Perfect Paddles SUP and Kayak Guide to: Miami and Fort Lauderdale – 2023

In Location Info Guide, Paddle Guide, Resource, Spotlight by Daniel

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This is Perfect Paddles SUP and Kayak Guide to Miami and Fort Lauderdale - 2023!

Do you want to explore Miami and Fort Lauderdale but you're not sure where to go? Check out our comprehensive guide to these beautiful coastal cities!

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Miami is a popular city that lies on the East Coast of the sunshine state - Florida. Over the years it has garnered the reputation as being a party-town, full of excellent restaurants, pumping nightlife, and a never-ending stretch of beautiful beaches perfect for your SUP. 

Just farther north, is a stretch of beach known as Fort Lauderdale. It is the quieter side of the southeastern shore of Florida that also offers plenty to see and do on a SUP. Along with a bustling city center, visitors also have the opportunity to take to the inshore canals where Ft. Lauderdale has earned the nickname, “Venice of America.”

Each location is unique unto themselves. And ones that we recommend you experience on your next SUP vacation.

In this article, we’re going to do a deep dive on both areas to give you the best launch locations, outfitters, and other important information on what to do and when - so you know everything you need to have a great time in the Miami/Fort Lauderdale area!

How This Guide Works

This guide is built with you in mind. Whether you are a seasoned paddler with years of experience, or a complete beginner who needs to rent a board for paddling, we have you covered. 

For those with their own boards, think of the local paddle pros as resources for the best SUP info - where to paddle, what to look for, and when the best times to go. They know their area best and have launch location options, and “must-see aka must-SUP” suggestions already planned for visitors. With that said, always reach out to the paddling pros listed in this guide to get started on your planning. 

For short term visitors who need to rent a board while you’re in town, we’ll go over where you can pick up a board, what types of boards are available, and where you can launch your board on calmer waters. 

Use this comprehensive guide as your key to the information you need to have the best possible time in the Miami and Fort Lauderdale areas - both on and off the water. 

Of course, if you have any questions about the area, you can always drop us a message and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible! 

-Perfect Paddles Travel Brief-

Best Time of Year to Visit:

Miami and Fort Lauderdale are those few places that can be visited year-round. Whether you go in the heat of summer and enjoy the beautiful beaches, or during the winter for a fun time around the city in 60-70 degree weather, Miami and Fort Lauderdale can be enjoyed at any time.

However, if you want to avoid the crowds, and the stifling heat, a trip to Miami or Fort Lauderdale during the winter will be a better choice. The air and water temperatures are still high enough to enjoy the beach and back bays!

Wind and Weather and Where/When to Paddle

The wind will vary in Miami and Ft. Lauderdale. To paddle during the calmest times during the day it is recommended that you go early in the morning or late in the afternoon. 

You can avoid most windy conditions by sticking to the back areas of the bay or through the intracoastal waterways. In these locations, you are often protected from the winds by the wildlife that grows there and the buildings/houses. 

The weather in Miami and Ft. Lauderdale is fairly consistent. In the morning, expect clear, blue skies. On occasion clouds can roll in during the early afternoons with an occasional rainstorm during the winter months. 

Special Note: Hurricane season is official June 1st - November 30th on the East Coast of Florida. Even though hurricanes may dissipate before they reach land or veer over the Gulf of Mexico, they can still impact your paddling experience. Always refer to a wind and weather app before heading onto the water - or talk with a local paddling professional or outfitter to gain insider knowledge on the area.

Average Temperature/Seasons: 

Much of Florida has a hot and humid climate. During the summer months, on the coast, the average daily high temperature hovers around 90-95°F with a low reaching around 65°F during the winter months depending on location. Freezing temperatures are rare, even in winter. 

SUP Environments to Paddle In

Atlantic Ocean

Intracoastal Waterways/Rivers

SUP Activity Highlights:

SUP the Venice of America - In Ft. Lauderdale there are back water rivers that connect to certain parts of the city, restaurants, and other local hangouts. 

SUP Yoga

Eco-Tours

Wildlife Tours

SUP Meetup Groups in the Miami/Ft. Lauderdale Areas

SoFlo Stand Up Paddle Board Meetup

(Ft. Lauderdale): This meetup was created for Stand Up Paddle board, ocean, and nature lovers. We create group events to unite us for the most beautiful serene paddles. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, there is fun for everyone. We offer stand up paddle lessons, manatee, nature tours, sunrise paddles, intracoastal and ocean paddles to see beautiful marine life. We also get together once a month for the Full Moon paddle. Tons of fun! If you're looking to get into shape or just meet some really nice ocean minded people then this meetup is for you. We provide board rentals if you do not own a board. If you have your own board then we welcome everyone.

