Things To Do In Fort Lauderdale Florida – An Adventurer’S Guide

ByEric James Updated on

When you picture Fort Lauderdale, your mind probably jumps to sun-drenched beaches, bustling boardwalks, and gleaming yachts. It’s known as the “Venice of America,” a paradise for sun-seekers. But for those of us who hear the call of the wild, it can feel like a concrete jungle with little room for true outdoor adventure.

I’m here to promise you that a different Fort Lauderdale exists, just beyond the high-rises. It’s a place of quiet mangrove tunnels, ancient cypress swamps, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with life. This is your guide to finding that wild heart. You’re about to discover the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale Florida that will get your boots muddy and your paddle wet.

In this outdoor-focused guide, we’ll explore the state parks hidden in plain sight, navigate the winding waterways, and plan an unforgettable day trip into the Everglades. We’ll cover the essential gear you need, the safety practices that matter most in South Florida, and how to explore this unique ecosystem sustainably.

Paddling Paradise: Exploring Fort Lauderdale’s Waterways

Fort Lauderdale’s nickname, “Venice of America,” comes from its 165 miles of inland waterways. While many see these as boat highways, for us, they are liquid trails waiting to be explored by kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP).

Paddling offers one of the most intimate and eco-friendly things to do in Fort Lauderdale Florida. It allows you to silently glide into narrow channels and observe wildlife without disturbing it. The real magic happens when you leave the main Intracoastal and duck into the mangrove-lined canals.

Best Spots for Kayaking and Paddleboarding

You don’t need to be an expert to get on the water here, but knowing where to go makes all the difference.

  • Hugh Taylor Birch State Park: This is my top recommendation for beginners. You can rent kayaks, canoes, and SUPs right inside the park and paddle on the calm, protected waters of the Long Lake freshwater lagoon. It’s a perfect spot to get comfortable before tackling more open water.
  • Whiskey Creek (inside Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park): This saltwater mangrove estuary is a haven for wading birds, crabs, and even the occasional manatee. The creek is sheltered from the wind, making for a smooth and scenic paddle.
  • Middle River Loop: For a more urban-meets-nature experience, the Middle River offers a fantastic loop that takes you through quiet residential areas and into the beautiful mangrove preserve of Colohatchee Park.

Gear and Safety on the Water

Even on a calm day, safety is paramount. The sun and heat are two of the most common problems with things to do in Fort Lauderdale Florida, and they are amplified on the water.

Always wear a properly fitted PFD (Personal Flotation Device), like an NRS Chinook or Astral V-Eight. Pack more water than you think you’ll need in a good insulated bottle like a Hydro Flask. Sun protection is non-negotiable: a wide-brimmed hat, polarized sunglasses, and a long-sleeve UPF-rated sun shirt are your best friends. And don’t forget waterproof sunscreen.

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Into the Green: State Parks & Nature Preserves

Escaping the city buzz is easier than you think. Fort Lauderdale is flanked by incredible state parks that serve as green oases, offering hiking, wildlife viewing, and a direct connection to Florida’s unique coastal habitats. This is where you find some of the most rewarding outdoor activities.

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Often called “Central Park of Fort Lauderdale,” this park is a gem. A paved loop road is perfect for biking or a long walk, but the real treat is the Coastal Hammock Trail. This short, shaded trail takes you through a native maritime tropical hardwood hammock, one of the last of its kind in the county.

Pro Tip: After your hike, cross the street to the beach. The park provides tunnel access under A1A, so you can enjoy the ocean without dealing with public beach parking. It’s a perfect example of how to combine different things to do in Fort Lauderdale Florida in one trip.

Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park

Located at the entrance to Port Everglades, this park is a fantastic spot for birding and fishing. The jetty at the end of the park is a popular spot to watch the massive cruise ships and container vessels head out to sea. It’s also one of the most important nesting beaches for sea turtles in Broward County.

This park offers a more rugged, less-manicured feel than Hugh Taylor Birch. It’s a place to appreciate the raw power and beauty of the Atlantic coast. Following the best practices for beach exploration here means giving sea turtle nests a wide berth and packing out everything you pack in.

Gateway to the River of Grass: Everglades Day Trips

You can’t visit South Florida and not experience the Everglades. This vast, slow-moving river of grass is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most unique ecosystems on the planet. From Fort Lauderdale, you’re just a short drive from its eastern edge.

Understanding how to things to do in Fort Lauderdale Florida often means knowing what’s just outside the city limits. A day trip to the Everglades is a must-do for any outdoor enthusiast.

Sawgrass Recreation Park & Everglades Holiday Park

These locations on the eastern edge of the Glades are famous for their airboat tours. While they can be a bit touristy, an airboat is an incredible way to get deep into the sawgrass prairie and see alligators in their natural habitat. For a first-timer, it’s an exhilarating experience.

