Is Fort Lauderdale safe? What you should know

Fort Lauderdale, located on Florida’s southeastern coast, is famed for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and intricate canal system that has earned it the nickname “The Venice of America.”

Millions of travelers pass through Fort Lauderdale every year, thanks in part to the gigantic cruise ship terminal where ships embark for the Mediterranean and points around the world. But Fort Lauderdale also has its own tourist attractions to offer, including stunning beaches and great shopping opportunities.

And the vast majority of these tourists explore Fort Lauderdale without any issues. However, it is worth noting that Fort Lauderdale's crime rate is quite high. Your chances of becoming a victim of a property crime are one in 27, versus the Florida average of 164. Likewise, violent crimes, though rare, are not as rare as city residents might like. The chances of becoming a victim of violent crime here are one in 238, versus the Florida average of one in 386. That puts Fort Lauderdale's rate of violent crime right around the national average, but higher than most other cities in Florida.

Of course, statistics can be misleading. Most violent crimes in Fort Lauderdale are a result of gang or drug activity, so if you're not involved in either of those, your likelihood of experiencing violence in the city is much lower. Property crime is certainly more of a problem, along with motor vehicle theft, but don't let the crime rate fool you. Every major city has its problems with criminality, but as a tourist destination, Fort Lauderdale remains a safe place where tourists feel secure exploring. Just take care of your personal belongings (storing them at a Bounce luggage storage spot in Fort Lauderdale is a good start) and try not to visit during hurricane season.

Safety tips to keep in mind during your time in Fort Lauderdale

Is Fort Lauderdale safe? Yes, it's generally a safe city, but like any urban area, it’s wise to stay aware and take precautions. Crime can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time, and it's always a good idea to stay alert and practice common sense safety precautions while you visit the world-class beaches of this perennially popular destination.

Getting to Fort Lauderdale safely

Fort Lauderdale is easily accessible by air, road, and sea. Here are the safest options:

• By air: Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is just five kilometers from downtown. Use reputable transportation options like official airport taxis, ride-sharing services (Uber or Lyft), or shuttles.
• By train: Brightline offers a modern, fast, and safe rail connection between Fort Lauderdale and nearby cities like Miami and West Palm Beach.
• By car: If you’re driving, familiarize yourself with local traffic rules and toll systems. Parking is widely available but may be limited in popular areas.

Tips to stay safe when you first arrive in Fort Lauderdale

• Pickpocketing: Crowded areas like Las Olas Boulevard and the beaches can attract petty thieves. Keep your belongings secure, and leave precious items either behind in your hotel or with a Bounce luggage storage location. We can store items of any kind for as long as you need, so you can rest assured your things will be completely safe and ready for you to pick up whenever you want.
• Traffic awareness: Be mindful of heavy traffic, especially during peak hours or near the beach. Always use crosswalks and follow pedestrian signals.
• Neighborhood awareness: While tourist-heavy areas are generally safe, avoid walking alone at night in less populated neighborhoods.

Is tap water in Fort Lauderdale safe to drink?

Yes, tap water in Fort Lauderdale meets safety standards and is safe to drink. However, many locals and visitors prefer bottled or filtered water due to taste preferences. Remember to stay hydrated in the Florida sun, as the heat and humidity will cause you to lose a lot of water through perspiration. Dehydration and sunstroke are probably a far bigger threat than crime here.

Safe accommodation options in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels. Consider staying in these safe and convenient areas:

• Las Olas Boulevard: Ideal for its proximity to dining, shopping, and nightlife. This area is busy throughout the day and night, so crime outside of pickpocketing or the occasional drunken fistfight is very rare.
• Beachfront areas: Stay along Fort Lauderdale Beach for stunning ocean views and well-maintained accommodations.
• Downtown Fort Lauderdale: A good option for business travelers and those seeking urban amenities.
• Harbor Beach: This upscale neighborhood offers quiet, safe surroundings and easy beach access.

