Have Your Way At These Coastal Stays: Guide to Hotel Stays for the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

When it comes to boat show season, experience is everything. Dining, activities, stays – we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for a modern night out on the town or a luxurious palatial suite, our recommendations are here to guide you to your perfect Fort Lauderdale hotel stay.

This year’s Breakdown

 

Historically Celebrated Waterfront Stays

The Riverside Hotel on Las Olas Boulevard

“Where Old Florida charm meets warm, personalized service.” 

Minutes away from Fort Lauderdale beaches, airport and cruise port, this pistachio green, delicately trimmed building rests in the heart of Las Olas Boulevard, offering breathtaking hospitality. With the Riverside, you can appreciate the glamour of Old Florida charm in these classically designed interiors, pet-friendly rooms (where designated) and alfresco lounge areas. At the outdoor, palm-fringed and heated pool right on the water, you can enjoy Boathouse service and sip on martinis in your bikini, yacht-gazing in the sun.

Unsure as to whether you want to dine-in or go out? No worries. The Riverside offers both private and social dining with your choice of in-house restaurants: Wild Sea Oyster Bar & Grill and Boathouse. If you’re looking for a more hands-on dining experience in the city, consult our in-town eats guide, exclusively recommended by N&J locals.

When it’s time to hit the town, you won’t even need to catch a ride. The epitome of easy access, Riverside’s exclusive Las Olas location is within walking distance to bars like American Social, Wild Sea, and Rooftop @1 — making the most of your night.

Hyatt Centric Las Olas Brand new

“Begin and end your Florida escape [here].”

In one of the city’s most ideal locations, the Hyatt Centric Las Olas is brand new – as of April 2, 2020 – shaping the magnificent Las Olas “skyline as its tallest building to date”. Pet-friendly, consistent with the Hyatt’s highest standards and close to the beach, the Hyatt Centric is sure to be one of your top destinations during your FLIBS stay.

For dining, this venue offers an in-house option for guests looking for a delicious, quality experience at the Harborwood Urban Kitchen & Bar.

Guests seeking a more exclusive unforgettable experience can head to the in-house Room Nine01 – a reservations-only speakeasy available for adult guest’s enjoyment. Based on the time of year, this personalized experience is host to several events and an incredible atmospheric transformation as a result.

One of the most incredible aspects of this fine venue is its rooftop – the pool. Temperature controlled, decorated in colorful artwork and accompanied by a readily awaiting Elev8 Pool Bar – the rooftop is the perfect place to relax, socialize with other guests, or even focus with an on-site yoga session. Choose the Hyatt for a modern, city-based, exclusive FLIBS experience.

Villa Venezia Hotel

“Your home away from home.”

Yet another delightful local experience that boasts a vintage Florida aesthetic with continually updated grounds, this on-canal small boutique hotel is its own niche of the FLIBS experience. Villa Venezia is best described as a quaint, intimate hub of rooms, suites and apartments – each with an air of privacy and romance, lovely views and free parking.

Rated by Trip Advisor as one of the top hotels worldwide, the top in the Fort Lauderdale and winner of the “White Glove “ and “Above and Beyond” awards, the Villa Venezia is celebrated as having some of the best views in Fort Lauderdale, readily available barbeque facilities, gardens & terraces, a cabana-lined, heated outdoor pool and phenomenal host services.

Only a short ride from the Fort Lauderdale airport and Las Olas Boulevard, and a mile from the beach, Villa Venezia’s top ratings come from quality guest experience and ease of access to the city adventures of Fort Lauderdale. Although this stay does not have a restaurant on-site, guest satisfaction with luxury service and quality value seems consistent and unshakeable. Villa Venezia is perfect for visitors seeking a luxury, private stay in the local area during their trip for FLIBS.

Absolute Luxury

The Dalmar

 “Luxury Has Arrived in Fort Lauderdale”

When it comes to seeking out a luxury stay, look no further. A “tribute portfolio hotel”, the Dalmar is a “modern landmark” dedicated to providing guests with ground-breaking quality experiences during their stay for FLIBS. Decorated in a contemporary, geometric architectural exterior, the Dalmar is known for being an urban, resort-style venue that is pioneering the atmosphere of a “true lifestyle hotel”.