South Florida Paddle Board and Kayak Adventures

This is a group for anyone who loves the water and wants to get out and have some fun! SUP = Stand Up Paddle Boarding is an amazing physical activity that really strengthen your core and improves your cardio conditioning. At the same time; the activity is easy to learn and we can teach you all the basics in a two hour excursion. Kayaking is even easier and has plenty of healthy benefits. We will accept group suggestions and have a Sponsor to lower the cost of renting equipment.

Sunrise Paddleboards of Ft. Lauderdale

We are wanting to meet other Standup Paddleboard Lovers who want to join us on fun excursions and participate in Paddleboard Yoga, Paddleboard Races, and other Fun Adventures. If you are creative and have ideas on ways to expand this Meetup Group and find others to do the same; then all skill levels are welcome. We also do Reef Paddles, Intracoastal Paddles, and Paddles with your Dog.

For a complete list, click here.

 

Potential Water Hazards

A few of the paddling locations and back canals that surround Miami and Fort Lauderdale are tidal. This can mean the direction and difficulty of the paddle can be greatly affected by either an outgoing to incoming tide - depending on the time of day and the direction you are paddling. 

It is always a great idea to consult a tide chart before you head onto the water. 

And before you decide to drop into the water, follow this simple checklist to make sure you and your paddling buddies are safe throughout your experience (source):

WEAR A PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE (PFD)!

Florida law requires a readily accessible Coast Guard approved PFD for each occupant. Children younger than six years-old are required to wear a PFD.

Know the waterway conditions and be aware of water levels and currents.

Tides and winds can significantly affect the difficulty of a trip. Under normal conditions, allow a minimum of two miles per hour paddling time.

FILE A FLOAT PLAN AND LEAVE IT WITH A RELIABLE PERSON.

A float plan contains information about your trip in the event that you do not return as scheduled. This includes a description of the vessel(s), names of all paddlers, planned course and stops, and an estimated time of return. Ask the person to notify the Coast Guard or local authorities if you do not return as scheduled. Don't forget to get in touch with your contact person and let them know when you return

Bring plenty of food and water.

Drinks should be in non-breakable containers . Food and gear should be stored in watertight containers. For day trips, 1/2 gallon of water per person in recommended. For overnight trips, one gallon of water per person each day is recommended.

Bring sunscreen and insect repellent.

Wear sunglasses, a hat, and long sleeves and pants even on cloudy days. Long sleeves and pants also helps prevent insect bites.

Watch for motorboats.

Stay on the right and turn into the boat's wake. Respect anglers by giving them plenty of room.

Bring a cell phone or VHF radio.

Cell phones are great for staying in communication, but coverage may be sporadic depending on your specific location.

Respect wildlife.

Do not approach or harass wildlife, as they can be dangerous. It is also illegal to feed them.

In addition, there may be small alligators in the water - though this is usually only the case outside of the city. To avoid any dangerous run-ins, it’s always best to stick to areas with higher boat traffic. Gators are much more likely to be in areas where the water is calm and undisturbed. 

Most gators will stay away from anything that is bigger than them. If you are paddling a 10 '6' board’ up to a 14’ board you will likely scare off any smaller ones. If you happen to see a large gator in the area calmly paddle away from it without making any loud noises or extra splashing motions. 

It is also best to proceed with caution during gator mating season and hatchling season as well. 

“April is the final month of Florida's dry season and the beginning of the alligators' annual courtship. Most alligator mating takes place in May and June, with nesting in late June and July. Females lay an average of 32 to 46 eggs which hatch in late summer or early fall.” (source)

Always be on the lookout when paddling in Florida! 

Miami Area Information

SUP Outfitters in the Area:

Miami Beach Paddleboard
Location: 1701 Purdy Ave Shop C-102, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Best Offering: Full moon glow tour. Twice a month the full moon meets the sunset and we will be there, from sunset to glow in the dark with your board around sunset islands.  90 min guided tour.

