Pompano Beach

North of Fort Lauderdale, the burgeoning city of Pompano Beach has been making a name of its own, thanks to a brand-new pier and Fishing Village, as well as a boom of new businesses making their way to the waterfront city.

Things to Do

Thrills are a given with an exciting array of water sports, from deep sea fishing, diving and snorkeling, to paddle boarding and beach volleyball. Take a leisurely stroll along the Fisher Family Pier, which is in the shape of a pompano fish. The pier, which recently underwent a major renovation, now boasts a covered playground, a number of restaurants and shops, and a handy parking garage that makes a day at the beach a breeze.

If you’d rather spend your day on the greens, the city’s Greg Norman Signature Pines Course offers a full practice facility, PGA professional instruction, club fitting, and a fully stocked pro shop. After you play through the 9 or 18 holes, head to Galuppi’s for a round of drinks from the patio bar.

For unique shopping, pencil in the city’s weekend Green Markets from November to the end of April, and Old Town Untapped on the first Friday of the month for live music and vendors selling arts and crafts.

For some high adrenaline action, try your luck at the smoke-free Isle Casino Racing Pompano Park with 1,500 slots and live action poker tables, and six restaurants.

Pompano Beach also celebrates the arts — catch an event at the iconic Pompano Beach Cultural Center, or explore the latest exhibits at Bailey Contemporary Arts (BaCA) and the Historic Ali Cultural Arts Center. With a new roof, you never have to worry about the rain again when attending a concert at The Amp.

Local Favorites in Dining

People from around Greater Fort Lauderdale are making their way to Pompano for the dining, too. The Fisher Family Pier is now home to the casual tiki restaurant Lucky Fish, as well as the more upscale Beach House and Oceanic (which is in the shape of a ship). On the other end of the bridge is The Foundry, a waterfront restaurant with an industrial theme. 

For authentic Caribbean food, Calypso has been a go-to for years, serving up oxtail, conch salad, jerk chicken and other favorites from the islands. Another mainstay in the city is Jack’s Old Fashioned Hamburger House, which has been grilling burgers and churning milkshakes since 1972.

Savor Refreshing Brews

For craft beer aficionados, there are plenty of Pompano breweries packed with local flavors and gracious hospitality. It’s easy to find breweries and enjoy some deals with the Visit Lauderdale Ale Trail Passport, which features Odd Breed Wild Ales, Pompano Beach Brewing Company and 26 Degree Brewing. 

Where to Stay

Pompano Beach offers several beachfront resorts for visitors (or a staycation), including the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach Resort & Spa, Residence Inn Fort Lauderdale/Pompano Beach Oceanfront, and the Lighthouse Cove Resort. Newer on the scene is Include by Hilton Pompano Beach Pier Hotel, right in the middle of the action and home to the Pier 6 rooftop bar.

The Club Wyndham Palm-Aire is nestled alongside the Palm Aire Country Club golf course. For those needing accommodations for a more lengthy stay, the Extended Stay Cypress Creek off I-95 offers convenience and value. For a more cozy stay, check out the boutique properties along the beach.

Plan Your Pompano Beach Vacation

A magical mix of trendy South Florida with a small-town, beachside vibe, Pompano Beach is “Florida’s Warmest Welcome.”