Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, FL

County: Broward

History

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is a small town located in Broward County, Florida. Its history dates back to the late 1920s when Florida was experiencing a land boom. It originally started as a small community called Santa Barbara Shores.

During the 1930s, the town faced financial difficulties due to the Great Depression. Development was slow, and the area remained largely undeveloped. In 1947, a local developer named M.E. Anglin saw potential in the area and purchased land with a vision to revitalize the community.

Anglin started developing and expanding the town, building roads, organizing attractions, and promoting tourism. In 1950, he officially renamed Santa Barbara Shores to Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, inspired by the nearby city of Fort Lauderdale.

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, the town continued to grow as more residents and visitors were attracted to its beautiful beaches and laid-back lifestyle. The town eventually incorporated in 1959 to establish local governance.

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea experienced significant development during the 1970s and 1980s. The construction of high-rise condominiums and hotels boosted tourism and the local economy. The town also invested in infrastructure improvements, including the Town Municipal Complex and connecting walkways.

In recent years, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea has embraced its small-town charm and has focused on preserving its beachside character. The town has implemented initiatives to protect its natural resources, including turtle nesting grounds and coral reefs.

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea continues to be a popular destination for tourists and residents seeking a relaxing beachfront lifestyle. Its vibrant marine life, charming pier, and thriving dining scene make it a unique gem on Florida's southeastern coast.

Attractions

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Beach

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Beach

This pristine beach offers crystal-clear waters, white sand, and a vibrant coral reef just offshore, making it a popular spot for diving, snorkeling, and swimming.

Anglin's Fishing Pier

This iconic pier stretches 876 feet into the Atlantic Ocean and is ideal for fishing enthusiasts. It also offers picturesque views of the shoreline and is a great place to catch the sunrise or sunset.

Sea Ranch Village Shopping Center

This quaint shopping center offers a variety of shops, boutiques, and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy browsing for unique clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs, or savor local cuisine and fresh seafood.

Blue Moon Outdoor Center

Located on the Intracoastal Waterway, this center provides paddleboard and kayak rentals. Visitors can explore the calm waters, nearby islands, and mangrove-lined tunnels while enjoying the beauty of the area.

El Prado Park

This waterfront park is perfect for picnics, walks, and leisurely bike rides. It features beautiful landscaping, benches, and a fishing dock, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle.

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Town Square

This lively gathering spot hosts various events and concerts throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy live music, food trucks, and community activities in a charming outdoor setting.

Fort Lauderdale Ghost Tours

Explore the haunted history of Lauderdale-by-the-Sea and Fort Lauderdale with a guided ghost tour. The tour takes you to historic sites and shares spooky stories that will send chills down your spine.

The Driftwood

A famous landmark in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, The Driftwood is a unique, driftwood-covered hotel. Visitors can admire its distinctive exterior and rooftop ocean views.

Coral Shores Shopping Center

This shopping center offers a range of stores, including specialty shops and boutiques. It's a great place to find clothing, accessories, and home goods.

Pelican Hopper Free Shuttle

Utilize the free shuttle service offered by Lauderdale-by-the-Sea to explore nearby attractions such as Pompano Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Las Olas Boulevard. It's a convenient way to get around the area and visit different points of interest.

Climate

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida has a tropical climate which is characterized by warm, humid summers and mild winters. The town is located on the southeastern coast of Florida, just north of Fort Lauderdale.

Summers in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea are hot and humid. Average high temperatures from June to September range from the mid to high 80s Fahrenheit (around 29-32 degrees Celsius), with occasional highs in the low 90s Fahrenheit (around 32-35 degrees Celsius). High humidity levels can make it feel even hotter. Rainfall during the summer months is relatively high, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and showers. August is usually the wettest month.

Winters in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea are mild and pleasant. Average high temperatures from December to February range from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (around 24-28 degrees Celsius). However, cold fronts can occasionally bring cooler temperatures and even brief periods of near-freezing temperatures. Despite this, winters generally offer a reprieve from the heat and humidity of the summer months. Rainfall during the winter season is lower compared to summer, but sporadic showers are still possible.

Overall, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea enjoys a warm and inviting climate that is ideal for beach activities and outdoor pursuits year-round. It is important to note that the town is located in an area prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, particularly during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June to November.

Neighborhoods

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is a charming seaside town located in Broward County, Florida. Although relatively small, the town is divided into different neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the notable neighborhoods in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea:

Downtown

The downtown area is the heart of Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. It features a vibrant atmosphere, with numerous shops, restaurants, and cafes along Commercial Boulevard. This neighborhood is particularly popular among tourists and locals alike, offering a lively and festive ambiance.

Ocean Estates

Ocean Estates is a residential neighborhood in the southern part of Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. It is known for its coastal charm and beautiful beachfront properties. This area offers a tranquil living environment with easy access to the beach, making it an ideal choice for those who want to live near the ocean.

Terra Mar Island

Located on a barrier island, Terra Mar Island is a waterfront community that offers a mix of single-family homes and condominiums. It boasts scenic views of the Intracoastal Waterway and is known for its boating and fishing opportunities. The neighborhood also features several private docks and a marina.

Bel-Air

Positioned to the north of the town, Bel-Air is a quiet residential neighborhood characterized by its well-established homes and lush greenery. This area is predominantly residential, offering a peaceful environment away from the busier parts of the town.

Silver Shores

Silver Shores is a gated community located between the Intracoastal Waterway and A1A. It offers a range of housing options, including waterfront condos and townhouses. The neighborhood features private beach access and a variety of amenities such as pools, tennis courts, and community centers.

These are just a few examples of the different neighborhoods in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. Each area has its own unique appeal and caters to various lifestyle preferences, providing residents and visitors with an array of choices in this charming seaside town.

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