8 Night Southern Caribbean & Perfect Day on Legend of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale, Florida Perfect Day Coco Cay Thrill Water Park Girl Sliding
The 8 Night Southern Caribbean & Perfect Day from Fort Lauderdale, Florida visits Willemstad, Curacao; Oranjestad, Aruba; Cabo Rojo, Dominican Republic; Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas; Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Explore our cruise itineraries and choose from a variety of rooms depending on your needs and budget. Start planning your next cruise vacation by selecting a destination and departure port.
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8 Night Southern Caribbean & Perfect Day
Itinerary Overview
Explore Legend of the Seas
Day 1 - Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Day 2 - 3 - Navigazione
Day 4 - Willemstad, Curacao
Day 5 - Oranjestad, Aruba
Day 6 - Cabo Rojo, Dominican Republic
Day 7 - Navigazione
Day 8 - Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas
Day 9 - Fort Lauderdale, Florida
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Perfect Day Coco Cay Thrill Water Park Girl Sliding
Perfect Day Coco Cay Thrill Water Park Girl Sliding
This is your

8 Night Southern Caribbean & Perfect Day

Explore This Itinerary
Leaving from
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Onboard
Legend of the Seas
Day Port
1
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Departs at 4:00 PM
2 - 3
Navigazione
Day at sea
4
Willemstad, Curacao
From 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
5
Oranjestad, Aruba
From 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM
6
Cabo Rojo, Dominican Republic
From 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
7
Navigazione
Day at sea
8
Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas
From 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
9
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Arrives at 6:00 AM
*Port sequence may vary by sailing date.
from
Sailing from

Your ship Legend of the Seas

Your ship
Legend of the Seas
View Itinerary
Legend of the Seas Ship Aerial Aft
Legend of the Seas Ship Aerial Aft
Get to know
Legend of the Seas
Icon Class created the ultimate vacation mic drop. Unrivaled. Unmatched. Unquestionably the world’s best family vacation — loaded with never-ending thrills, next-level chill, and once-in-a-lifetime wows. Introducing Legend of the Seas℠, the threequel that’s leveling up everything you love about Icon of the Seas℠. Dial up the whoas on the boldest vacation, adventuring on a ship as monumental as the destinations. This is an adventure of the ages, for all ages.

The Thrilling Threequel

Everything you love about Icon Class thrills — taken up a notch. Legend of the Seas℠ is the next chapter in larger-than-life adventure you can only find on an Icon Class ship, sparking even more smiles per minute. It’s bonding at the largest waterpark at sea on six record-breaking slides. Braving the Crown’s Edge℠, an allout aerial test of courage. Conquering fleet favorites — from hanging ten on FlowRider® to fun by the gallon for kids at Splashaway Bay℠. This is the thrill-athon you’ve been waiting for.

Amp up your wind down body

Icon level chill keeps getting cooler — and with seven sun-soaked pools and ten totally zen whirlpools on Legend of the Seas℠, there’s an oasis for every mood. Play all day in Royal Bay℠, the largest pool at sea — or score more family time at Water’s Edge pool in Surfside℠. Drink in wow-worthy views from the suspended infinity pool at the adults-only Hideaway, grab a tropical cocktail from Swim & Tonic℠, or up the scale on upscale in the exclusive Grove Suite Sun Deck pool. No matter how you like to kick back, your relaxation era is just beginning.

Legend takes the stage

The show never ends on Legend of the Seas℠, with applause-worthy entertainment at every turn. Explore live music from across the sonic spectrum — crowd-pleasing dueling pianos, soulful jazz tributes, high-octane rock concerts, mellow acoustic jams, lively Latin bands, and everything in between. One-of-akind shows take the stage at high-tech venues designed for maximum wows, from the 55-foot-tall waterfall in the AquaTheater to bold Broadway-style theater. Laugh the night away at adults-only comedy. Bring on the friendly competition at a game show. Max out every single moment on the newest Icon Class headliner.

Famous for flavors

Your favorite flavors get an upgrade on Legend of the Seas℠ — with over 40 ways to dine and drink. Take your tastebuds on a global tour, from savory Japanese street food and theatrical hibachi bites to American delights and Italian delicacies. Step into sophisticated style at the newest twist on an old-school, high-end supper club — where every course is perfectly paired with signature cocktails and set to a soundtrack of live, sultry jazz. Find favorites for the whole family, with comfort foods for the kids and curious cuisine for adventurous appetites. And refuel between adventures with quick bites that go a long way, so you can hit bigger thrills and bolder chill all day.

