Fort Lauderdale vs Miami for Corporate Retreats: Which is Better?
Fort Lauderdale vs Miami for Corporate Retreats: Which is Better? (2026)
When planning a corporate retreat, the choice between Fort Lauderdale and Miami can significantly impact your team's experience. Did you know that 80% of corporate retreats result in improved team collaboration and morale? Yet, the success of these events often hinges on location. As of January 2026, let’s break down the strengths of Fort Lauderdale and Miami for your next corporate retreat.
Why Choose Fort Lauderdale or Miami?
Fort Lauderdale: A Relaxed Coastal Vibe
Fort Lauderdale offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to the bustling energy of Miami. With its extensive waterways and beautiful beaches, it’s ideal for teams looking to unwind and foster connections.
Miami: The Urban Hub
Miami, known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse culture, is perfect for teams seeking an energetic environment. With a variety of venues and activities, it caters to dynamic and fast-paced corporate groups.
Venue Comparison Table
| Venue Name | Location | Capacity | Price/Person/Night | Best For | Standout Feature | F&B Included | |-----------------------------|--------------------|---------------|---------------------|-------------------|------------------------------|--------------| | The Westin Fort Lauderdale | Fort Lauderdale | 300 | $200 | Large Groups | Beachfront access | Yes | | Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club | Fort Lauderdale | 200 | $175 | Team Building | Private beach | Yes | | Hilton Fort Lauderdale | Fort Lauderdale | 400 | $225 | Conferences | Rooftop bar | Yes | | The Ritz-Carlton Miami Beach | Miami | 500 | $350 | Luxury Retreats | World-class spa | Yes | | Kimpton EPIC Hotel | Miami | 600 | $275 | Creative Teams | Rooftop pool and bar | Yes | | Miami Beach Convention Center| Miami | 2000 | $150 | Large Events | Versatile space | No | | The Confidante Miami Beach | Miami | 300 | $250 | Relaxed Retreats | Vintage Miami vibe | Yes | | Fontainebleau Miami Beach | Miami | 1200 | $400 | High-End Events | Iconic beachfront property | Yes |
Our Top Picks
Best for Small Teams: Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club
- Location: Fort Lauderdale
- Capacity: Up to 200
- Price: $175 per person/night
- Standout Feature: Private beach area
Best for Large Groups: Miami Beach Convention Center
- Location: Miami
- Capacity: Up to 2000
- Price: $150 per person/night
- Standout Feature: Versatile event space
Best for Luxury Retreats: The Ritz-Carlton Miami Beach
- Location: Miami
- Capacity: Up to 500
- Price: $350 per person/night
- Standout Feature: World-class spa services
Activity Recommendations
1. Beach Olympics
- Location: Fort Lauderdale Beach
- Time Needed: 3 hours
- Group Size: 10-50
- Cost: $50 per person
- Energy Level: High
- Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor
- Skip if...: Your team prefers indoor activities.
2. Art Deco Walking Tour
- Location: Miami Beach
- Time Needed: 2 hours
- Group Size: 10-30
- Cost: $25 per person
- Energy Level: Moderate
- Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor
- Skip if...: Your team is not interested in history.
3. Sunset Dinner Cruise
- Location: Fort Lauderdale
- Time Needed: 2.5 hours
- Group Size: 20-100
- Cost: $75 per person
- Energy Level: Low
- Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor
- Skip if...: Your team prefers high-energy activities.
Sample 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Welcome
- Morning: Arrival and check-in
- Afternoon: Team lunch at venue
- Evening: Icebreaker activity (Beach Olympics)
Day 2: Team Building and Strategy Sessions
- Morning: Strategy session at venue
- Afternoon: Lunch and Art Deco Walking Tour
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant
Day 3: Reflection and Departure
- Morning: Reflection session at venue
- Afternoon: Sunset Dinner Cruise
- Evening: Departure
Budget Breakdown for a 20-Person Team
| Category | Estimated Cost | Percentage Allocation | |------------------|------------------|-----------------------| | Venue | $4,000 | 40% | | F&B | $2,500 | 25% | | Activities | $1,500 | 15% | | Travel | $1,500 | 15% | | Contingency | $500 | 5% | | Total | $10,000 | 100% |
Conclusion
Both Fort Lauderdale and Miami offer unique advantages for corporate retreats in 2026. Fort Lauderdale is ideal for relaxed, team-building experiences, while Miami provides a vibrant backdrop for creative and high-energy gatherings. Consider your team's needs, budget, and the type of experience you want to create when making your choice.
Action Items:
- Decide on the preferred city based on your team's culture.
- Select venues and activities from the lists provided.
- Start planning your retreat by booking venues at least 4 months in advance for the best rates.
Get a Free Custom Offsite Proposal
Tell us your team size, dates, and goals. We'll send venue options, activity ideas, and a full budget breakdown within 48 hours.