The Drift Hotel: Boutique at Its Best

Pam at the entrance to the courtyard
Photos: North Palm Beach Life

If you're planning a quick getaway to Ft. Lauderdale and need a room -- something close to the beach but with more character than the towering behemoths that dot the main ocean drag -- you should consider The Drift Hotel.

We found this boutique hotel on Travelzoo, read the reviews (glowing) and decided to give it a go. We weren't disappointed.

Located at 3005 Alhambra St., a short five-minute walk to the beach, you feel the charm as soon as you enter their courtyard, where guests can relax at tables surrounded by tropical plants and flowers. The charm extended to our room, where the plantation shutters and cedar closets gave it an "old school Florida" feel.

Along with the laid back vibe, each room comes with complimentary snacks and breakfast goodies. Bottled water, beach towels and chairs and Wifi are complimentary as well.

Just down the street and right across from the beach is the Casablanca Cafe, housed in the first home constructed on Ft. Lauderdale Beach, built in 1927. Renovated in 1993, it retains the home's original character and remains the oldest remaining structure on the beach. Happy Hour starts at 4 pm, and it's a great place to grab a chair at the outdoor bar and enjoy the breeze with your favorite drink.

One of the Drift Hotel's bold claims to fame is this: "More relationships have been consummated at The Drift than any other hotel in the world so 'LOVE THE ONE YOU'RE WITH.' "

That might be hard to prove, but who cares?  It worked for Stephen Stills, and us.

Bottom line: The Drift Hotel is a great value, especially now with Travelzoo rates starting at $69. Visit their website HERE.

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The Courtyard at night

Even the room keys are old school

The Casablanca Cafe