Day 1: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Day 1
Fort Lauderdale
Florida
View Itinerary
Waterway in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Waterway in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Things to do in
Fort Lauderdale
Departs at 4:00 PM
Fort Lauderdale delivers the best of both worlds— beach basking and glitzy cosmopolitan appeal. From serene Hugh Taylor Birch State Park to the buzzing Boardwalk of Hollywood (that’s Florida, not California), there’s a stretch of sand for every style of beachgoer. And jumbo yachts roam more than 300 miles of waterways in this “Venice of America.” Hitch a ride on the free Water Taxi or cruise on the Jungle Queen Riverboat before or after your Fort Lauderdale cruise. Head to the historic Stranahan House for a glimpse into Fort Lauderdale’s history and be sure to hit its modern-day backyard: the people-watching mecca of Las Olas Boulevard.
Riverwalk High Rise, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Riverwalk High Rise, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

STREET SCENE

Las Olas Boulevard, nestled next door to downtown, is the entertainment core of Fort Lauderdale. It has a mile of upscale shops and al fresco dining that runs past high-rises and into the RiverWalk, where you can catch the free water trolley for a cruise across mega-mansion-lined canals.
Everglades Bird Close Up, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Everglades Bird Close Up, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

GLADES OF GLORY

Head west and explore the Florida Everglades, an untamed river of grass spanning 2,200 acres of picturesque wetlands. Whether you take a wild ride in an airboat or splash around in a swamp buggy, you’ll encounter wild alligators and native birds thriving among Florida’s finest natural landscapes.
Beachwear Hats Shop, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
TBeachwear Hats Shop, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

SHOPPING

Pick up beachwear at The Gallery at Beach Place, or find rare books and handmade hats on Hollywood Boulevard. Dania’s Antique Row is home to some 100 dealers, while art galleries and unusual boutiques line Las Olas Boulevard. For serious bargains, head to the Sawgrass Mills outlet sprawl.
Bird's eye view of A1A, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Bird's eye view of A1A, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

VITAMIN SEA

Soak up the sun, sand and seaside fun along Fort Lauderdale Beach. Walk along the palm-lined “Strip” on State Road A1A to get your fill of beach bars, souvenir shops and outdoor restaurants. Fort Lauderdale cruises allow you to go full throttle on a Jet Ski®— or go parasailing high above the ocean.
Fresh Seafood Platter, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Fresh Seafood Platter, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

LOCAL CUISINE

You’d be hard-pressed to find a more authentic Fort Lauderdale dining experience than eating fresh-off-the-boat seafood in a waterfront eatery. Local “Floribbean” cuisine melds Caribbean and Latin-influenced flavors with locally caught fish, shrimp and crab. Surf-and-turf joints line every inch of A1A along the beach, while white tablecloths drape the majority of Las Olas sidewalk restaurants.

Day 2 - 3: Navigazione

Day 2 - 3
Cruising
At Sea
View Itinerary
Family Sliding Down the Hurricane Hunter
Family Sliding Down the Hurricane Hunter
Nonstop Thrills
Family Sliding through Hurricane Hunter at Cat 6 Waterpark
Family Sliding through Hurricane Hunter at Cat 6 Waterpark

Category 6 Waterpark

Brace yourself for six record-breaking slides at Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea. Let your adrenaline surge on a solo plunge, race a fellow daredevil or gather your crew for family raft waterslides that are anything but tame.
Harmony of the Seas Splashaway Bay Girl Sliding and Landing on Water
Splashaway Bay Girl Sliding and Landing on Water

Splashaway Bay℠

The fun comes in gallons. This bigger, better kids aqua park features slides, water cannons, waterfalls and more. And when the drench bucket gets full, everyone gets wet.
Icon of the Seas Crown Edge Aerial
Icon of the Seas Crown Edge Aerial

Crown's Edge℠

Step onto the Crown’s Edge, a fear-inducing challenge that’s part skywalk, part obstacle course, part thrill ride and an all-out test of your courage. At any moment, the floor beneath your feet could collapse and leave you dangling over the ocean.
Symphony of the Seas Flowrider Boy Body Surfing
Flowrider Boy Body Surfing

FlowRider®

Grab your board and get ready for 30,000 gallons of rushing awesome headed your way. The surf’s always up on the 40-foot-long FlowRider® surf simulator.

