Fort Lauderdale in 2 Days for Couples - Sunset dinner cruise on the Intracoastal (Jungle Queen Riverboat)
An intimate, unhurried 48-hour itinerary for couples that balances seaside leisure, soft-golden-hour moments, quiet cultural charms, cozy cafés and candlelit dinners. Designed for a winter visit (February) when skies are clear, temperatures are mild and sunsets are early—perfect for romantic evenings and waterfront walks.
Highlights
- Sunset dinner cruise on the Intracoastal (Jungle Queen Riverboat)
- Strolls and boutique shopping along Las Olas Boulevard
- Private-feel spa time for two at The Ritz-Carlton
- Botanical romance at Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
- Rooftop cocktail/golden-hour moment and candlelit dinner
Itinerary
Day 1
A relaxed day that eases you into Fort Lauderdale’s waterfront charms and ends with a sunset dinner cruise—perfect for a first-night special moment.
Cozy French-style breakfast at Nanou
Start slow with flaky pastries, strong coffee and intimate seating on Las Olas—light, delicious and a great way to plan the day.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a small table by the window or patio for people-watching and natural light—very romantic.
- Reserve a table for weekend mornings; otherwise arrive 15–20 minutes earlier to avoid a wait.
- Street parking fills quickly on Las Olas—use nearby public lots on SE 1st Ave for an easier arrival.
Leisurely stroll and boutique browsing on Las Olas Boulevard
Wander hand-in-hand through art galleries, independent shops and tucked-away courtyards—Las Olas has intimate corners ideal for couples.
Tips from local experts:
- Head to the galleries between 10–11 AM to catch quieter periods for private viewing and photos.
- Look for locally made jewelry and artisanal gifts to pick a small memento of the trip.
- If you want a quiet coffee mid-stroll, duck into a side courtyard café rather than the busiest storefronts.
Bonnet House Museum & Gardens — romantic garden tour
Explore the historic Bonnet House's tropical gardens and art-filled rooms—a secluded, photogenic spot with shaded paths and quiet benches.
Tips from local experts:
- Book timed-entry tickets in advance to avoid lines and give yourselves a private-feeling visit.
- Bring a small blanket for a brief seated moment on one of the shaded lawns—perfect for a quiet toast.
- There’s limited on-site parking; consider valet or arrive earlier for easier parking near the entrance.
Waterside lunch at Coconuts
Casual, waterfront seafood lunch where you can sit by the water and watch boats—relaxed, sunlit and intimate.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a riverside table when you make a reservation to keep the meal scenic and private.
- Try seafood tapas to share—small plates encourage lingering conversation.
- Plan for a midday seating (avoid peak 1–2 PM) to keep it more relaxed and less noisy.
Couples spa time at The Ritz-Carlton (relax and reconnect)
An indulgent 90-minute treatment designed for two—massage or signature couple’s experience to restore and set a romantic tone for the evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Book the couple’s treatment room in advance and mention any celebration—hot stones and aromatherapy are romantic upgrades.
- Arrive 30 minutes early to use the steam/relaxation lounges together and get fully unwound.
- Ask for lockers near the couple’s suite so you can change and step out refreshed for the evening cruise.
Sunset dinner cruise — Jungle Queen Riverboat (special moment)
A classic Fort Lauderdale experience: board a sunset cruise on the Intracoastal with dinner, soft lights and views of waterfront homes—perfect for a romantic highlight.
Tips from local experts:
- Select a forward-side table when booking for unobstructed sunset views; bring a light wrap—evenings in February can be crisp.
- Arrive 20–30 minutes before boarding to secure a good spot for boarding photos and a pre-cruise drink.
- Toast the sunset together with a pre-ordered glass of champagne—ask staff to arrange this when reserving.
Moonlit walk on Fort Lauderdale Beach
End the night with a slow stroll along the shoreline—soft waves, warm sand and quiet streetlights create a private moment.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the compacted sand near the promenade—bring a light sweater for February evenings.
- Pick a quieter stretch north of the main beach park for less foot traffic and more privacy.
