A Guide Through The Sunshine State
Hey, I’m Chelsea and I am a South Florida girl through thick and thin. If you haven’t yet experienced all that FTL has to offer, add the destination to your list. Before you throw a bikini in your suitcase and jet set off to paradise, dive into some of my favorite recommendations, listed below. As always, shoot me a DM if you have any questions when planning a trip to good ole Laudy Daudy.
SHOP TILL YOU DROP
Make sure you have extra room in your suitcase because there are some cutteeeee stores that you’ll easily do damage at!
Two of my favorite boutiques are:
Etiquette Boutique
*click HERE for information on their four locations
The Wander Shop
*two locations:
2430 NE 13th Ave
Wilton Manors, FL 33305
____
915 N. Flagler Drive
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
!!! tell both places that I sent you :)
I also highly suggest hitting Las Olas. There are a ton of a restaurants and bars for you to wind down after a delightful day of browsing in the stores, boutiques and galleries that line Las Olas.
OH, OH! How could did I almost forget?! If you’re looking for a new sassy suit before you hit the beach or pool make a pit stop at Montce Swim.
FEED ME
The following restaurants are in no particular order and all make my mouth water just thinking about them. I’ve got you covered with everything from a hole in the wall best sub you’ll ever eat, to a fancy waterfront dining experience. BON APPETITE:
S3
Tap 42
Shooters
Laspadas
Coconuts
Loui Bossi
Bokampers
Sandbar Grille
Rocco’s Tacos
Park and Ocean
Riverside Market
South Port Raw Bar
Country Eggs and Ham
HIT THE TOWN
Now that you have a full stomach, it’s time to experience the nightlife. If you’re looking to stay out until the sun comes up, I can’t help you in that category because I’m 29 going on 92. But if you’re mood is let’s grab a cocktail and be in bed by 11PM, I got you covered::
photos by: Joel Eriksson ||| Jacket: Shop Raga
COFFEE SHOPS + JUICE BARS
Whether you’re on the hunt for a grab and go cup of Joe or if you’re looking to set up shop and knock out some work before you get your tan on, the below are my go to spots:
JB&C
Sip Java
The Alchemist
Warsaw Coffee
La Boulangerie
Ann’s Florist And Coffee Bar
Sweat It Out
I hate to burst your bubble but calories still count while on vacation. You can never go wrong with a beach walk or run - letting the sun kiss your shoulders while getting your sweat on sounds like a win / win to me. If you’re looking for more of a group class situation, drop in at either of the studios below for a feel good ass kicking:
Yoga Joint
I love their core classes.
The Fit Shop
If schedules align take Adriane as an instructor.
Pamper Yourself
Your time away wouldn’t be complete if you didn’t pamper yourself, AM I RIGHT? Here are a few suggestions if you’re looking to unwind:
Vanny Nails
I have been going to Vanny since high school to get my nails done. When making an appoitnment, ask for her or her husband Paul and they will take the best care of you!
The Red Door Spa
If you’re looking to get out of your hotel for a spa day, check into Red Door.
Pure Skin And Beaty
I get so many questions about who I go to for facials and Veila at Pure Skin And Beauty is my secret weapon. She is a skin magician and I would recommend her to anyone. My only ask when seeing her is that you give her a big hug from me!
Where To Stay
There are a variety of great options of where to stay during a trip to Fort Lauderdale. The W or The Conrad are solid beach front options. The Pelican Grand is gorgeous hotel and Riverside Hotel is conveniently located. The Dal Mar recently open and if you follow me on IG you saw a peak of their urban style for trendsetters. I could gush about the vibe of this resort for days but I’ll leave you to experience it for yourself.If I were you, I’d also look into Air B & B options - especially if you’re traveling with a group of girlfriends.
Things To Do
The Sunshine State is rich with culture, spirit, history and art. Depending on how much time you have down South or what your vibe is take a look at checking off the below must do’s from the list.
Bonnet House Museum
Visit The Stranahan House
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
Take a cruise on the Jungle Queen
Tag me in your vacations photos! I would love to see your smiling faces enjoying my hometown. Safe travels and don’t forget to apply SPF ;)
I love Florida,
Chels
All photos by the Joel Eriksson. Whether you’re looking for beautiful prints for your home or a talented photographer to capture your time in FTL, reach out to Joel and he’ll take the best care of you.
While we’re at it, check out his Instagram here!
