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Underrated Fort Lauderdale is one of the coolest cities in Florida, but it’s still fairly under-the-radar as far as vacation destinations go. But that’s fine — encourage everyone to go to Miami and Orlando so you can have this Gulf Coast city all to yourself.
Often called the “Venice of America,” Fort Lauderdale offers beautiful beaches, a vibrant arts scene, and lively nightlife for everyone from dancers and wine lovers to fans of theatre and music.
Situated on Florida’s southeastern coast, Fort Lauderdale is probably best known for the picturesque canals that cut through the city streets, but it’s a city that wears many hats. Not only is it both a spring and summer destination and delightfully low-key in the winter, but it’s also more sophisticated than you’d expect, with a thriving art scene and influences from Cuban, Caribbean, and southern cultures.
So whether you’re a beach bum, a culture enthusiast, or a party-goer, it’s no exaggeration to say that this city is bound to please. No matter your interests, you’ll want to make time for shopping on Las Olas Boulevard, taking peaceful strolls along the Riverwalk, and squeezing in some excellent nature viewing at Taylor Birch State Park. Of course, the restaurants never disappoint and you can make your own food tour of local cuisines such as gator bites, fresh stone crabs, and Cuban and Caribbean dishes.
Before you embark on your trip to Florida, check out the best airbnbs in Fort Lauderdale below to ensure your lodging is as fun as the rest of your vacation.
Related Read: 9 Incredible Treehouse Rentals in Florida
1. Retro Modern House
Why you should stay: An affordable mid-century modern home near trendy Las Olas Blvd.
- Sleeps: 4
- Minimum stay: 1 night
- Rates start from: $71/night
Sure, Florida may be mostly known for art-deco architecture (thanks, Miami), but this Retro Modern House is all mid-century, with trendy design accents and era-appropriate furniture. The kitchen and dining area are the first spaces to catch your eye with an attractive tiled backsplash, a modern chandelier, and stunning navy blue cabinets. Cozy accents dot the home, such as funky art and fun patterned textiles.
Guests enjoy access to two parking spaces as well as close proximity to Las Olas Blvd., just a five-minute drive (or taxi ride) away. There are also plenty of trendy restaurants and bars you can walk to if you prefer to leave the car at home.
Check Availability“The place was super cute. Very stylish and modern. Everything was spotless and sparkling clean.”
Related read: 9 Exciting Weekend Road Trips from Miami, Florida
2. Casa Verano Villa
Why you should stay: A cute little villa with everything you need for fun in the sun.
- Sleeps: 2
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates start from: $76/night
The Casa Verano Villa is an urban oasis with a fabulous outdoor area. You’ll find everything you need to enjoy the Florida sunshine, including a heated pool, a gazebo, a grill, an outdoor ping pong table, sun loungers, and lawn games like cornhole — “bags”, to you Midwesterners. The outdoor space is shared with another airbnb owned by the same host, so you could even rent both to accomodate friends traveling together.
The property is only three miles from the beach and also features on-site laundry, a kitchenette with a mini-fridge, a coffee maker, and a microwave for light food prep at home. But it’s one of the more affordable airbnbs in Fort Lauderdale, especially considering it comes with a mostly private pool.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 10 Best Cabin Rentals in Florida for a Relaxing Vacay
3. Positive Vibes at the Hyde
Why you should stay: A contemporary condo on an upper floor with a stunning city view.
- Sleeps: 3
- Minimum stay: 3 nights
- Rates start from: $100/night
Perhaps the highest-elevation of the airbnbs in Fort Lauderdale, you can live the life of Riley in a condo with positive vibes at the Hyde. This private condo is in the same building as the Hyde Hotel and guests can make full use of the resort’s amenities. You can access the swimming pool, spa, fitness center, and hotel restaurant for an additional fee.
In this clean and contemporary condo, guests enjoy a spacious balcony with breathtaking views overlooking the ocean and the surrounding area of Hollywood. It’s about 20 minutes from the Fort Lauderdale airport. There’s a pretty steep parking fee at the building, so you may be better off looking for parking elsewhere downtown.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 9 Gorgeous Beachfront Airbnbs in Florida
4. Little Cottage By The Pine Tree
Why you should stay: A charming cottage in a quiet, historic neighborhood just 15 minutes by bike from Las Olas.
- Sleeps: 4
- Minimum stay: 1 night
- Rates start from: $58/night
Just a short drive from the Fort Lauderdale airport sits the cute Little Cottage by the Pine Tree with a blue door. This clean and bright one-bedroom cottage is in a peaceful, historic neighborhood near Lauderdale Memorial Park. The home is also close to local beaches and within biking distance to the city’s main attractions. It’s a great spot to base yourself if you want to park your car and forget it for the rest of your stay, and it’s also one of the most budget-friendly options in Fort Lauderdale considering it sleeps four.
With your booking, the hosts provide two bikes, beach essentials, complimentary coffee, tea, and toiletries. The hosts live in a house that sits on the same property and are very welcoming and accommodating.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 8 Weekend Road Trips From Tampa, Florida
5. Conrad Hotel Condo
Why you should stay: A classy condo with access to high-end amenities at a wallet-friendly price.
