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Planning Your Trip

Sunny days at the beach and evening cocktails cooled by an Atlantic breeze are nearly guaranteed experiences for every weekend getaway to Fort Lauderdale. Be sure to pack these commonly forgotten items.

White lounge chair and towel blowing in the breeze by the ocean.

SUMMER ESCAPE

Summer days in Fort Lauderdale can get hot, but the cool breeze off the Atlantic will keep you from heading indoors. Bring these essentials to make the most of your time around the pool, on the beach or out in the big, wide ocean. 

 

  • Women should bring an extra-long scarf that can work two shifts as a wrap skirt at the pool by day and a light shoulder cover-up at night.
  • Sturdy, waterproof sandals for every member of the family are a must-pack; you never know when you might want to swap beach days for boat days.
  • A waterproof beach bag (or pouch within) is vital to keep e-readers and tablets safe from unexpected ocean swells or rain showers. 
Two bikes on the beach at sunset

WEEKEND GETAWAY

This fabulous corner of Florida is the perfect spot to spend a weekend exploring. The adorable boutiques and open-air cafés will be waiting with open arms. Here’s what to throw in your weekender bag.

 

 

  • Comfy tennis shoes for biking since #RCMemories bicycles are a part of your reservation and there are plenty of boutiques and restaurants to explore right outside the resort on Las Olas Boulevard.
  • Bring a lightweight tote that you can bring along on a bike excursion to carry your purchases — some boutiques offer discounts to shoppers who don’t ask for a bag.
  • Consider a mosquito-repellent scarf — companies like Ex Officio and Orvis offer stylish options, which are useful whenever you travel to warm climates.

EVENING CHIC

Hitting the town is an essential part of any South Florida vacation. The nightlife runs the gamut from 5-star restaurants to excellent music venues. Make sure you are part of the hip set by packing these essentials

 

  • South Florida is known for its nightlife, but there’s no official dress code. For women, beach dresses and shorts can go from day to night with added accessories.
  • Wedge and platform sandals can do double duty at the pool during the day, then out on the dance floor after the sun sets.
  • If you’re a man packing a coat or fitted dress shirt for dinners out, know that Floridians love cuff links with personality, e.g., with a favorite sports team or band.
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Don't Forget:

If you are going to The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale for business, the resort’s conference area has a one-of-a-kind terrace overlooking the Atlantic Ocean for outdoor cocktail parties and a grand ballroom with a stunning ocean-view foyer and a reception space that fits 520 guests.

An ocean-view dinner at Burlock Coast restaurant, a spa experience inspired by the sea and a private poolside cabana are among the must-reserve experiences for a romantic getaway in Fort Lauderdale.

Dining Reservations

Place Setting

Fresh snapper is a dish you cannot miss while in South Florida, and nowhere is it served fresher than at Burlock Coast. The restaurant is also revered for its inventive cocktail menu, which includes handcrafted options like the Mamajuana Old-Fashioned created with local orange bitters and honey and the Rita Lavender, which blends tequila, lime, Curaçao and house-made sea froth. 

Spa Appointments

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Bask in the best that Florida has to offer while also melting away your cares in The Ritz-Carlton Spa, a full-service experience that has sea salt wraps and citrus scrubs in addition to a marble steam room. One treatment that cannot be missed is the Cleansing Ceremony, in which spa technicians use detoxifying ingredients to stimulate circulation, help tone the skin and revitalize the mind. 

DAY TRIPS

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The adorable local yellow Water Taxi lets you explore the best of Fort Lauderdale’s oceanfront. The boat stops at several locations on the Intracoastal Waterway like the gourmet coffee restaurant Bistro on the Beach, a favorite brunch spot for locals, and the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, a 35-acre plantation-style home with exotic gardens that often hosts art exhibitions and musical performances. (One ticket per day per room is provided to the guests.)

CABANAS

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Enjoy the ultimate in comfort and privacy while scoring some shade in an oceanfront cabana. Bring the experience to another level by booking the Natural Oasis Cabana package. The reservations include a fresh fruit display, a Cabana Captain who is always at your service, plenty of much-needed bottled water and a flat-screen TV so you can be entertained while you soak up the sun.

A weekend getaway or an overdue escape with friends; Fort Lauderdale offers the ideal destination for sunshine, adventure and relaxation. The hotel’s experts have curated itineraries to help you make the most of your visit.

Historical buildings

The Perfect Weekend

Fort Lauderdale once garnered a reputation as a raucous spring break mecca, but now it’s a major draw for visitors who appreciate upscale shopping and dining, in addition to museums, gardens and, of course, that big, beautiful Atlantic Ocean. And although there are many options for adventure, Fort Lauderdale is also a wonderful place to unwind, thanks to a laid-back atmosphere, beautiful scenery and open spaces.

 

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Monument at night

Friends Getaway

White-sand beaches, countless bars and restaurants, and plenty of outdoor activities make Fort Lauderdale a great place for anyone to visit. But when it comes to traveling with friends, this South Florida destination is a particular draw. Boat tours, museums, shopping, spas and sunshine allow you and your friends to find something that appeals to everyone.

 

 

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