Atlantic Resort & Spa

A flurry of development over the last decade has made Fort Lauderdale a serious warm-weather hot spot, and the Mediterranean-style Atlantic Hotel, just three miles from downtown and eight miles from the airport, was a 2005 pioneer in the area; it’s one of the original luxury condominium-hotel projects that popped up along the beachfront stretch of A1A. The property offers all the fixings of a large, lively resort (panoramic ocean views; a happening weekend pool scene; an indulgent, holistic spa), but the 124-room property still manages to feel more like a peaceful boutique hotel—primarily because of its location, about a 10-minute walk from the boisterous Beach Place area. It feels homey too, with extra-large rooms (starting at 600 square feet), all with well-equipped kitchenettes and a balcony or terrace.