sharon5847

Hi, I think I've narrowed it down to Lago Mar, Atlantic Hotel and Spa and Harbor Beach Marriott.

Do you have opinions?

Thank you!

Dukey1

All I can tell you (I live in Ft. Lauderdale) is that the Lago Mar and the Marriott are somewhat close to one another on the more or less "south" end of the beach and the Atlantic is further north. The Atlantic actually sits across the street from the actual beach so you have to cross Ocean Drive to get to the sand.

The Lago Mar likes to say it has some sort of "private beach" but the whole "private beach" thing is an issue for some here in Florida because technically, there aren't any. Bottom line for you: that private beach may have a few interlopers but I'm sure they'll be quite polite.

The Marriott hotel's restaurant seems to have a fairly good rep here in town if that is of interest.

It is a bit quieter near the Marriott although there are several other hotels right next door. The so-called "gay beach" is close to the Atlantic. But don't be put off by that since none of us bite straight people.

Have a great time here in town

sharon5847

Thanks Dukey I'm still trying to find the right place but Atlantic is out for the fact that you have to cross Ocean Drive.

I'm all over the place!

IMDonehere

But don't be put off by that since none of us bite straight people.

____

There are just too many jokes that could get me permanently banned--again.

Dukey1

I understand the reluctance to have to cross Ocean Drive although it isn't nearly as bad as it might seem. Not like crossing I-95 or anything. All of the hotels at that end of the beach are across the street from the sand including the Marriott Courtyard location.

The Marriott is on the beach as is the Lago.

Dukey1

The Westin, however, does have an enclosed elevated walkway to the beach.

sharon5847

Oh, THAT is interesting. Let me go check it out. Thank you again!

sharon5847

Dukey1, where would YOU stay if you were vacationing in Fort Lauderdale?

Dukey1

I have a big guest room in my condo which is on the beach just north of where you guys will be <G>.

Frankly, I think the Marriott Harbor Beach is fine; the Westin is a bit closer (walking distance-wise) to most of the beach stuff including the bars, restaurants, and so-forth. The Marriott would be closer to the Swimming Hall of Fame and a few of the eating places at the southern end of the beach strip.

If you have a car then that obviously makes getting around a lot easier but it is not absolutely necessary if you want to concentrate your activities on the beach stuff.

sharon5847

Perhaps I should start a new topic for this, but I'm going to ask here anyway; water sports? Are they there?

sharon5847

Can you suggest a less expensive option? I guess that means across Ocean Drive?

Dukey1

Who said anything about a less expensive option anywhere on this thread? The W, for example,is "across Ocean Drive and if you think that place is "less expensive" because of its location please think again.

And yes, water sports are available. Will you have a car?

sharon5847

Yes I plan to have a car. Shall I start a new thread for less expensive options? My budget has been reduced a bit.

Thanks!

girlonthego

I stayed at the Marriott about a year and a half ago and it is a very nice resort hotel. It is off the main drag, but sits on a very nice stretch of beach. I would definitely stay there again!

sharon5847

Thank you! What is the quality of the sand there is it very shelly?

What is an option ON the main drag?

Thanks.

girlonthego

I remember the sand being very nice. I don't remember shells, but it was a year and half ago. We were there for new years 2013. The hotel was set on it's own, but not far from everything. The beaches were supposedly private, but being on the end made it less busy from the strip area. I was happily removed from the strip, but you can walk or drive up and park and walk the strip.
The resort was large and was very nice and I would return again.

bumper

I also live in Ft. Lauderdale. For a nice weekend getaway we like the Lago Mar. The beach is not as active as Ft. Lauderdale Beach so if you want close access to restaurants, tourist shops, etc. the Westin would be a better choice. If you want a quieter resort with a good restaurant and pool, I would recommend Lago Mar highly. As for a restaurant recommendation I would strongly suggest eating on the deck at Coconuts and on Las Olas for a good meal at a reasonable price with excellent service, I would recommend Mango's.