Looking for the best spots in Fort Lauderdale for your engagement photos? Whether you're dreaming of beachside romance, lush greenery, or upscale city vibes, Fort Lauderdale has something for every couple. From iconic parks to hidden gems, these locations offer stunning backdrops to tell your love story.
1. Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
📍 900 N Birch Rd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
🌐 bonnethouse.org
This historic estate offers everything from tropical gardens and lily ponds to bright yellow buildings and whimsical charm. It’s one of the most unique and artistic places for engagement photos in Fort Lauderdale.
Vibe: Artistic, colorful, elegant
Best time: Late afternoon
Outfit tips: Dressy-casual or formal attire to match the elegant vibe
Cost: $$$ (Photography permit required)
2. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
📍 3109 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
🌐 floridastateparks.org
A quiet oasis in the heart of the city with shaded trails, oak trees, a freshwater lagoon, and beach access. Ideal for couples wanting a nature-filled engagement shoot in Fort Lauderdale.
Vibe: Natural, peaceful, tropical
Best time: Morning or golden hour
Outfit tips: Earth tones, casual
Cost: $$ (Entry + possible permit fee)
3. Las Olas Boulevard
📍 Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
🌐 lasolasboulevard.com
With its charming streets, sidewalk cafés, boutiques, and city lights, Las Olas gives you a chic, urban backdrop for stylish engagement shots.
Vibe: Urban, trendy, upscale
Best time: Early morning or blue hour (after sunset)
Outfit tips: Fashion-forward, accessories welcome
Cost: Free
4. Fort Lauderdale Beachfront
📍 A1A along Fort Lauderdale Beach, FL
🌐 www.visitlauderdale.com/
This classic beach location offers wide ocean views, palm trees, and sun-kissed sand. Sunrise is especially magical.
Vibe: Bright, tropical, romantic
Best time: Sunrise or golden hour
Outfit tips: Light fabrics, white or pastels, barefoot friendly
Cost: Free (street parking)
5. Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale
📍 400 SW 2nd St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
🌐 goriverwalk.com
Follow the river through downtown with bridges, boats, and beautiful greenery. The Riverwalk gives you a mix of urban and nature for diverse engagement photos.
Vibe: Romantic, scenic, classic
Best time: Late afternoon
Outfit tips: Semi-formal or casual chic
Cost: Free
6. Secret Woods Nature Center
📍 2701 W State Rd 84, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
🌐 broward.org
This peaceful preserve is packed with boardwalk trails, mangroves, and butterflies — perfect for nature-loving couples who want something off the beaten path.
Vibe: Earthy, quiet, whimsical
Best time: Morning or sunset
Outfit tips: Natural colors, comfy shoes
Cost: Free or minimal fee
7. The W Fort Lauderdale (Lobby & Surroundings)
📍 401 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
🌐 marriott.com
For couples who want something bold and modern, the W Hotel exterior and lobby area offer dramatic architecture and a trendy vibe.
Vibe: Modern, luxurious, edgy
Best time: Afternoon or golden hour
Outfit tips: Statement pieces, cocktail attire
Cost: $$$ (Permission required)
8. Colee Hammock Park
📍 1500 Brickell Dr, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
🌐 parks.fortlauderdale.gov/
A quiet riverside park with banyan trees, water views, and charming walkways — a local hidden gem.
Vibe: Serene, elegant, minimal
Best time: Golden hour
Outfit tips: Classy and simple
Cost: Free
9. Esplanade Park
📍 400 SW 2nd St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
🌐 weekendbrowards.com
This downtown park along the New River gives you skyline views, green space, and cultural art nearby.
Vibe: Contemporary, clean, scenic
Best time: Late afternoon or early evening
Outfit tips: Dressy casual
Cost: Free
10. Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
📍 Commercial Blvd & El Mar Dr, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, FL 33308
🌐 discoverlbts.com
Just north of Fort Lauderdale, this charming beach town offers a slower pace, pastel buildings, and a picturesque pier. A fantastic alternative to the busier beaches.
Vibe: Relaxed, coastal, vintage charm
Best time: Sunrise or golden hour
Outfit tips: Casual beachwear, barefoot friendly
Cost: Free
Let’s Plan Your Fort Lauderdale Engagement Shoot
Engagement photos should feel like you — whether that means barefoot on the sand, dressed up in the city, or tucked under a canopy of trees. As a Fort Lauderdale engagement photographer, I’ll help you choose the right vibe, location, and timing for your session so it feels natural, relaxed, and beautiful.
Looking ahead to your wedding? I’d love to be part of your day from start to finish.
