On Florida’s Atlantic coast, just north of Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach offers a mix of outdoor recreation, oceanfront dining and coastal experiences. One of the city’s best-known landmarks is the Fisher Family Pier, a nearly 900-foot structure extending into the Atlantic Ocean and offering visitors a unique way to enjoy the waterfront.

The pier’s design is part of its appeal. Its far end is shaped like a pompano fish and features a circular opening resembling a fish’s eye, allowing visitors to look down toward the water. From this vantage point, guests can enjoy the ocean’s blue-green colors, watch anglers at work and capture memorable photographs of the coastline.

The pier is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sightseeing and walking along the pier are free. Fishing costs US$7 per person per day. Visitors who do not bring their own equipment can rent a rod or purchase a US$27 fishing package that includes a rod, bait, bucket, towel and knife. The City states that a Florida fishing license is not required when fishing from the pier. Children aged 10 and under must be accompanied by an adult, and a maximum of three rods per person is allowed.

A beach day, ocean views and photo opportunities

A visit can begin with an early walk along the pier, when the morning light creates beautiful views, or continue into the evening for a sunset stroll. Pelicans and other seabirds are often part of the scenery, while anglers casting their lines add to the authentic coastal atmosphere.

Just steps away is Pompano Beach’s public shoreline, which is open year-round. Designated swimming areas are supervised by lifeguards, and beach facilities include restrooms, showers, picnic areas, barbecue grills and a children’s playground. Visitors can also rent lounge chairs, umbrellas and beach beds. Accessible beach entry points and adaptive beach wheelchairs are available, subject to availability.

The Fishing Village: dining by the ocean

The pier anchors The Fishing Village, a six-acre oceanfront destination with restaurants, shops and places to relax by the water.

Dining options include Oceanic and Beach House Pompano, both known for their oceanfront setting; Lucky Fish Beach Bar & Grill, a casual toes-in-the-sand experience; Baresco, serving Mexican cuisine; and How You Brewin’ Coffee Company for coffee, breakfast and lighter bites. Visitors can also head to Pier 6 Rooftop for drinks and ocean views from above.

The area makes it easy to combine a walk along the pier with lunch, dinner or a relaxing break by the sea.

More ways to explore Pompano Beach

The experience can extend beyond the shoreline. Pompano Beach is known for its natural reefs and diving sites, including Shipwreck Park, where sunken vessels have become marine habitats and underwater exploration sites. Among its best-known wrecks are the Lady Luck and Okinawa. Local dive operators offer organized trips for visitors interested in discovering this underwater world.

A newer addition to the city’s attractions is the Jellyfish Museum, which opened in 2026 on Ocean Boulevard. Dedicated to jellyfish, the museum combines science, art, exhibitions and marine conservation education. It offers a distinctive indoor experience for families and visitors interested in ocean life.

Travelers can also explore the Sample-McDougald House, a historic 1916 residence that offers a glimpse into the community’s past, or check the schedules of the Pompano Beach Cultural Center and Bailey Contemporary Arts Center for exhibitions and cultural events.

At the northern end of the city, Roy L. Rogers Family Park and the Wahoo Bay area provide another perspective on the local coastline and marine conservation efforts. Visitors should check current access conditions before planning water activities: the City has announced temporary closures of the Wahoo Bay swimming and snorkeling platform during waterfront improvement works.

A coastal getaway to enjoy at your own pace

Fisher Family Pier is an ideal starting point for discovering Pompano Beach. Visitors can simply stroll above the ocean, spend time fishing, plan a full beach day or combine the pier with dining, cultural attractions and water activities.

Just a short distance from Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach offers a relaxed way to experience Florida’s Atlantic coast, with something for couples, families, fishing enthusiasts and travelers looking for outdoor experiences by the sea.