Saturday, June 16, 2018

14 Top-Rated Resorts in Fort Lauderdale

It's no coincidence that Fort Lauderdale is associated with words such as "upscale," "chic," and "ritzy." Not only is this city on Florida's southeastern coast home to beautiful mansions, huge mega-yachts, and high-end shopping malls, it's also where you'll find some of the state's top luxury resorts and hotels.

Leading the way in the luxury accommodation stakes are properties like The Pillars Hotel Fort Lauderdale, an elegant boutique hotel boasting an old-world charm, and the larger, yet no less exquisite Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale, one of the top-rated hotels the famous luxury brand has in Florida. If money is no object, you may also wish to consider the Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach, where no indulgence is denied, or the beautiful, family owned Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club.

This is not to say that more affordable options aren't available. National brands, including Embassy and Westin, also have a presence here, offering great accommodations in what is undeniably one of the top tourist destinations on the Atlantic coast of the US.


1 The Pillars Hotel Fort Lauderdale



Photo Source: The Pillars Hotel Fort Lauderdale

A member of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World group, The Pillars Hotel is well worth considering if you're looking to spend time in Fort Lauderdale. One of the most picturesque hotels on the city's Intracoastal Waterway, this charming and romantic property offers guests no end of great service from its extremely attentive staff. Guests can choose from a variety of well-appointed, sumptuously decorated, and elegant accommodations, ranging in size from king or double queen rooms right up to larger suites with spacious private patios with canopies.

There's much to commend about The Pillars' world-class amenities, too. Highlights of a stay include fine dining (including alfresco and in-room options), grabbing a ride aboard the hotel's yacht (you can access pretty much the whole city via its 150 miles or so of waterways), or simply relaxing poolside. There's also a full-service spa, and the resort is located close to popular Las Olas Boulevard, well-known for its excellent shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Address: 111 N. Birch Road, Fort Lauderdale, Florida


2 The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale



Photo Source: The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale

Needing little by way of introduction, The Ritz-Carlton name is synonymous with luxury. This is certainly the case with The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale, which offers guests a variety of beautifully decorated accommodations from which to choose. Options include spacious standard rooms with a king or two double beds, marble bathrooms with separate bathtubs and showers (bathrobes and slippers provided), fridges, desks, and private balconies. Larger one-bedroom suites of up to 1,583 square feet are also available and come with kitchenettes and dining tables. Added services include twice-daily housekeeping, free water bottles and newspapers, laundry, and in-room dining. A limited number of rooms are allocated access to a special club area with a dedicated concierge.

The pampering doesn't end in your room, though. On-site amenities include a full-service spa with separate lounge areas for men and women (plus a couples' area); heated outdoor infinity swimming pool with cabanas and a huge terrace, beach chairs and umbrellas; use of resort bikes and a water taxi; on-site dining; and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Valet parking is available, and guests are granted privileges at a nearby championship golf course.

Address: 1 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, Florida



3 Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach



Photo Source: Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach

Located in the city's prestigious North Beach neighborhood, the Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach is one of the newest luxury resorts to open in southeastern Florida. It's a large place, consisting of 290 accommodations with superb views over the Atlantic and inland waterways. Each luxury suite includes a full kitchen with a cooktop, microwave, and fridge, as well as double queen or king beds (a nice touch is the chance to choose your favorite pillow type). Other notable features include a marble bathroom with separate shower and bathtub, along with a large terrace or balcony. For those wanting additional space, go for a 1,700-square-foot Residence unit boasting a kitchen plus breakfast bar, full stove and fridge, dining and seating areas, a pull-out couch, and a master bedroom with its own en-suite and balcony.

There's also much to do around the resort. Amenities include a full-service spa; a fitness center (trainers available); large heated swimming pool with private cabanas; and great dining options, including in-room and al fresco options.

Guests can also take advantage of the resort's specially curated Fort Lauderdale itineraries, which include a variety of experiences focused around themes such as food, art, and adventure.

Address: 551 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, Florida


4 Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club



Photo Source: Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club

The lovely Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club has the distinction of having been owned by the same family since 1959. And while most of the original buildings on the 10-acre property have since been replaced, the same high level of service and comfort established by its founder can still be experienced today. Guests are certainly spoiled for choice (and quality) when it comes to accommodations. The resort consists of a mix of 204 rooms and suites. Among the most popular options are the 600-square-foot, one-bedroom suites, which come with separate living rooms, pull-out sofa beds, well-equipped kitchenettes, and good-sized private balconies (a 675-square-foot version comes with a full-kitchen). If more space is needed, opt for the spacious 1,103-square-foot, two-bedroom unit. It, too, comes with a separate living room and larger kitchen.

On-site amenities include great dining (including in-room options), a spa, and plenty of meeting and function space. The focus, though, is very much around the resort's 500-foot private beach, which, thanks to its plentiful palm trees, offers many shady spots for when you're done sunbathing (another option is to rent a private cabana). There are also two large swimming pools on the property, four tennis courts, plus a gift store, and soda shop (the latter sells ice creams and refreshing beverages).

