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Picture of Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA

Travel Guide for
Fort Lauderdale

United States

Tropical rainforest, hot and humid summers

Introduction

Fort Lauderdale, set along Florida’s southeastern coast, is famous for its Intracoastal Waterway, glittering canals, and expansive beaches. Once a 1960s spring break hotspot, the city now balances lively nightlife with a relaxed, sophisticated vibe.

In July, expect warm, tropical weather—with highs around 90°F—perfect for sunny days at Las Olas Beach or boat tours with friends. Explore the bustling Riverwalk, check out the shops and restaurants along Las Olas Boulevard, or hop on a water taxi. With affordable group activities, vibrant culture, and endless sunshine, Fort Lauderdale is an ideal spot for a fun trip with friends.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleTravelling with friends

Dates11-13 July 2025

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationNot specified

Interests and Activities:

gastronomynightlife and entertainmentoutdoor adventuresarts and culture

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Picture of Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA

Key Facts

Location

Southeast Florida, USA

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Religion

Christianity

Population

182,760

Language

English, Spanish, Creole

Electricity

120V, 60Hz, Type A/B

Time zone

UTCEST/EDT (UTC-5)

Country code

+1

Internet access

Widely available, high-speed broadband

Climate

Tropical rainforest, hot and humid summers

Map

Logistics

Fort Lauderdale is easily accessible by air, with Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) serving many direct flights from major cities. The airport is just a short ride from downtown, making it convenient for groups traveling together. For a budget-friendly option, consider using rideshares, taxis, or airport shuttles.

If you’re coming from other parts of Florida, Brightline’s high-speed train and Greyhound buses offer affordable group transport. Amtrak is another comfortable train option, though travel times are longer. Fort Lauderdale is also a major cruise port, ideal if you’re arriving by boat.

In July, afternoon thunderstorms are common, so allow extra travel time, especially if flying. Always check for potential flight delays and bring rain gear when exploring the city with friends.

Weather

Fort Lauderdale features a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round and balmy ocean breezes. Winters are mild and dry, while summers are hot, humid, and often rainy. Expect average highs from the mid-70s °F (24°C) in winter to upper 80s °F (31°C) in summer.

From July 11 to July 13, the city is typically in its wet season, so you can expect daily highs near 90°F (32°C), high humidity, and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. While hurricanes are possible in summer, they're less likely in mid-July, so extreme weather is rare, but stay updated during your visit.

You'll find endless outdoor adventures along the beaches, enjoy a vibrant gastronomy and nightlife scene, and explore an eclectic arts and culture community year-round, though some prefer the milder winter weather.

Food & Drink

Fort Lauderdale’s cuisine highlights fresh seafood like stone crab, mahi-mahi, and conch fritters, alongside tropical drinks and Cuban coffee. Local bars and cafes serve key lime pie and craft beers, perfect for a friends’ getaway. Don’t miss waterfront favorites like Coconuts, local eats at El Camino, or Thai favorites at Chimney House.

Hit Las Olas Boulevard for lively spots like Louie Bossi’s or Riverside Market for craft brews and pizza. Most restaurants expect a 15-20% tip for table service. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are readily available, especially in casual eateries. For the best experience, try sunset dining near the beach and sample local food markets for quick bites.

Accommodation

For a friends' trip on an average budget, check out hotels like The Dalmar or Riverside Hotel, both centrally located and stylish without breaking the bank. Las Olas Boulevard and downtown are perfect neighborhoods for vibrant nightlife and dining right outside your door. For beach access, consider North Beach Village, which offers trendy and budget-friendly boutique hotels.

If you’re open to hostels, try The Hotel Deauville, a social spot near the beach with dorms and private rooms. Use booking sites like Booking.com and Expedia for deals—book early since July is summer and rooms fill quickly, especially around events. Rentals like Airbnbs are also popular for groups, offering shared spaces and more flexibility.

Itinerary

Kick off your adventure bonding with friends while exploring Fort Lauderdale’s vibrant foodie scene, basking in outdoor activities along the coast, and sampling the city’s lively nightlife and entertainment spots.

Las Olas Boulevard Foodie Crawl

Kick off your adventure by strolling down Las Olas Boulevard and sampling the area’s famed restaurants and cafes. Try local seafood plates and creative cocktails at favorites like YOLO or The Floridian. This lively avenue is ideal for group fun and bonding.

Beach Yoga & Sunrise at Fort Lauderdale Beach

Begin your day with a rejuvenating group yoga session on Fort Lauderdale Beach. Enjoy soothing ocean breezes and panoramic views as you transition from relaxing stretches to soaking in the sunrise, setting a positive tone for your trip.

Fort Lauderdale Food & Drink Tour

Fort Lauderdale Food & Drink Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Escape the South Florida tourist traps as your local guides take you through Fort Lauderdale, Florida for an afternoon of Food and Drinks. Adults will receive 8+ tastings & 2 alcoholic beverages, with vendor demonstrations and much more! Tourists and locals are welcome! For an up to date schedule check our website.

