Ft. Lauderdale Beach

Ft. Lauderdale Beach

Beach Overview

As one of the most popular spring break locations in America, Ft. Lauderdale beach is always creating attention. The heart of the beach would be considered Beach Place, where you'll find everything from little shops to expensive restaurants. The great thing about Ft. Lauderdale beach is their is so much to do and so many places to see that you couldn't fit it all in one day. The beach stretches about a 5 mile strip of A1A consisting of many activities, restaurants, shops and clubs. The interesting architecture and beautiful homes makes Fort Lauderdale beach stand apart from others.

Parking

Their is plenty of parking at the Fort Lauderdale beach, it just depends on how much you are willing to pay for it. Their are two lots just west of Beach Place that are the cheapest. (The electronic payment machines 1.00$ per hour). Parking inside Beach Place would be the quickest but the most expensive. (5.00$ first hour, 1.00$/hour after that)

Activities and Restaurants

The activities will keep you coming back to Ft. Lauderdale's beach. Beach Place is almost like a mall right across the street from the beach. Some of the restaurants inside of Beach Place consist of Lulu's Bait Shack, and Hooters. For after dinner drinks you must check out Fat Tuesdays where they make the best frozen drinks on the beach. Smack in the middle of Beach Place their is a good sized lounging area with tables and chairs. But Beach Place isn't the only thing to see at Ft. Lauderdale beach, their are plenty of famous bars and restaurants scattered all across A1A. For example, Elbo Room is a landmark of Ft. Lauderdale beach. You will notice if you drive by the place is always crowded. Another noticeable bar located south of Beach Place would be the Pirate Bar. The Pirate Bar is very small, but has a lot of character. And if your a sports fan, check out Blondies on the beach where their 30+ TV screens will keep you up to date on your favorite teams, while relaxing on the beach.
There is more to do at the beach than just eat and drink, and if you like activities, you'll find them here. A great feature that Ft. Lauderdale beach has would be Birch State Park. The park consists of both bike and walking trails surrounded by wildlife and exotic trees. This park is a great place to have a family picnic, or to gather your friends for a football game. Birch State Park is located on the northern side of Ft. Lauderdale beach off Sunrise Blvd. Also, there is a great playground area for children at the southernmost end of the beach next to the Sheridan hotel.

Lantana Beach
Beach Overview:
Lantana beach is a smaller beach but has its character. It’s mostly a collection of families as well as tourist that are staying at the Ritz Carlton. There are a lot of big rocks in the water but that’s what makes it perfect for people who like to snorkel. Especially beginning snorkeler’s since the rocks are closer to the shore and not as deep. This is definitely a family beach with a playground located just off the beach. There are also pavilions with BBQ grills and volleyball net. It is a first come first serve place so if you want to use the area for a party make sure you get there early.

Parking and amenities:
The parking at this beach is a little difficult because they don’t have enough parking. There are only two small lots. Plus there is a restaurant at the top the beach, which also uses the parking. Although I have always found a spot, you just have to be patient. Now you do not want to park across the street at the plaza because they will tow your car. Once you do find parking make sure you put money in the meter (only silver change) otherwise you will get a parking ticket.

Surrounding restaurants and shops:

At the top of the beach is the Dune Deck Café restaurant, which serves breakfast and lunch. If great relaxing scenery is something you would enjoy then this is a stop to make. You can look at their menu and pictures of there entrees at http://www.dunedeckcafe.com/. They do only take cash so make sure you stop by the ATM. Now there is also the Plaza del Mar across the street. Located in that plaza are The Ice Cream Club, a surf shop and few other retailers as well as a few different restaurants such as Asian cuisine, a steak house, and café del mar. For a full list of all the stores visit http://www.manalapan.org/321677.html. So there really is something for everyone. The beach is also located right next to the Ritz Carlton, which just raises the beach another level.

Delray Beach



The Beach
Delray Beach is located in the south east corner of Palm Beach County. Beach goers there are of all ages and from all over, you will find many retirees, as well as families, tourist and teenagers. Due to the great variety in age the beach is a low key beach great for laying out and relaxing. However, this does not mean that there is nothing to do for active beach goers. Hobie Cat is the local water sport rental place, where you can rent equipment to surf, snorkel, kayak and many other non-motorized water activities. Ran by locals they also offer lessons and can give you more advice on all the best spots on the beach. For more information check out Delray Beach Water Sports. If you are not interested in spending money but still want some action there are volleyball net set up on the beach and if you are lucky you might even find room to play Frisbee or football on the beach. Whatever you decide to do, whether it’s just to relax or an action packed day at the beach, be sure to check out Delray’s Beach Conditions site that will provide you with all the information you need about the daily beach conditions.

Restaurants and Entertainment

Delray’s most famous beach restaurant is Boston’s on the Beach a great place to grab lunch while at the beach or even to party at night. Also located directly on the beach is Caffe Luna Rosa an Italian style restaurant that offers a casual atmosphere for lunch or a romantic dinner experience. However most of Delray’s restaurants and shops are located just a short walk from the beach on Atlantic Avenue, which is the place to head after the beach. If you are planning to venture further from the beach the Delray Beach Visitor Information center is a helpful place to get ideas and information about local attractions. Located right next to the visitor center is a small beach shop called South Ocean Beach Shop where you can buy snacks and beverages as well as anything you might have forgot for the beach like sunscreen or a baiting suit. For information about local events check out Downtown Delray Beach, where you can find out more about classes, events and meetings happening that month.

Amenities
There are parking meters conveniently located right along the beach, as well as parks with meters for beach goes to park at. At beach itself you will find the Oceanside Beach Service where you can rent beach chairs a small fee. They also offer public restrooms in some of the parks as well as on the corner of Atlantic Avenue and Ocean Drive, and showers are available at the beach.


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