
The beach is the crowning jewel of the city of Ft. Lauderdale. Made famous in the 1960 film Where the Boys Are, the area garnered the nick name Ft.Liquordale as it became a spring break destination for college students in the 1970's and 1980's. In the 2000's the visitors to the beach have changed from rowdy drunk college students to families and vacationers from Europe.
I used to come down here a lot when I was a college student but my visits waned through the years as work and family commitments took priority over lazy days lounging at the beach. After making my hurricane preparations my daughter and I drove down here on Saturday night to see the outer bands of Irma start blowing in. The police were everywhere but didn't interfere with all of the people who had the same idea I did gathering on the beach. We took a few pictures across from the Elbo Room and enjoyed their playlist of storm songs like Rock You Like a Hurricane. I noticed that Ft. Lauderdale put up a lot of cute props for visitors to take pictures with. There was an oversize beach chair and the frame of a postcard that says wish you were here that you can put your head in for a picture. That one was especially fun with the trees whipping in the background. In December the city puts a giant sculpture of a snowman family that looks like it is made of sand at the end of Los Olas Blvd. That is always fun to take pictures with and you can send them to your family freezing in the north. After taking a few pictures of the trees blowing and the ocean crashing in we headed home long before the 4 pm curfew.
My visit to the beach reminded me how much I missed this area of Ft. Lauderdale. Although the beach of my youth is gone, anyone remember The Candy Store? sleazy clubs frequented by spring breakers have been replaced by upscale hotels, souvenir shops, and restaurants. Parking along the beach has been replaced with a wide promenade perfect for strolling and a sea wall that still allows you a good view of the ocean as your drive along A1A. As much as things change some never do and we at least we still have the Elbo Room opened in 1938. Parking is plenty with a lot fronting A1A and one a couple blocks back on the intracoastal. There is something iconic about parking your beach blanket across from the Elbo room and digging your toes in the sand. If your a local the hustle and bustle of every day life can make it is easy to take the beach for granted but all it takes is a visit to remind you how lucky we are to live where everyone else wants...
Ā Ā Ā Read moreTitle: "A Serene Slice of Paradise - Fort Lauderdale Beach"
Review:
Visiting Fort Lauderdale Beach during my brief stopover in Florida was an utterly unforgettable experience. The beach, Set against a splendid summer day backdrop, appeared as an idyllic oasis far from the madding crowds, with its serene surroundings and inviting ambiance.
As I stepped onto the beach, my feet sank into the soft, white sand, warming my soles with a comforting embrace. The sand was welcoming, perfect for constructing dreamy sand castles or lying back to bask in the glorious Florida sun.
The ocean was equally magnificent. A stunningly beautiful tableau of clear, blue water stretched across the horizon, its tranquil waves lapping at the shoreline. As I took a brief dip, I was embraced by the water's soothing warmth and invigorating freshness. Swimming in this crystal-clear ocean was invigorating and relaxing, perfect for a soul-soothing retreat.
The beach was a hub of numerous activities catering to different interests. From swimming to sunbathing, surfing to paddleboarding, and even kayaking - Fort Lauderdale Beach was a playground for those seeking adventure and relaxation. The sight of various beachgoers engaging in these activities added to the lively yet peaceful beach atmosphere.
The thoughtful amenities added immensely to the experience. Showers, restrooms, and playgrounds were conveniently located along the beach parks, while various shops, restaurants, and bars were just a stone's throw away across the street. Although my time there was limited, it was evident that this place had much more to offer, promising endless entertainment and relaxation.
My visit to Fort Lauderdale Beach was nothing short of magical. After spending a few hours under the Florida sun, I was left with a beautiful tan - a testament to my incredible time there. It was a remarkable experience that filled my heart with peace and my mind with beautiful memories. It urged me to revisit this sanctuary of tranquility soon.
If you're looking for a destination that offers tranquility and a range of engaging activities, look no further than Fort Lauderdale Beach. It's a slice of paradise that will leave you...
Ā Ā Ā Read moreThe city of Fort Lauderdale has been doing a lot of work to give the Fort Lauderdale beach a face-lift. I applaud them for that. However, I do not know what the point is of having rules and no one around to enforce them. There are clearly visible signs which state that only service animals are allowed on the sidewalk and the sand. This morning, upon arriving, two dogs were already there with their owners. Shortly thereafter, one came walking by with its owner. A brief dog fight ensued. The owners got their dogs under control within minutes. Approximately half an hour later, a couple came with their two large dogs. They took their dogs off leash and started playing fetch with them. To my disgust, one of the dogs squatted and took a large dump on the sand. The owner saw and did nothing about it. Shortly after the first one took a dump, the second dog did the same. The owner stood and watched as both dogs crapped on the public beach where more families were coming to set up for the day. Owner had NO bags, NO scooper, NOTHING!!! They were highly irresponsible dog owners who take no care about others. Their dogs posed a general public health risk. Personally, I was nauseated by it and terminated my beach trip prematurely. As we were leaving, we warned a family with two very small children where NOT to set up. I am a dog owner so do not believe that I am a dog hater BUT rules are NOT made to be broken. They are made for the safety and well being of the general public. The city NEEDS to have their posted rules enforced. As I see it, Fort Lauderdale Beach has literally gone...
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