If you are looking for an alternative to Fort Lauderdale's typical beachfront housing, I would highly recommend the Cracker Shack. Owner Rob (a local REALTOR) has done an amazing job of combining modern amenities with the charm of early Fort Lauderdale. Grocery stores (Winn Dixie and Fresh Market) and restaurants (I highly recommend The Whole Enchilada) are within walking distance of the cottage, which abuts Victoria Park. Note: The greenspace directly behind the property isn't necessarily a park, but is sometimes used for event parking for park events. The weekend I stayed at the Shack, there was a gun and ammunition show (hey, it's Florida!), so the greenspace was used for parking. But this is just an FYI. It was not a problem.
Wonderful kitchen, breakfast bar, and dining area. If your party consists of more than two people (who don't mind "shacking" up), then this isn't the property for you as there's only one (very comfortable) bed. Bathroom is nice, with adequate water pressure. I didn't use the jetted tub, but it's there. Wicker furniture is charming, but not terribly comfortable for long-term sitting. The smart tv was a nice feature, as was the writing desk. A washer and dryer...wow!
Breakfast on the back patio was a great way to start each day, as were cocktails in the evening. The backyard also features a 1960s Airstream trailer, which Rob the owner is restoring. He's quite the Airstream fan, given the accessories in the Shack.
I took advantage of one of the beach cruiser bikes and made a day of riding down to the beach. The traffic is insane, and most roads feature bike lanes.
Bottom line, stay at the Cracker Shack. Enjoy the beach from a distance. Experience a Fort Lauderdale neighborhood (eccentric neighbors and all) that you won't find at one of the many beachside highrise hotels. Walk to the park, or to the store. Walk to Las Olas and dine along the waterway. Wake to the sun from your ship's berth bed. Plan your day at the writing desk. Or just sit in an Adirondack chair on the front porch and say hello to a neighbor. You won't regret it.