It’s impossible to talk about Broward County real estate without mentioning waterfront homes. Nestled along Florida’s famed Gold Coast, its towns and cities are surrounded by the Atlantic to the east and the Intracoastal Waterway to the west. Read on for more information on waterfront living in this scenic corner of the Sunshine State.
EXPLORING BROWARD COUNTY’S WATERFRONT
As the second-most populous county in South Florida, Broward County is home to about 1.9 million residents who enjoy a leisurely lifestyle amidst spectacular water views. Spanning more than 1,300 square miles, it consistently ranks among the best places to live in the state due to the exceptional quality of life it offers. From perfect weather and water activities to gorgeous homes and world-class shopping and dining, few places in South Florida can come close to Broward County’s offerings.
Atlantic Ocean: Coastal Living
The Atlantic side of Broward County has plenty to offer when it comes to views and water sports. Fort Lauderdale is located along the Atlantic Ocean about 25 miles north of Miami. The city has a robust housing market with beachfront condos and estate-style properties.
Intracoastal Waterway: Laid-Back Luxury
The Intracoastal Waterway is an inland waterway that extends for over 3,000 miles along the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. Some of Broward County’s most sought-after waterfront homes offer views of the Intracoastal Waterway.
Canals and Lakes: Boating Paradise
These are several canal-side developments offering apartments and condos in Broward County, each within boating distance of the Intracoastal Waterway. Experts anticipate redevelopment along these canals over the decades as land availability decreases in Broward County and South Florida. One of the most desirable areas is the Himmarshee Canal in downtown Fort Lauderdale.
Canal-front real estate projects are also part of a broader trend toward urban infill development with builders going after vacant land zoned for industrial or marina development and getting them up zoned for residential use.
RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES TO ENJOY
Water Sports: Surfing, Paddleboarding, and More
Broward County is perfect for boaters and water skiers. Its waters are open for recreational and commercial purposes with an excellent balance between limited lanes or corridors and unregulated areas that allow for higher speeds. Residents spend their days boating, kayaking, and paddle boarding.
There are also several surfing spots in Fort Lauderdale. If one location is not breaking, another surfing spot is just a few miles away. Depending on the swell direction, there is surfing all year on most days at one of the beautiful, blue water beaches in Fort Lauderdale.
Fishing: An Angler’s Paradise
Broward County has many fishing areas where one can catch bass, bluegill, red ear sunfish, catfish, and more. There are on-site fish feeders in some fishing spots and some areas are annually stocked with channel catfish weighing up to 12.5 pounds.
Fishing is typically allowed from the shore. Fishers should also be aware of certain restrictions and requirements for a valid freshwater fishing license for those who are older than 16 or below the age of 65.
Beach Activities: Sun, Sand, and Fun
Fort Lauderdale also provides access to some fantastic beaches, including Pompano Beach, Hollywood Beach, Hillsboro Beach, Dania Beach, and Hallandale Beach. Pompano Beach, in particular, is known as the Heart of the Gold Coast due to its soft white sand and clear blue waters. Residents enjoy easy access to the beach, where they can spend their days swimming, sunbathing, or playing beach volleyball. In addition to beach activities, residents enjoy manatee sightings in certain areas, making it the ideal choice for those who enjoy nature and wildlife viewing.
THE COMMUNITY EXPERIENCE
Vibrant Waterfront Communities
Those looking for a place to set down roots will find many waterfront communities with gorgeous homes and boating amenities. Many of these homes are perfect for entertaining with outdoor seating, observation decks, and gourmet kitchens. Buyers can also choose from gated communities for enhanced privacy.
Waterfront Dining and Entertainment
The South Florida lifestyle is second to none when it comes to waterfront dining and live entertainment. Dine on fresh seafood and watch the sunset from a restaurant patio. Go to a concert or watch a sporting event at any of the fine establishments throughout the county.
Social Events and Festivals
Broward County’s towns and cities host various festivals throughout the year:
CONSIDERATIONS AND PRECAUTIONS
While Broward County is a fantastic place to live, buyers must take several factors into consideration when deciding to live here:
- Insurance and flood risk
- Maintenance and upkeep
- Environmental conservation
If you’re seriously considering buying a home in Broward County, consult with a real estate professional who specializes in waterfront homes and communities. A local expert will help you make informed decisions based on relevant data and current market conditions.
