Plantation FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Plantation, Florida.
1. Fort Lauderdale Beach
VIBRANT CITY COASTLINE
Fort Lauderdale Beach offers a stunning stretch of golden sand along Florida's southeastern coast. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the clear blue waters, sunbathing, or strolling along the palm-lined promenade with numerous restaurants and shops. The beach is known for its clean environment and family-friendly atmosphere while still maintaining a vibrant energy that attracts visitors of all ages.
2. Las Olas Beach
UPSCALE BEACH EXPERIENCE
Las Olas Beach is an upscale beach destination connected to Fort Lauderdale's famous Las Olas Boulevard shopping and dining district. The beach features pristine sands and clear waters perfect for swimming, with excellent facilities including showers and restrooms. Its proximity to high-end restaurants and boutiques makes it a perfect beach for those seeking both relaxation and sophisticated entertainment options.
3. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
URBAN NATURAL OASIS
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is a lush natural oasis nestled between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean in Fort Lauderdale. The park features a freshwater lagoon for canoeing and kayaking, plus easy access to the adjacent beach for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing in this peaceful retreat from the surrounding urban environment.
4. Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park
HISTORIC COASTAL PRESERVE
Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park (formerly John U. Lloyd State Park) offers 2.5 miles of pristine beachfront and important historical significance as one of the few beaches open to African Americans during segregation. The park provides excellent swimming, sunbathing, and fishing opportunities, along with boat ramps for easy access to the Port Everglades Inlet. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the park's diverse ecosystems including mangrove wetlands, coastal strand, and maritime hammock.
5. Pompano Beach
DIVE AND FISHING HAVEN
Pompano Beach is a clean, family-friendly beach destination with warm, clear waters and excellent facilities. The beach is renowned for its exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities, with natural coral reefs and shipwrecks located just offshore. Visitors also enjoy the fishing pier, waterfront restaurants, and regular community events that take place along the renovated beachfront promenade.
6. Hollywood North Beach Park
SCENIC NATURAL COASTLINE
Hollywood North Beach Park spans 56 acres featuring 1.1 miles of beautiful beach access and natural coastal landscape. The park includes amenities such as a 30-foot observation tower, rinsing showers, and restrooms for visitor comfort. Nature lovers appreciate the park's commitment to preserving the native ecosystem while providing recreational opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
7. Hallandale Beach
RELAXED COASTAL GETAWAY
Hallandale Beach offers a more relaxed alternative to some of South Florida's more crowded coastal destinations. The clean, wide shoreline provides plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, and beach games without the overwhelming crowds. Visitors appreciate the nearby dining options, water sports rentals, and the beach's proximity to entertainment venues including Gulfstream Park Racing and Casino.
8. Anne's Beach
SHALLOW FAMILY-FRIENDLY WATERS
Anne's Beach in Islamorada features shallow, calm waters that make it ideal for families with young children and even dogs. The beach was fully restored after Hurricane Irma and now boasts 300 feet of boardwalk, six pavilions, and modern restroom facilities. Visitors enjoy the unique experience of wading far out into the shallow, crystal-clear waters while taking in views of the Florida Keys.
9. Fort Lauderdale Beach Park
ACTIVE RECREATION HUB
Fort Lauderdale Beach Park combines beautiful beachfront with extensive recreational facilities for an active day by the ocean. The park features volleyball courts, playground equipment, picnic areas with grills, and outdoor fitness equipment alongside the pristine beach. Its central location along Fort Lauderdale's beach strip makes it easily accessible while offering more amenities than the surrounding beach areas.
10. Keating Park
SOUTH BEACH HIDDEN GEM
Keating Park offers beach access in the South Beach area of Hollywood with a more secluded feel than larger beach parks. The park provides essential amenities including benches and restrooms while maintaining a simple, natural beach experience. Visitors seeking a quieter beach day appreciate this less-crowded alternative that still offers excellent swimming and sunbathing opportunities.