If you’re fishing for a fabulous coastal vacation, there’s no better place to reel in a good time than Fort Lauderdale, Florida! The “Venice of America” is an urban paradise, but did you know that the Intracoastal Waterway winds through the city? This makes for miles of glistening canals and, of course, plenty of Fort Lauderdale water activities to try. Below, we’ve listed eight of our favorites! For even more trip-planning tips, be sure to access our free Fort Lauderdale Travel Guide. It’s packed with our best local dining, shopping, and adventuring recommendations!
Our 8 Favorite Fort Lauderdale Water Activities
Take a Ride Aboard the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi
Looking for a unique way to get around the city? Hailing a ride from the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi is one of our favorite water activities! You can take the Intracoastal Waterway en route to restaurants, bars, shops, museums, and outdoor attractions.
Get Around in a Gondola
A gondola is a centuries-old means of transportation traditionally used in the canals of Venice, Italy. We use them here in “The Venice of America,” too! The unique, canoe-like boats are propelled by a gondolier, who uses a rowing oar. Check out our favorite Fort Lauderdale gondola tours!
Try Your Hand at Paddleboarding
If you’ve never tried paddleboarding before, you’re missing out on a truly unique experience! Due to our area’s stunning scenery, canal system, and beautiful weather year-round, there’s no better place to try your hand at paddleboarding. You’ll find that there are many places to rent the necessary gear and even more ways to enjoy this relaxing pastime.
Attend a Nautical Event
Looking for the best water activities in Fort Lauderdale? You may find what you’re searching for at one of the city’s annual events! Here are just a few of our favorites:
- Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show
- Great American Beach Party
- Fort Lauderdale Pride
- Winterfest Boat Parade.
Follow Nesting Sea Turtles
Each year, nearly 2,000 turtle nests can be found along Fort Lauderdale’s coastline. Attend one of the city’s nighttime Turtle Treks and you may see some for yourself! These adventures aren’t solely for entertainment—they’re vital to the turtles’ preservation! Ecologists accompany guests on each journey to ensure that every newly hatched turtle makes its way to the ocean.
Cast a Line
Some of Florida’s best fishing spots are in Broward County, spanning from Hollywood to Deerfield Beach. Fort Lauderdale is a favorite destination for reeling in some amazing catches! Whether you’re looking to get out on the water in a fishing party boat or stay on shore and cast your line from a pier, we know the best Fort Lauderdale fishing locations.
Go Scuba Diving
For certified divers or those who want to cross a thrill off their bucket list while they’re on vacation, Fort Lauderdale scuba diving is the ultimate adventure. Scuba diving prices in Fort Lauderdale vary, but unforgettable excursions can generally be completed for under $150 per person. Beginners need not worry—scuba diving lessons in Fort Lauderdale are available at most dive shops.
See the International Swimming Hall of Fame
What’s one of the least traditional water activities in Fort Lauderdale? Visiting the International Swimming Hall of Fame, of course! This not-for-profit explores the vast and interesting history of this classic sport and the iconic athletes who dominated it in the past century.
Water You Waiting For? Book Your Stay in Fort Lauderdale Now!
Now that you’re dreaming about soaking up the sun in Fort Lauderdale, you’ll need a place to stay! Select one of our stunning vacation rentals and relax knowing you’re just a stone’s throw away from the beach, Intracoastal Waterway, and bustling downtown district. All of our properties come with premium amenities like complimentary Starbucks coffee, cookware, heated pools, outdoor grills, lounge chairs, and so much more! If you’re looking for a true V.I.P. experience in Fort Lauderdale, be sure to inquire about our in-house concierge services (relaxing massage, anyone?)