4.9 (312 reviews)

From $104 USD

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Attractions

4.5 (903 reviews)
Evening Boat Cruise through Downtown Ft. Lauderdale

Evening Boat Cruise through Downtown Ft. Lauderdale

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Ready for the best tour in Fort Lauderdale? Come view the yachts and mansions along the beautiful waters of Fort Lauderdale. There are numerous photo opportunities along the route along with fun music throughout the trip. Dancing is encouraged for maximum results. Guests are welcome to bring any food and drinks they like on board (BYOB) as we do not provide or sell any; please no glass. Once the sun sets, we turn up the lights and music and dance through downtown along the New River. Always a great time with this amazing crew. This is not your average tour, we have corny jokes, good music, and great times. We live to show people a good time. The tour departs dock right at the scheduled time. Arrive 30 minutes early to park and locate dock. Refunds will not be issued for missing the boat. The 10am, 1pm, and 4pm offer a fun swim stop at the sandbar. The 7pm does not swim but cruises through the heart of Downtown Ft Lauderdale.

From $55 USD

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4.2 (198 reviews)
Fort Lauderdale to Key West Tour with Optional Add-ons

Fort Lauderdale to Key West Tour with Optional Add-ons

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Travel from Fort Lauderdale to Key West in a coach bus, worry-free. Ride across 34 islands and 42 bridges known as the Florida Keys. You will travel across the 7 Mile Bridge - one of the longest bridges in the world! The road is bordered by the emerald water of the Gulf of Mexico to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. Make sure you take pictures! You will have approximately 6 hours in Key West to explore the island at your leisure or get out on the water with optional activities that you can add upon booking. Key West lies at the end of the chain of islands known as the Florida Keys and is the southernmost city in the continental United States. The trip from Fort Lauderdale to Key West via bus is about 5 hours. The duration includes time to pick up passengers from Miami and time to stop in Key Largo for a rest break and food. The driver will meet passengers for the trip home in Key West at 908 Caroline Street.

From $119 USD

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4.2 (16 reviews)
Couples Outdoor Bamboo Garden Massage or Ultimate Candlelight Signature Massage

Couples Outdoor Bamboo Garden Massage or Ultimate Candlelight Signature Massage

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Planet Massage was born from necessity as the owner traveled for years for business and pleasure, only to find it hard to get quality pain and stress relief while on the road. Many hotel spas have beautiful grounds and amenities, but the actual therapy usually leaves something to be desired. We knew there had to be a better way. Most of our therapists have over 10 years experience and are Masters at their specialties. If you want a full spa day where you are lounging by the pool with a tropical drink, we aren't a great match unfortunately. If you want a cozy, relaxed environment with top notch services...we might just be the best stop on your trip! After all... isn't a great trip about relaxing and letting go of everyday aches, pains and stresses?

From $299 USD

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5.0 (3 reviews)
Private Vacation Photography Session with Local Photographer in Ft. Lauderdale

Private Vacation Photography Session with Local Photographer in Ft. Lauderdale

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Flytographer Private Vacation Photo Shoot Connect with a local hand-picked professional photographer in Ft. Lauderdale and capture your most memorable moments during this private photo shoot. Get insider tips on the best things to do in Ft. Lauderdale, including where to eat & what to see from your vacation photographer. Return from your trip with beautiful, high-quality vacation photos — the best souvenir ever. We specialize in: - honeymoons - family trips - engagements - anniversaries - romantic getaways - multi-generational trips - babymoons - solo travellers - and just because! With over 10,000 5-star reviews, Flytographer is the global leader in vacation photography and has captured over 3 million memories for travellers across six continents. We’ve been featured across A-list media, including Conde Nast Traveler, Oprah, Forbes, Travel + Leisure, New York Times, BRIDES, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle Magazine, Elle, Buzzfeed, Refinery29, Huffington Post, & many more.

From $325 USD

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5.0 (59 reviews)
Party Bus Luxury Sprinter Limos

Party Bus Luxury Sprinter Limos

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

New Luxury 14 passenger Vehicles, private rides, This is not a shared ride. Enjoy privacy and luxury. Your professional chauffeur will guide you to all the points of interest and and more. We provide ice, waters. You are welcome to BYOD. Every ride is unique and we will cater to your requests and interests. We create lifetime memories with every tour.

From $795 USD

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5.0 (57 reviews)
Private South Beach, Wynwood Arts District and Little Havana Tour

Private South Beach, Wynwood Arts District and Little Havana Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

A 4 hour VIP experience which includes the districts of Wynwood, Design District, Art Deco, Downtown, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, and Little Havana. It will include two stops at Wynwood Walls and Little Havana, and a local taste of the gastronomy of Cuba which makes Miami one of its kind. The Mercedes Benz Executive Sprinter is equipped with an LCD Display which offers a slide presentation of black and white pictures of Miami and its history. Amenities includes: Fiji water, Cuban coffee, and an appetizer.

