Fort Lauderdale Lodging Guide: Hotels, RV Resorts & More
If you’re planning a trip to South Florida, one of the first questions you’ll need to answer is where to stay in Fort Lauderdale. Whether you’re visiting for a beach vacation, a boating adventure, an Everglades excursion, or an extended stay, Greater Fort Lauderdale offers lodging options for every travel style and budget.
From traditional hotels and waterfront resorts to campgrounds, marinas, and RV accommodations, choosing the right Fort Lauderdale lodgings can really take your experience to the next level.
Hotels: Convenient and Familiar
Hotels remain one of the most common lodging choices in Fort Lauderdale. Visitors can find everything from budget-friendly chains to luxury beachfront resorts along the Atlantic coast.
Hotels might work best for travelers who:
- Enjoy being located near restaurants, nightlife, and attractions
- Enjoy having amenities such as room service, pools, fitness centers
- Plan to stay for a shorter period of time
- Don’t require outdoor space or space for vehicles
You can expect hotels to potentially have higher nightly costs, parking costs, and less space.
Campgrounds: A Nature-Focused Experience
Travelers seeking a more outdoors-oriented vacation may enjoy staying at a campground. South Florida offers several camping opportunities that provide access to nature while remaining within driving distance of Fort Lauderdale’s beaches and attractions.
Campgrounds appeal to travelers who:
- Like being outdoors
- Seek budget-friendly accommodations
- Are looking for a more rugged experience
- Plan on spending time outdoors
Visitors often take day trips to the Everglades and surrounding wildlife sanctuaries, as well.
RV Resorts: Comfort Meets Flexibility
RV resorts are continuing to gain popularity from travelers seeking flexibility beyond a hotel while wanting many of the same modern comforts.
RV resorts offer:
- Full hookups
- Recreational facilities
- Long-term stays
- Privacy and space
- Spacious parking
And RV resorts offer snowbirds, long-term travelers, and boaters an affordable and convenient option.
Marinas and Waterfront Lodging
Fort Lauderdale is known as the “Yachting Capital of the World” and draws visitors from around the globe who travel by boat. You’ll find waterfront and marina-based hotels that allow easy access to Fort Lauderdale’s many waterways.
Booking a hotel near the water is perfect if you want:
- Fishing charters
- Sightseeing cruises
- Water sports
- Island hopping
- Scenic boat tours
Waterfront locations also make it easy to explore Fort Lauderdale’s famous canals and Intracoastal Waterway.
Exploring the Everglades During Your Stay
One reason many travelers visit South Florida is to experience the unique ecosystem of the Everglades. When considering where to stay Fort Lauderdale, proximity to these adventures may be an important factor.
Favorite tours are:
- Everglades day safaris
- Guided Everglades airboat tours
- Wildlife viewing opportunities featuring alligators
- Photography tours
- Informative tours of the ecosystem
Visitors often enjoy Holiday Park as well, another hub for airboat and wildlife tours.
Daytime Wildlife Adventures
Explore the native species of animals that live here in their natural habitat at the nearby Everglades ecosystem. Many locals and visitors spot wildlife such as birds and reptiles roaming around in this world-renowned park.
Take your family or enjoy some outdoor time by yourself in the Everglades for an entirely different experience on your Fort Lauderdale vacation.
Evening and Night Experiences
For travelers seeking something unique, several operators offer night tours that showcase the Everglades after dark. These guided experiences allow visitors to witness nocturnal wildlife activity and see a different side of this remarkable environment.
The nearby National Park system also offers educational exhibits and ranger-led programs throughout the year.
Why Many Travelers Choose Yacht Haven
For visitors looking for something beyond a traditional hotel, Yacht Haven offers a distinctive lodging experience that combines the benefits of a waterfront marina with modern RV accommodations, like:
- Waterfront views
- Roomy living quarters
- Close proximity to Fort Lauderdale attractions
- Centrally located for boaters and RV travelers
- Quiet retreat from congested tourist destinations
- South Florida boating and outdoor recreation
Its location also makes it easy to explore Greater Fort Lauderdale, nearby beaches, local dining, and popular attractions throughout the region.
Choosing the Right Fort Lauderdale Lodging
This really depends on what type of traveler you are.
Some travelers love hotels, and if that’s you, then book the stay! Maybe you’re driving down to the beach for the weekend. If so, a campground might be your best bet.
But for long-term stays or more flexibility around your visit, Yacht Haven has you covered. Whether you’re looking for waterfront living in an RV, your yacht, or even our new RVbnbs, you’ll have all the accommodations you need on-site.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fort Lauderdale Lodging
Is an RV resort a good alternative to a hotel?
Yes. Especially if you’re traveling with an RV, resorts may offer more space, extended-stay options, and parking than hotels. Snowbirds, road trippers, boaters, and family visitors looking for an extended stay in South Florida may enjoy staying at a resort.
How far is the Everglades from Fort Lauderdale?
Many Everglades attractions are located within 30 to 60 minutes of Fort Lauderdale, depending on your starting point and destination. Visitors can easily plan a day trip to enjoy an Everglades day safari, wildlife viewing, or one of the area’s popular Everglades airboat tours.
What should boaters look for when choosing Fort Lauderdale lodging?
Boaters should consider proximity to marinas, available dockage, waterfront access, security, and nearby services. Staying at a marina-focused property like Yacht Haven Park & Marina can provide convenient access to Fort Lauderdale’s extensive network of waterways and boating destinations.
What is the best RV resort in the Fort Lauderdale area?
Of course, we would say this, but we truly believe Yacht Haven is the best RV resort in the Fort Lauderdale area. Its location makes it an excellent home base for exploring the surrounding beaches, activities, dining, shopping, and events, while providing a quiet, scenic respite from the excitement. Yacht Haven also offers a hurricane-protected marina for boaters and yachters.
Plan Your Fort Lauderdale Stay
Ready to discover the best of South Florida?
Whether you’re exploring beaches, booking boat tours, visiting the Everglades, or simply enjoying everything Greater Fort Lauderdale has to offer, choosing the right lodging can help make your trip more fun.
Contact Yacht Haven today to learn more about available accommodations and start planning your Fort Lauderdale getaway.

