You’re in one of Florida’s most vibrant coastal destinations!
Whether you crave sun on the beach, world-class casino action, Everglades adventures, championship golf, world-class shopping, or a day trip to Miami — there is something for everyone just minutes from the Diplomat.
We have curated a list of recommended restaurants, bars, entertainment options
and other activities for your convenience.
Most activities are available daily, but advance booking is recommended for golf tee times, tours, charters, and spa services — especially on weekends. Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) is widely available and easy throughout the Hollywood & Fort Lauderdale area.
One of Florida’s most beloved oceanfront promenades — a 2.5-mile paved path lined with cafés, bars, ice cream shops, and street performers hugging the beautiful Atlantic shoreline. Perfect for a morning walk, evening stroll, or renting a surrey bike with friends. A true South Florida gem you won’t want to miss.
Rent a 4-person surrey bike, tandem, or single cruiser right on the Broadwalk for a fun and memorable way to explore the coastline. Multiple rental outfitters are stationed along the Broadwalk and offer hourly rates.
A huge hit for groups — great for laughs and fresh ocean air!
Board a fishing charter out of Hollywood or Hallandale and reel in mahi-mahi, grouper, snapper, and sailfish right off the South Florida coast. Half-day and full-day charters are available with experienced captains and all equipment provided. A must for fishing enthusiasts!
BouYah! Watersports is your go-to destination watersports provider. With 11 locations in Florida, BouYah is never that far away. With over 25 years of industry experience, we oversee the busiest volume of water channels in the United States and adhere to the strictest safety guidelines and standard. We take your day at the Beach very seriously and provide the best in water sports offerings so you can enjoy the sand and the surf.
January is peak season in South Florida — book tee times at least 3–5 days in advance. Morning rounds offer the best conditions and coolest temperatures. Most courses offer twilight rates for afternoon rounds. The hotel concierge can assist with tee time reservations and transportation arrangements.
18 Holes Semi-Private Par 72
A well-regarded semi-private course set in the upscale Emerald Hills community of Hollywood. This classic parkland-style layout features lush, tree-lined fairways, strategically placed water hazards, and a challenging but fair par-72 design that rewards accurate iron play. The friendly staff and beautiful conditioning make it a popular choice for visiting golfers seeking a quality round without the resort price tag.
4100 N Hills Dr, Hollywood, FL (954) 961-4000
theclubatemeraldhills.com
18 Holes Public Par 72
A beautifully maintained public course in Pembroke Pines featuring 18 challenging holes winding through serene lake and nature views. The wide, welcoming fairways make it enjoyable for all skill levels, while the signature finishing holes bordering the peaceful lake create a memorable closing stretch. A full-service clubhouse with a restaurant and bar rounds out a great day on the course.
10500 Taft St, Pembroke Pines, FL (954) 431-4400
pembrokelakesgolf.com
18 Holes Semi-Private
A prestigious PGA Tour-affiliated course that has hosted the Honda Classic and other major tour events. Designed by Arthur Hills, TPC Eagle Trace offers a championship-caliber experience with dramatic water features, elevated tee boxes, and meticulously groomed bent-grass greens. This is the ideal choice for serious golfers who want to play a course with genuine PGA Tour credentials during their Florida visit.
1111 Eagle Trace Blvd, Coral Springs, FL (954) 753-7222
tpc.com/eagletrace
One of the most thrilling and unique experiences in all of Florida! Glide through the “River of Grass” on a high-speed airboat, spotting alligators, birds, and native wildlife in their natural habitat. Multiple operators offer half-day trips from the Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood area. An absolute bucket-list adventure that’s uniquely South Florida.
Everglades Holiday Park, Fort Lauderdale, FL
evergladesholidaypark.com
A hidden gem in West Lake Park — one of Florida’s largest urban parks. Explore over 1,500 acres of mangroves, coastal wetlands, and nature trails by kayak, canoe, or on foot. Features an aquarium, observation tower, and guided tours. A peaceful, scenic escape that connects you with Florida’s natural beauty.
751 Sheridan St, Hollywood, FL
annekolbnaturecenter.com
One of the most spectacular casino resorts in the entire United States! The iconic guitar-shaped hotel towers over a massive casino floor with over 3,000 slot machines, table games, poker rooms, world-class restaurants, nightclubs, and live concert venues. Whether you’re feeling lucky at the tables or catching a show at Hard Rock Live, this is a full evening’s entertainment destination just minutes away.