Pro tip: Use luggage storage services like Bounce to explore the city hands-free if you arrive before your accommodation check-in time.

Cultural callouts & things to keep an eye out for

Fort Lauderdale’s laid-back culture and sunny disposition make it a welcoming destination. Here are a few cultural insights:

• Etiquette: A friendly “hi” or “how are you?” is common. Tipping is customary in restaurants and for service workers.
• Dress code: Beachwear is acceptable on the shore, but casual attire is more appropriate for restaurants and shops.
• Language: English is the primary language, but you may hear Spanish widely spoken.
• Scams: Avoid unofficial tour operators and double-check prices before agreeing to services.

Keeping safe when navigating the city

Fort Lauderdale is easy to explore, but here are tips to ensure your safety:

• Public transportation: Broward County Transit buses are reliable and safe, but schedules can be irregular. Brightline trains are a premium option for longer distances. Stations are generally brightly lit, and many have emergency call buttons so that you can contact the police if you feel in danger.
• Walking: Stick to well-lit areas at night, particularly around the beach and downtown. Florida's warm evenings are a perfect time to go for a walk, and you'll see lots of locals and tourists alike in the busy areas, which can help you stay safe while you explore.
• Cycling: Fort Lauderdale has bike lanes and rental services. Always wear a helmet and follow traffic laws. Traffic in Fort Lauderdale can be quite heavy, so if you do plan to go cycling, it's a good idea to practice basic road safety and stay alert while you explore.
• Driving: Be cautious of heavy traffic during rush hours and beach parking congestion.

Nature and Fort Lauderdale: Safety tips to keep in mind

Fort Lauderdale’s natural beauty is a major draw, from its beaches to its parks. Stay safe with these tips:

• Beaches: Swim only in designated areas with lifeguards. Watch for flags indicating water conditions and be mindful of rip currents.
• Water activities: If boating or paddleboarding, wear a life jacket and be aware of canal traffic.
• Wildlife: Keep an eye out for jellyfish or stingrays in the water. On land, be mindful of local wildlife in parks. Remember, all of Florida is alligator country, and it's not unusual to find these dangerous reptiles in bodies of water including rivers, creeks, swamps, and even golf courses and swimming pools. You're unlikely to have a problem with alligators unless you bother them, so if you do encounter one, make sure to give it plenty of space. And if you see signs warning of alligators, don't swim.
• Weather: Sudden rainstorms or hurricanes can occur. Check weather updates and plan outdoor activities accordingly. Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, and while you would have to be quite unlucky to get caught in a hurricane while you're here, it's not impossible either. Make sure to follow any local safety alerts and know what to do if a hurricane does hit.

Last tips in case of emergency

• Emergency numbers: Dial 911 for police, fire, or medical emergencies.
• Healthcare: Fort Lauderdale has excellent medical facilities, including Broward Health Medical Center. Travel insurance is highly recommended. As elsewhere in the United States, medical treatment can be extremely expensive, so make sure you have a health insurance policy that covers you just in case you find yourself in need of medical attention.
• Tourist assistance: Visit the Fort Lauderdale Visitor Information Center for maps, advice, and support. The Internet is a great resource for planning a trip, but nothing beats local people who have the latest and most accurate information, and they are there to help, so make use of this free resource.

Fort Lauderdale’s mix of sunshine, culture, and outdoor fun makes it an ideal destination. By following these safety tips, you can explore its beaches, waterways, and vibrant neighborhoods with confidence. Whether you’re enjoying a sunset on the beach, dining on fresh seafood, or taking a scenic boat tour, Fort Lauderdale promises an unforgettable experience.

By far the type of crime you're most likely to encounter here is pickpocketing and other property crime, and you can greatly reduce your chances of being a victim by taking advantage of Bounce storage. We can look after your bags, jewelry, passports, and anything else you want to protect while you explore, so you can enjoy everything the city has to offer and not worry about being a victim of crime.