Staying at Plunge Hotel Lauderdale by the Sea

A newly renovated hotel, located in a more quiet part of Fort Lauderdale, Plunge is a modern paradise.

Rumor has it, the hotel that used to reside on this property was a spring break destination. Which is probably why Plunge Hotel at the time of my visit was only attributed 3 stars. Since the renovation, however, the resort has taken on a new life that breathes cleanliness and adult/family-friendly fun. Everything in the hotel is thoughtfully designed, from chair covers to barstools, and decorative paint on the walls.

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Staying at Plunge Hotel Lauderdale by the Sea - exterior view of the building with two round lounge chairs by the palm trees

Plunge Hotel* consists of two buildings: Ocean Front and Tropical View (where the lobby is). Those buildings are divided by North Ocean Drive, a rather quiet two-way road. Tropical View building has a brightly decorated lobby area, a cafe, and promises a new restaurant in the fall. The Ocean Front building is located next to the Plunge* pool and Tiki bar.

I haven’t quite figured out why the beach bar is referred to as a Tiki Bar because, like many other bars in the area, nothing about it inspires a “tiki” atmosphere. Nonetheless, I did enjoy the open environment of this space. A set of barstools face a narrow ledge overlooking the ocean. A few steps from the bar spill right onto the white, sandy beach. It’s hard to beat the peacefulness of sitting in the shade, gently hugged by a soft breeze, sipping a Corona, snacking on chicharrones, and looking out on the crashing waves.

The Room

Taking the first step into the room I fell in love with it. My Classic King Bed suite had a partial ocean view, plenty of open space, and a beachball casually resting on the giant bed. The bathroom is white and open, with a clear glass sink and a clear double-sliding frameless shower that had a spa-like feel.

Each room, in addition to all the basic hotel staples, has a hall closet, in some cases microwave and kitchenette, and a furnished balcony. Everything about the room felt comfortable and inviting. The sheets are soft and cozy, the setting is comfortable and the overall decor is fun, warm, and modern.

To try: The giant fudge chocolate bars sold at the cafe are to die for.

Food: The Tiki bar menu selection is a limited Mexican-inspired menu, a few staples, nothing special but there are plenty of eating options within walking distance. Learn about some of them here.

Other notes: Early check-in is $20, valet parking is complimentary for hotel guests, and towels, beach umbrellas, and chairs are all provided by the hotel as well. The lighting in the bar is a bit weird (red and orange) but it is that way to accommodate the turtle population who tend to nest on the beach.

Address: 4660 El Mar Dr. Lauderdale by the Sea, FL 33308