Here are the most frequently asked questions about Fort Lauderdale hotels. These cover the high-volume search topics relevant to tourists, cruisers, and beachgoers.

General Booking & Costs

Q: What is the best time of year to book a hotel in Fort Lauderdale?

A: The best time to visit for good weather and lower rates is during the “shoulder seasons” of May and October through early December.

• High Season (December – April): Expect the highest hotel rates and crowds, especially during Spring Break (March) and winter holidays.
• Low Season (June – September): Prices are lowest, but it is hot, humid, and technically hurricane season.

Q: Do hotels in Fort Lauderdale charge resort fees?

A: Yes, most beachfront and luxury hotels charge a daily Resort Fee ranging from $25 to $50+ per night. This fee typically covers amenities like Wi-Fi, two beach chairs, pool towels, and bicycle rentals. Always check the fine print when booking, as this fee is collected at the hotel and often not included in the prepaid rate.

Q: How much is the hotel tax in Fort Lauderdale?

A: You should expect to pay approximately 13% in taxes on top of your room rate. This is a combination of the 6% Florida State Sales Tax and the 6% Broward County Tourist Development Tax.

Q: What is the minimum age to check into hotels?

A: The majority of hotels in Fort Lauderdale require guests to be at least 21 years old to check in, especially during Spring Break (February–April). Some properties may allow 18-year-olds with a credit card, but you must call ahead to verify.

Q: Is parking free at Fort Lauderdale hotels?

A: Free parking is rare, especially near the beach or downtown Las Olas.

• Beach Hotels: Expect to pay $35 to $55 per night for valet or garage parking.
• Inland/Airport Hotels: Many airport and suburban hotels offer free parking, but you will need to drive or Uber to the beach (about 15-20 minutes).

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Location & Transportation

Q: Which is the best area to stay: The Beach or Downtown/Las Olas?

A: It depends on your vacation style:

• Fort Lauderdale Beach: Best for sun worshippers who want ocean views and walkable access to the sand. It is more resort-focused.
• Downtown / Las Olas Blvd: Best for foodies, shoppers, and nightlife lovers. It is located along the New River with trendy restaurants and bars, but you will need to take a Water Taxi or Uber to get to the ocean (approx. 2 miles away).

Q: How far is the airport (FLL) from the hotel zone?

A: Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is very close to the main hotel areas:

• To Cruise Port Hotels (17th St): ~10 minutes.
• To Fort Lauderdale Beach: ~15–20 minutes.
• To Downtown: ~10–15 minutes.
• Ride Cost: An Uber/Lyft usually costs between $15–$25, while taxis are slightly higher.

Q: Do hotels offer shuttle service to the beach?

A: If you stay at an airport hotel or a downtown property, some offer a complimentary shuttle to the beach, but they often run on a limited schedule (e.g., once every hour). If you stay on Fort Lauderdale Beach (A1A), the beach is just across the street.

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Cruise Passengers (Port Everglades)

Q: Which hotels are closest to the Port Everglades cruise port?

A: The closest hotels are located along SE 17th Street. Popular options include the Hilton Marina, Renaissance Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port, and Embassy Suites. These are less than a 5-minute drive to the terminal gates.

Q: Do hotels offer free shuttles to the cruise port?

A: Many hotels near the airport and 17th Street offer shuttles to Port Everglades. Some are free, while others charge a per-person fee (typically $10–$15). Beach hotels rarely offer free port shuttles; you will likely need a taxi or rideshare.

Q: Can I book a hotel for just the day (Day Room) while waiting for a flight or cruise?

A: Yes, several hotels offer “Day Passes” or “Day Use Rooms” for cruisers disembarking in the morning with late flights. Services like ResortPass allows you to book pool usage at resorts like The Westin or The Atlantic Hotel & Spa for the day without an overnight stay.

Q: Can I leave my luggage at the hotel if I arrive early before check-in?

A: Yes, virtually all hotels will store your luggage at the bell stand for free (tipping recommended) if you arrive before the 4:00 PM check-in or need to store bags after checking out at 11:00 AM.

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Amenities & Rules

Q: Are Fort Lauderdale beaches private or public?

A: All beaches in Fort Lauderdale are public. While hotels may have a private section of chairs and umbrellas for guests on the sand, they cannot block the public from walking on the beach.

Q: Is alcohol allowed on Fort Lauderdale Beach?

A: No. Open containers of alcohol are strictly prohibited on the sandy beach and sidewalks. However, many beachfront hotels have servers who can bring drinks to you if you are seated in their specific licensed lounge chair area.

Q: Are hotels pet-friendly?

A: Fort Lauderdale is a very pet-friendly city. Many hotels (like the W Fort Lauderdale and The Westin) accept pets, though they usually charge a non-refundable pet fee ($100–$250).

• Note: Dogs are not allowed on the general beach sand. They are only allowed at the designated “Canine Beach” (Sunrise Blvd & A1A) on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Q: Is the tap water safe to drink at hotels?

A: Yes, the tap water is safe to drink and meets all federal safety standards. However, it can sometimes have a slight sulfur smell or “warm” taste common in Florida. Most travelers prefer bottled water for taste, which is usually provided in hotel rooms.