Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Beach

Location. Tucked between the beach and the Intracoastal Waterway, the Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Beach is one mile from downtown three blocks from the shopping, dining and nightlife of Beach Place. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is five miles from the property.

Hotel Features. Rising 12 stories above the beach, the Courtyard features a white and turquoise-trimmed façade. An island-like atmosphere permeates this property. Blossoming bushes festoon the second-floor pool deck and bright public spaces such as the lobby boast large windows and potted palms. Leisure guests will revel in the outdoor, umbrella-flanked pool area and its accompanying tiki bar. Guests can enjoy tropical drinks here while overlooking the ocean. Blue Water Restaurant serves meals with an ocean view, and the Bubba Gump Shrimp Company serves seafood. The hotel offers 10,000 square feet of penthouse conference space. Other hotel amenities include a fitness center and wireless Internet access for a fee.

Guestrooms. With floor-to-ceiling windows and cream-colored walls, guestrooms are airy and maintain a tropical air. High-speed wired and wireless Internet acces is complimentary. Flat-panel cable telvisions include premium channels.

Expert Tip. A public water bus transports passengers around Fort Lauderdale's waterways and stops at a marina across from the hotel. The water bus stops at 19 other locations, including restaurants and shopping centers, and runs on a schedule that is available at the front desk. Ticket options include a bargain-price all-day fare.