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Ft Lauderdale or Hollywood area?

Looking at a last minute trip next month. Never been to either area. Looking for clear water, walking distance to restaurants etc. which area and hotel do you suggest?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood Beach offer great options for a beach getaway, but they each have a slightly different vibe. Fort Lauderdale Beach is more developed with a long beachfront promenade, high-rise hotels, and plenty of restaurants and bars within walking distance. Hollywood Beach has a more relaxed, small-town feel with its Broadwalk—a 2.5-mile pedestrian path lined with eateries, cafes, and boutique shops.

If your priority is clear water and walking distance to restaurants, both areas will work, but here are some distinctions:

  • Fort Lauderdale Beach: Offers a more upscale experience, easy access to nightlife, shopping, and luxury hotels. The water is clear, and the beach is wide and well-maintained. Great for travelers who enjoy a lively atmosphere while still having a beach-focused vacation.
  • Hollywood Beach: Slightly quieter, more family-friendly, with a charming boardwalk vibe. Plenty of local restaurants and casual dining options. Water is also clear, and the beach tends to be less crowded than Fort Lauderdale Beach.

Recommended hotels for each area:

  • Fort Lauderdale:
    • Pelican Grand Beach Resort – beachfront, family-friendly, pool, direct beach access.
    • The Atlantic Hotel & Spa – boutique feel, near restaurants, close to the promenade.
    • Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach – upscale, luxury amenities, ocean views.
  • Hollywood Beach:
    • Diplomat Beach Resort – modern luxury, pool, beachfront, walking distance to Broadwalk restaurants.
    • Plaza Resort & Spa – smaller hotel, historic charm, great for families, steps from the beach.
    • Hollywood Beach Marriott – direct beach access, pool, central to Broadwalk.

In summary, if you want a more bustling scene with nightlife and upscale dining, Fort Lauderdale is ideal. If you prefer a relaxed, walkable beach experience with local charm, Hollywood Beach is the better choice.

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