Lublu SUP and Wellness - (Member Deal: Mention “Perfect Paddles” when booking a semi
private tour and get 50% off for the 2nd paddler)

Location: Miami Beach
Best Offering: Adventure paddle tours. To see the real face of Miami, you have to do it from the water. Head onto the ocean and take in the skyline from atop a SUP. You will be led by professional guides for the duration of your trip. 

Biscayne Bay Paddleboards & Kayaks
Location: 1815 Purdy Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Best Offering: They offer some of the best and easiest ways to get on the water in Biscayne Bay. Book your board online and get on the water that afternoon.

SUP Equipment Available to Rent

The available SUP shops in the Miami and Fort Lauderdale areas rent your standard cruising boards perfect for the bay and river paddling.

If you have a special request while in Miami, we recommend asking Miami Beach Paddleboard first. They offer rentals of inflatable boards and hardboards with options to keep them with you for 2 weeks - or for the duration of your stay in Miami. As well as unique offerings of eSurfboard rentals (surf without waves on this electric powered surfboard) and SUP pedal boards. 

In Fort Lauderdale, Sunrise Paddleboards is your go-to spot for all types of trips and different renting options.  

SUP in Miami Launch Locations

Miami seems to have endless activities happening within its city streets. From restaurants, night clubs, to the beaches, there are endless places to explore and have fun. 

Along with so many things to do, Miami also offers paddle boarders some of the best, and easiest, ways to get on the water. Of course, if you want the most immediate launch location, you can’t go wrong at South Beach. 

This famous location is home to aquamarine waters that are calm and perfect to launch your board right from the sandy bottom. One word of caution - watch out for the swimmers in the water! And always be sure to check the wind here before you go. It can pick up in the later morning, early afternoon and can make paddling difficult. 

If you want a more private location or even more interesting location to launch from, check out the places below! 

Margaret Pace Park, Edgewater

This beautiful little park located in Edgewater is an 8-acre urban park located in the Art and Entertainment District in Miami. The park itself is located right on Biscayne Bay for easy access right onto the water. Parking is easy as they have an open lot for your convenience.

Once you are there, you have two options for dropping into the water. The easiest way to go about it is using the shore. Simply place your board on the water and head out. The bottom here is sand and safe even for beginners. Or you can use a ladder that drops down into the bay. No matter which way you decide to go, this location is easy and convenient. Just one thing to remember - be sure to pay attention to the wind. This is an open bay location and if the wind is high, it can be difficult to paddle here. 

Pelican Harbor Marina, North Bay Village

If you are looking for a more protected launch location, then Pelican Harbor Marina might be the best choice for you. At this location, you can drop right into the harbor. Stay here to be protected from the winds if it picks up. However, parking can sometimes be a challenge as you will have to do so on the street. 

The best feature about Pelican Harbor is the close proximity of a year-round aquatic park with a lazy river, water slides, pool, and food! When you are done exploring the marina and the surrounding waters, head back to the launch location and have fun at the waterpark! 

The Grand Venetian Condominium, Venetian Islands

The one thing to remember about the Grand Venetian is the ease with which you are able drop your SUP into the water and paddle. You will have to find parking on the street for this launch location. However, after you do, head onto the grounds and easily place your board into the water using their convenient ladders that lead directly into the Biscayne Bay. 

Paddle here if you are in the mood to paddle the intracoastal waterways and stay out of the elements. You will also see plenty of smaller boats and other craft on the water with you! 

South Pointe Beach, Miami Beach

Crystal clear, turquoise waters, flat calm, white sandy beaches. Those are the best adjectives we can use to describe this picturesque location. If you decided to spend the entire day here basking in the sun, hanging on the beach, and paddling the calm waters, we wouldn’t blame you! This is truly one of the nicest locations on our list. 

To park at South Point Beach and Park you will have to pay for street parking or use the parking garage. We recommend the garage. It is easier to find and less of a hassle. However, if you arrive before 8AM and want a sunrise paddle, street parking is free! 

18th and Purdy Ave, Miami Beach

If you are near our previous launch location at the Grand Venetian Condominiums but cannot find parking, head here! You can use the option of entering the Maurice Gibb Memorial Park or find parking on the street. At the above address, you will find a boat ramp that leads right into Biscayne Bay. It is very convenient and usually is less crowded than the Grand Venetian location. 

One word of caution - proceed down the ramp at a slow pace. Like most boat ramps, this one is always covered in sea moss and tends to be very slippery! 

