With powdery white beaches and crystal blue waters, a getaway to Fort Lauderdale gives you the much needed opportunity to “detox, retox, and repeat” in a destination unrivaled in sunshine and fun. After the stress of the last two years, we could all use that idyllic oceanfront vacation and finding the perfect destination is only half of the battle. Naturally, the only way to complement a destination like Fort Lauderdale is with equally superb accommodations and you’ll have your share of excellent choices along the sultry shores of Fort Lauderdale Beach, but only one lives up to its chic and glamorous reputation with a bold personality to match.
As South Florida’s signature playground, the W Fort Lauderdale is a beachfront beauty that pushes travelers to live it up from sunrise to sunset with an endless list of luxurious amenities and services. Though my own stay at the magnificent property was just three days, I knew within moments of my arrival that I was in for quite the treat. It was all but impossible to get off on the wrong side of the bed each morning as my spacious guest room with a private oceanfront balcony offered breathtaking views of the sparkling sea. Somehow I managed to drag myself away from this spectacular view and out of the deeply welcoming guest room only to find myself astonished by a lengthy list of nearby activities to participate in. Equally impressive was the ability to partake in so many of these fantastic offerings and experiences without ever stepping foot off the property.
If and when you do find the will to venture away from the extravagant and relaxing amenities of W Fort Lauderdale, you’ll find a wide array of one-of-a-kind things to do. In honoring Fort Lauderdale’s nickname as the “Venice of America,” it’s all but mandatory that you set aside time to “retox” and explore Fort Lauderdale’s iconic Intracoastal on a half-day boat charter. Be forewarned that spending so much time on the beautiful water without getting in will feel like quite the tease, but W Fort Lauderdale has you covered upon your return to the resort with WET. The insta-worthy rooftop pool soars five floors above the ocean and invites you to soak in the sun or take a refreshing swim along the see-through pool walls. Needless to say, be sure to pack your favorite swimsuit for one of the coolest underwater photo opportunities in the city!
While you’re digging through the closet picking out that swimwear, be sure to also throw some comfy workout clothes because if there’s one thing the W Fort Lauderdale knows how to do well, it’s knowing how to get that heart pumping. After our relaxing afternoon at WET, my companions and I experienced an open-air pure barre class at sunset overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The following day it was a Sea Sycle spin class like you’ve never seen before. We pumped up the wheels as Ride Element spin studio took us on an exciting workout with front row seats to those breathtaking ocean views. A selection of bikes per class are reserved for hotel guests on a complimentary, first-come, first-served basis—talk about amenities!
Though there are 4,000 dining options to choose from throughout the great city of Fort Lauderdale, the first of many fabulous meals I experienced on my trip was actually at El Vez, the W Fort Lauderdale’s own Mexican restaurant from James Beard award-winning chef, Stephen Starr. My companions and I savored the authentic Mexican flavors and creative cuisine at this wildly popular restaurant which features over 100 varieties of tequila to complement your meal. Also located at the resort was the acclaimed Steak 954 restaurant. From dry-aged meats and delectable sides to an innovative cocktail menu—Steak 954 and Stephen Starr truly bring a unique interpretation of classic, upscale steakhouse dining to Fort Lauderdale Beach.
Upon reflecting on my time at W Fort Lauderdale, I can say without a doubt that it was the perfect picture of rest and relaxation. From start to finish, my companions and I experienced hospitality and a sense of belonging that has left me eager to return and continue to detox, retox and repeat at this fabulous property. From a hydrating 50-min Prescription Facial at AWAY full service spa to happy hour fun at Rhythm & Vine beer garden to authentic, handmade Italian cuisine at Louie Bossi, and ooh SoBe Vegan—no matter what type of adventure you seek, you will find it either on property at W Fort Lauderdale or through its proximity to world-class shopping, award-winning dining, and diverse attractions. Don’t just take my word for it though. It’s time to escape the current and get swept away by W Fort Lauderdale yourself.