Photo courtesy of the Gym
The Gym certainly is a gem when it comes to workout facilities, boasting an open-air rooftop with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway. While the views are spectacular at any time of day, many choose to get their sweat on in the early hours or right before dinner, which allows them to witness the South Florida sky during sunrise or sunset. Workout your way with a wide array of free weights, stationary bikes, benches and other equipment, or enlist a personal trainer to hold you accountable. You also have the option to enroll in a group fitness class, or take advantage of the full-service indoor gym when the weather turns sour! Afterward, enjoy cooling down with a leisurely walk on the beach. 3001 SE 5th St, Fort LauderdalePhoto courtesy of Fort Lauderdale Beach Yoga
There is nothing more invigorating than participating in a yoga flow on the sand, under the sun, with the sound of crashing waves in the background. Luckily, this option is available to you every Thursday, Saturday and Sunday year round, thanks to Fort Lauderdale Beach Yoga. The best of Fort Lauderdale's yoga instructors will guide you through challenging hatha flow classes in the morning, or help you wind down your day with a yin meditation class at sunset (during the summer months). While donations are encouraged, you will not be bound by any membership fees, and are free to come enjoy the class of your choice at your leisure. Classes Take Place on the Fort Lauderdale Beach one block South of Sunrise Blvd, Next to Lifeguard Station #13Photo courtesy of Alex Dumas Photography via Fitness With Maria
Maria Pontillo is a legend when it comes to fitness in Fort Lauderdale. With a doctorate in physical therapy and certifications for yoga and fitness training, she is an expert in providing her clients with a total body workout that is as effective as it is fun. While you can catch her workouts online in the comfort of your own home any time, we believe the beach fitness classes are not to be missed. The infamous Sweaty Sunday Funday Beach Workout occurs once a month at the Fort Lauderdale Beach Park, and includes a 15-minute dynamic warm up, a 30-minute circuit workout on the sand, and a 15-minute yoga stretch to cool down. Workouts are just a bit better when you have the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop. 1100 Seabreeze Blvd., Fort LauderdalePhoto courtesy of Sunrise Paddleboards
If you have mastered the art of working out in the sand, maybe it is time to step it up a notch and venture into the waves. Stand up paddle boarding is one of the most popular fitness options for Florida locals, offering the chance to work your abdominals, arms, and legs, work on your balance, and enjoy panoramic vistas of the beach from the water. Sunrise Paddleboards invites you to build paddle boarding into your workout routine with paddle board fitness 101 — a two-hour class that will teach you how to incorporate cardio and strength into your paddle boarding routine. The top-notch fitness instructors will cater to your individual needs and fitness goals, and help you design a water-based workout that is challenging, fun and effective. Looking for something a little more zen? Sunrise also offers paddle board yoga classes! 2520 N. Federal Highway, Fort LauderdalePhoto Courtesy of Paul's Travel Pictures
Red Reef Park is perhaps the most popular beach in the city. However, if you go early in the morning or during a weekday, you are more likely to escape the crowds. This 67-acre oceanfront park offers a myriad of amenities amidst beautiful scenery, and even has its own nature center. This is an ideal destination for families because of the wide selection of kid-friendly attractions and features. The Gumbo Limbo Nature Center is a preserve with a boardwalk leading to a beautiful lookout, where visitors can explore an enchanting butterfly garden and observe tanks with sea turtles. Red Reef Park also provides pristine conditions for snorkeling, as the beach holds man-made limestone boulders creating reefs just 10 feet off the shore. Examine stunning marine life, including tropical fish, turtles, eels and stingrays. The Red Reef Executive Golf Course is a picturesque 9-hole course nestled between the ocean and Intracoastal Waterway, providing stunning water views for golfers. With a variety of features, including crystal clear teal waters for swimming, picnic tables and more, there is something for everyone to do at this beachfront park. In fact, the southern end of Red Reef Park is ideal for surfers!Photo Courtesy of Paul's Travel Pictures
South Beach Park is a smaller 24.5-acre beach with three swimming areas, and pristine areas for surfing, fishing and bird-watching. Aside from the beauty of this beach, visitors are located near some of Boca's most renowned attractions, including Mizner Park, the Boca Raton Resort & Club, and the Boca Raton Golf Club. This is a laid-back option for those desiring a quiet afternoon soaking up the sun and digging toes in the sand. Maximize your stay with a vacation or "staycation" at the Boca Raton Resort & Club, one of the most luxurious attractions in the region. This expansive 356-acre resort was designed by legendary architect Addison Mizner, and has reigned as an icon of elegance for more than 80 years. Bask in the wonder of a private beach, an award-winning spa, championship golf and tennis facilities, a luxury marina, and more — just steps from your luxe accommodations.