It boasts being home to “Yoga Joint”, Fort Lauderdale’s top choice for yogis; a fitness center featuring free weights, Peloton bikes and more; and a partnership with Ritz-Carlton for the best, exclusive access to the city’s stunning beaches – all for guest enjoyment.

This hotel is host to a number of breathtaking, unimaginable views, both indoor and outdoor — whether that be from their cabanas at the Sip ‘n Dip rooftop pool & bar, the immaculate lobby bar, the Sparrow restaurant with “a funky 60’s flair,” or the sanctuary of a Dalmar room.

The W Fort Lauderdale

“Arrive to Escape”

Dedication to luxury is indisputable when discussing the W in Fort Lauderdale. Having spent $55 million dollars on the recent renovation, this hotel is committed to providing top-quality service, devices and accommodations to any guests that are coming to visit the Venice of America. The W is utterly committed to ensuring that their rooms are updated and available across diverse specifications of in-town visitors. Located directly on the oceanfront, the W is beyond motivated by guest enjoyment and luxury services – hosting the AWAY Spa for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.

This service is a multifaceted experience, with a selection from the five options for “body and beauty” treatments. The subsections of the AWAY Spa include the Glam Station, the Quick Fix Massage Booth, the Manicure Bar and the Pedicure Station. They additionally have separate men’s and women’s lounges, men’s services and waxing.

As for food, well, the W is here to give multiple options for hungry visitors. Whether this includes local restaurant dinner delivery, in-room service, or the hotel’s convenience store – they are here to ensure guests hit the town fully nourished and happily satisfied. If they so choose, visitors may also consult the expansive list of in-house W restaurants and the activities made available by the hotel’s services.

Ritz Carlton

“A free spirit driven by nautical heritage, [and] a touch of glamour”

Typically, any stay at the Ritz Carlton can speak for itself — historically, socially and culturally. Located on the beach of Fort Lauderdale, this Ritz “pays homage to the yachting capital of the world,” decorated in nautical themes and fantastic interior design. Within its palatial walls live multiple avenues for enjoyment and exploration, starting with Burlock Coast, the Prohibition-era-inspired food & drink bar. It draws meals from local sources, provides private dining rooms and embraces the creative liberty accompanying the historical theme.

Guests may also reside at the Poolside Café, partaking in alfresco dining with an ocean view, relaxing cocktails and VIP oceanfront cabanas for intimate luxury. Motivated by excellence, the Ritz Carlton additionally provides in-room dining and guest catering. For those hoping to prioritize relaxation and comfort, the Ritz-Carlton spa emphasizes disengaging with the world of stressors and embracing peace and cleansing – either of beauty or body.

With regards to activities and excitement, the Ritz is eagerly awaiting with a fleet of boats from its collection available, wildlife spotting opportunities in the Everglades and even a deep-sea Fishing charter to make the most of your quality FLIBS stay.

The Local Experience

Conrad Fort Lauderdale

“Indulgence meets paradise in our spacious residences or luxury suites”

Highlighting the symbiotic relationship between enjoyment and paradise, at Conrad, they focus on some key values in their approach to hospitality: stay, dine, revive, gather, celebrate and offer. This hotel is a sleek, modern accommodation with magnificent views of the expansive ocean and gorgeous, well-designed suites available for guests.

With state-of-the-art meeting rooms and completely advanced technology, Conrad has a very clear business focus, making their venues available for any company and their needs. Only six miles from the Fort Lauderdale airport, conferences are made as stress-free as possible so that guests may direct all their attention to doing the best job possible before relaxing after hours.

For these famished corporate folks, guests can end their long days by attending the Takato Japanese and Korean Fusion restaurant, Atlas Cocktail Lounge, Spinnaker Pool Grill and the Cornucopia Gourmet Market. For those still hungry but ready to call it a night, guests may choose to cook in their suite kitchens or order in-room service is additionally available.

Whether guests are businessmen, free agents, families or couples – the Conrad also offers several activities at the Sky Deck outdoor pool, GO H20! Kid’s camp for ocean exploration, and unparalleled views at the Conrad beach access point.

B Ocean Resort

“Enjoy Tranquility and Relaxation…Just B you!”

The B Ocean Resort is a unique, exciting resort with an emphasis on enjoyment and self-expression. Historically accommodating to American celebrities, the B Ocean Resort appeals to the entertainment audience, with various shows such as the Mermaid and Aquamen experiences, numerous cocktail bars and restaurants, and oceanfront activities. The B Ocean underwater shows are jaw-dropping, to say the least, where both kids and adults can enjoy remarkable entertainment based on the time of day.

