Is there anything better than finally getting together with the girls for a weekend getaway? Not only is getting everyone’s schedules to line up close to a miracle, but finding a destination you can all agree on is also an astonishing feat. But who could say no to a trip to Fort Lauderdale? 

Because Fort Lauderdale is such a gorgeous place with sparkling blue seas, white beaches and vibrant nightlife, it’s important to plan ahead so you can make the most of your time with your girls. Here’s how to make your girls’ weekend in Fort Lauderdale all about beaches, boutiques and bliss. 

Agree on Your Accommodation

When it comes to accommodation in Fort Lauderdale you are spoilt for choice. From waterfront resorts complete with private beach access to city center hotels right in the heart of the bustling nightlife, even cute boutique offerings set back from the city so you can focus on rest and relaxation, use a site that compares prices (such as Skyscanner) to check out accommodations available on your chosen dates. The earlier you do this, the better the price and options will be! The location of your hotel will help you plan the rest of your girls’ weekend away and will make getting from A to B so much easier when you know where your base will be.  

Day One: Beach Day and Relaxation

After all that travelling and excitement, it makes sense to focus on catching your breath and catching up with your best friends at Fort Lauderdale Beach. Don’t forget to pack your beach towels and beachwear for a gorgeous morning soaking up the sun and exploring the shore. 

If you want to add a touch of luxury to your morning at the beach, then you can always rent a cabana together or a daybed to ensure you’re fully relaxed in the sun and take breaks in the shade. Whether you read, sunbathe, swim or even take a stroll along the shore, it’s a great way to start your weekend. 

Ready for Lunch? How about hitting a beachfront restaurant for some cocktails and the best seafood Fort Lauderdale has to offer? Restaurants like Boatyard or S3 are great places to book a reservation all while enjoying the sea views, soaking up the sun and enjoying a cocktail (or three).  

An afternoon at a spa is your next stop on your girls’ weekend. And in Fort Lauderdale, you’ll find plenty of options where you can indulge and focus on your wellbeing. A luxurious session at The Ritz-Carlton is the perfect excuse to don a fluffy robe and have a manicure, or enjoy a facial or massage at one of the many beach-fronted spas along Ocean Boulevard. 

Thinking ahead to the evening and dinner and drinks, head to Las Olas Boulevard where you can immerse yourself in this nightlife hotspot. Perfect for dining, dancing and evening entertainment. Whether you’d prefer a quiet evening meal to round off the first day, or you have your heart set on getting dressed up and hitting cocktail bars and clubs like El Camino or The Balcony – you and the girls will be spoilt for choice! 

Day Two: Retail Therapy and Exploring Fort Lauderdale

No one wants to rush to get up and out after a late evening on Las Olas Boulevard, so make your first stop of the day a well-deserved brunch at one of the city’s most popular and trendy brunch spots like Foxy Brown, or Hatch.

Once you’re fuelled with delicious local food and drink, it’s time for a little retail therapy and another trip to Las Olas Boulevard where boutiques, high-end fashion and unique local shops are abundant.  For ease of travel (and with all those bags) it’s easy to navigate Fort Lauderdale by hopping on and off the Sun Trolley, or grabbing a water taxi, which stops at plenty of key locations along the waterways.

If you’re ready to learn about some culture and local history, then visiting the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens is a great way to spend a few hours. You can stroll through the lush, tropical gardens checking out five different ecosystems, marvel at the art and architecture within the estate and see how much wildlife you can spot.  

After learning about local history, it must be time for another cocktail. A visit to The Dalmar rooftop bar for some poolside cocktails is a must for any girls’ weekend away. You can enjoy stunning views of the city skyline whilst sipping on delicious drinks and snacks.

For the evening, you might like to experience some live music  – Fort Lauderdale is a hub for up-and-coming musicians and bands! You can experience jazz at Blue Jeans Blues and the vibrant atmosphere at the Culture Room is not one to be missed! If you and the girls are looking for something a little more laid back then why not check out The Wilder or Rhythm and Vine?

Day Three: Outdoor Fun

After all that nightlife and party atmosphere, it’s time to experience the other side of Fort Lauderdale. Starting your final morning with a yoga beach session is a great way to start a full day of activities. 

If you and your girls are water babies then you’ll find it hard to choose between all the watersports on offer in Fort Lauderdale. From paddleboarding and kayaking to renting jet skis for the morning, you’re sure to make some incredible and hilarious memories!

You might be feeling pretty hungry after your watersports adventures, so how about having lunch by the water instead? Upscale and trendy spots like S3-Sun, Surf and Sand or Coconuts near Fort Lauderdale Beach and popular for their dining experiences and incredible eats!

For your final afternoon, hopping on a Water Taxi and exploring the canals is a completely new way to see Fort Lauderdale. You can easily explore new locations and attractions like Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale or even visit Stranahan House Museum for some culture and local history. 

As evening approaches, it’s time to think about dinner and what better way to sign off your amazing girls’ weekend in Fort Lauderdale than enjoying a relaxing dinner at a waterfront restaurant? Make sure you book in advance so you can watch the sunset, eat good food, enjoy the views and enjoy each other’s company as you toast the amazing trip you’ve had.

Are you ready to visit Fort Lauderdale with your closest friends? No matter what time of year you choose to visit, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.