Day 4: Willemstad, Curacao

Day 4
Willemstad
Curacao
View Itinerary
Nature Ocean Mountain Island, Willemstad, Curacao
Nature Ocean Mountain Island, Willemstad, Curacao
Things to do in
Willemstad
From 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Curaçao is a treasure trove of cultural attractions, rich history, and natural scenery — from desert landscapes and rugged cliffs to 38 spectacular, and mostly secluded, beaches. Sint Anna Bay separates the two sides of the capital of Willemstad. Punda, the original settlement, is a tidy grid filled with shops and unique markets, restaurants and open-air cafes. Not to mention the famous tropicalized Dutch architecture in vibrant hues. Otrobanda (literally, “the other side”) is a maze of narrow streets and even narrower alleyways. And at only 40 miles long, a wide variety of island adventures are within easy reach during your Curaçao cruise.
Waves Crashing Shete Boka Park, Willemstad, Curacao
Waves Crashing Shete Boka Park, Willemstad, Curacao

STOP FOR A PHOTO OP

Take a scenic ride through Shete Boka Park for three incredible sites— the Boka Tabla, where waves break so high against a rocky inlet they look like a geyser; the Boka Pistol, where giant waves make a thunderous sound as they crash into an underground cavern; and the natural bridge which the ocean has carved out of the rock.
Insider tip
Be sure to catch the swinging Queen Emma Bridge in action from the deck during sailaway.
Hato Caves Underground Nature, Willemstad, Curacao
Hato Caves Underground Nature, Willemstad, Curacao

HISTORY AND MYSTERY

Discover stalagmites, stalactites, unique species and local lore inside the Hato Caves. These ancient limestone caverns are filled with pools, waterfalls, and 1,500-year-old cave paintings. Cruise to Curaçao and cross the mystical underground lake before entering two large caverns lined with ancient Arawak petroglyphs.
Willemstad, Curacao, Dresses at market
An assortment of dresses for sale at a market

Shopping

Walk by multicolored storefronts filled with local arts and crafts in the Punda and Otrobanda districts. Or venture into the New Market, a place to find handicrafts from Curacao, like the quintessential Dutch clogs, and souvenirs like hammocks from neighboring islands.
Christoffel National Park, Willemstad, Curacao
Christoffel National Park, Willemstad, Curacao

TAKE A HIKE

Head to the 4,450-acre wildlife preserve, Christoffel Park National Curaçao, to spend the day immersed in unspoiled nature. Hike or bike any of eight trails and get to know the indigenous flora and fauna— like white-tailed deer, barn owls, blue iguanas, and rare wild orchids.
Insider tip
The tap water is safe to drink and refreshingly good thanks to the seawater distillery.
Peanut Soup, Willemstad, Curacao
Peanut Soup, Willemstad, Curacao

Local Cuisine

For a taste of the real Curacao, explore the capital and stop at local eateries like Plaza Bieu, Trio Penotti or La Boheme. At spots like these, you'll find a storm of local flavors reflective of the cultural mix. Try kabritu, curried goat stew, or ayaka, meat-filled tamales wrapped in banana leaves. Or savor African peanut soup with bananas.

Day 5: Oranjestad, Aruba

Day 5
Oranjestad
Aruba
View Itinerary
Divi-divi Tree at Sunset on Eagle Beach, Oranjestad, Aruba
Divi-divi Tree at Sunset on Eagle Beach, Oranjestad, Aruba
Things to do in
Oranjestad
From 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Welcome to Aruba— or as the locals say, Bon bini. Here Dutch traditions mix with island charm. The capital and port town of Oranjestad, is best known for its colorful Dutch Colonial ‘gingerbread’ houses painted in bright Caribbean hues. While Aruba is only 20 miles from tip to tip, it is packed with incredible contrasts. Cruise to Aruba and go from relaxing in a tropical paradise to trekking rugged desert in no time. The southern coast is one giant photo op— a bustling port town surrounded by powdery white beaches and crystal-clear aquamarine waters. To the north, waves crash onto a rocky coast, scattered with cliffs, cacti and divi-divi trees. Best of all, you don’t have to choose which spots to hit— just which to hit first.
Rocky Volcanic Stone Circles of the Natural Pool, "Conchi", Oranjestad, Aruba
Rocky Volcanic Stone Circles of the Natural Pool, "Conchi", Oranjestad, Aruba

