Whether you want to view the ocean and hear early morning waves breaking along Fort Lauderdale's famous beach, relax in luxury amid serene Everglades preserves on its western borders, or anything in between, there's a wide variety of accommodations to fit every comfort, style and budget.

It's all here: charming bed and breakfasts in historic inns, tall high rises with spectacular sights, private beaches and designer swimming pools, or simple but convenient motels within walking distance to sand and surf. Amenities offered are numerous and varied from health clubs and pet sitters to business traveller services and childcare, or just the basic pot of coffee to start the day.

Most accommodations are seasonal in prices. During the summer months from May to September, rates are lowest. Many have multilingual staff.

Many of the older and smaller motels, built in the 1950s, provide comfortable places to spend a week or two or even a month, all within a short distance to the beach. Amenities include refrigerator, laundry facilities, and picnic areas. Some are visited year after year by regular Florida bound Northerners.

Along the Intracoastal Waterway at Port Everglades where cruise ships abound, the Hyatt Regency at Pier 66, an established landmark since 1959, has a revolving lounge at the top and 142 boat slips at its marina. The Fort Lauderdale Marina Marriott, or the Embassy Suites Fort Lauderdale offer luxurious accommodations, all close to the Convention Centre, shopping and restaurants near downtown Fort Lauderdale.

If you prefer apartment style lodging, there are many large, furnished units such as the Ocean Terrace Suites, Tropic Isle Beach Resort, and the Pelican Beach Resort. Near the famous downtown shopping along famous Las Olas Blvd, one and two bedroom accommodations can also be found at the Banyan Marina Apartments.

Just south of Fort Lauderdale proper is the landmark Hollywood Beach Resort, a famed 1920s grand hotel, now a condominium located right on the beach. The boardwalk is filled with strollers and skaters as well as with many shops, cafes and restaurants with umbrella shaded tables. There's plenty of entertainment and nightlife right outside your door. Also on the south beach area close to local attractions, you'll find the Clarion Hotel Hollywood Beach.

Along the western edge of the Everglades boundary about 10 miles from the international airport, is the Coral Springs Wellesley Inn, or the Wyndham Resort and Spa with its championship golf courses and clay court tennis, not to mention a dazzling tropical garden complete with swans and waterfalls. They offer luxurious seclusion from the fast-paced world to the east, but with easy access to major highways to get right back in. The Sawgrass Mills, a shopper's paradise and one of the largest outlets in the United States with over 250 stores, is only a few minutes away. Many places to stay in the Fort Lauderdale area are comfortable but unpretentious, offering simple amenities, but are close to attractions and the beach, such as the Oceanside Inn, the Ronny Dee Resort Motel and the Sea Downs.

Just north of Fort Lauderdale on the beach is the Plaza Hotel and Resort, offering many conveniences such as coffeemaker, hair dryer, and data port. Also, the Best Inn Polynesian Hotel is a beautiful resort close to attractions, shopping and the beach.

When a charming bed and breakfast is your desire near the downtown area, the Caribbean Quarters, the Ocean Hacienda Inn and the River Inn (The) which is right on the Middle River, offer delightful accommodations in a warm, historic setting.

For older and smaller beach accommodations near Fort Lauderdale Beach with only a few rooms (but the draw is a multi-lingual staff), stay at Three Suns Motel, A Little Inn by-the-Sea, Jasmin Villa Motel or Estoril Paradise Inn Motel.

Accommodations just southwest of the downtown area near the Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport, you'll find the Sheraton Suites Plantation, adjacent to the Fashion Mall, a two-tiered enclosed shopping centre, the Sunrise Hilton and the Fort Lauderdale Airport Hilton. Although they are chain hotels, they offer busy travellers convenient lodging with excellent amenities, close to main highways, attractions, shopping and restaurants.

If you're a camper and want to be one with nature, try Everglades Holiday Park, Seminole Park Campground, Easterlin Park or Buglewood RV Resort. There's nothing like the great outdoors to truly appreciate the natural wonders of the Florida Everglades and wildlife. Whether you want to escape from your busy world and relax on Florida's golden beaches, enjoying the warm Gulfstream waters or passing through on business, there's a wide range of excellent accommodations. You'll have no trouble finding just the right place to stay to meet your needs or expectations.