1 Seminole Way, Hollywood, FL
seminolehardrockhollywood.com
Located inside the Seminole Hard Rock complex, Hard Rock Live is one of Florida’s premier entertainment venues, regularly hosting nationally touring artists, comedy shows, boxing events, and more. Check the January calendar for shows happening during your event weekend — it’s one of the best live entertainment venues in the state!
1 Seminole Way, Hollywood, FL
casino.hardrock.com
One of the largest outlet malls in the entire world! Over 350 designer and brand-name outlet stores including Gucci, Prada, Coach, Michael Kors, Nike, and hundreds more — all at outlet prices. A must for serious shoppers. Budget at least half a day if you plan to take it all in!
12801 W Sunrise Blvd, Sunrise, FL simon.com/mall/sawgrass-mills
One of the top luxury shopping destinations in all of Florida, featuring high-end anchors like Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, and over 300 specialty shops and boutiques. Great dining options throughout. The rooftop art collection and the stunning Aventura Slide Tower are highlights worth checking out.
19501 Biscayne Blvd, Aventura, FL aventuramall.com
Fort Lauderdale’s famous tree-lined boulevard is home to boutique shops, art galleries, sidewalk cafés, and upscale restaurants. Perfect for a leisurely afternoon of browsing, people-watching, and soaking up the South Florida sunshine. Don’t miss the unique local galleries and specialty stores!
E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL lasolasboulevard.com
A stunning 35-acre historic estate and nature preserve on the oceanfront in Fort Lauderdale. Originally an artist’s winter retreat, the beautiful plantation-style house, lush tropical gardens, and resident swan collection make this a truly unique and peaceful cultural experience unlike anything else in South Florida.
900 N Birch Rd, Fort Lauderdale, FL bonnethouse.org
One of the premier art museums in Florida, featuring an impressive permanent collection of modernist and Latin American art alongside world-class rotating exhibitions. Located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale’s cultural district — the perfect stop for art lovers looking for an enriching afternoon experience.
1 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL nsuartmuseum.org
Explore the “Venice of America” from the water! The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi runs hop-on/hop-off service along the New River and Intracoastal Waterway, stopping near restaurants, hotels, and attractions. An incredibly fun and scenic way to see the city’s famous canals and mega-yacht lined waterways.
651 Seabreeze Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL watertaxi.com
Just 35 minutes away, Miami offers a world of experiences: stroll the iconic Art Deco architecture of South Beach, explore the vibrant murals of Wynwood Arts District, shop Brickell City Centre, visit the Pérez Art Museum, or simply enjoy Ocean Drive’s legendary people-watching. An entire city’s worth of culture, food, and nightlife at your doorstep.
Miami, FL (∼35 min drive or Brightline train) miamiandbeaches.com
Hop on Florida’s modern high-speed rail service at the Fort Lauderdale station for a quick, comfortable trip to downtown Miami, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, or even Orlando — no traffic, no parking stress. A fantastic, stress-free option for attendees who want to explore South Florida without renting a car.
101 NW 2nd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL gobrightline.com
Treat yourself to a world-class spa experience without ever leaving the resort. The Diplomat Spa offers a full menu of massages, facials, body treatments, and beauty services in a serene, luxurious setting. A perfect way to relax and recharge between event activities. Book early as weekend appointments fill up fast!
3555 S Ocean Dr, Hollywood, FL (Diplomat Beach Resort)
diplomatresort.com/spa
The Rock Spa at Seminole Hard Rock is one of South Florida’s finest spa facilities, offering a full menu of music-inspired treatments, massages, facials, nail services, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. A luxurious alternative for those looking to unwind in a world-class setting just minutes from the Diplomat.
1 Seminole Way, Hollywood, FL
casino.hardrock.com
The Hollywood Beach Broadwalk comes alive at night with open-air bars, live bands, street performers, and a wonderful tropical ambiance. Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort, Banditos Latin Bar, and the SunBar Fire & Ice are perennial favorites for a casual, fun evening with drinks and ocean breezes.
