Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no cost to you, I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase through the links in this article.
Dania Beach is a quiet stretch of sand located just south of Fort Lauderdale Airport that offers a perfect alternative to popular beaches in the area. If you are looking for a quiet getaway where you can enjoy the sound of the crashing waves and enjoy nature, this place is for you!
✅ Check: The best beachfront hotels in Fort Lauderdale
Where is Daria Beach?
The town sits between Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood along the southeastern coast of Florida. It’s approximately 25 minutes north of Miami and 10 minutes south of downtown Fort Lauderdale.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN DANIA BEACH
1. Have a lazy beach day
The best thing to do here is to simply head to the beach and enjoy the sun and the views.
2. Take a stroll along the pier
The long wooden pier is one of the most popular landmarks in the area, and you can’t miss it when visiting the town. It’s a great spot for watching local fishermen, enjoying the spectacular views of the gorgeous Florida beach, and catching some sun. Be careful when walking around, as it’s not uncommon for the fishing gear to be laying around on the floor.
How much is the entrance to Dania Beach Pier?
The entrance to the pier is $2 for daily sightseers and $3 for fishermen. The pier is open every day from (6 a.m. to midnight)
Does Fort Lauderdale have a pier?
While Fort Lauderdale doesn’t have a pier, Dania Beach has a pier where you can get a good view of the beach area and the Atlantic Ocean.
The pier offers opportunities for fishing and enjoying panoramic views of the coastline. You can take a stroll along the pier, take some photos and watch the fishermen.
Dania Beach Pier also has a beachside Quarterdeck Restaurant, which is a perfect place to grab a bite to eat or enjoy a refreshing beverage while enjoying the ocean breeze.
3. Enjoy outdoor activities
The area is known for its great recreation scene. Here you can enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, or canoeing along the nearby waterways, such as the Dania Cut-Off Canal and the nearby New River.
4. Go shopping at Dania Pointe
Dania Pointe is an outdoor shopping and entertainment center just south of Fort Lauderdale International Airport with many stores, restaurants, and a movie theater.
5. Take your pup to Hollywood dog beach
Hollywood Dog Beach is located between Pershing and Custer Streets. It’s a fantastic spot to let your four-legged friend enjoy the sand and surf.
6. Hike in the jungle
Located nearby in Fort Lauderdale, the Secret Woods Nature Center offers nature trails, a butterfly garden, and an interpretive center. Here you can enjoy a peaceful escape surrounded by lush vegetation, which makes for a perfect break from the beach on a hot sunny day.
7. Spot wildlife at Anne Kolb Nature Center
Anne Kolb Nature Center is a 1,500-acre nature preserve that has hiking trails, mangrove forests, and an observation tower. You can spot various wildlife, including birds, turtles, and alligators.
Address: 751 Sheridan St, Hollywood, FL 33019
8. Try your luck at casino
The recently renovated casino has a variety of slot machines, poker tables, and live entertainment options.
Address: 301 E Dania Beach Blvd, Dania Beach, FL 33004
9. Browse through Antique Row
Antique Row is a charming stretch of shops along Federal Highway where you can find unique vintage items, antiques, and collectibles.
Things to do in Dania Beach at night
If you want to have a fun night out, head to the pier for a sunset, and later go for dinner at the Tiki Tiki bar near the beach. If you are in the mood to try your luck, head to a casino, or if you are looking to explore the area more, visit Las Olas Boulevard, one of the most popular venues in the Fort Lauderdale area that has the best restaurants in town.
What’s the closest airport to Dania Beach?
The closest airport to the area is Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). It has flights from many destinations in the United States as well as flights from Mexico, South America, and Central America.
How to get around Dania Beach?
The best way to get around the area is by car. If you are flying into Fort Lauderdale, you can rent a car at the airport, which will allow you to explore the area more, check out popular spots in the area like Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale, go shopping, and visit other popular beaches in the area including Hollywood Beach, Pompano Beach or Lauderdale by the Sea which is popular for diving.
Where to rent a car in Dania Beach?
Go to DiscoverCars, an online platform that has dozens of cars of different makes and models that work for any budget. All you need to do is choose your travel dates and preferred types of vehicles, and you will be able to browse the available options.
I have used DiscoverCars many times and always had a great experience with them. They have a flexible cancellation policy that allows you to get a refund when you cancel your reservation within (24 hours) of its start date, and they also have no hidden fees or surcharges.
Additionally, you can purchase your car insurance through DiscoverCars, which will save you a lot of time. When you get to your car rental agency, all you need to do is show your documents and sign the paperwork before you can get on your way.
RESTAURANTS IN DANIA BEACH FLORIDA
Are there any Dania Beach boardwalk restaurants?
The only boardwalk restaurant along this beach is Quarterdeck, a casual waterfront eatery and bar, located next to the pier. It offers fresh seafood, burgers, and a variety of appetizers. Here you can enjoy outdoor seating with views of the marina and the gorgeous beach.
Paradise Tiki
Tiki is a casual bar located near the beach with wooden swings and a thatched roof where you can try sandwiches, cocktails, and various dishes influenced by Hawaiian and Caribbean cuisines like poke bowls, ceviche, Kilauea, and cheese quesadilla.
