent a bike or rollerblade along the boardwalk, or simply take a leisurely stroll as you enjoy the ocean views. Hollywood Beach is also home to the Anne Kolb Nature Center, where you can explore mangrove trails, spot wildlife, and learn about the unique ecosystem. For a relaxing beach experience, head to the Hollywood Beach Park, where you can unwind under the swaying palm trees and take a refreshing swim in the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
6. Deerfield Beach
Fast overview
Deerfield Beach, located just north of Fort Lauderdale, offers a more relaxed and laid-back beach experience. With its pristine sandy shores, clear blue waters, and charming beachside promenade, it is a hidden gem for beach lovers.
How to get there
To get to Deerfield Beach from Fort Lauderdale, you can drive north for about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a local bus, which provides convenient transportation options.
Highlights
One of the highlights of Deerfield Beach is its beautiful pier, which extends into the Atlantic Ocean and offers stunning views of the coastline. The pier is a perfect spot for fishing, strolling, or simply enjoying the ocean breeze. For some family-friendly fun, visit the Deerfield Beach International Fishing Pier, where you can rent fishing gear and try your luck at catching some local fish. The beach itself is also worth exploring, with its wide sandy shores and calm waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Don’t forget to take a leisurely walk along the beachside promenade, lined with shops, restaurants, and picnic areas.
7. Naples
Fast overview
Naples, located on the Gulf of Mexico, is a beautiful coastal city known for its upscale shopping, stunning beaches, and world-class golf courses. Despite its luxurious reputation, Naples offers a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, making it a perfect day trip destination for beach lovers.
How to get there
To get to Naples from Fort Lauderdale, you can drive west for approximately 90 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a scenic boat ride from Fort Lauderdale to Naples, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico along the way.
Highlights
One of the highlights of Naples is its pristine beaches, including the popular Vanderbilt Beach and the picturesque Clam Pass Park Beach, which can be reached by a scenic tram ride. Naples Pier is another must-visit attraction, offering panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico and a great spot for fishing. For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a must. This 13,000-acre preserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and rare birds. Finally, make sure to explore the charming downtown area of Naples, where you can indulge in upscale shopping, art galleries, and delicious dining options.
8. West Palm Beach
Fast overview
West Palm Beach, located just north of Palm Beach, offers a vibrant city atmosphere combined with beautiful waterfront views and stunning beaches. With its cultural attractions, lively nightlife, and outdoor activities, it is a great day trip destination for beach lovers.
How to get there
To get to West Palm Beach from Fort Lauderdale, you can drive north for approximately 45 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a local bus or the Tri-Rail train, both of which provide convenient transportation options.
Highlights
One of the highlights of West Palm Beach is the vibrant downtown area, known as Clematis Street, where you can find a variety of shops, restaurants, and nightlife options. For art enthusiasts, a visit to the Norton Museum of Art is a must, offering an impressive collection of American, European, and Chinese art. Another must-visit attraction is the Palm Beach Zoo, home to a diverse range of animals and offering interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages. Of course, no trip to West Palm Beach would be complete without a visit to the beach. Head to Palm Beach Municipal Beach to enjoy the sun, sand, and water, or take a leisurely stroll along the iconic Lake Trail, which offers picturesque views of the Intracoastal Waterway.
9. Fort Myers Beach
Fast overview
Fort Myers Beach, located on the Gulf of Mexico, is a popular day trip destination known for its beautiful sandy beaches, stunning sunsets, and laid-back atmosphere. With its array of recreational activities, charming beach town vibes, and delicious seafood, it’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a beach getaway.
How to get there
To get to Fort Myers Beach from Fort Lauderdale, you can drive west for approximately 2 hours. Another option is to take a boat ride, which allows you to enjoy scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico along the way.
Highlights
One of the highlights of Fort Myers Beach is its long stretch of white sandy shoreline, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles. The beach is also known for its beautiful sunsets, so be sure to stick around and witness the breathtaking colors as the sun dips below the horizon. For some family-friendly fun, visit the Fort Myers Beach Pier, where you can fish, watch local artists at work, or simply enjoy the stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Another must-visit attraction is Lovers Key State Park, a pristine natural area that offers opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.
10. Everglades National Park
Fast overview
Everglades National Park, located just west of Fort Lauderdale, is a unique and diverse ecosystem teeming with wildlife and breathtaking natural beauty. As the largest tropical wilderness in the United States, it is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
How to get there
To get to Everglades National Park from Fort Lauderdale, you can drive west for approximately 1 hour. Alternatively, you can join a guided tour that provides transportation and expert guides to help you explore the park.
Highlights
One of the highlights of Everglades National Park is its vast wetlands, known as the “River of Grass.” Take a thrilling airboat ride or embark on a guided kayak tour to explore the mangrove forests, spot alligators, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike along the Anhinga Trail, where you can observe wildlife up close, including herons, turtles, and possibly even manatees. For a unique experience, take a scenic tram tour through Shark Valley, where you can learn about the park’s history, ecosystems, and see incredible views of the Everglades from a 65-foot observation tower.