Fort Lauderdale Beach
Fort Lauderdale Beach is easily the most famous stretch of sand in the area, and for good reason. It’s lively, walkable, and lined with restaurants, bars, and shops just across the street from the sand. You’ll find plenty of people here, both locals and tourists, so if you love energy and don’t mind a bit of a crowd, this is the place to be. It’s great for people-watching, grabbing a drink with an ocean view, or renting an umbrella and chair to settle in for the day.
The only downside is that it can get pretty busy, especially on weekends or during tourist season, so if you’re looking for peace and quiet, another beach might be a better fit. But if you want that classic South Florida beach vibe with everything you need just steps away, Fort Lauderdale Beach is hard to beat.
Parking
There’s plenty of metered street parking and public garages, but it fills up fast on weekends. Use the PayByPhone app to make it easy.
Bonus tip: Check out Hugh Taylor Birch State Park at Sunrise Blvd. It’s just across the street from the beach and parking is only $6 for the whole day, just keep in mind the park closes at sunset.
Restrooms & Showers
On Fort Lauderdale Beach, you’ll find outdoor showers and public restrooms at Fort Lauderdale Beach Park, Las Olas Oceanside Park, and across the street at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. All of them make it easy to rinse off and freshen up before heading out.
Where to Eat
Fort Lauderdale Beach has no shortage of places to eat, whether you’re looking for something casual or a little more upscale. Primanti Bros is a local favorite for pizza and sandwiches, and the beachside location is open 24 hours (just remember, it’s cash only). For seafood with a laid-back, waterfront vibe, Coconuts is a classic. You’ll also find plenty of high-end dining options, like Takato, known for upscale Asian fusion, or Steak 954, a modern steakhouse with ocean views.
Hollywood Beach
Hollywood Beach has a vibe all its own: quirky, diverse, and full of personality. It’s the kind of place where you’ll see retirees speed-walking next to rollerbladers in neon swimsuits, families riding surrey bikes, and groups from all over the world mixing together along the Broadwalk. The beach itself is wide and beautiful, but it’s really the people-watching that steals the show. Lined with casual bars, beachside restaurants, ice cream stands, and souvenir shops, it feels more like an old-school beach town than the polished, resort-style scene you’ll find in Fort Lauderdale. It’s a little rough around the edges, but that’s part of the charm.
Compared to Fort Lauderdale Beach, Hollywood feels more laid-back and affordable, with a mix of locals and tourists from all walks of life. It’s perfect if you want to soak up the atmosphere and just go with the flow. On the downside, parking can be a little tricky on busy days, and it doesn’t have the same upscale dining or nightlife options as Fort Lauderdale. But if you’re after a beach day that’s full of character, people-watching, and no-fuss fun, Hollywood Beach is hands-down the winner.
Parking
There’s parking on the side streets, but it’s almost impossible to find a spot if it’s even a little busy. Your best bet is to head to the Margaritaville garage or the Garfield Street garage, both just steps from the Broadwalk.
Restrooms & Showers
You’ll find outdoor showers all along the Broadwalk, plus public restrooms near Margaritaville on Johnson Street, at Charnow Park on Garfield Street, and by Oceanwalk on Tyler Street. Perfect if you need to rinse off the salt and sweat or freshen up before heading to your next stop.
Where to Eat
If you’re hungry after the beach, a few of my personal favorites are Nick’s Bar & Grill, where I always order the mahi sandwich and fish dip, and Rocco’s Pizza, which hits even better when there’s live music at the bandshell. There’s also Le Tub, which was made famous for being named “America’s Best Burger” by GQ Magazine back in 2006. Just a heads-up, they’re cash only, they get busy, and you’ll definitely need to be patient, but it’s part of the charm.
Dania Beach
Dania Beach is the hidden gem of Broward County beaches. It’s quiet, relaxed, and way less crowded than its busier neighbors. It has the same soft sand and beautiful Atlantic views, but with a totally different energy. You won’t find rows of high-rise hotels or a busy strip of bars and restaurants here. Instead, it feels more natural and laid-back, perfect for anyone who just wants to bring a beach chair, listen to the waves, and truly unwind. It’s one of the best spots if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, especially on weekdays.
There are still places to grab food or drinks nearby, but it doesn’t have the same beachfront dining and nightlife scene as Fort Lauderdale or Hollywood. Parking is usually easier and less stressful here too, which is a nice bonus. If you’re after a low-key beach day where you can stretch out, relax, and recharge without much distraction, Dania Beach is the place to go.
Parking
Parking here is super easy compared to other beaches. There’s a big lot right by the sand, and it usually doesn’t fill up unless it’s a holiday weekend.
Restrooms & Showers
Dania keeps it simple with restrooms and outdoor showers right by the main parking lot, close to the pier entrance.