Holi Vegan Kitchen
Located 5 minutes away in Hallandale, Holi Vegan Kitchen is one of the best plant-based restaurants in the Fort Lauderdale area that has tons of delicious options like quesadillas, wraps, burgers, and tacos. The restaurant also has an extensive drink menu with popular items like smoothies, energy shots, coffee, and freshly squeezed juices.
Grumpy Gary’s at Dockers
Grumpy Gary is a popular casual restaurant that offers seafood options, as well as macaroni and burgers. It’s a perfect place to grab a bite after spending a day at the beach.
Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlor and Restaurant
This classic ice cream shop serves up delicious ice cream creations and classic American fare. It’s famous for its enormous sundaes, banana splits, and old-fashioned ambiance.
Le Tub Saloon
Located in an old gas station in the City of Hollywood, Le Tub Saloon is known for its mouthwatering burgers and waterfront dining. It has a relaxed, quirky atmosphere and has been featured on various food shows.
The Field Irish Pub & Eatery
If you’re looking for a taste of Ireland, head to The Field Irish Pub. This authentic Irish pub offers traditional Irish dishes, a selection of beers, and live music on certain nights.
Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza
One of the most popular pizza places in Fort Lauderdale, Anthony’s is one of the most popular pizza places in Fort Lauderdale. It’s located near Fort Lauderdale Airport just north of the beach.
BEST HOTELS IN DANIA BEACH FLORIDA
Dania Beach has many good hotels close to Fort Lauderdale Airport. Here’s a quick list of the best places to stay in the area:
Wyndham Garden Ft Lauderdale Airport
Wyndham Garden is one of the most popular hotels near Fort Lauderdale Airport that has a fitness center, shared lounge, a restaurant and bar. Free airport shuttle and breakfast are included.
✅ CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY
Tru By Hilton Ft Lauderdale Airport
Tru by Hilton makes a perfect stay, if you are looking for a central location within walking distance to stores and restaurants and a quick drive to the beach.
✅ CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY
Hyatt House Fort Lauderdale Airport
A popular hotel with spacious rooms and free shuttle, Hyatt is a pet-friendly stay where you can relax before the flight. The hotel has a fitness center, outdoor swimming pool and free parking.
✅ CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY
What’s the weather like in Dania Beach Florida?
The weather here is the same as the weather in South Florida with a tropical humid climate most of the year. Winters here are mild with average temperatures in the mid-60s to and low 70s degree Fahrenheit and hot and humid summers with average temperatures in the upper 80s to the low 90s Fahrenheit.
Like in the rest of South Florida, the area sees the most rainfall from June to September. During this time, afternoon thunderstorms are common, bringing heavy rainfall. The rest of the year sees lower rainfall levels, although some precipitation can occur throughout the year.
How to get to Dania Beach?
You can reach this town via Interstate 95 (I-95) from the north or south. Take exit 22 onto Griffin Road and go east. If you’re coming from the west, take the Florida Turnpike (Exit 53) and head east on Griffin Road.
Parking at Dania Beach
The area has parking spots available specifically for beachgoers. These lots are located near the beach access points and may have hourly or daily parking rates. Be sure to check the signage, as rates could vary during speacial events or holidays like the Fourth of July.
How much is parking at Dania Beach?
Parking costs $2 per hour, via the PaybyPhone app. You can pay online, or by mobile app. Don’t make a mistake by thinking that you can leave your car without paying a fee because the parking lot is patrolled by the city workers who check all vehicles.
When I first visited this beach, I got a ticket after leaving my car in a parking space for just one hour without paying for a spot. Don’t leave your car without paying for a spot – it’s much cheaper to pay a couple of bucks instead of getting a $40 citation.
Residents yearly pass
A yearly pass for residents with a car registered in Florida, under age 65 is $45, and for residents 65 and older with a car registered in Florida is $25.
Is Dania Beach Pier free?
To enter the pier, you have to pay a $4 entrance fee, if you are a regular visitor and a $6 if you want to fish on the pier.
DANIA BEACH, FLORIDA: FAQ’S
What is Dania Beach known for?
This small coastal town is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and relaxed setting. It offers various outdoor recreational activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The Dania Beach Pier is a popular spot for fishing and enjoying ocean views.
Is Dania Beach a good area?
Dania Beach is a perfect area if you want to enjoy a relaxed getaway on one of the best beaches in Fort Lauderdale and be close to stores, restaurants, and the airport.
Is Dania Beach the same as Fort Lauderdale?
This town is smaller than Fort Lauderdale and offers a more quiet setting. The area is home to a gorgeous beach with a photogenic pier, some restaurants, and recreational venues, but it’s calmer than Fort Lauderdale and is great if you don’t feel like dealing with the crowds.
Can you swim in Dania Beach Florida?
Yes, you can swim, snorkel, paddleboard, and kayak here. The area boasts clear turquoise waters where you can spot fish and other marine wildlife.
Is Dania Beach expensive to live in?
This small town has a lower cost of living than Miami or Fort Lauderdale, but it can still be relatively expensive compared to other areas of the United States. It offers a mix of residential neighborhoods and beachside attractions and is great if you want to enjoy the pristine beach without crowds.