- If you want a keepsake, stop by a local vendor earlier in the day for a small seashell or pair of handcrafted souvenirs to exchange during your walk.
Day 2
A calm second day with sunrise beach time, local culture, boutique shopping, a golden-hour rooftop cocktail and an intimate, celebratory dinner.
Sunrise beach stroll and coffee at Fort Lauderdale Beach Park
Catch a quieter sunrise along the shore with a to-go coffee—fresh air and soft light make these moments feel private and cinematic.
Tips from local experts:
- Aim to arrive 30 minutes before official sunrise to enjoy the changing colors together and secure a quiet stretch.
- Bring a thermos or pick up a coffee from a nearby café—sipping together as the city wakes is very romantic.
- Parking is easier early in the morning; use the main parking lot off A1A for direct beach access.
Brunch comfort at The Foxy Brown
Casual, cozy brunch with creative comfort dishes—perfect for lingering conversations and sharing plates.
Tips from local experts:
- Share two or three brunch dishes so you can taste more and savor the meal together.
- Ask to be seated in a corner table or booth for a cozier, more private vibe.
- Weekday brunches are quieter; if you're visiting on a weekend, reserve a mid-morning slot to avoid the rush.
NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale — intimate cultural visit
A compact, thoughtfully curated museum ideal for an unhurried cultural interlude—art galleries provide quiet corners for conversation.
Tips from local experts:
- Check current exhibits online and pick 2–3 galleries to explore slowly rather than trying to see everything.
- Use the museum benches to pause and discuss your favorite pieces; smaller museums encourage intimate conversation.
- Ask the front desk about guided highlights tours (short and private-feeling) to get the most from your visit.
Lunch on Las Olas at Louie Bossi’s (Italian sharing menu)
Enjoy rustic Italian fare with shareable plates—candle-lit tables and warm wood interiors create a cozy midday meal.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a quieter table away from the open kitchen if you want a more intimate conversation.
- Order family-style dishes (pastas, antipasti) to create a communal, romantic dining rhythm.
- Reserve in advance and mention 'celebration'—staff often add small touches for couples.
Boutique shopping & gallery stroll (Las Olas)
Return to Las Olas for a relaxed afternoon of window shopping, galleries and small discoveries—perfect for picking a gift or memory.
Tips from local experts:
- Seek out locally made jewelry or art galleries for unique keepsakes not found elsewhere.
- Pop into an independent chocolatier or apothecary for a little sweet treat to share later.
- Take your time—this is meant to be unhurried. Stop for a sit-down iced tea if you want a break inside a quieter shop.
Rooftop cocktail / golden-hour moment at YOLO (special moment)
Sip a sunset or golden-hour cocktail on a rooftop or upper terrace—watch the light fade on the water and toast your time together.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a terrace or elevated table for unobstructed views—arrive 15 minutes early to catch the best light.
- Order a shared cocktail or a wine flight to sample flavors without committing to a full bottle.
- Bring a light wrap in February evenings; rooftop breezes can be cool but the atmosphere is worth it.
Candlelit dinner at The Capital Grille
Finish with an elegant, celebratory dinner—prime steaks, attentive service and low lighting for an intimate final evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a corner or booth table when reserving for a more private dining experience.
- If celebrating, let the restaurant know ahead of time—many places will offer a small complimentary touch.
- Pair a favorite bottle from the wine list and request decanting to slow the pacing of the meal and enjoy lingering conversation.
After-dinner riverwalk — Las Olas Riverfront
A final relaxed stroll along the riverfront to close the trip—streetlights, palm silhouettes and quiet waters make for a gentle goodnight.
Tips from local experts:
- Walk toward quieter docks away from the main pedestrian bridges for more privacy.
- If you want, pick a bench to sit and reflect on the trip—this makes for a meaningful, low-key ending.
- Keep a lightweight jacket handy; February evenings are cool but often clear and peaceful.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 2 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 5 |
| Total Activities | 15 |
| Total Places | 15 |
| Activities Types | Meal, Neighborhood, Attraction, Restaurant, Experience, Outdoor, Culture, Shopping, Nightlife |
