Best Beach Hotels in Fort Lauderdale

Although there's a pool deck overlooking the ocean, a lovely spa, and cutting-edge gym, the real stand-out here is the large rooms that start at 600 square feet (and each one has a full kitchenette and spacious marble bathroom). The ground floor restaurant and lounge includes a wrap-around porch for eating al fresco, and more casual dining can be had up on the pool deck. The beautiful beach is large, sandy and equipped with bright blue umbrellas and loungers.

This beautiful, luxurious 57-room resort is one of the nicest in Los Cabos, and offers more of a home-y vibe than other high-end properties in the area. Handsome, tastefully rooms start at 925 square feet, and are decorated in traditional Baja style, with authentic artwork and wood detailing. They come with high-end electronics and decadent bathrooms (some with Jacuzzi tubs), but the private terraces are arguably the highlight; all have at least partial ocean views (many have jaw-dropping ocean views), and some have Jacuzzis. The beach is secluded and gorgeous, but the large waves and rough reefs make it unfit for swimming. The resort's pools are top-notch, though, and pool staff offers free treats (like ice pops and fresh fruit) every hour. Although not much is within walking distance, the resort provides plenty for guests to do on-site, including several dining/drinking options and an art gallery.

After its $25 million makeover, this 650-room Marriott in Fort Lauderdale is great for kids -- giant pool, kids' club, big, comfortable guest rooms -- but there's still plenty for grown-ups, including yoga classes at the fitness center, an adult-only pool, and a full-service spa and salon. Water sports are available on the beach, as well as loungers, a bar and, best of all, hammocks tied to straw umbrellas.

The first in a new brand of "B" hotels, the all-white B Ocean sits just across the street from a great beach, with an austere, minimalist design -- similar to the style of a W hotel, with subtle neon lighting in the lobby come nightfall. The ocean views are the star here, but you'll also find two great restaurants and a small pool with an accompanying outdoor bar. Despite a trendy appearance, this 240-room hotel is popular with families, and it's not uncommon to see kids splashing in the pool or eating dinner in the restaurants.