When choosing a tour, look for operators that prioritize ethical wildlife viewing. A good guide will never feed the alligators and will educate you about the delicate ecosystem you’re visiting.

Shark Valley: A Deeper Dive

For a more self-guided adventure, drive about an hour west to the Shark Valley entrance of Everglades National Park. Here, you can rent a bike or take a two-hour open-air tram tour along a 15-mile paved loop.

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The loop takes you to a 65-foot observation tower with a panoramic view of the “River of Grass.” Along the way, you are virtually guaranteed to see dozens of alligators, turtles, and a stunning variety of wading birds like herons, egrets, and anhingas. This is one of the premier benefits of things to do in Fort Lauderdale Florida—unparalleled access to world-class wildlife.

Beneath the Waves: Sustainable Snorkeling and Diving

Just offshore lies the Florida Reef Tract, the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States. Exploring this underwater world is an incredible opportunity, but it requires care and respect for the fragile environment.

Lauderdale-By-The-Sea

You don’t need a boat to go snorkeling here. The town of Lauderdale-By-The-Sea is known for its excellent shore diving and snorkeling. The first reef is just 100 yards off the beach near Anglin’s Pier. You can easily swim out from shore to see colorful fish, corals, and sponges.

Remember to use a dive flag to alert boaters to your presence. It’s required by law and is a critical piece of safety gear. You can rent flags, masks, and fins from local dive shops.

A Care Guide for Our Reefs

Our reefs are in trouble. This is a critical part of any things to do in Fort Lauderdale Florida care guide. To be a responsible visitor, follow these rules:

  • Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate are incredibly damaging to coral. Look for mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
  • Don’t Touch Anything: Coral is a living animal and is extremely fragile. Even a slight touch can damage its protective layer and kill it.
  • Maintain Buoyancy: Practice good buoyancy control to avoid accidentally kicking or bumping the reef. Never stand on the coral.

Essential Gear & Safety for South Florida Adventures

The subtropical environment here presents unique challenges. Being prepared is the difference between a great day and a miserable, or even dangerous, one. This is our essential things to do in Fort Lauderdale Florida guide for staying safe.

Fighting the Sun, Heat, and Bugs

The sun is relentless. A breathable, wide-brimmed hat, UPF clothing, and high-quality polarized sunglasses are non-negotiable. For hydration, a 3-liter hydration bladder like a CamelBak or Osprey reservoir is ideal for longer hikes or paddles.

Insects, especially mosquitoes and no-see-ums, can be fierce, particularly near mangroves and at dawn or dusk. A repellent containing Picaridin, like Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent, is highly effective and less harsh on your gear than DEET.

Wildlife Awareness

You will likely see alligators, snakes, and other wildlife. The golden rule is to give them space. Never feed wildlife, as it habituates them to humans and often leads to their demise. Be aware of your surroundings, especially near the water’s edge. Most animals want nothing to do with you and will leave you alone if you do the same.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale Florida

What is the best time of year for outdoor activities in Fort Lauderdale?

The best time is during the dry season, from November through April. Temperatures are milder, humidity is lower, and there are far fewer mosquitoes. The summer months (June-September) are very hot, humid, and rainy, with a higher risk of afternoon thunderstorms.

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Do I really need to worry about alligators when kayaking?

Generally, no. Alligators are naturally wary of humans and will typically keep their distance. The key is to be smart: don’t paddle in areas where alligators have been fed by humans, avoid paddling at dusk or dawn when they are most active, and never approach or harass one. Give them a wide berth, and they will do the same for you.

Are there any good places to camp with an RV or tent near Fort Lauderdale?

Yes! While there are no campgrounds in the city itself, several great options are nearby. T.Y. (Topeekeegee Yugnee) Park in Hollywood and Markham Park in Sunrise both offer excellent county-run campgrounds with full hookups for RVs. For a more rustic experience, the campgrounds in Everglades National Park are about a 1.5-hour drive away.

What are some sustainable things to do in Fort Lauderdale Florida?

Focus on human-powered activities like kayaking, hiking, and biking. Participate in a beach cleanup—many local organizations host them. When snorkeling or diving, practice reef-safe habits. Always follow Leave No Trace principles by packing out all your trash, respecting wildlife, and leaving natural areas better than you found them.

Fort Lauderdale is so much more than its postcard image. It’s a place where you can paddle through a mangrove forest in the morning and hike a coastal hammock in the afternoon. It’s a basecamp for exploring the vast wilderness of the Everglades and the hidden world of the coral reefs.

By preparing with the right gear, prioritizing safety, and committing to exploring responsibly, you can unlock an entirely different side of South Florida. So get out there, explore with confidence, and connect with the wild side of the Sunshine State. Happy trails!

Eric James
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