This vibrant district packed with chic boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants offers a welcome break from the beach.
Meaning “The Waves” in Spanish, Las Olas is an apt name for this 4-kilometre boulevard that runs up from the beach. Out of this, a 1.6-kilometre stretch bustles with small independent shops, restaurants, bars, and spas. Colourful umbrellas dot the boulevard, protecting al fresco diners from the sun’s strong rays, while the tree-lined boulevard provide shoppers with shade.
Make time to browse through the eclectic range of goods on offer in the numerous interesting boutiques. You will come across signed posters of famous rock groups, designer wear for Harley fans, gemstone jewellery, fine arts and boutique clothing. Sniff out some exotic spices or gourmet truffle products at the speciality food shops, or treat yourself to a pair of limited edition shoes from The Archives, a store selling exclusive apparel and accessories. When you tire of shopping, grab a bite to eat at one of the upmarket café, restaurants, and steakhouses that line the street.
For a glimpse into 1930s Las Olas, buy a beer at the historic Riverside Hotel, housed in a quaint old building along the boulevard.
Besides shopping and dining, there is plenty of other entertainment around Las Olas, including the Riverwalk and the Museum of Art. Check out the fountain that lights up after dark in Huizenga Plaza, and enjoy a refreshing drink at the roof terrace overlooking Fort Lauderdale Beach at the famous Elbo Room Bar.
As the sun sets, the fun starts at the bars, clubs, and restaurants lining the boulevard. Live music and al fresco dining all add to the atmosphere.
This popular shopping street is accessible to cars, but traffic calming measures and pedestrian crossings allow for safe and easy exploring. Plenty of parking spaces are available behind the boulevard.
Three times a year, over a designated weekend in January, March and October, the Las Olas Art Fair transforms the boulevard into an outdoor art gallery, where life-size sculptures, contemporary art, photography and jewellery are displayed along the street.
