Your Itinerary for the Perfect Fort Lauderdale Beach Day

Written for Visit Lauderdale

There’s something magical about where the land meets the sea: blue skies, sandy beaches, a salty ocean breeze and sunlight shimmering on every surface.  

With year-round sunshine, it’s not hard to imagine the perfect day on Fort Lauderdale beach. In fact, you don’t have to do that at all. That’s what this article is for. All you have to do is take a look at our suggestions below for your play by play in paradise. 

9:00 a.m. Get Ready 

Up and at ‘em! Your beach day begins bright and early with plenty of exciting activities in store. 

What to Bring 

Start with a tote bag. Pack your essentials inside: towels, sunscreen and a page-turning beach read. Throw in some headphones, too, if you want to listen to music without disturbing your sand castle neighbors. 

If you aren’t staying at a resort, bring a beach umbrella and beach chairs for the sand. The sun is strong, so you can create your own little oasis area that’s entirely your own. 

A cooler is also a must for your day. Staying hydrated and nourished at the beach is crucial; being out in the sun and water can easily drain your energy level. You’re going to want to pack non-perishable food that keeps you refreshed throughout your reign on the beach. Think: fruit and veggies. You can’t go wrong with grapes, strawberries, watermelon, carrots or oranges for your go-to beach snacks. 

It’s important to note that alcohol, glass bottles and glass containers are prohibited on Fort Lauderdale beach. While plastic water bottles aren’t forbidden, refrain from bringing them, if possible, as they can harm marine life near the shore. Put your nonalcoholic drink of choice in a reusable water bottle, and you’re good to go.  

What to Wear 

[Text Wrapping Break]Swimwear, of course! Bikinis, swim trunks, hats, flip flops and sunglasses. If you need a last minute swimsuit, head over to The Galleria Fort Lauderdale mall, which is less than a five-minute drive away from A1A. 

Be sure to wear a cover up or a t-shirt and shorts over your swimsuit to protect you from the sun when you are walking around or going to eat. Plus, they’ll be nice and dry when you put them on again after you’re done for the day.  

Most importantly, don’t forget to apply sunscreen before you hit the sand, and follow the label instructions regarding how often to re-apply. Your skin will thank you later. 

10:00 a.m. Arrive in Style 

Tote bag and cooler in hand, you’re ready to head over to the coast for a day of endless blue. 

Where to Park 

For those that are driving to the beach, parking doesn’t have to be something to stress over. Fortunately, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is directly nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, offering 8.a.m. - sundown parking for just six dollars 365 days a year. No refilling your meter. No worries.  

After you park in the lot, take time to explore the park itself, then wander through Park and Ocean, a seaside grub hotspot, to the beach. The neon sign inside says it all: “Adventure is calling.” 

10:15 a.m. Beach Time -- Best Time. 

You made it! The next few hours are yours to enjoy. Get ready for great views, good times and tan lines.  

Where to Sit 

Walk along the Fort Lauderdale beach Wave Wall. The white wall curves along the sand of the entire beach. Skateboarders, rollerbladers, couples holding hands and families create a friendly, chill atmosphere as they stroll along this iconic landmark. 

Find a prime sand spot to stake your claim on. The beach is up for grabs. You may want to stay close to a lifeguard stand as a safety precaution. If you’re staying at a resort, your hotel may have its own private beach area complete with cabanas, lounge chairs and umbrellas. Check with your concierge for the details. 

What to Do 

What you do is up to you! If you’re all about rest and relaxation, lay down on your towel or chair and breathe in the ocean air. Read your book under the umbrella, sip on your water and eat your fruit.  

Take a dip in the water. Sit in the sand as the waves come rolling in, or go for a swim a tad farther away from the shoreline. There’s even designated areas for surfing throughout the beach. 

Watersports are also an option. Atlantic Watersports is one of the many companies on Fort Lauderdale beach that bring a sense of adrenaline to the shore.  Go for a ride on a Jet Ski, a submersible watercraft, a hovercraft, the Flyboard, Jetpack, Flyride or other unique aqua experiences.  

1:00 p.m. Lunch 

All that fun in the sun has worked you up an appetite. Clean the sand off your skin at the outdoor showers near the Wave Wall, and let’s eat! 

Where to Eat 

There are a myriad of restaurants along Fort Lauderdale beach that fit the criteria for your perfect beach day. Since there are too many to name, here are two stand outs. 

Nothing says a day at the beach quite like chips and salsa. El Vez at the W Fort Lauderdale, a luxe hotel, is a mexican restaurant complete with an outdoor patio and  beachside bar. Their chips and salsa comes with three different types of salsa; not to mention the “Nacho Mama” is a dream come true. If you’re in the mood for a coastal cocktail, the Frozen Blood Orange Margarita ought to cool you off. The Espumoso at El Vez is equally as refreshing; it contains sparkling wine, Giffard Pamplemousse,grapefruit, apples and strawberries. 

Coconuts is a beachy hangout with breathtaking views of boats going by. The staff at Coconuts provides an “upscale dining experience in a casual setting.” Dogs are even allowed to join in on the fun. As far as what you order, seafood is the way to go. Start with the Conch & Shrimp Fritters, then get the Local Fish of the Day for a true Fort Lauderdale feast. 

3:00 p.m. More Fun in the Sun 

Your perfect day isn’t over yet. Head back over to the beach for some more adventures. You can resume your lounging from earlier in the day, or work off lunch with a more active activity. 

Fort Lauderdale Beach Park is a sandy recreation area for the competitor in all of us. With volleyball and basketball courts, a playground and picnic tables, this park has it all. Mingle with the people in your area, and form teams. Spike, serve and score. Soon, your beachside neighbors will become your best friends. 

5:00 p.m. Time to Pack Up  

It’s been quite the day. We packed.  We parked. We relaxed. We swam. We ate. We mingled. We played. We conquered -- and we enjoyed every minute. 

Now that the image of the perfect beach day is in your head, let’s make it a reality. Hurry up, the ocean’s waiting.