If you're craving sun, style, and a serious change of scenery, let me point you straight to W Fort Lauderdale — a sleek, vibrant, and energizing escape that’s just a short flight from home. I recently spent a few days at this oceanfront stunner, and it delivered on every level. Perched right along the city’s iconic beachfront, the 440-room luxury hotel blends nautical design with modern glam, making it perfect for a long weekend (or a midweek recharge) in Florida. And as the Publication Director for Garden State City Lifestyle, I'm grateful that I was invited to experience this first hand at the W Fort Lauderdale.
Where Ocean Meets Edge
The vibe hits you the second you pull up under the soaring, sail-like porte cochere. Everything feels intentional — from the hand-woven overhead sails and looped light fixtures to the floor-to-ceiling windows that keep the ocean in constant view. My room was a peaceful retreat with ombré blue curtains, wave-inspired carpets, a plush W Signature Bed, and views I didn’t want to leave.
Pool Goals, Achieved
W Fort Lauderdale has two incredible pool decks: WET East, which is buzzy and social with weekend DJs, glass walls for the perfect selfie backdrop, and colorful cocktails that make pool days feel like an event. But if you're more in the mood to relax (like I was by Day 2), WET West is your spot — quieter, more serene, and perfectly positioned for sunset views.
One thing I highly recommend? Elevating the pool experience with a Veuve Clicquot Bungalow. We booked one for the day, and it was the ultimate treat — comfy loungers, shaded seating, champagne on ice, and service that made it feel like our own private oasis.
Bites & Sips That Hit the Spot
Food and drink — or as W calls it, B&F (Beverage & Food) — are a huge part of the experience. We kicked things off with a fancy dinner at Steak 954, a Stephen Starr-run steakhouse with dry-aged cuts, fresh seafood, and a glowing 15-foot jellyfish tank that sets the mood just right. For a more playful vibe, El Vez, also by Starr, serves up bright Mexican dishes and tequila cocktails with gorgeous ocean views.
During the day, we rotated between snacks at WET Bar & Grill, healthy bites at SoBe Vegan and cocktails in the Living Room, the hotel’s lounge-style heart that’s perfect for people-watching.
Fuel Up & Glow Up
There’s no shortage of ways to recharge. We borrowed the hotel’s cruiser bikes and pedaled along the boulevard, then hit the 24/7 FIT gym for a quick workout. But my favorite way to unwind? A trip to the AWAY Spa. I booked a signature massage and a glow-up at the Glam Station, which totally reset me for a night out. (Also worth noting: this was the first full-service spa in the entire W brand. It shows.)
Love, Celebrate, or Seal the Deal
Whether you’re tying the knot, throwing a big birthday bash, or planning a corporate retreat, this hotel has space to match your vision. From oceanside terraces to the rooftop and the Mingle ballroom, every event setup is chic and photo-ready. There’s also 35,000 square feet of meeting space if you're coming in with a team — though it hardly feels like work when you’re this close to the beach.
Off the Property, Still on the Vibe
While the W truly has everything you need, we did venture off-property for a couple of local meals that were worth it. Emily’s Garden is a sweet, tucked-away spot for breakfast — the kind of place that feels like a hidden gem. And Mykonos (just a quick drive away) was perfect for dinner: lively, flavorful, and full of Mediterranean charm. It added just the right mix of local flavor to our stay.
W Fort Lauderdale
Address: 401 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Phone: (954) 414-8200
Website: marriott.com