ROADS LESS TRAVELED

Buckle up for an off-road 4X4 ride through the rough and rugged Aruba Arikok National Park. Along the way, you’ll spot the local plants and wildlife of the craggy but beautiful coastline on your way to Conchi, a natural pool created by the ocean’s relentless crashing waves.
Insider tip
Free trolleys run in a loop from the port to the downtown area.
Rocky shore at Boca Prins Beach, Arikok National Park, Oranjestad, Aruba
Rocky shore at Boca Prins Beach, Arikok National Park, Oranjestad, Aruba

SEA FLOOR EXPLORING

The water off Aruba is teeming with marine life and you can see it all up close by riding in a high-tech submarine 150 feet below the sea. As you explore in comfort during your Aruba cruise, you'll pass schools of tropical fish, huge sponge gardens, colorful coral reefs, wreck sites and even scuba divers.
Closeup of Colorful Dutch Architecture, Oranjestad, Aruba
Closeup of Colorful Dutch Architecture, Oranjestad, Aruba

SHOPPING

The three-story Royal Plaza Mall and Renaissance Mall offer incredible duty-free deals, all within easy walking distance of the port. Here you can snag luxury designer jewelry and watches, but also pick up traditional Dutch items like Delft (blue and white) pottery and locally made aloe products.
California Lighthouse Midday, Oranjestad, Aruba
California Lighthouse Midday, Oranjestad, Aruba

CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’

Perched on the northwestern tip of the island, you can climb to the top of the recently renovated California Lighthouse for panoramic views of the crashing waves of the windward coast. From 100 feet up, you can even see the tranquil waters of the leeward shore.
Insider tip
Locals love lunch, so this is when you’ll find great specials.
A Bowl of Pumpkin Soup, Oranjestad, Aruba
A Bowl of Pumpkin Soup, Oranjestad, Aruba

LOCAL CUISINE

Taste your way through the multicultural heritage of the island. Sample Argentine meat dishes, Venezuelan empanadas and arepas, and nutty Dutch cheeses. Or for something a little more Caribbean, try a hearty pumpkin soup or gumbo with some pan bati— a pancake made from wheat and corn flour.

Day 6: Cabo Rojo, Dominican Republic

Day 6
Cabo Rojo
Dominican Republic
View Itinerary
Beautiful sunset taken at Cabo Rojo, Dominican Republic
Beautiful sunset taken at Cabo Rojo, Dominican Republic
Things to do in
Cabo Rojo
From 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tucked away in the southwestern corner of the Dominican Republic, Cabo Rojo is best known for its white-sand shores, crystal-clear waters, and lush rainforests. Cruises to Cabo Rojo, Dominican Republic unlock all kinds of unforgettable experiences, from next-level beach days and rugged hikes to world-class meals and historical sights. There are plenty of things to do in Cabo Rojo, even if you're only there for a few hours — though given its beautiful beaches and captivating natural scenery, the best activities involve spending time seaside or venturing into the sprawling Jaragua National Park to spot wildlife and view local flora. There are also several small islands located just off the coast of Cabo Rojo that are easy to reach by boat. These near-virgin islands are perfect for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing. But if you prefer to stay on the mainland, you’ll have your pick of beautiful shores to choose from — including Playa Pedernales, Playa Salinas and Playa Cabo Rojo. Most offer coral reefs just offshore and plenty of shade beneath the swaying palm trees that dot the sugary-white sands.
View down to Bahia de las Aguilas Beach, Dominican Republic.
View down to Bahia de las Aguilas Beach, Dominican Republic.

Discover Ancient Art

Cabo Rojo, Dominican Republic boasts some of the region’s oldest cave art and petroglyphs. These pictograms are thousands of years old and located in caverns throughout Jaragua National Park. Notable caverns with art include El Guanal, La Poza and Mongó.
Insider tip
The best time to visit Cabo Rojo is during the dry season, which runs from December to April.
View of Jaragua National Park and Caribbean sea. Dominican republic.
View of Jaragua National Park and Caribbean sea. Dominican republic.