From $649 USD

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5.0 (24 reviews)
Miami Small Group City Tours of Wynwood Walls and Little Havana

Miami Small Group City Tours of Wynwood Walls and Little Havana

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

A 4 hour VIP experience which includes the districts of Wynwood, Art Deco, Downtown, Brickell, Coconut Grove, and Little Havana. It will include two stops at Wynwood Walls and Little Havana, a local taste of the gastronomy of Cuba which makes Miami one of its kind. The Mercedes Benz Executive Sprinter is equipped with an LCD Display which offers a slide presentation of black and white pictures of Miami and its history. Amenities includes: bottled water, Cuban coffee, and Churros. 

From $650 USD

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4.6 (547 reviews)
Everglades Airboat Tour from Fort Lauderdale with transportation

Everglades Airboat Tour from Fort Lauderdale with transportation

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Enjoy an exciting Florida Everglades airboat adventure on this tour from Fort Lauderdale to Everglades Park. Your expert guide will navigate you through wetlands and natural habitat. Round-trip hotel transport is included.

From $75 USD

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4.9 (1018 reviews)
Fort Lauderdale Segway Tour

Fort Lauderdale Segway Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Ride through Fort Lauderdale’s downtown, residential, and waterfront routes on this Segway tour of the city that boasts spectacular sand and sea. Your friendly local guide points out the celebrity mansions, yachts and hot spots as you ride your Segway through streets lined with palm trees. Allowing plenty of stops for photo ops, your guide entertains you with stories and fun facts about Fort Lauderdale. Upgrade to a 2-hour tour that includes an extremely exclusive nature and wildlife experience!

From $69 USD

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4.6 (645 reviews)
Drift Fishing Trip off the Coast of Fort Lauderdale

Drift Fishing Trip off the Coast of Fort Lauderdale

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Let's go fishing!  Come out fishing with us on a half day deep sea fishing adventure.  Every day, we head out on 3 half day fishing trips off the coast of Fort Lauderdale to catch kingfsih, snapper, grouper and anything else that may bite.  Our experienced and friendly crew will guide you throughout the trip and help with everything.  All gear, bait, tackle and licenses are included in the price.

From $85 USD

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4.8 (482 reviews)
Island Time Boat Cruise in Fort Lauderdale

Island Time Boat Cruise in Fort Lauderdale

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL
Free Cancellation

BYOBathing suits and jump on the most fun boat experience in Ft. Lauderdale. Enjoy our hilarious tour of the yachts and mansions while cruising through Fort Lauderdale. Next, your captain anchors in a prime spot at the famous Fort Lauderdale Sandbar which consists of numerous boats and is always a great time. We throw our unicorn and flamingo floats in, and then “the pool is open!” Hop back on board for a dance party back to dock. Guests are welcome to bring any food and drinks they like on board (BYOB), please no glass. We have a community cooler with free bottled water for you, Fort Lauderdale is a marathon, not a sprint. There is a bathroom on board. Our crew loves when people have fun and will get the party going. The tour departs dock right at the scheduled time. Arrive 30 minutes early to park and locate dock. Refunds will not be issued for missing the boat. The 10am, 1pm, and 4pm offer a swim stop at the sandbar. 7pm does not swim but cruises through Downtown Ft Lauderdale.

From $55 USD

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4.9 (43 reviews)
Fort Lauderdale’s Tropical Kayak Tour and Island Adventure

Fort Lauderdale’s Tropical Kayak Tour and Island Adventure

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Guided tour of an area that is only familiar to the locals! Very beautiful and very secluded. This is a tour that is exclusive to kayak enthusiasts who are looking to take a relaxing tour and. Get some exercise as well as have a lot of fun!

From $99 USD

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4.9 (146 reviews)
Seven Isles of Fort Lauderdale Kayak Tour

Seven Isles of Fort Lauderdale Kayak Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Our most popular tour in the heart of Fort Lauderdale’s Venetian Isles. You will see a combination of mansions, mega yachts, sail boats, marine & bird life and hidden little secrets on this paddle trip. This is rated as an easy leisure paddle while soaking up the sunshine.

From $89 USD

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4.9 (42 reviews)
Reef Snorkel & Ocean Paddle Adventure in Fort Lauderdale Beach

Reef Snorkel & Ocean Paddle Adventure in Fort Lauderdale Beach

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

We get to explore to world down under and paddle above the surface, a perfect way to spend the day out on the ocean! You get a taste of the island local lifestyle!

From $115 USD

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4.4 (81 reviews)
Transportation Service Fort Lauderdale FLL - Miami

Transportation Service Fort Lauderdale FLL - Miami

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Pick up at Fort Lauderdale International Airport at Scheduled Time Transfer to your Hotel in Miami Professional Driver Service

From $150 USD

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