Have you ever dreamed of spending your summer in a place where every day feels like a getaway? Fort Lauderdale isn’t just a tropical destination. It’s a lifestyle brimming with adventure, luxury, and endless sunshine. Whether you’re planning a visit or considering calling this paradise home, summer in Fort Lauderdale promises experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
In this guide, you’ll find the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale during the summer, from beach days and boat rides to foodie experiences and cultural gems. Plus, we’ll show you how you can take the next step toward owning a slice of this coastal paradise at Marina Landings, the city’s hottest new real estate development.
Top Summer Activities in Fort Lauderdale
Relax on World-Class Beaches
Fort Lauderdale’s beaches are truly iconic. With miles of soft sand and clear, turquoise waters, they offer the perfect setting for lazy beach days, ocean swims, and sunrise strolls.
Top Beaches to Visit:
- Fort Lauderdale Beach: A vibrant hub of activity with volleyball courts, beachfront dining, and a fun boardwalk vibe.
- Las Olas Beach is known for its trendy crowd and proximity to shopping and nightlife.
- Hugh Taylor Birch State Park Beach: A serene escape where you can enjoy both nature and the oceanfront in one spot.
Whether you’re sunbathing, paddleboarding, or sipping a piña colada from a beachfront bar, the coast is calling.
Experience Fort Lauderdale by Water
Nicknamed the “Venice of America,” Fort Lauderdale is built around a network of scenic canals, waterways, and inlets, making it a dream for water lovers.
Best Summer Water Activities:
- Jet Skiing: Feel the rush while cruising the Intracoastal Waterway.
- Snorkeling & Diving: Explore coral reefs and sunken wrecks just offshore.
- Yacht Charters: Book a private sunset cruise or join a group party boat.
- Kayaking or Paddleboarding: Discover hidden mangroves and calm creeks, especially around Whiskey Creek and the New River.
The views from the water give you a whole new perspective of the city: luxurious, laid-back, and irresistibly photogenic.
Dine & Sip in Style
Foodies, rejoice! Fort Lauderdale’s culinary scene is as diverse as its residents: fresh seafood, Latin fusion, vegan cafes, and craft cocktails on rooftops.
Must-Visit Summer Dining Spots:
- S3 (Sun, Surf, Sand): Upscale beachfront dining with sushi and small plates.
- Boatyard: Waterfront vibes with an impressive seafood selection.
- Louie Bossi’s: Las Olas hotspot with authentic Italian fare and outdoor garden seating.
- The Wilder: Chic cocktail bar perfect for warm summer nights.
Add in the city’s booming brunch culture, and you’ve got endless delicious ways to spend a summer afternoon.
Explore Arts, Culture & Events
Fort Lauderdale isn’t just about sun and surfing; it’s also a cultural haven with plenty to do when you want to take a break from the beach.
Summer Cultural Highlights:
- NSU Art Museum: Rotating exhibits from modern masters to local artists.
- Bonnet House Museum & Gardens: A hidden tropical estate filled with art, history, and orchids.
- Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale: A hub of live music, yoga in the park, food festivals, and art shows.
- Friday Night Sound Waves: Free beachfront concerts during the summer months are great for families and music lovers.
Whether you’re into jazz, film, fine art, or food trucks, summer is a season of discovery.
Enjoy Outdoor Adventures
If you’re looking to get active, Fort Lauderdale offers countless ways to enjoy the outdoors beyond the beach.
Outdoor Adventures to Try:
- Biking on A1A or through Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
- Airboat rides through the Everglades
- Sunset yoga classes on the sand
- Day trips to nearby islands or sandbars
The city’s lush parks, waterfront trails, and natural beauty make it easy to stay energized and inspired.
FAQs
1. Is Fort Lauderdale good to visit in the summer?
Absolutely! While it’s warmer and more humid, summer offers fewer crowds, lower hotel prices, and a full calendar of events and activities.
2. What are the best free things to do in Fort Lauderdale in summer?
Beach days, Riverwalk strolls, free concerts, art walks, and self-guided tours of historic neighborhoods are great budget-friendly options.
3. Is Fort Lauderdale safe for families in the summer?
Yes, Fort Lauderdale is very family-friendly, especially in areas like Lauderdale-by-the-Sea and beach parks with lifeguards and playgrounds.
4. What should I pack for a summer trip to Fort Lauderdale?
Light clothing, swimsuits, reef-safe sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and beach shoes. Don’t forget mosquito spray for evening activities.
5. How’s the weather in Fort Lauderdale during summer?
Expect warm, sunny days with highs in the 80s to 90s°F, occasional afternoon showers, and refreshing coastal breezes.
Ready to Make Fort Lauderdale Your Forever Summer?
Why just vacation here when you can live this dream year-round? Marina Landings is Fort Lauderdale’s newest coastal living destination, where modern design meets waterfront luxury. Nestled in a prime location with easy access to beaches, dining, and marinas, Marina Landings offers you the lifestyle you’ve been chasing.
