Dania Beach hotels?

We are looking for a hotel pre cruise for a couple of nights. We want to be able to walk to shops and restaurants and not have to take a taxi. Currently looking at Wyndham Gardens Dania Beach. Is this a good location?

Thank you

The Wyndham Garden Fort Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port is a popular choice for travelers looking for convenience before a cruise, but its location has both pros and cons depending on your priorities.

Location & Walkability

The hotel is located on Dania Beach Boulevard, close to I-95 and the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. It is primarily a drive-oriented area, meaning most restaurants, shops, and entertainment options are a short drive away rather than within easy walking distance.

  • Nearby shopping and dining are available at Dania Pointe, a modern retail complex about 1.5 miles from the hotel. This is walkable if you’re okay with a 30-minute walk, but most guests prefer to drive or take a short taxi/ride-share.
  • Local restaurants within 0.5–1 mile are limited, and there is no dense, walkable downtown area immediately adjacent to the hotel.

Pros for Cruise Travelers

  • Close proximity to Port Everglades (roughly 2–3 miles), making it very convenient for pre-cruise check-in.
  • Free or low-cost shuttle service to the cruise port is often provided by the hotel, which is highly convenient.
  • Reasonably priced rooms with airport access if flying in the day before the cruise.
  • Good reviews for cleanliness, staff, and comfort for a short stay.

Cons / Things to Consider

  • Limited walkable shops and restaurants immediately near the hotel; most people will still need a car or rideshare to explore Dania Beach or Fort Lauderdale.
  • It’s not in Fort Lauderdale Beach or Las Olas Boulevard area — if you want a vibrant pedestrian-friendly nightlife or beachfront walk, this is not the ideal location.
  • Some guests note the hotel is more business/cruise oriented rather than a leisure destination, so it may feel quieter at night.

Alternatives for Walkable Dining & Shopping

  • Hotels closer to Fort Lauderdale Beach or Las Olas Boulevard will provide a wider range of restaurants, bars, and shops within walking distance, but are slightly further from Port Everglades (~10–15 minutes by car).
  • Some pre-cruise travelers prefer staying in Dania Beach or Hollywood Beach and using hotel shuttles to the port while still being closer to beachside cafes and casual restaurants.

Bottom Line

If your priority is easy access to Port Everglades and a convenient pre-cruise stay, Wyndham Garden is a solid choice. However, if walking to restaurants and shops is important, the location is not very walkable, and you’ll likely need a car or rideshare to enjoy local dining and shopping options.


More Fort Lauderdale Travel Questions