N Ocean Dr, Hollywood, FL
visithollywoodfl.com
Fort Lauderdale’s Las Olas Boulevard is one of South Florida’s most vibrant nightlife destinations. Bars, rooftop lounges, wine bars, jazz clubs, and live music venues line the boulevard. Easy to bar-hop and explore — Vibe, Tarpon Bend, and Stache 1920s Drinking Den are standout spots worth checking out.
E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL lasolasboulevard.com
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood is South Florida’s iconic entertainment destination that fuses an electrifying nightlife scene and non-stop gaming action in a singular setting. There are endless entertainment opportunities, award shows, sporting events and nationally televised programs.
1 Seminole Way, Hollywood, FL
casino.hardrock.com
A Hollywood institution since 1980 and the definitive South Florida stone crab experience. Famous for Florida stone crabs in season, the freshest local catches, and a laid-back coastal atmosphere right near the beach.
400 N Ocean Dr, Hollywood, FL
billysstonecrab.com
A Fort Lauderdale landmark beloved for its legendary garlic crabs, served the old-fashioned way on newspaper-lined tables with wooden mallets. A bucket-list South Florida dining experience locals have cherished for decades.
4331 Ravenswood Rd,
rusticinn.com
A lively open-air restaurant and bar perched on the Intracoastal Waterway, featuring fresh seafood, classic American fare, live entertainment, and gorgeous water views. A top pick for groups wanting a fun, festive evening.
3033 NE 32nd Ave
shooterswaterfront.com
A polished steakhouse at Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort serving prime cuts, seafood and craft cocktails.
Website
Elegant fine dining with dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood and an extensive wine list at The Diplomat Beach Resort.
Website
One of America’s most iconic steakhouse names. Expect USDA prime-aged beef, generous classic sides, and exceptional, attentive service in an elegant setting. A timeless choice for steak enthusiasts – reservations are a must.
Website
Upscale Italian dining with handmade pasta, steaks, seafood and excellent views near the beach.
331 Van Buren Street Hollywood, FL
sardellis.com
Authentic Neapolitan cuisine right in downtown Hollywood. Celebrated for its woodburning oven, house-made pastas, and Neapolitan pizza, handcrafted pasta, ditional Italian dishes made from scratch. A warm, inviting neighborhood trattoria ideal for a relaxed dinner.
719 Harrison St, Hollywood, FL
lapiazzaalforno.com
A Fort Lauderdale gem on the famous Las Olas Boulevard. Serves wood-fired Neapolitan pizza, hand-crafted pasta, hearty antipastos, and an extensive Italian wine list. One of the area’s liveliest and most celebrated restaurants.
1032 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL
louiebossis.com
Transport yourself to 1950s Havana with vibrant Cuban flavors, handcrafted mojitos, and a festive, electric atmosphere. Signature dishes include ropa vieja, lechón asado, and picadillo. A must-try cultural dining experience in South Florida.
250 SW 2nd St, Fort Lauderdale, FL
havana1957.com
A beloved South Florida Cuban institution with hearty, authentic home-style Cuban cooking. From classic Cuban sandwiches to ropa vieja, black beans and rice, and rich café Cubano — comfort food as good as it gets.
4244 Hallandale Beach Blvd, Hallandale Beach, FL
lacarreta.com
One of South Florida’s most popular Mexican hotspots. Famous for tableside guacamole, creative street tacos, and a mind-blowing selection of over 400 tequilas. Loud, fun, and perfect for groups — expect a wait without reservations!
1313 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL
roccotacos.com
A trendy, upbeat Mexican restaurant and craft tequila bar in downtown Fort Lauderdale. Features inventive tacos, ceviches, shareable plates, and artisan cocktails. A modern, energetic take on Mexican cuisine with a fantastic bar program.
Fort Lauderdale, FL
elcaminofortlauderdale.com
On-Site · Diplomat Beach Resort
A Japanese-inspired dining gem right inside the Diplomat Beach Resort. Offers innovative sushi rolls, creative small plates, and expertly crafted cocktails — all with a stunning beachside ambiance. The most convenient option for those staying close to home base.
3555 S Ocean Dr, Hollywood, FL (Diplomat Beach Resort)
diplomatresort.com
A consistently popular sushi destination on Las Olas with creative maki rolls, fresh sashimi, and Japanese fusion fare. Known for generous, high-quality portions and a lively, energetic vibe. A Fort Lauderdale staple for sushi lovers.
1515 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL
sushirocklasolas.com