COCONUT BAY RESORT, Fort Lauderdale

The resort sits across from Birch State Park and near the Water Taxi stop, making car-free exploration easy. A 7-Eleven and several dining options, including Mexican Cantina, Thai on the Beach, and Yo Mama's Ice Cream, are within 0.5 km. The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale Shopping Center is less than 1 km away. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is 16 km (20-30 minutes by car). The cruise port is about 15 minutes away. The property is in a top-rated area (location score 9.3) and offers free on-site parking. The beach access requires crossing busy A1A, which may be a consideration for families with young children.

All units feature a private entrance, separate living room, dining area, and flat-screen TV with satellite channels. The kitchen includes a refrigerator, dishwasher, oven, stovetop, toaster, and tea/coffee maker. Bed configurations vary: one-bedroom apartments offer 1-2 beds; two-bedroom apartments offer a king in master, two twins in the second bedroom, and a queen sofa sleeper. Some units have a screened terrace or balcony (request in advance). Rooms are generally spacious but can feel dated; some units may have maintenance issues (reported leaks, broken appliances, mold in bathrooms). Light sleepers may want to request a unit away from the street, as road-facing units can hear traffic noise. The property has two buildings: one with a three-story elevator, the other with two floors and stairs only. No in-room safes, no cots, no cribs (rental available through a third party). Laundry facilities are available in each building, open 24/7.

The resort does not offer breakfast, lunch, or dinner service. Each unit is equipped with a full kitchen (refrigerator, dishwasher, oven, stovetop, toaster, kettle, cookware) for preparing your own meals. Barbecue facilities (3 gas grills) are available in the pool area. Walking-distance dining options include Mexican Cantina, Thai on the Beach, Yo Mama's Ice Cream & Pops Corn, Pizza Shack, and Subway. A Publix supermarket is about a 15-minute walk away for groceries. The absence of on-site dining means planning meals in advance, especially for longer stays.

The pool is fenced, heated, and open all year, with pool/beach towels provided at the front desk. The hot tub is free to use. The pool area includes loungers and tables, though chairs can be limited during peak times. Three gas barbecue grills are available for guest use. Birch State Park is across the street, offering biking, hiking, and kayaking. The beach (200 steps away) and Water Taxi stop add recreational options. There is no fitness center, no spa, and no organized activities on site. The pool area can be lively with music and poolside bingo; those seeking quiet may prefer the beach or state park.

Parking is free and on site, no reservation needed; accessible parking spaces are available. The property is not fully accessible (grandfathered) - Building 2 has no elevator, and mobility-impaired guests should request Building 1. Fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, and key access are provided. Security includes key-only door locks (not electronic card keys), and the front desk can issue parking passes for visitors. Luggage storage is available before check-in or after check-out, and guests may use the pool and hot tub during that time. Fax/photocopying is free. Late arrivals receive key lockbox instructions. Accepted payment methods: American Express, Visa, Discover, MasterCard. A $100 refundable security deposit is required ($500 for guests 25 and under). No daily housekeeping; towels are exchanged once per week (Wednesday). Beach towels are available at the front desk. The resort does not offer airport or cruise port shuttle service; Uber and Lyft are recommended.