Top 5 Things To Do in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea

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For a town that's small in size, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea delivers big when it comes to dining, thanks to its passionate local owners and independent eateries.

Here, you'll find an impressive lineup of flavors peppered across its serene avenues, all waiting to be conquered and devoured!

But hold on to your hats because it won't be your average beach town food scene!

In fact, instead of big-name chains, mom-and-pop gems steal the spotlight in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, which also means you're bound for something new each time you sit down for a meal.

That, and of course, fresh seafood in all shapes, forms, and traditions (Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is next to the ocean, after all!).

But don't worry; if you're craving something familiar, you'll find a few go-to spots serving your favorites.

As for variety? Classic American eats dominate the culinary landscape, but don't be surprised if you stumble upon the incredible Latin, Greek, or Mexican eats that give Lauderdale-by-the-Sea an extra kick.

So, if you plan to do a food tour around Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, expect the vibe to be chill, the food to be tasty, and the prices to be refreshingly reasonable — because that's how things are done in this coastal town!

And please do yourself a favor — come hungry 'coz you'll want to taste them all.

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Like its dining scene, shopping in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is about charm, character, and a local touch.

Forget mega malls and massive retail complexes — you won't find those here, and we're pretty sure you won't even notice it, thanks to Commercial Boulevard, the locals' go-to for shopping, dining, and everything else in between!

At this lively stretch, you can shop from locally owned boutiques, artisan jewelry shops, and unique gift stores, places where you'll ACTUALLY find something special and extraordinary!

And those cozy cafés, ice cream spots, and bakeries you'll pass along the way? *chef's kiss*

For your last-minute essentials, you'll also find small shops right by the shore stocked with everything from sunscreen to souvenirs, so you're never too far from what you need.

Of course, if you're up for a short drive and are looking for more splurging, Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, and even Miami have you covered for all things high-end and brand-name.

Laid-back, convenient, and refreshingly different from the usual retail hustle — isn't that what a beach town is all about?

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Parks are a perfect escape when you need a break from the beach (if you ever will!), whether you're looking for a peaceful solo retreat or a relaxing spot to unwind with loved ones.

While Lauderdale-by-the-Sea doesn't have an overwhelming number of parks, the ones it does have hit all the right notes.

For a laid-back afternoon, head to El Prado Park, a charming seaside green space perfect for picnics and people-watching. 

Located just steps from Town Hall and the beach, it's an ideal spot to cool off after a long day in the sun, where you can grab a seat on one of the town's signature multicolored Adirondack chairs under bright umbrellas, take a stroll along the curved brick pathway, or stretch out on the soft grass and soak in the ocean breeze.

For a more active outing, Friedt Family Park is an underrated gem offering basketball, shuffleboard, and tennis courts and a playground for the little ones. 

Conveniently located near lodging and other attractions, Friedt Family Park is an easily accessible stop for visitors who want to avoid the extra time driving. 

The good news is that despite its amenities, the park remains a quiet, hidden retreat, like a local secret you can have all for yourself (and a few others you can count by hand).

Small-town charm, ocean views, and just the right amount of green space — Lauderdale-by-the-Sea may not have sprawling parks, but the ones here are worth the visit.

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From the moment you arrive in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, you'll notice that just about everything is within walking distance — and we're all for it!

Think hotels, restaurants, shops, and even major attractions like Anglin's Fishing Pier and Commercial Boulevard just a few minutes stroll away, making it easy for tourists and locals to jump from one hotspot to another, whether heading toward Anglin's Square, the town's charming oceanfront district, or the Intracoastal. 

Without a car, nonetheless!

No stress and zero parking space battles — just endless exploring whenever you want as you don a comfortable pair of walking shoes, a little curiosity, and a lot of energy!

Not in the mood to walk? No problem. 

Bike rentals, the free Pelican Hopper bus, and the LauderGO! are great alternatives.

The Pelican Hopper makes getting around town effortless, while the LauderGO!  can take you beyond Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, connecting you to Fort Lauderdale Beach, shopping hubs, and other must-visit spots.

A beach town where you can explore freely, skip the traffic, and take in the sights at your own pace? 

Sounds like a win.

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If it wasn't obvious already, the beach is the beating heart of Lauderdale-by-the-Sea — and this shoreline isn't just for sunbathers!

In fact, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea's pride and joy doubles as a paradise for divers, thanks to its massive collection of coral reefs teeming with marine life less than 100 yards from the shore! 

It isn't called "South Florida's Beach Diving Capital" for nothing, right? 

Here, snorkelers and divers can walk into the water and find themselves nose-to-nose with fish, sea turtles, and even the occasional lobster. 

But diving isn't the only way to make waves. 

Fishing off Lauderdale-by-the-Sea's iconic Anglin's Fishing Pier is also a classic pastime, and those into watersports can try their hand at kayaking, paddleboarding, skimboarding, and kiteboarding.

And that's not all!

When the sun sets, the action doesn't stop — all you need to do is trade the beach for Anglin's Square and paint the town red!

This lively oceanfront district is the town's go-to spot for a laid-back nightlife scene, whether you're up for outdoor games, live music, or just some top-tier people watching after dark.

Needless to say, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea has the right amount of energy wrapped in that Old Florida charm you won't find anywhere else, and it's worth all the hype!