Blog South Florida Staff Picks

Your South Florida Retreat

October 01, 2018

Fall is the ideal time to visit South Florida. Our bright sunny days, beautiful surroundings and blue open skies are beckoning you. Partake in a day of boating, followed by a relaxing dip in one of our three pools, cocktails to follow at any of our five delicious restaurants. However, if you really want to elevate your vacation, book a luxurious spa treatment at our on property oasis, Spa 66.

Follow the scent of aromatherapy to tranquility, because you're worth it. Select from a healing list of therapies that will gently ease you into wellness. Leave with a greater sense of peace, ready to take on the world. We suggest trying our Signature Massage Sampler for a taste of eight specialized massage treatments such as Therapeutic, Relaxing, Stone, Reflexology, Stone, and scalp massage. We also provide a host of rich facials, first-class salon services, and customized spa packages perfect for brides, couples, girl’s weekends, and more. Unwind in the lap of luxury where your every need will be met because even if you are traveling for work, sneaking away for a day of pampering should always be on the agenda. It’s ok, we won’t tell! 

Stefano Sanna’s Art Installation: “Art and Hospitality”

August 06, 2018

Carve out some time to experience Nigerian born, Italian-trained artist Stefano Sanna’s art exhibition in our hotel lobby. Immerse yourself in the rich details of his expansive canvases and multi-media works of art. Sanna employs the theory "metacycling," which symbolizes the different stages of life the materials he uses metamorphosizes to become a piece of art. He uses copper, lead, rust, and leftover pieces of scrap in the industrial artworks he creates. In Sanna's own words, he describes the process as: "A seed becomes a tree, a tree becomes wood, that is used to build a boat. As it ages, the boat’s useful life comes to a close and eventually becomes scrap and waste, and it is reclaimed through a recycling process, to become a work of art.” The seemingly random pieces are tied together by their titles and references to comics and cinema. Take a closer look and have a personal moment of reflection while viewing the exhibition downstairs. They are the newest benchmark of the artist’s careers and now a part of your stay. And don't forget to tag #Pier66HotelMarina in all of your awesome Instagram pics.

World Famous Hukilau Tiki Festival Returns to Fort Lauderdale June 6th-10th

June 01, 2018

Your nostalgic tiki celebration begins the moment you start unpacking your vintage aloha clothing and head upstairs for unbeatable 360-degree views and exotic Polynesian cocktails. Pier Sixty-Six Hotel & Marina is thrilled to be hosting one of the biggest five-day parties that brings lovers of retro tiki culture together from across the globe. Learn how to shake up your favorite tropical concoctions with world-renowned mixologist in the Okole Maluna cocktails classes that cover everything from how to stock your bar at home to the evolution of tiki drinks. On Saturday, June 9th, catch Scotty Schuder, top Parisian bartender, in a hands-on experience where you’ll learn the basics of rum, lime, and sugar. Attend expert-led symposiums about 1950’s Polynesian culture, then spend the nights partying with the heat of flaming torches and hula dancers in the background. Over a thousand people attend Hukilau each year and events are held at venues throughout Fort Lauderdale. However, the biggest celebration takes places at the historic Mai-Kai restaurant, one of the best-preserved examples of an original tiki bar. Fort Lauderdale has been home to Mai-Kai since 1956 and still entertains patrons with their exotic gardens, waterfalls, bridges, and umbrella-clad rum drinks. So bring out your grass skirts and get ready to party like its 1959. For tickets and schedule of events, click here.

Wellness and Workouts While Traveling

April 02, 2018

Whether visiting us for business or pleasure, we know that wellness and workouts are at the top of most traveler’s list. In addition to our on-site gym, we’ve put together a number of local picks, from organic cafes to hot yoga, that will keep you on track no matter how long you stay with us. Start or end your day with a little “namaste.” Walk across the 17^th street bridge and find yourself at The Yoga Joint, a hot yoga studio offering a variety of class times and flow options. Insider tip: try the Core 45 class for a real challenge! Next, hop over to Fresh First for a lite bite or fruit smoothie. All menu items are fresh and organic with vegan and vegetarian options as well (we’re partial to the gluten free waffle bread!) Pressed for time and want to get some beach views in?  We always recommend a power walk or jog along Fort Lauderdale Beach. Head northwest out of the lobby and find yourself in front of the Atlantic Ocean in no time. Clear and wide paths are oceanfront and allow you to soak in the sun and views without getting any sand in your shoes. Not in the mood for a workout but into a little wellness? There’s always time for a little spa action at our very own Spa 66.

A Jazz Filled Sunday

February 05, 2018

Spending a Sunday in Fort Lauderdale? We always love a day at the beach or lounging by the pool, but on the first Sunday of each month, we head downtown. As part of Fort Lauderdale’s local cultural and musical art scene, the monthly Sunday Jazz Brunch brings the beauty of jazz to the riverfront. This complimentary afternoon of music draws a laid-back crowd. Turn your beach towel into a picnic blankets as you take in the sites and sounds from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. across three stages. Bring a basket of goodies and wine or explore the culinary options from area restaurants that are available for purchase, alongside creations from local merchants. Ready to your jazz on? Take advantage of our Advanced Purchase Savings when you book at least 7 days in advance. Get the details and we’ll save a seat for you at the Esplanade Stage!