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Lauderdale-by-the-Sea!

 

 

“Relax, you’re here”

Anna Maria Island

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea

 A Town Broward County, Florida

 

Lauderdale‑by‑the‑Sea is a charming seaside town in Broward County, Florida, known for its old-Florida vibe, walkable streets, and vibrant beach culture. Nestled between Fort Lauderdale and Pompano Beach, this small barrier island offers easy access to the Atlantic Ocean, pristine beaches, and some of South Florida’s best shore diving and snorkeling spots.

The town is celebrated for its retro mid-century architecture, colorful oceanfront plazas, and community-focused events. With a laid-back atmosphere, lively fishing piers, and thriving local art scene, Lauderdale‑by‑the‑Sea combines coastal beauty with a nostalgic, small-town charm.

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Pier at Sunrise

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Pier at Sunrise

Photo by Stephen Yarley via Canva

Location & Size

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is a small barrier-island town in Broward County, nestled between Fort Lauderdale to the south and Pompano Beach to the north.

It spans approximately 1.5 square miles, with the Atlantic Ocean to its east and the Intracoastal Waterway to its west

Founded

The town originated in the 1920s, when Boston entrepreneur William F. Morang purchased the land in 1924 and later sold it to developer Melvin I. Anglin, who became its first mayor. Lauderdale-by-the-Sea incorporated in 1927, briefly lost its charter in 1933, and was re-incorporated in 1949

LAUDERDALE-BY-THE-SEA WEATHER

Population

As of mid-2024, the population stands at around 6,365 residents

Known For

  • South Florida’s Beach-Diving Capital: Coral reefs are just 100 yards from the beach, making snorkeling and shore diving easy and accessible.

  • SS Copenhagen Shipwreck: A historic 1900 shipwreck preserved as an underwater archaeological site that attracts divers from afar.

  • Anglin’s Fishing Pier & El Prado Park: Popular for fishing, picnicking, and weekly farmer’s markets.

  • Retro, low-rise, walkable charm: Vintage mid-century architecture, pedestrian-friendly plazas, public art, and no towering beachfront condos.

  • Beach quality & environmental pride: Recognized as a “Blue Wave Beach,” spotlighting both cleanliness and eco-awareness

Cost of living

  • Median Household Income: $81,020

  • Median Home Value: $626,100 

  • Median Rent: $1,816 per month

 

 

Things to do

  • Snorkel or dive the reefs directly from the beach—including visits to the SS Copenhagen wreck.

  • Fish off Anglin’s Pier or relax at El Prado Park with shade, picnic spots, and a Sunday farmer’s market.

  • Stroll, shop, and dine through Anglin’s Square, an oceanfront plaza with boutique stores, cafés, and coral-themed benches/artwork.

  • Enjoy live music, outdoor dining, and community events like dance lessons and festivals.

  • Cycle or ride the free Circuit-By-The-Sea shuttle to explore the town car-free

Fun Facts

  • Its nostalgic small-town vibe has been likened to a Norman Rockwell painting, with preserved mid-century architecture and relaxed ambiance.

  • Building heights are strictly limited (to around 33 feet) to preserve views and its retro look.

  • A serene contrast to high-rise peers, the town maintains a cozy, community-focused spirit—with artful maritime theming and friendly public spaces

Nearby Cities

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