Fort Lauderdale, FL, is known as “The Venice of America” for good reason. Just like its European namesake, Fort Lauderdale is permeated by numerous winding canals and waterways. Because of its amazing location, this city is a haven for all things water. Here are three things to do along the Intracoastal Waterway in Fort Lauderdale to get you started! Don’t forget to access our free Fort Lauderdale Vacation Guide for more attraction and activity ideas.
All About the Intracoastal Waterway in Fort Lauderdale
What Is the Intracoastal Waterway?
The Intracoastal Waterway is a 3,000-mile inland water channel that runs along the Eastern United States and into the Atlantic Ocean. It consists of natural inlets, saltwater rivers, and canals. The Waterway aligns perfectly with the coastal city of Fort Lauderdale! When visiting, you’ll notice plenty of tropical foliage as well as yachts and mansions along Millionaire’s Row. Fort Lauderdale is quite a sight from the Intracoastal Waterway!
Things to Do on the Water
Explore via Water Taxi
There are so many shops, restaurants, and bars dotting the banks of the Intracoastal Waterway in Fort Lauderdale! If you’re trying to get from Point A to Point B, there’s no better way to get around than taking the water taxi in Fort Lauderdale. The water taxi takes a variety of routes, including the New River, Fort Lauderdale, and Hollywood. It also makes “whistle stops” along the way. You can even take the water taxi to nearby cities like Miami for fun day trips! Check out the online schedule for route details, pricing, and pickup times.
Experience Dining with a View
Fort Lauderdale features a great selection of restaurants right on the Intracoastal Waterway! There’s nothing like hopping off a boat and right into a restaurant. Along the Waterway, you’ll find Kaluz, a modern eatery featuring a cushy outdoor lounge. At Kaluz, watch boats dock as you enjoy delectable bites like slow roasted prime rib or Cedar plank salmon! Another option for waterfront dining in Fort Lauderdale is the Blue Moon Fish Company, a favorite seafood spot for traveling foodies. This place has a romantic vibe, fun outdoor deck, and famous Sunday brunch. Thirsty for some waterfront libations? There are bars here, too!
Go on a Fort Lauderdale Boat Tour in Las Olas
The best boat tours in Fort Lauderdale guide guests to Las Olas Boulevard. Some of them even take guests to hidden tropical oases! A riverfront cruise in Fort Lauderdale is a wonderful way for first-time visitors to get to know the area. Guests can even dine and enjoy live entertainment aboard some of these vessels. We recommend beginning your South Florida vacation with one of these tours. You’ll have an amazing time and emerge much more knowledgeable about “The Venice of America!”
Stay Right on the Intracoastal Waterway in Fort Lauderdale
No matter what you end up doing on your Fort Lauderdale vacation, the coastal radiance of the Intracoastal Waterway will surround you. When you book a stunning rental property with Fort Lauderdale Stays, you receive access to the best possible views and experiences. Our Las Olas rental properties are right on one of the city’s breathtakingly beautiful canals!
If you’re looking for awesome waterfront lodging in Fort Lauderdale, look no further than our Baby Blue Heron rental studio. This one-bedroom, one-bathroom oasis features a fully stocked kitchen, outdoor patio with canal views, and an open floor plan.