Brickell Key, Miami 

Our next launch location is a man-made island off the mainland Brickell neighborhood in Miami. 

This neighborhood sits right in the middle of the bay, surrounded by sights of the city, and nothing else but Miami’s famous turquoise waters. It’s truly a beautiful launch location. You can use the residence parking on the island or at one of the parks nearby. There are plenty of ladders you can use leading into the water as they are convenient and readily available. Head here if you want to see the city in a whole new way!

Hobie Island Beach Park North

Consider this location the quieter side of Miami. It is located along the bridge that connects to Key Biscayne. The small island that sits in the Atlantic Ocean. You can go to the bigger park called Historic Virginia Key Beach Park as there is plenty of parking and ample space to drop into the water. However, at Hobie Island you will get treated to a more private time. The white sand beaches are usually not as crowded, and they are not as affected by the wind. This launch location is on the way to Virginia Key Beach Park, so check it out first before you head any farther! 

Fun Miami Area Info (source):

  • Its “Magic City” nickname is down to a growth spurt. Miami grew from having a population of one thousand to five million in the short span of a century. The moniker “Magic City” comes from its rapid growth being like ‘magic’.
  • The sand in Miami Beach is imported. Sunbathing along Miami Beach? The pristine sands are probably from the Bahamas or other beaches in the Caribbean. The state of Florida recently spent $11.5 million importing sand to restore the shoreline in Miami Beach that continues to be eroded by the ocean waves.
  • The white sands of Miami are the cruise capital of the world. The port of Miami is the largest passenger port in the world – in 2017, some five million passengers sailed through its confines.
  • The city has one of the largest collections of Art Deco buildings. There are over 800 historic Art Deco buildings just in Miami Beach! Though the city is teeming with modern condos, there’s a large collection of relics reminiscent of the glamorous Art Deco movement.
  • There used to be an ATM for rollerbladers. In 1996, Citibank installed its first ATM lane for rollerbladers. The bank’s solution gave access to in-line skaters in Miami Beach.
  • Sunscreen was invented here. Although the protective lotion was already invented in Europe, pharmacist Benjamin Green invented his own version in Miami and later sold it to Coppertone.
  • Buildings here can’t have basements. Try digging deep enough into the ground, and water will start spouting up. Florida homes don’t have basements because the land is just about six to nine feet above sea level.
  • It’s the only city in the USA bordered by two national parks. Miami is bordered by the Everglades National Park on the West and the Biscayne National Park on the East.

Additional Activities When You Are Not on the Water

Top Restaurants in Miami:

Makoto: Sleek, elegant restaurant featuring modern, upscale Japanese entrees, sushi & robata dishes.

The Surf Club Restaurant: The Surf Club Restaurant by Chef Thomas Keller is located within The Surf Club, the first time the renowned chef has opened a property in Florida. The à la carte menu interprets classic Continental cuisine for a contemporary audience. Like the swinging patrons of '50s and '60s hotspots this restaurant celebrates, The Surf Club Restaurant knows how to have fun.

Taquiza: Taquiza is a traditional Mexican taquería crafting authentic tacos & street fare since 2014. Our signature blue masa is stone-ground daily using USDA organic & non-gmo corn from the Midwest. We hand press our masa into homemade tortillas and totopos.

Phuc Yea: Pho & other Vietnamese staples served in a sultry, industrial space, with indoor/outdoor seating. And they have the best name in the game!

El Bagel: Serving the best bagels in Miami. El Bagel specializes in specialities - all types of hand rolled bagels to suit whatever your taste may be. Perfect for a morning breakfast or a later afternoon snack. Order online. 

Additional Attractions if the Wind and Weather Don’t Cooperate (Click on the links for additional information on each location):

Florida, of course, is known for Disney World. And while the massive theme parks are always worth a visit, we’ll also list a few additional options worth exploring.  Let’s discover some more!

Miami

Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science: Hands-on facility offers weather & technology exhibits, planetarium & wildlife centers.

Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is an 83-acre botanic garden with extensive collections of rare tropical plants including palms, cycads, flowering trees, and vines.

Wynwood Walls: Unique outdoor destination featuring huge, colorful street murals by artists from around the globe.