Where to Eat
If you are looking for food with a view, head to Quarterdeck right on the pier. You can grab a table and eat while watching the waves roll in. There’s also a newer spot called Lucky Fish right on the sand that’s been getting great reviews for fresh seafood and a laid-back, toes-in-the-sand kind of vibe.
Deerfield Beach
Deerfield Beach is a little farther north, but definitely worth the extra drive if you’re looking for clean, laid-back beach vibes without the touristy chaos. It’s actually the northernmost beach in Broward County, known for its Blue Wave certification, which means it’s recognized for being clean, safe, and eco-friendly. One of the highlights here is the Deerfield Beach International Fishing Pier, where you can fish, take a walk, or just enjoy the view. The beach itself feels a bit more relaxed and local compared to places like Fort Lauderdale or Hollywood, making it a great choice for families or anyone looking to unwind.
There are a few beachside restaurants and bars nearby, but it’s not a nightlife hotspot, and that’s exactly why some people love it. If you’re in the mood for clear water, wide sandy beaches, and a slower pace, Deerfield Beach is a solid choice.
Parking
Deerfield has lots of metered parking, lots, and garages near the pier and beachside restaurants. It fills up on weekends, so earlier is always better.
Restrooms & Showers
You’ll find clean public restrooms and showers near the fishing pier and along the beachfront path. Easy to spot as you walk in.
Where to Eat
Deerfield Beach has some great spots to grab a bite after the beach. The Whale’s Rib is one of the most popular local seafood restaurants in the area, while The Cove sits right on the water and has a laid-back tiki bar vibe, serving up seafood classics, cocktails, and waterfront views. You’ll also find a Flanigan’s nearby, one of my personal favorite spots for ribs, burgers, and casual comfort food. It’s a well-loved local chain, and it never misses.
Best Times to Go
If you’ve never watched the sunrise over the Atlantic, you’re missing out. Since we’re on the east coast, sunrise here is absolutely worth setting your alarm for at least once. You’ll beat the crowds, enjoy cooler temps, and catch the beach at its most peaceful.
As the day goes on, expect the heat to peak between 12pm and 4pm, especially in the summer. The sun here doesn’t play around. It’s intense, and if you’re not from somewhere tropical, it’ll hit way harder than you’re used to. Sure, it’s prime time for soaking up the sun, but don’t be fooled, tanning for an hour on the beach here is not the same as tanning an hour on the beach in New Jersey. You’ll burn way quicker if you’re not careful.
What to Bring
Since we’re already talking about how intense the South Florida sun can be, don’t forget to pack sunscreen and bring plenty of water, even if you think you won’t need it. Staying hydrated and protecting your skin will make your beach day way more enjoyable.
If you’re skipping the restaurants, it’s a local tradition to bring a Pub Sub (that’s a sub from Publix) and some snacks to fuel your day. Don’t forget the basics like towels, a beach chair if you want to sit comfortably, and an umbrella for some much-needed shade. If you don’t have one, no worries. Umbrella and chair rentals are available at all the main beaches.
Here are a few Amazon finds you might want to bring along to make your beach day even better:
Stay cool and protected with this 6.5ft beach umbrella featuring UPF 50+ sun protection, a tilt feature, and a sand anchor to keep it in place. It’s easy to carry with the included travel bag, perfect for beach days.
Keep your Pub Sub (or any sub) fresh and dry with the SubSafe Sandwich Container. This waterproof, BPA-free case holds a 6" or 12" sandwich, so you can eat half now and save the rest for later (without the soggy bread). Perfect to throw in your cooler for beach days and boating.
Float, lounge, or sunbathe with this 8ft inflatable water hammock. Durable, portable, and easy to inflate, it’s perfect for beach days and pool parties. Comes with a hand pump, carry bag, and rope to secure to docks or boats. Just pump it up and relax on the water.
Keep your food and drinks cold in the Florida heat with the Titan Deep Freeze Cooler. With quick-access lid, hardbody liner, and SmartShelf to protect soft snacks, it’s perfect for beach days. Easy to carry, easy to clean, and holds up to 48 cans.
Block the glare and stop your phone from overheating and shutting off in the Florida sun with this magnetic phone umbrella. It sticks right to your phone with the included magnetic ring, adjusts to different angles, and folds up small so it doesn't take up a lot of space in your bag.
Claim your spot on the sand with this oversized, waterproof beach blanket. It’s lightweight, easy to pack, and comes with stakes and corner pockets to keep it in place on windy days. Big enough for 2–8 people, it’s perfect for relaxing by the water.
This Neutrogena Beach Defense SPF 70 Spray makes sun protection easy and mess-free. It’s lightweight, fast-absorbing, and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it perfect for beach days, swimming, or any outdoor activity.
