How to Get from Fort Lauderdale Airport to Hollywood Beach

This is the go-to option for over 70% of travelers for its unparalleled convenience and reasonable cost for the short distance. You get picked up at arrivals and dropped off at your exact hotel or address on Hollywood Beach.

Detailed Comparison: Taxi vs. Rideshare

Aspect	Taxi	Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Average Cost	$35 - $45 (flat rate often available)	$25 - $35 (UberX/Lyft Standard)
Pickup Location	Designated taxi stands on lower level of all terminals.	Designated rideshare zones (follow signs). App specifies exact column.
Payment	Cash or Credit Card. Confirm rate/meter before departure.	Automatic via app. Price is locked in when booked.
Wait Time	Virtually none; a line of cabs is always waiting.	Typically 3-10 minutes after requesting.
Best For	Those preferring a set rate, paying with cash, or wanting immediate pickup.	Those wanting slightly lower cost, upfront pricing, and cashless transaction.

Pro Tip: For groups of 3+ or lots of luggage, order an UberXL or Lyft XL. The cost rises to ~$40-$55, but it's cheaper than two separate cars. During peak surge periods (Friday evenings, holidays), taxi flat rates can sometimes be more competitive.

Shuttles offer a middle ground between public transit and private taxis. You can pre-book a private van for your party or a shared shuttle that may make multiple stops.

What You Need to Know:

• Private Transfers: Companies like GO Airport Shuttle or American Shuttle offer door-to-door service. You'll be met at baggage claim. Cost: $50-$80+ per vehicle. Ideal for families or groups.
• Shared Shuttles: Also booked in advance. You may wait 15-30 minutes for the van to fill and potentially share rides with others heading to nearby hotels. Cost: $20-$35 per person.
• Key Consideration: Must be booked in advance. Unlike taxis, you cannot just walk up. This provides peace of mind but less flexibility if your flight is delayed.

This is the most economical but slowest and least convenient method, involving multiple transfers. Only recommended for solo travelers with light luggage and plenty of time.

The Step-by-Step Journey:

1. Bus from FLL: Take Broward County Transit (BCT) Route #1 northbound from the airport terminals. Get off at the “Central Terminal - Tri-Rail Station” in downtown Fort Lauderdale. (Fare: ~$2, takes 15-25 mins).
2. Tri-Rail Commuter Train: Board the southbound Tri-Rail train towards Miami. Get off at the Hollywood Station. (Fare: ~$2.50-$5, takes 10-15 mins). Check schedule on tri-rail.com.
3. Bus to the Beach: From Hollywood Tri-Rail Station, cross the street to the bus terminal and take BCT Route #12 (Hollywood Blvd/Beach) eastbound to the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk. (Fare: ~$2, takes 15 mins).

Total: ~90-120 minutes, $4-$7. Requires paying separately for each leg. Consider a BCT 1-Day Pass ($5) if you'll use more buses.

Renting a car at FLL is excellent if you plan to explore beyond Hollywood Beach (e.g., the Everglades, Miami, Florida Keys). For a beach-only stay, it's often an unnecessary expense and hassle due to parking.

Cost & Logistics Breakdown:

• Rental Location: The Rental Car Center is a short, free “Rental Car Shuttle” ride from the terminals. Follow signs on the lower level.
• Average Daily Rate: Varies widely from $30-$80+ per day, plus taxes, fees, and mandatory insurance.
• Drive to Hollywood Beach: A simple 15-minute drive via I-95 S to Hollywood Blvd (Exit 23) or Sheridan St.
• The Parking Challenge: Most Hollywood Beach hotels charge a daily resort parking fee of $20-$40. Street parking is scarce and often has time limits. Factor this into your total cost.
• Best For: Travelers taking day trips, families needing car seats long-term, or those staying in accommodations with free parking.

This table summarizes all key data to help you make a final decision.

Transport Method	Approx. Cost	Approx. Time	Key Advantages	Key Disadvantages	Best For
Taxi	$35 - $45	15-20 min	Immediate pickup, set (flat) rate, driver assistance.	Can be most expensive cash option.	Convenience seekers, cash payers.
Rideshare (UberX)	$25 - $35	15-20 min + short wait	Upfront pricing, cashless, often cheapest private option.	Surge pricing during peaks.	Most travelers, tech-savvy users.
Private Transfer	$50 - $80+	15-20 min	Pre-booked, meet & greet, exclusive for your group.	Must book ahead, highest private cost.	Families, groups, luxury travelers.
Shared Shuttle	$20 - $35 pp	30-45 min	Pre-booked, cheaper than private taxi.	Multiple stops, must wait for van to fill.	Solo/couple travelers on a moderate budget.
Public Transit	$4 - $7	90-120 min	Cheapest option by far.	Very slow, multiple transfers, not luggage-friendly.	Ultra-budget solo travelers with time.
Rental Car	$30-$80+/day + parking	15-20 min	Total freedom for exploration.	High total cost with fees & parking, traffic stress.	Travelers exploring South Florida.

Verdict: For a straightforward transfer, Uber/Lyft provides the best balance of cost, speed, and convenience. Use public transit only if budget is your absolute top priority.

Insider Advice for a Smooth Transfer:

• Use the SunPass Lanes: If taking a taxi/rideshare on I-95, the express lanes (with tolls) can save significant time during rush hour. The cost ($0.50-$2) is added to your Uber/Lyft fare or taxi meter.
• Avoid I-95 During Rush Hour: Weekdays from 7-9 AM and 4-6:30 PM, traffic can double your travel time. Consider taking Federal Highway (US-1) or asking your driver for the best route.
• Pack Light for the Beach: If possible, use a carry-on. Navigating sandy sidewalks and boardwalks with large roller bags is challenging. Many hotels don't have bellhops.
• Have Your Destination Ready: For rideshares/taxis, have the exact address of your hotel or rental ready. "Hollywood Beach" is a long strip; precise location matters.
• Check for Hotel Shuttles: Some larger beachfront hotels (like the Diplomat) offer paid shuttle service from FLL. Inquire when booking—it may be cheaper than a taxi.
• Weather Watch: Sudden, heavy rain can cause flash flooding and traffic snarls. Allow extra time on summer afternoons.