When hungry, they can visit the Salty Siren, a beachside restaurant with alfresco service on the beach or pool deck and fresh seafood you cannot miss. For those ready to get out and explore the Fort Lauderdale area, B Ocean also manages Clipper Express, an on-the-go food source for those ready to get up and hit the town in the early morning.

B Ocean also spotlights the exhibition ‘B artistic’, where they partner with the Broward County Sea Turtle Conservation to serve the community and raise awareness about conservation efforts. Needless to say, when it comes to keeping guests satisfied, entertained and eager to return, B Ocean lives up to its reputation.

Pelican Grand Beach Resort

“Stay just steps from the water in your personal oasis.”

When it comes to romance, privacy and the bustling energy of the city, Pelican Grand Beach resort is here to deliver. One with the water, Pelican offers Fort Lauderdale’s sole Lazy River and a zero-entry pool. For families, couples, and coworkers alike, this hotel is the champion of vacation.

Devoted to relaxation, the Pelican boasts its PURE Spa – an amenity influenced by Swedish traditions of rejuvenation, luxury rooftop cleansing, and fluid calming methods. Pelican Grand’s PURE Spa sets itself apart from its competitors with its core values: harmony, intimacy and feeling beautiful.

Additionally, Pelican Grand offers concierge service, fitness and business centers, beach lounge chairs and umbrellas, a daily $10 food & beverage credit and 1 complimentary water taxi ticket per stay. Dining at the Pelican Grand is a beautiful experience with ocean views at OCEAN2000, O2k Lounge, the old-fashioned ice cream parlor known as the Emporium, and in-room dining. Only a short drive down the coast from Las Olas Blvd, you are sure to enjoy your stay on the water here at the Pelican Grand.

“Off the Beaten Path”

The Guitar Hotel at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino

“Architectural marvel that redefines the South Florida Skyline”

For those FLIBS enthusiasts looking for an exciting, unorthodox adventure, we recommend the Guitar Hotel at the Seminole Hard Rock. Officially opened in 2019, the Guitar Hotel offers an unforgettable experience with a spectacular LED light show, an inordinate amount of luxury rooms with top technology for guests and quality amenities.

Looking for ultimate enjoyment? This hotel will satisfy your every desire, no question. The Hardrock Guitar hotel is host to several comedy events and live music specials, ranging from Guns N Roses in early October to Trevor Noah’s World Tour on October 22. It’s also host to numerous clubs, bars and lounges for any activity you could think of – an especially vibrant scene being DAER, a true Vegas-style day-club.

It’s important to note: the drive to FLIBS is approximately 20 minutes, but it is well worth the wait if you are looking for an all-encompassing stay filled with excitement, energy and entertainment. For daytime or late-night hungry hours, the Hard Rock also offers fine dining, contemporary dining and quick bites with award-winning wines and cocktails.

Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort

“Destination Paradise”

A tribute to the beloved Jimmy Buffett, Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort is right in the heart of the Hollywood Broadwalk – known for entertainment, joy, drinks and its funky atmosphere. This hotel takes its own distinctive approach to guest enjoyment, offering the Jimmy Buffett classic restaurant and bar, the JWB Prime Steak and Seafood restaurant, Landshark Bar & Grill and more.

Guests can kick back and relax at the St. Somewhere Spa, rated one of the Top-30 Relaxing Spa Getaways in the U.S. with various spa and skin treatments to meet every need. It’s also home to an “island-inspired paradise with two unique pools, waterslide, FlowRider Double and a variety of lounging options.” On the roof, you can also find a pool and bar.

With the fitness center, kid’s club, watersports access, nearby Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, stadiums and other mediums of entertainment – Margaritaville is the resort experience you can get the most of – in an area off the beaten path, yet still close enough to your 2021 FLIBS experience.

Don’t Believe Us? Check out FLIBS Official Recommendations and our suggested dining choices here.

As a world-leading luxury yacht brokerage, Northrop & Johnson delivers professional services in luxury yacht sales and purchasing, private yacht charter, new yacht construction, charter management, crew placement and more. For all your luxury yachting needs and beyond, contact Northrop & Johnson today.