The term "South Florida" is synonymous with the Gold Coast, which includes the cities of Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach. Its beaches and climate make South Florida an ideal place to visit and relax.

Fort Lauderdale 's 23 miles of beaches are its prime draw. It's usually easy to stake out a spot on the wide sands, hemmed in by swaying palm trees and a low-rise, wavy white wall; if the main street is busy, head south, as the beach widens in that direction. The water here has been certified Blue Wave for its cleanliness and safety, but be aware of risky riptides. As for facilities, look for showers at the end of Las Olas Boulevard and restrooms at the junction with Sunrise Boulevard.

South Florida has a tropical climate, the only major metropolitan area in the 48 contiguous states that falls under this category. The metropolis does experience cold fronts from November through March; however most of the year is warm and humid with a mean temperature never below 64°F (18 °C). In addition, the metropolis sees most of its rain in the summer (wet season) and is mainly dry in winter (dry season). The wet season, which is hot and humid, lasts from May to October, when it gives way to the dry season. Typically this season features mild temperatures with some invasions of colder air, which is when some winter rainfall occurs — with the passing of a front. The hurricane season largely coincides with the wet season. .