Living in South Florida, it’s easy to take beach access and a thriving nightlife for granted and a staycation is the perfect remedy! Whether you need relaxation to recharge or you seek adventure, everything you need is in your own backyard. With so many offers this summer, now is the time to start planning.
It’s hard to disconnect when your long list of chores is staring right at you. The only way to find sanctuary is by booking a hotel. You know that feeling we’re talking about – the immediate relief that comes over you when you check into your room and put your bags down, the excitement of looking around your room with cool amenities readily available for the next few days. That’s when you know your “vacation mode” switch has been flipped.
That being said, choosing the right hotel plays a vital role in your staycation experience. It needs to be in the center of all your planned activities and the amenities need to fit your requirements.
Whether you’re looking for a pet-friendly, all-suite property suitable for big families, such as the GalleryONE – a DoubleTree Suites by Hilton, or the high-end treatment at the upscale Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach – the research is important!
Hilton has several properties around South Florida including 13 in the Greater Fort Lauderdale area alone. Need help deciding which one is right for you? Click here for a complete list. Lucky for Florida residents, Hilton hotels is offering exclusive savings now through September!
If it’s a family-fun staycation you’re after, the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort offers several options to keep the kids entertained. The Funky Fish Ocean Camp teaches surfing and other ocean activities, including snorkeling, skim/boogie boarding, boat trips to explore reefs, art, yoga and more.
However, if you prefer relaxing by the pool, Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach has sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean with a lavish pool and poolside dining. There’s nothing better than sipping your favorite cocktail with good company while taking in the ocean air.
To get around, scooters and bicycles are available for rent. Las Olas Boulevard isn’t too far away. When was the last time you just relaxed and had a wander up and down Las Olas?
For that matter, when was the last time you checked out what’s new at the beach? The latest ocean fun involves flying! Flyboard Fort Lauderdale offers fly boards (think Iron Man), hover boards, jet packs and FlyRide (the electronic gyroscopic Hydro Bike). For something a bit calmer, Sunset Yoga Cruise allows you to take a refreshing dip in the ocean to relax your muscles after a workout.
For a more up-close look at underwater neighbors, you can take a SEABOB water tour that explores local reefs. Offered by Beach Ventures, the guided tour takes you through a snorkeling experience of a lifetime.
Even if you’ve lived in the city for years, you’ll always learn something new playing tourist and taking a sightseeing tour. On water, the Water Taxi can transport you from the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina to Shooters Waterfront. We recommend the wine and cheese package!
Beyond the water, there are so many unique ways to experience this vibrant city.
To venture out and experience Florida in its native form, Everglades Holiday Park Airboat Tours has you covered. Come face-to-face with some of Florida’s most exotic and exciting animals. Encounter a once in a lifetime adventure with alligators presented by the Gator Boys Alligator Rescue in their world famous Gator Pit.
Another unique spot, Chops and Hops, is everything you would expect it to be. The axe throwing lodge doubles as a beer drinking bar. You’ll be channeling your inner lumberjack in no time!
If you’re looking to tour local bars on Las Olas Boulevard without having to worry about getting around, Cycle Party does all the thinking for you. All you have to worry about is having a good time with some drinks! It’s a party on wheels in the form of a 15-person bike.
You know we weren’t going to forget about food. Dinner at the right place can be a form of disconnection and can transport you to another city for a few hours. For a unique romantic, on-the-water feasting experience Casa Sensei offers gondola dining options. The Pan Asian and Latin American fusion restaurant gives you the full culinary experience while cruising on the Himmarshee Canal and The New River.
Many have heard of dining in the dark, but how many have actually participated? Indulge in the ultimate sensory dining experience by letting your taste buds do the guiding. Every month, One Door East hosts a culinary journey in the dark. It includes a surprise six-course wine-pairing menu.
If you don’t wish to travel outside the hotel, most of the Hilton hotels feature one-of-a-kind menus with the right ambiance.
For example, Ilios at the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach is their take on Mediterranean-inspired American cuisine. For oceanfront dining with steak, seafood, sushi and live music – S3 (Sun, Surf, Sand) is the place for you!
To enjoy a rooftop bar with the signature Fort Lauderdale atmosphere, look no further than the High Tide Lounge at the Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach – a DoubleTree by Hilton.
A pleasant surprise for your taste buds waits for you at the Diplomat Beach Resort Hollywood. It has eight eateries to choose from, two by acclaimed celebrity chefs. There’s Point Royal by Chef Geoffrey Zakarian who leads this coastal American restaurant and bar with a seaside view. For modern Japanese fare, Monkitail offers a contemporary take on the classic izakaya with 15-seat sushi bar and private dining area overlooking the ocean headed by Chef Michael Schulson. Pro tip: this restaurant was voted as the “Best Hotel Restaurant” in 2017 by USA Today!
Finally, it’s time to relax after a long day or weekend out and the Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood will satisfy your needs. The luxurious spa was recently renovated and features 10 spa treatment rooms, nail treatment spots, a eucalyptus steam room, dry sauna, two-level fitness center, group wellness programs, ocean front relaxation area and more.
Fort Lauderdale is more than just beaches. It’s a growing culinary scene, a manifesting nightlife and an outdoor adventure waiting to be unlocked and explored. Don’t spend your summer weekends at home – find out why your own backyard is a top travel destination!
