By Beth Daly, Realtor®

Founded in 1947 this tiny town of Lauderdale by the Sea is just charming. Located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal waterway, from just south of Commercial Boulevard, to just north of Commercial Boulevard, is this timeless enclave of only a little over 6,000 people; of which less than half are full time residents. Many of the residents are also owners of small hotels and motels that make up the majority of the accommodations for this long time tourist destination. The land area encompasses only about a half of a square mile. There are building restrictions that prohibit buildings over certain heights in the Lauderdale by the Sea area, that help to retain the small town ambiance and charm that attract many visitors and locals alike year after year.

At the center of the town is Pelican Square, with many wonderful merchants, among them are unique gift shops, ice cream shops, restaurants, boutiques, and of course, Anglis Fishing Pier. Lauderdale by the Sea is a favorite place for locals to come and take an evening stroll along the oceanside sidewalk that stretches from almost the north to the south end of the town. 

Although the town of Lauderdale by the Sea is small geographically, they have a remarkable civic minded group of residents. Many are active members and supporters of the local Lauderdale by the Sea Chamber of Commerce, Lauderdale by the Sea Merchant Association, The Property Owners Association, the Garden Club, Coral Ridge Power Squadron, and the Fire Fighters Optimist Club, The Lauderdale by the Sea Volunteer Fire Department and the Lauderdale by the Sea Police Department. There is a wonderful city hall, and a beautiful, well equipped playground/park with tennis courts and basketball courts. 

There is a fabulous live reef just off shore about 100 yards which makes this beach one of the favorites of the local scuba divers and snorkelers. Shore diving here is amazing, and so convenient. Fishermen and fisherwomen enjoy a nice day at Anglins Fishing Pier, catching local fare such as Red Snapper, Snook (only in season please..), and many other delicious favorites. 

Most of the homes in this quiet community were built in the 1950's - 1970's, with many new homes currently under construction and just completed. The average lot size is around 8,000 sq. ft., with some larger and smaller.