Address: 1700 S. Ocean Lane, Fort Lauderdale, Florida


5 Pelican Grand Beach Resort



Photo Source: Pelican Grand Beach Resort

Not only does Pelican Grand Beach Resort claim to have the only lazy river in Fort Lauderdale, this family friendly, vacation destination also offers guests another great watery treat: its own private, 500-foot stretch of beach. Along with easy beach access from the resort, you'll be able to make the most of your sun, sea, and sand holiday with plenty of relaxation on the beach chairs and umbrellas provided. The resort also has a large gradual entry swimming pool, beachfront (or on-the-beach) dining, a fitness center, full-service spa, and underground valet parking. Also nice is the huge terrace with its comfy rocking chairs looking directly out to sea.

When it comes to sleeping arrangements, the Pelican offers a choice of well-appointed and nicely decorated double queen or king suites, many with views over the ocean. All suites consist of two rooms and come with separate seating areas with pull-out couches, mini-fridges, two TVs, and good-sized balconies.

Address: 2000 N. Ocean Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, Florida



6 Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort



Photo Source: Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort

Located within walking distance of Las Olas Boulevard, the city's best shopping, dining, and entertainment area, The Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort provides everything needed to ensure a great vacation. In addition to its proximity to the beach (it's just steps away), this beautiful oceanfront property boasts world-class gourmet and casual dining options, adults-only lounge areas, a full-service spa providing indoor and outdoor treatments, a fitness center, heated outdoor swimming pool, and hot tub. Kids are well catered to as well and can enjoy a variety of fun activities and programs. Other useful on-site amenities include snack and gift shops, a convenience store, and bike rentals.

Accommodations include cozy studios for two right up to a huge three-bedroom, two-story penthouse suite. Whatever size you choose, you'll enjoy a private balcony; custom furniture; HD TVs; spacious marble bathrooms (with bathrobes); and in some units, kitchenettes or full kitchens.

Address: 505 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, Florida


7 Atlantic Hotel and Spa



Photo Source: Atlantic Hotel and Spa

Consisting of 104 elegant accommodations, The Atlantic Hotel & Spa is well worth considering if you're on the look out for a great Fort Lauderdale beach vacation. Among the most popular choices when it comes to guest rooms are the hotel's larger suites, some of which are available in easily accessible variations for those with mobility issues. One of the largest is the huge 2,200-square-foot penthouse unit. Along with stunning views from its rooftop terraces, the unit comes with two large bedrooms, a separate living area, dining room, and a full kitchen with modern appliances. More modest 1,200-square-foot suites are also available.

On-site amenities include a large fitness center; full-service spa (try an outdoor massage); hair salon; heated outdoor swimming pool; as well as great dining, both in the restaurant and on the patio (in-room dining is also available). For those prepared to venture a little farther afield, you'll be rewarded with great shopping and dining along famous Las Olas Boulevard, as well as area attractions such as Wyland Galleries and Bonnet House Museum and Gardens (the latter a short stroll away).

Address: 601 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, Florida


8 Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa



Photo Source: Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa

One of a number of lovely Marriott resorts gracing Florida's Atlantic coast,

the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa offers guests a memorable vacation experience. Highlights include spending time on the resort's quarter-mile-long, private beach, as well as enjoying easy access to great water sports and other activities (jet skiing, fishing, and diving adventures can be arranged). Other notable amenities include a large, heated, lagoon-style swimming pool; world-class spa and fitness facilities; great dining; a gift shop; plus useful services such as a concierge, limousine hire, and in-room meals delivered from area restaurants (Las Olas Boulevard is close by and offers a huge selection of great dining).

In addition to its standard spacious guest rooms and suites, each with ample living areas, the resort offers a number of larger uber-luxurious units. These include the Vice Presidential and Presidential Suites, ranging in size from 1,994 - 2,347 square feet and featuring private bedrooms, deluxe en-suite bathrooms with walk-in showers, large-screen HD TVs, pull-out couches, separate dining and office areas, pantries, and ocean views.

Address: 3030 Holiday Drive, Fort Lauderdale, Florida



9 The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort



Photo Source: The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort

Connected to the city's large public beaches by a tube-like overpass, The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort offers guests the perfect location from which to enjoy a great Florida sun vacation. On-site amenities include the full-service Heavenly Spa, a large state-of-the-art fitness center (including athletic wear if needed), jogging path, an outdoor heated swimming pool, bike rentals, tennis facilities, gift- and clothing shops, plus a marina. Other available guest services include a concierge, limousine hire, valet parking, babysitting, laundry and dry cleaning, plus luggage storage. There's plenty of great dining on-site, as well as a Starbucks. The resort even has its own photographer to help capture those great vacation memories.

The resort consists of a mix of suites and good-sized guestrooms. The traditional rooms are bright and beautifully decorated and feature a choice of two queen or a single king bed, large screen HDTVs, and great views. Slightly larger deluxe versions of these rooms are also available. For something even more opulent, opt for one of the beautiful ocean-view suites, with their large private balconies with canopy coverings.

