Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club

The Lago Mar Resort is an upscale property on the beach in Fort Lauderdale, and has been family-owned for the past 50 years. Grounds are landscaped with tropical plants, and games (ping pong and an oversized chess board, for example) throughout the property lend a laid-back, family-friendly spirit. Guests relax on the beach and at the two pools, as well as at the restaurants -- which have indoor/outdoor seating and classic Florida style, with palm frond carpeting. Hallways, too, feel very Floridian with tropical-print carpeting and potted palm plants; some hallways extend outdoors, with clay tile and white paint for an island vibe. The lobby floor is decorated with an impressive mosaic of an underwater scene, lit by a grand chandelier overhead.

The resort is set on 500 feet of private beach, sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and Mayan Lake. There’s not much within walking distance; major restaurants and entertainment venues must be accessed via A1A. Popular 17th Street -- with grocery stores, restaurants, and shops -- is less than 10 minutes away by car on the other side of the Stranahan River. Fort Lauderdale Beach's main bar/restaurant hub is located about 10 minutes north of the resort in Beach Place, and is very busy during Spring Break and other holidays. The Broward Convention center is also a quick drive over the bridge.

Rooms are decorated with island-inspired decor by designer Tommy Bahama -- light wood furniture, tropical bedspreads, and framed beach art -- that is attractive enough, but can seem dated for an upscale hotel. Upgraded rooms have couches, desks, and more spacious living spaces. Rooms have free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and clock radios with iPod docks. Even standard rooms have small kitchenettes. Bathrooms have matching granite flooring and countertops -- some rooms have painted beach scenes on the shower tiles. All rooms have a balcony with varying views.

The resort has several on-site dining options, including the Ocean Grill for a quick lunch and Acquario for sit-down dinners. The Soda Shop is an old-fashioned-style shop with ice cream and small bites, while both the Wine Cellar Lounge and Promenade Bar serve drinks. The fitness center has large windows, basic cardio machines, and free weights. The full-service spa is lovely, and there are four tennis courts on the property and two swimming pools -- one abuts the beach and the other is a lagoon-style pool with an entertainment stage. On the private beach, umbrellas, cabanas, and lounge chairs are available for a daily rental fee; a hotel photographer can take family beach photos. Throughout the resort, guests have access to fun activities like mini-golf, shuffleboard, and a playground. At the business center, there are cubicles and office supplies. The resort shop sells high-end apparel and accessories.