- Sleeps: 4
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates start from: $115/night
Perched high up on the 12th floor, this Conrad Hotel condo welcomes guests to Fort Lauderdale with spectacular views of the city from a private balcony.
This condo may be housed in a hotel, but this private and homey unit is equipped with a kitchen and a high-end bathroom complete with a soaking tub, Italian marble countertops, and a walk-in shower. It’s also just across the street from Fort Lauderdale Beach to make it easy to spend all day in the sun.
Check Availability“This is a fantastic apartment in a luxury hotel. Being able to partake in all of the amenities at the hotel … especially the pool and beach services.”
Related Read: 10 of the Best Airbnbs in Jacksonville, Florida
6. BlueEden
Why you should stay: Two bedrooms plus a private swimming pool, hammock, and pergola with string slights.
- Sleeps: 5
- Minimum stay: 4 nights
- Rates start from: $179/night
BlueEden is a lovely home with a well-manicured outdoor space complete with a patio dining table, a grill, and a luxurious in-ground swimming pool. The beach is a quick 10-minute drive away and the hosts provide most beach essentials.
You’ll even find on-site laundry and detergent for easy clean up after a day in the ocean. Inside, beach-appropriate colors like blue and peach pair perfectly with the wooden accent wall and furniture. Guests also enjoy the fully stocked kitchen and the complementary provided shampoo and conditioner.
Check Availability7. Singer House on the Water
Why you should stay: Live like a local in a modern two-bedroom on thee canals.
- Sleeps: 6
- Minimum stay: 2 nights
- Rates start from: $230/night
The Singer House on the Water is a beautiful townhouse with hotel-style amenities that’ll serve as the perfect welcome to Fort Lauderdale. As you step inside, an all-glass facade brightens the colorful living room, and the host’s quirky-yet-tasteful art is sure to put a smile on your face. The bathroom is sparkling clean and features a walk-in shower and fresh towels.
Out back, enjoy a relaxing soak in the private hot tub or lounge in one of three seating areas. Along the side of the home, a yellow-striped awning covers a patio complete with a flat-screen TV, plush sofa, and a dining table. There’s also another small uncovered patio, as well as a path that leads to a dock shared with a neighboring unit. This is certainly one of the best waterfront airbnbs in Fort Lauderdale, and not just because of the views – the owners can even arrange a private boat tour of the canals, leaving right from your backyard.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 10 of the Best Airbnbs in Daytona Beach, Florida
8. Victoria’s House
Why you should stay: A hip rental with modern interior design, an in-ground swimming pool, and a jacuzzi.
- Sleeps: 5
- Minimum stay: 4 nights
- Rates start from: $282/night
Victoria’s House is a gorgeous home that features impeccable design elements and luxury amenities. The home’s entrance is enshrouded in greenery and gives you the feeling of entering a peaceful garden oasis. And the stylish backyard features a turf accent wall, string lights, and a hanging hammock chair for cozy relaxation next to the in-ground pool.
Inside, you’ll find an equally stylish interior where wooden elements, gold accents, and pops of color marry together to create a cheerful atmosphere. The property is located less than 10 minutes by car from the nearest beach and Las Olas Boulevard.
Check Availability9. Villa Blanca
Why you should stay: Lux three-bedroom riverfront home with a heated saltwater pool.
- Sleeps: 8
- Minimum stay: 3 nights
- Rates start from: $384/night
Luxury, thy name is Villa Blanca. It’s one of the more stunning airbnbs in Fort Lauderdale, offering large groups a high-end but extremely comfortable experience in the city. On the ground floor, large panels of windows allow natural sunlight to pour in and create a bright and airy atmosphere. Contemporary decor fills the space, and there are three bathrooms and three bedrooms for the utmost in privacy.
This property also boasts a private backyard with sun loungers, ample patio seating, two outdoor showers, and a grill beside the in-ground swimming pool. The hosts provide two paddleboards and a kayak for a bit of water fun on the river. Local restaurants and shops are within walking distance, so you don’t have to go far for great food.
Check AvailabilityPlan Your Trip to Fort Lauderdale, Florida
There’s something for everyone in Fort Lauderdale. Once you’ve picked your favorite of the airbnbs in Fort Lauderdale, all that’s left to do is plan your trip. Here are some of the best things to do and see in the “Venice of America” to help you plan your trip.
- Work on your tan at Deerfield Beach, Pompano Beach, or Fort Lauderdale Beach.
- Escape the city to marvel at local wildlife and natural attractions at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, Sawgrass Recreation Park, and the Flamingo Gardens.
- Take a boat tour on the ocean or a gondola ride along Fort Lauderdale’s picturesque canals.
- Take a walk along the Riverwalk and enjoy shopping and fine dining on Las Olas Boulevard.
- Explore the Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District, where the Bonnet House Museum and the Florida Grand Opera sit between excellent shopping and dining.
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Seen in: Florida, Southeast, Where to Stay