Wander on the Wild Side

Jaragua National Park is also home to plenty of outdoor activities, including rugged trails through mangroves, tropical forests and even desert-like landscapes. It’s also a great place to spot local wildlife, including iguanas, flamingos and all kinds of colorful and exotic birds.
Insider tip
Haggling is typically fine at local shops and market stalls here — feel free to negotiate.
Beads of blue turquoise stone lie on the counter of souvenir shop on the beach in Dominican republic
Beads of blue turquoise stone lie on the counter of souvenir shop on the beach in Dominican republic

SHOPPING

The Dominican Republic boasts a talented community of artisans, and you can browse their wares at stores throughout the port of Cabo Rojo. Head to the Mercado Municipal for souvenirs, locally made crafts, jewelry and clothing. There is also a large mall in the town with a variety of stores.
Beach in Cabo Rojo, Dominican Republic
Beach in Cabo Rojo, Dominican Republic

Find Your Slice of Paradise

Cabo Rojo has some of the most beautiful white-sand beaches in the Caribbean and some of the best in the Dominican Republic. Playa Pedernales, Playa Salinas and Playa Cabo Rojo are visitor favorites and are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, water sports and of course, relaxing.
Insider tip
Be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses — you’re going to spend most of your time outdoors.
Typical dishes from the Dominican Republic, mofongo with prawns, picatodo, encocado fish, fried cassava and moro rice
Typical dishes from the Dominican Republic, mofongo with prawns, picatodo, encocado fish, fried cassava and moro rice

LOCAL CUISINE

Much of the local cuisine in Cabo Rojo spotlights the bounty of the sea. There are a several casual restaurants along the coast that serve fresh fish and shellfish, in addition to other Dominican specialties like sancocho, mofongo and mangú.

Day 7: Navigazione

Day 7
Cruising
At Sea
View Itinerary
Icon of the Seas Basecamp Shrimp Bao
Icon of the Seas Basecamp Shrimp Bao
Memory making is on the menu
Odyssey of the Seas Giovanni's Pasta
Odyssey of the Seas Giovanni's Pasta

Giovanni’s℠ Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar

Sunday supper is served every day at the new Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar. The menu highlights Old World classics. Save room for one of the hand-tossed pizzas, delivered straight from the oven. Find the perfect pairing with a wine list that ranges from Sangiovese to Super Tuscan.

Surfside Eatery℠

Steps away from all the action, Surfside Eatery has everything your little ones are into. Satisfy breakfast and lunch cravings with a buffet of options and bond over dinner without ever having to leave your favorite part of the ship.
Izumi Hibachi Family Enjoying Meal
Izumi Hibachi Family Enjoying Meal

Izumi Hibachi & Sushi

Izumi Hibachi & Sushi℠ offers an authentic Japanese dining experience onboard, featuring fresh sushi selections and tableside teppanyaki. Enjoy an extensive maki menu indoors or al fresco in Central Park®, and be entertained by skilled chefs showcasing their culinary artistry and humor right at your table.
Smash Burger with tator tots and drink with chicken tenders
Smash Burger with tator tots and drink with chicken tenders in the background at Basecamp

Basecamp℠

Basecamp is your family’s headquarters to refuel between adventures. Choose from familiar faves like soft pretzel bites with cheese sauce, hotdogs, and smash burgers. And tee up a round of drinks before mini-golf.

Day 8: Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Day 8
Perfect Day at CocoCay
Bahamas
View Itinerary
Arrivals Plaza Perfect Day at Coco Cay Aerial
Arrivals Plaza Perfect Day at Coco Cay Aerial
Things to do in
Perfect Day at CocoCay
From 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
This isn’t vacation days spent. This is bragging rights earned. Conquer the tallest waterslide in the Caribbean and snap a shot from up to 450 feet up in a helium balloon. Grab a drink at the swim-up bar and soak up the scene in the largest freshwater pool in The Bahamas, get a taste of Bora Bora with your own Overwater Cabana, or let loose at the ultimate beach party just for adults at Hideaway Beach℠.
Perfect Day Coco Cay Slide Aerial
Perfect Day Coco Cay Slide Aerial with Navigator of the Seas in Background

Thrill Waterpark

This is the perfect location for our adrenaline seekers to enjoy a day full of adventure. Take on the tallest waterslide in the Caribbean or get swept away in the Caribbean's biggest wave pool ever. Guests can have an active day bringing out their competitive side on the four-lane Splash Speedway racers or scale the rock-climbing wall in Adventure Pool.
Insider tip
Thrill Waterpark is busiest at 10:00 am, so get there early to beat the lines.
Father and Son by the Floating Cabanas at Perfect Day at Coco Cay
Father and Son by the Floating Cabanas at Perfect Day at Coco Cay

Coco Beach Club

Upgrade the way you unwind at our exclusive private retreat, Coco Beach Club® — where every moment is elevated. Drift along the infinity pool and indulge in top-notch cuisine from the clubhouse. Or go for the ultimate experience in the firstOverwater Cabanas in The Bahamas.
Insider tip
Remember to bring closed toe shoes if you plan to ride the zip line
Perfect Day Hideaway Beach Shoreside Aerial
Perfect Day Hideaway Beach Shoreside Aerial