Address: 321 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, Florida


10 Marriott's BeachPlace Towers



Photo Source: Marriott's BeachPlace Towers

Centrally located close to all the beachfront action in Fort Lauderdale, Marriott's BeachPlace Towers offers guests a choice of studios, as well as one- and two-bedroom vacation villas. The larger units come with full-kitchens, ensuring that meals can be enjoyed in the comfort of your own home-away-from-home (especially handy for those traveling with hungry teens and big eaters who enjoy snacking). The laundry room is another useful feature. The master bedrooms are also a treat and come with large en-suites with separate showers and huge jetted tubs. Another perk are the large balconies, either looking over the beach or the city's inland waterways.

Amenities include a large, heated, outdoor swimming pool with a terrace and hot tub, poolside dining, plus a fully-equipped gym. The resort is located directly opposite the beach, where you can make use of their chair and umbrella rentals. Ready to explore? Then head out to nearby Las Olas Boulevard for great shopping, dining, and entertainment. You're also close to the city's water taxi service, along with great water-based tours and excursions.

Address: 21 S. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, Florida


11 W Fort Lauderdale



Photo Source: W Fort Lauderdale

Undoubtedly one of the most strikingly designed resorts in the area (it's meant to resemble a sailing vessel), the chic W Fort Lauderdale is well worth considering as a base for your Florida beach getaway. The resort's ultra-modern rooms are a delight and come in a variety of sizes, each beautifully decorated and furnished. A popular choice if your budget allows are the sumptuous oceanfront suites, each with commanding views over the beach and water through floor-to-ceiling glass doors leading to the private balcony (some units come with a second balcony off the main living area). In-room features include fridges and desks, while available services such as in-room dining are also available. Pet-friendly options can also be booked.

There's plenty to do about the resort, too. Popular features include a large fully-equipped fitness center (with personal trainers if needed), two infinity-edge swimming pools overlooking the ocean, a full-service spa, and great dining. There's also much to do in the area, and staff can assist with arranging activities like fishing, surfing, or water skiing, as well as helping with theater and attraction tickets or dining reservations. (Hot Tip: If you're planning on doing plenty of poolside sunbathing, reserve one of the exclusive daybeds, which come with a daily supply of water and a fruit bowl.)

Address: 401 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, Florida


12 Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach



Photo Source: Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach

Another popular option for those seeking a great beach vacation, Sonesta Fort Lauderdale offers plenty of great reasons to stay close by, despite the many alluring attractions, great shopping, and entertainment opportunities nearby. The focal point here is very much the large terrace area around the heated outdoor swimming pool, where guests can easily pass the time as they relax and sunbathe (be sure to book a private cabana) or maybe enjoy some alfresco dining overlooking the ocean. Other notable amenities include function and meeting rooms (it's a popular resort for wedding parties looking for a beach setting), a fitness center, and spa treatment rooms.

A variety of room types are available and are suitable for couples or families. Smaller standard offerings include options with twin queen or king beds, ocean views, fridges, and HD TVs. The much larger master suites encompass some 645-square-feet of living space and include separate dining areas.

Address: 999 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, Florida


13 The Westin Fort Lauderdale



Photo Source: The Westin Fort Lauderdale

A popular option for those not needing to be right on the water, the renovated Westin Fort Lauderdale is an easy drive from the city's beaches and attractions. On-site amenities include a huge outdoor swimming pool overlooking a three-acre lagoon, fully-equipped fitness center with a sauna, dining (including in-room options), luggage storage, laundry services, concierge, and laundry. There are also a number of golf courses nearby.

The guest rooms are well-appointed and comfortable (and also recently renovated) and include deluxe options with great city views, two queen beds or a single king bed, HD TVs, desks, and seating areas. All rooms come with Wi-Fi and free Starbucks coffee and tea.

Address: 400 Corporate Drive, Fort Lauderdale, Florida


14 Residence Inn Fort Lauderdale Intracoastal/Il Lugano



Photo Source: Residence Inn Fort Lauderdale Intracoastal/Il Lugano

Set overlooking the city's lovely network of canals (think of it as a highway for luxury yachts), the Residence Inn Fort Lauderdale Intracoastal/Il Lugano is a great choice for those seeking somewhere pleasant to enjoy an extended stay in the sun. The hotel even comes with ample docking for those traveling by boat and provides free breakfasts each day of your stay. Other on-site amenities include a restaurant; event and meeting rooms; a large, heated, outdoor swimming pool; a well-equipped fitness center; plus a beauty shop. Bike rentals are also available, and a handy grocery service is offered for those not wanting to venture out.

All suites are spacious (850 square feet) and come with full kitchens and separate seating areas, as well as quiet private balconies. Other useful features include dining areas, large marble bathrooms with stand-alone showers, work desks, and laundry facilities.

Address: 3333 NE 32nd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

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