JD Andrews

I was very excited when VISIT FLORIDA asked me to share the beauty of the Sunshine State -- from my own back yard. So I put together what “My Perfect Day in the Greater Fort Lauderdale area” would be.

I started, early, on Hollywood Beach. Anyone can enjoy a sunset but you have to work at seeing a sunrise. Does this make it a little more special?

I think so. And seeing the sunbeams break through the colorful clouds on Hollywood Beach didn't disappoint. I always feel energized after seeing this!

From the beach, I was off to the Anne Kolb Nature Center. a 1,500-acre coastal mangrove wetland that's home to a wide variety of plants and animals, including some threatened and endangered species. Three extensive paddling trails offer access to this wilderness area for sightseeing and fishing. 

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The Anne Kolb Nature Center, in Hollywood, is a great place to get away from it all.

The Anne Kolb Nature Center is a pathway to relaxation.

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It's almost impossible to not see wildlife at the Kolb Center.

But all this observation made me hungry. My next stop, for lunch, was Tark's, an unassuming local haunt in Dania Beach that serves up classic regional beach fare such as shrimp, oysters, gator and wings.

 

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Later, for dinner, I wanted more local fare. Southport Raw Bar, in Fort Lauderdale, specializes in oysters, clam chowder and a waterfront view.

 

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I love eating on the Intracoastal Waterway watching the boats.

That's it -- my Perfect Day in greater Fort Lauderdale.

PLACES TO REMEMBER

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