Hideaway Beach

You’ve finally found the ultimate beach front party in paradise just for adults — Hideaway Beach℠ only on Royal Caribbean. Swim right up to the popping Hideaway Bar℠, fueled by non-stop DJ-spun beats. Or soak up the rhythms at four more watering holes serving expertly crafted libations. Keep the energy fed with tasty pizzas from Slice of Paradise℠ and flavorful all-American faves from Snack Shack. Plus, amp up the chill in your exclusive pool at one of The Hideout cabanas. The ultimate beach bash starts now at the award-winning Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Perfect Day Coco Cay Skippers Grill Dare Devils Peak
Perfect Day Coco Cay Skippers Grill Dare Devils Peak

Island Dining

Perfect Day at CocoCay offers loads of options to fuel up in between adventures. Like harborside views, chicken wings and fries with signature dipping sauces at Captain Jack’s®. Freshly grilled burgers and barbecued chicken at Skipper’s Grill. And a full menu of Caribbean-style bites at Chill Grill. Looking to savor the suite life onshore? Access to the exclusive Coco Beach Club® includes elevated Mediterranean flavors paired with breathtaking ocean views.

Thrills & Chills

There’s no such thing as a ‘one-size-fits-all’ vacation — especially on Perfect Day® at CocoCay®. Whether your ideal beach getaway involves larger-than-life thrills or unwinding at a peaceful waterfront chill spot, you’ll find there’s no right or wrong way to make the most out of your adventure when you hop onboard the best CocoCay cruises.

Day 9: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Day 9
Fort Lauderdale
Florida
View Itinerary
Waterway in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Waterway in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Things to do in
Fort Lauderdale
Arrives at 6:00 AM
Fort Lauderdale delivers the best of both worlds— beach basking and glitzy cosmopolitan appeal. From serene Hugh Taylor Birch State Park to the buzzing Boardwalk of Hollywood (that’s Florida, not California), there’s a stretch of sand for every style of beachgoer. And jumbo yachts roam more than 300 miles of waterways in this “Venice of America.” Hitch a ride on the free Water Taxi or cruise on the Jungle Queen Riverboat before or after your Fort Lauderdale cruise. Head to the historic Stranahan House for a glimpse into Fort Lauderdale’s history and be sure to hit its modern-day backyard: the people-watching mecca of Las Olas Boulevard.
Riverwalk High Rise, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Riverwalk High Rise, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

STREET SCENE

Las Olas Boulevard, nestled next door to downtown, is the entertainment core of Fort Lauderdale. It has a mile of upscale shops and al fresco dining that runs past high-rises and into the RiverWalk, where you can catch the free water trolley for a cruise across mega-mansion-lined canals.
Everglades Bird Close Up, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Everglades Bird Close Up, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

GLADES OF GLORY

Head west and explore the Florida Everglades, an untamed river of grass spanning 2,200 acres of picturesque wetlands. Whether you take a wild ride in an airboat or splash around in a swamp buggy, you’ll encounter wild alligators and native birds thriving among Florida’s finest natural landscapes.
Beachwear Hats Shop, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
TBeachwear Hats Shop, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

SHOPPING

Pick up beachwear at The Gallery at Beach Place, or find rare books and handmade hats on Hollywood Boulevard. Dania’s Antique Row is home to some 100 dealers, while art galleries and unusual boutiques line Las Olas Boulevard. For serious bargains, head to the Sawgrass Mills outlet sprawl.
Bird's eye view of A1A, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Bird's eye view of A1A, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

VITAMIN SEA

Soak up the sun, sand and seaside fun along Fort Lauderdale Beach. Walk along the palm-lined “Strip” on State Road A1A to get your fill of beach bars, souvenir shops and outdoor restaurants. Fort Lauderdale cruises allow you to go full throttle on a Jet Ski®— or go parasailing high above the ocean.
Fresh Seafood Platter, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Fresh Seafood Platter, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

LOCAL CUISINE

You’d be hard-pressed to find a more authentic Fort Lauderdale dining experience than eating fresh-off-the-boat seafood in a waterfront eatery. Local “Floribbean” cuisine melds Caribbean and Latin-influenced flavors with locally caught fish, shrimp and crab. Surf-and-turf joints line every inch of A1A along the beach, while white tablecloths drape the majority of Las Olas sidewalk restaurants.