The southeastern coast of Florida is well known for beaches, parks, boating canals, trails, and promenades. Fort Lauderdale area is not an exception. Natural attractions in Fort Lauderdale are only a part of what makes Florida attractive. Admittedly, a very big part. To those who wish to unwind, explore, and play, this area offers exactly what they came for. So, where should you start?

Natural attractions of (Greater) Fort Lauderdale

Being in love with the outdoors is so easy in Florida. A year-long warm and sunny weather and inviting scenery are a lodestone for people with various interests. Laid-back types will be enjoying scenic beaches, long walks, or having a picnic in a park. More active ones are offered a plethora of sports activities to choose from all while experiencing the lush, (un)tamed natural charms of the Greater Fort Lauderdale area. A place on the list of some of the most striking and, not surprisingly, most popular natural attractions belongs to

• Snyder Park
• Anne Kolb Nature Center
• Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
• Fort Lauderdale Beach
• Secret Woods Nature Center
• Flamingo Gardens
• Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park

Everglades and Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area are not on the list but only because they deserve a separate article. For those who would exchange the vast blue of the Atlantic for the vast green, this natural attraction in the vicinity of Fort Lauderdale is an ideal option.

Snyder Park

Close to downtown, the park is a haven for nature lovers. Visitors can stroll the boardwalks at the water level, enjoy the small local beach, have a snack at one of the multiple picnic shelters or simply walk the trail and observe the birds. The best thing about Snyder Park is that you can let your dog off-leash and have a wonderful time together. However, please note that whether you're just visiting shortly or you plan to move to Fort Lauderdale with your pet, you should prepare your dog for living in Floridian climate. Swimming at the dog-friendly beach in the Snyder Park recreation area known as Bark Park will surely help.

Anne Kolb Nature Center

Natural sights in the area are one good reason why moving to Fort Lauderdale from any part of Florida is a good decision for all those who like to spend time outdoor. Anne Kolb Nature Center is also a place where you can get educated on the local ecology. Walking out on elevated boardwalks will bring you closer to herons and white ibises feeding between mangroves, as well as iguanas swimming along the shore. Whether you choose to rent a kayak and explore the Nature Center from the ground level or climb the tower and admire the views, your visit is bound to be memorable.

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

A vibrant center for the Fort Lauderdale community, this state park is a precious piece of wilderness in the busy urban area. Treat yourself with a ranger tour or hike along the trail. Rent a canoe or a paddleboat for a water adventure or rent a bike and explore the grounds. You may spot iguanas or a few Gopher Turtles while you stroll. Should you prefer a beachfront vista, you can easily reach the beach. Avoid the traffic altogether simply by going through the underground pedestrian tunnel.  You are bound to have a remarkable time in this park thanks to Hugh Taylor Birch who donated his estate to Florida.

Fort Lauderdale Beach

Fort Lauderdale beach is one of the natural attractions in Fort Lauderdale.

Ever since the Clean Beaches Council of Washington DC has declared it a Blue Wave Beach in 1999, Fort Lauderdale Beach has continued its good practice. Over the years, the beach and Fort Lauderdale Beach Park have transformed but only for the better, becoming more user-friendly in the process. This popular spot is famed not only for the clean sands and chic atmosphere but also for its long palm tree-lined promenade. While Fort Lauderdale Beach is one of the many beaches in the Fort Lauderdale area, it is unique for its vibe. 

Secret Woods Nature Center

The tranquil Secret Woods Nature Center has nestled between motorways and yet is a pool of serenity in a busy area. An urban wilderness area since 1978, a dense canopy of cypress and mangroves hides a butterfly garden, giant land crabs, and birds roosting in the trees. A nature center will prepare you for the natural habitats you will spot while you stroll the boardwalks throughout this 56-acre park. A well-maintained and peaceful spot, it is home to pond apples, royal palms, strangler figs, and giant leather ferns. Named a hidden gem by many for a reason, Secret Woods is true to its name and keeps surprising and astonishing its visitors.

Flamingo Gardens

A lot more hides behind the name of Flamingo Gardens. One of the favorite outdoor destinations in Fort Lauderdale is home to botanical gardens, a wildlife refuge and The Wray Home Museum. Families are often sighted in Fort Lauderdale's Flamingo Gardens. This is not surprising, having in mind how much kids and adults both can learn here. There are not many adventures that can compare to discovering thousands of plant species and observing the largest collection of Florida native wildlife. The Gardens are a permanent residence to injured and non-releasable animals.

Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park

There is no better way to explore the local waterways than by kayaking through this state park. Those who get hungry along the way will appreciate numerous picnic benches and pavilions. It is not crowded and, thus, perfect for families. With a view at Port Everglades, this is also a spot where you can sit and admire cruisers passing by. Enjoy the park's flora and fauna from safe distance or fish in open water and diving at the local beach. Whatever your ideal outdoor activity, this well-maintained