Fort Lauderdale is a paradise, no doubt — boats gliding through sunlit canals, cocktails at Las Olas, and sandy toes at sunrise. But here’s the real secret: some of South Florida’s most fun, quirky, and unforgettable experiences lie just beyond the beach towels and boardwalks.
From sunken ships in Pompano to tiki bars in Hollywood, dog bars in Wilton Manors to hidden snorkeling reefs in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, these nearby towns are full of personality, local charm, and surprises you won’t find on a brochure.
Staying with Grimaldi Fort Lauderdale Vacation Rentals puts you in the perfect spot to explore them all — and live like a local while doing it.
1. 🌈 Wilton Manors: The Island City Where Pride Never Sleeps
Less than 10 minutes from downtown Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors is bursting with color, culture, and cocktails.
Quirky Facts:
- Known as “The Island City” because it’s surrounded by the Middle River.
- Has one of the highest LGBTQ+ populations per capita in the U.S.
- You’ll find rainbow crosswalks, drag brunches, and Pride festivals year-round.
- Locals and their pups hang at The Yard — a literal dog bar with drinks for humans and treats for pets.
Don’t Miss:
- Shopping quirky boutiques on Wilton Drive
- Watching a themed drag show at Lips
- Getting late-night tacos after dancing at The Pub
📍 Grimaldi Tip: Stay in one of our walkable Wilton Manors rentals — pet-friendly, stylish, and in the heart of it all.
2. 🚤 Pompano Beach: Shipwrecks, Piers & Pineapple History
Drive 20 minutes north of Fort Lauderdale and you’ll hit Pompano Beach, a coastal town where the past and the ocean come together in unexpected ways.
Fun & Funky Facts:
- Home to 20+ sunken ships and artificial reefs — a snorkeler’s and diver’s paradise.
- Was once the pineapple capital of the U.S.
- Locals still celebrate with the annual Pompano Beach Seafood Festival and Pineapple Festival.
- The new pier lights up like a spaceship and features a fish-cleaning station with ocean views.
Do This:
- Snorkel at Shipwreck Park
- Eat fresh mahi tacos at Beach House Pompano
- Bike the beach promenade at sunset
📍 Grimaldi Tip: We have nearby vacation homes that make beach trips and reef dives easy breezy.
3. 🏖️ Hollywood Beach: Broadwalks, Bikes & Jimmy Buffett Vibes
No, not Hollywood, California. We’re talking Hollywood, Florida — a laid-back beach town with its own flavor and flair.
Why It’s Cool:
- Features the famous Hollywood Beach Broadwalk (yes, Broadwalk — not boardwalk).
- It’s over 2.5 miles long, filled with ice cream shops, tiki bars, beach bikes, and barefoot live music.
- One of the first eco-certified “Blue Wave” beaches in the country.
- Home to Margaritaville, where live Jimmy Buffett cover bands play every night.
What to Try:
- Rent a pedal-powered banana bike
- Hit Florence Italian Street Food for a meatball panini
- Grab a cocktail from Nicks Bar, a local legend
📍 Grimaldi Tip: Take a day trip south for the Broadwalk, then return to your Grimaldi rental to unwind.
4. 🐚 Lauderdale-by-the-Sea: The Snorkeling Town You’ve Never Heard Of (But Should Visit Now)
Tucked just north of Fort Lauderdale, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is a postcard-perfect beach town that’s big on charm and low on crowds.
What Makes It Magical:
- The only town in South Florida where you can snorkel directly from the shore.
- No high-rises allowed — all buildings are capped at 4 stories to keep the small-town vibe.
- Locals dance in the street during Friday night live music at the town square.
Must-Do List:
- Snorkel the coral reef 100 yards offshore
- Fish off Anglin’s Pier
- Dine at Aruba Beach Café with your feet in the sand
📍 Grimaldi Tip: Stay in a Fort Lauderdale rental and plan a relaxing afternoon escape here.
5. 🎰 Dania Beach: Gambling, Jai Alai & Antique Gold
Between Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood lies the quirky little town of Dania Beach, filled with unexpected treasures.
Why It’s a Vibe:
- The Casino @ Dania Beach offers live Jai Alai matches, slots, and all-you-can-eat crab legs.
- Visit the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame — the world’s largest sportfishing museum.
- Browse Antique Row, packed with funky vintage furniture and rare finds.
- Dania Beach itself is one of the last “untouched” beaches — no big hotels, just sand and sea.
Worth Your Time:
- Try your luck at the casino
- Watch a Jai Alai match (you’ll be hooked!)
- Catch a sunrise at the quiet Dania Beach pier
📍 Grimaldi Tip: Spend a quirky day in Dania, then head back to your waterfront rental for a private dinner under the palms.
6. 🍍 Delray Beach: Art, Pineapples, and Atlantic Avenue
About 35 minutes north of Fort Lauderdale is Delray Beach, a town known for its art, nightlife, and village vibes.
Local Fun Facts:
- Home to the Pineapple Grove Arts District
- Hosts the Delray Affair, the largest arts & crafts street fair in the Southeast
- Atlantic Avenue is one of the best nightlife and restaurant strips outside of Miami
Highlights:
- Explore public murals and galleries
- Brunch hard at El Camino
- Chill at Delray Municipal Beach, wide and walkable
📍 Grimaldi Tip: Great for a day trip filled with color, creativity, and cocktails.
Stay Local, Explore More: Book with Grimaldi Fort Lauderdale Vacation Rentals
Each of these towns brings a new flavor of South Florida to life — and when you stay with Grimaldi, you’re close to all of it.
🏡 Why Book with Grimaldi:
- Central homes near Las Olas, Wilton Manors, and Victoria Park
- Easy day trips to Pompano, Hollywood, Dania, and Delray
- Properties with private pools, boat docks, outdoor kitchens, and beach access
- Personalized service from local experts who actually live here
🎯 Experience every side of South Florida — from snorkeling reefs and antique shops to gay bars and gambling halls — all from one perfect home base.