Miami Design Preservation League: Art Deco Walking Tour: Get to know the Art Deco history of Miami Beach with a guided walking tour. Learn about local architecture and heritage from a Miami Design Preservation League guide. See a wide range of Art Deco architecture in Miami Beach and hear stories about the history and preservation of this protected district. Tours include admission to the Art Deco Museum and Gift Shop.

South Beach: South Beach is known for its beaches and the glamorous scene around its happening night spots and celebrity-chef eateries. Chain stores and indie fashion shops line the pedestrian shopping strip Lincoln Road Mall. On Ocean Drive, known for its well-preserved art deco architecture, outdoor cafes offer a ringside view of the scene. Museums include the Wolfsonian-FIU, which has a collection of modern art and objects.

Cape Florida Lighthouse: The Cape Florida Light is a lighthouse on Cape Florida at the south end of Key Biscayne in Miami-Dade County, Florida. Constructed in 1825, it guided mariners off the Florida Reef, which starts near Key Biscayne and extends southward a few miles offshore of the Florida Keys.

New World Center: The New World Center is a concert hall in the South Beach section of Miami Beach, Florida, designed by Frank Gehry. It is the home of the New World Symphony, with a capacity of 756 seats. It opened in January 2011.

Hotels/Price Ranges

There are numerous places to stay in Miami. We always recommend doing your own research before booking. However, to give you an idea on the prices you should expect we’ve listed a few options below. 

Miami

Novotel Miami Brickell: $178/night

Hampton Inn and Suites Downtown Miami: $255/night

YVE Hotel Miami: $159/night

Hilton Miami Downtown: $459/night

Fort Lauderdale Area Information

Fort Lauderdale SUP Outfitters

Sunrise Paddle Boards
Location: 2520 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33305, United States
Best Offering: Paddle and snorkel the reef! Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon no a SUP board followed by a snorkel session on top of the local reefs. 

Las Olas Paddle Boards
Location:  934 NE 20th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Best Offering: Day pass paddle board rental. Use your board for the entire day for the low price of just $45!

Fort Lauderdale Paddlesports
Location: 4326 Bougainvilla Dr #210, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, FL 33308
Best Offering: Guided paddle board tours in Ft. Lauderdale. Take a guided tour with owner Tatiana as she shows you the local-only spots in the Ft. Lauderdale canals! 

SUP in Fort Lauderdale - Launch Locations 

Fort Lauderdale has become known as the “Venice of America.” Why? Because of the extensive canal systems that run through much of the city. These canals are used daily by boaters, kayakers, and stand up paddlers. And it makes for an interesting visit if you are SUP fanatic. Take your board to many different locations, stop at restaurants, make your way to the beach - the possibilities for exploration are almost endless!

To know exactly where to go while you’re there, check out these launch locations below!

Middle River and Wilton Manors Loop at Colohatchee Park

Our first location lands us just north of Fort Lauderdale in Wilton Manors. This small city is close to Ft. Lauderdale has been named “the island city” and for good reason - it is completely encircled by the Middle River. While it is an interesting factor for people who live there and others who visit, for paddlers, it’s heaven. 

The river itself makes for a perfect 7 mile loop that starts at the beautiful location of Colohatchee Park. The park has plenty of places to park, a boat ramp for easy launches, bathrooms, picnic tables, and is the perfect place to start and finish your paddling adventure. This is a great route for the beginner to go on an extended paddle that has fairly calm waters and is easily navigable.

 

Las Olas Isles and Canals at Victoria Park

Next up are the canals at Victoria Park. The exact launch spot is a park called Victoria Park inside the boundaries of the neighborhood of the same name. Once you are inside the neighborhood, head to the small green space where you can use a convenient stone kayak ramp to launch your board are start having fun!

This paddle trip is the best way to raise your vibrations as you take in the sunshine while paddling next to the mansions and their accompanying yachts along the shore. You can paddle a loop of 3-5 miles here before making it back to your original launch location. It’s great for beginners to intermediate paddlers. The waters are calm and protected enough where you won’t have to fight the wind too much in the early morning or late afternoons.

Middle River to the Intracoastal at George English Park

To paddle the Middle River and the Intracoastal head to George English Park. Here you will find plenty of parking, a boat ramp to drop your board into the water if you choose, bathrooms, and picnic tables. It’s the perfect place to start your paddling journey.

