Tucked just north of Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach offers the kind of easygoing coastal vibe that works equally well for a long weekend or a full week away. Travelers flying from the Washington, D.C. area can reach Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport in about two and a half hours nonstop from Reagan National or Dulles — a short enough hop to make it a genuinely spontaneous escape.
The Fort Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach Resort serves as a natural home base. Recently renovated, the 219-room waterfront property features floor-to-ceiling windows, private balconies, and sea-inspired décor throughout, plus direct access to a private beach. Guests are welcomed with complimentary drinks at the bar, and the resort's zero-entry pool is serviced by the Citrus Club, which dishes out cocktails, fresh-pressed juices, and snacks on the sun deck. Private cabanas accommodating up to six people are available to rent, and the amenity package includes gym access, use of the business center, and a two-hour daily bike rental. Room rates start around $168 per night.
On-site dining centers on The Kester, where mornings start as early as 6:30 a.m. with made-to-order omelets, lobster benedict, and a pastry-and-bacon buffet. Lunch runs 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and features standouts like crispy Korean wings with creamy ranch. After 5 p.m., the atmosphere shifts — lights dim and Chef Jerry Ayala's dinner menu steps up with dishes such as flame-grilled branzino and short rib pappardelle topped with whipped ricotta.
Beyond the resort, the Pompano Beach Pier is a roughly one-mile walk away and offers souvenir shopping, fresh seafood, frozen drinks, ice cream, and fishing year-round. Street parking and a nearby garage make it easy to drive as well. Getting around the broader area is equally accessible: the Pompano Circuit is a free eco-friendly shuttle, and the water taxi and bike paths offer scenic alternatives. For those who want to time a visit around a signature local event, the Visit Lauderdale Food and Wine Festival returns each January, drawing chefs, mixologists, and local musicians for a multiday celebration across Greater Fort Lauderdale — the centerpiece Grand Tasting at Las Olas Oceanside Park is already confirmed for January 23.
This story originally appeared in the DC Getaway series by WTOP contributor Briana Thomas.