This is also the location where the Middle River meets the Intracoastal. If you decide to paddle upriver you will eventually hit the Wilton Manors Loop - see previous section. Or paddle south and you’ll find yourself in the Intracoastal Waterway. One word of caution on the southern route - you will most likely hit plenty of boat traffic in the Intracoastal Waterway. Be aware to stick to the sides of the route and away from the boats.

This is more of an advanced paddle, though a beginner should be able to handle portions of the route before having to turn around.

New River through downtown at Cooley’s Landing Park

Cooley’s Landing Park lies on the western tip of downtown Fort Lauderdale. And it makes for an interesting paddle in this location. After you’ve made it to the park and launched your board, head east down the New River and you’ll be able to see a view of downtown that not many people have the privilege of ever seeing - right on the water!

This route does come with a couple of warnings. First, this is a high boat traffic route. Be cognizant of other, larger crafts on the water with you. Always stick to the sides and never stray towards the center where most of the boats will be moving. And second, the current here can be difficult for beginner paddlers, especially on the return trip. We recommend this route for the spectacular view in the evenings, but mostly for more advanced paddlers who can handle currents and a longer distance.

The Marina Mile to Pond Apple Slough at Bill Keith Preserve Park

Do you want the experience of paddling next to yachts on the water? Want to take a glimpse into the high-life that everyone raves about? If so, then this is the route you need to go on during your stay in Fort Lauderdale. On the way you will see yachts, yachts, and more yachts! That is, until you make it to Apple Pond Slough - a hidden piece of beautiful Southern Florida nature.

To start this route, head to Bill Keith Preserve Park. Parking is plenty and there are facilities to use if need be. The entire route is up to 6 miles round trip so be prepared for an extended period of time on the water. With the views and ending up in a quiet piece of Floridian nature, it’s worth it.

It is also a high boat traffic area so we suggest this paddle for advanced SUP enthusiasts only! 

The Atlantic Ocean at Loggerhead Park

Our last location takes us out of the rivers and canals and firmly plants us in the beautiful turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Why? Because Fort Lauderdale is really an ocean location! And with views like you’ll see at Loggerhead Park, you’ll understand why. 

The only downside - Loggerhead Park has a small parking lot. It holds about 10 cars at once. But no need to worry! Check the nearby Vista Park before you decide on a different location. Once parked, the beach is just a short walk away. Unload your board, head onto the bright beautiful waters and have the time of your life.

Fun Ft. Lauderdale Info (source):

  • Fort Lauderdale is also known as the yachting capital of the world and a premium tourist destination.
  • Yachting is a way of life in Fort Lauderdale! The city boasts more than 100 marinas and 50,000 registered yachts.
  • It’s also the site of the world’s largest boat show – Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.
  • Greater Fort Lauderdale includes all of Broward County, Florida, and 31 cities and municipalities.
  • Initially, there were three Fort Lauderdales. The first was established in 1838.
  • Integrated in 1911, Fort Lauderdale was largely built out by 1970.
  • The oldest section of the city is the Himmarshee Historic District with many buildings dating back to the Florida land boom of the 1920s.
  • Today Himmarshee Village is a blooming collection of bars, music sites, eclectic clubs, cafes, and restaurants.
  • After the 1920s, the area began to develop. What made that possible? The invention of air conditioning
  • On the 18th of September 1926, Fort Lauderdale experienced the worst hurricane. The damage caused by the storm represented an ending to the land boom. It literally sent the area into an economic depression.
  • Fort Lauderdale has more than 300 miles of inland canals that are also known as the Intracoastal Waterway.
  • Safe from many of the hazards of open-ocean travel, the waterways are a fundamental component of the city’s economy, culture, and recreation.
  • Clean beaches with perfect sand are a trademark for Fort Lauderdale.
  • Six of Fort Lauderdale’s beaches have been “Blue Wave Certified” by the Clean Beach Council: Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Fort Lauderdale Beach, Pompano Beach, Deerfield Beach, Hollywood Beach, and Dania Beach.

Top Restaurants in Fort Lauderdale:

New York Grilled Cheese: Petite spot serving up creative grilled cheeses & tomato soup, plus wine & beer. Open until 4 AM.

Padrino’s Cuban: Padrino's Restaurants is a third generation, family-owned collection of Cuban restaurants. Each generation has added their touch to create the ultimate Cuban culinary experience- from our grandmother’s recipes, our father’s dedication to service, and our handcrafted cocktails all served in a contemporary-warm ambiance.

Sea Watch on the Ocean: Refined seafood restaurant with old-time Florida decor & sweeping ocean views.

Hardy Park Bistro: Small restaurant serving sophisticated New American dishes in simple, upscale environs.

The Alchemist Cafe: Rustic-chic coffee shop for artisanal coffees, breakfast grub & lunch sandwiches, plus garden seats.

Top Attractions in Fort Lauderdale When the Wind/Weather Don't Cooperate

Las Olas Boulevard: Las Olas Boulevard is a major east-west thoroughfare in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, United States that runs from SW 1st Avenue in the Central Business District to Florida State Road A1A in Fort Lauderdale Beach. The name "Las Olas" means "The Waves" in Spanish.

Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District: Charming park on the banks of the New River with a wide array of galleries, museums & eateries. Bonnet House Museums and Gardens: Take a wonderful trip through time at the beautiful, historic Bonnet House Museum & Gardens. Be magically transported to the beginning of the 20th Century, and the days of gracious living, charm and whimsy when Florida was one of the nation’s last frontier outposts.

Flamingo Gardens: Flamingo Gardens is a 60-acre, Tropical Botanic Garden and Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary, aviary and zoo, located just west of Fort Lauderdale, Florida and north of Miami at 3750 South Flamingo Road, Davie, Florida, United States. It is open to the public for a fee.

Gulfstream Park: This sizable venue for horse racing features a casino, shopping center, lodging, dining & more.

Hotels/Price Ranges

There are numerous places to stay in the Miami/Ft. Lauderdale areas. We always recommend doing your own research before booking. However, to give you an idea on the prices you should expect we’ve listed a few options below. 

Ft. Lauderdale

Courtyard Fort Lauderdale Downtown: $179/night

B Ocean Resort Fort Lauderdale: $210/night

Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach: $229/night

Royal Beach Palace: $149/night

Camping Areas

Larry and Penny Campground

The Larry and Penny Thompson Memorial Park is the largest park/campground in Miami-Dade County. The park, adjacent to Zoo Miami, totals 270 acres. It is located in southwest Miami, two miles west of the Florida Turnpike's Exit 13 between SW 134th Ave. and SW 122nd Ave. on the north side of Eureka Drive.

Curry Hammock State Park

Curry Hammock State Park is a Florida State Park, located along both sides of US 1, starting at mile marker 56.2 on Crawl Key in the Florida Keys.

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is a 1.5-million-acre wetlands preserve on the southern tip of the U.S. state of Florida. Often compared to a grassy, slow-moving river, the Everglades is made up of coastal mangroves, sawgrass marshes and pine flatwoods that are home to hundreds of animal species. Among the Everglades' abundant wildlife are the endangered leatherback turtle, Florida panther and West Indian manatee.

Biscayne National Park

Biscayne National Park encompasses coral reefs, islands and shoreline mangrove forest in the northern Florida Keys. Its reefs and islands are accessible only by boat. Dolphins, turtles and pelicans live in Biscayne Bay Lagoon. The underwater Maritime Heritage Trail links dive sites, most of them shipwrecks. On Boca Chita Key, Boca Chita Lighthouse has coastal views. A museum at Convoy Point explains local ecosystems.

Bahia Honda State Park

Bahia Honda is an island in the lower Florida Keys. U.S. 1 crosses the key at approximately mile markers 36-38.5, between Ohio Key and Spanish Harbor Key 12 miles west of Marathon, close to the west end of the Seven Mile Bridge. The island is virtually uninhabited, being home to the 524-acre Bahia Honda State Park.

The Florida Fun Continues…

We hope you enjoyed our Perfect Paddles Guide to Miami and Fort Lauderdale. These two beautiful cities on the East Coast of the United States have plenty to offer the paddling enthusiast - and then some!

Here you can paddle the back bays, the beautiful canals, or take to the Caribbean-esque ocean for unbelievable views of both cities. With so many locations to drop in and paddle around, you must put either (or both!) of these locations on your paddling list.

Looking for a location outside of Miami or Fort Lauderdale? Then check out the rest of our Florida resources by clicking on our SUP Search section on Perfect Paddles! The fun in Florida never ends and we hope to help guide you in creating the perfect trip down south! 

About the Author
Daniel

Daniel

Daniel is a travelling author with a passion for exploring new waterways and sharing his experiences with the world.

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