Car Hire Port Everglades — Your Ticket to the Ultimate Florida Road Trip
Landing in Port Everglades usually means one of two things: you’re about to board a massive cruise ship, or you’ve just touched down at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). Either way, you’re in a prime spot to explore the Sunshine State. While taxis and rideshares can get you from A to B, they limit you to the immediate tourist hubs. Renting a car here gives you the keys to the entire coast, allowing you to escape the crowds and find your own slice of paradise, whether that’s a hidden beach bar in Key West or a nature trail in the Everglades.
What makes Port Everglades special isn’t just the bustling cruise terminals; it’s the location. You are sandwiched between the vibrant nightlife of Fort Lauderdale and the laid-back vibes of Hollywood. But the real magic happens when you drive a little further. With a rental car, you aren’t just stuck at the port—you have easy access to Miami’s art scene, the family-friendly attractions of Orlando, and the scenic drives along the Atlantic coast. It’s the freedom to turn a standard port call into a full-blown Florida adventure.
Picking Up Your Rental Car in Port Everglades
Most travelers looking for car hire in Port Everglades will actually be picking up their vehicle at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), which sits right next to the port. It’s incredibly convenient—the Rental Car Center (RCC) is located just a short shuttle ride from the terminals. You’ll find all the major international brands there, from Budget and Hertz to Alamo and Enterprise. If you are coming straight off a cruise, some companies offer shuttles from the port terminals to the RCC, while others have counters right inside the cruise terminals for peak seasons. Always check your specific booking confirmation to see exactly where your desk is located.
Before you grab the keys, make sure you have your ducks in a row. You’ll need a valid driver’s license (an International Driving Permit is recommended if your license isn’t in English), a credit card in the main driver’s name for the deposit, and your booking voucher. It’s also worth checking your insurance situation beforehand—sometimes your travel insurance or credit card covers rental collision damage, which can save you a chunk of change at the counter. Queues can get long when multiple cruise ships dock, so try to book your pickup for a little later in the morning to avoid the initial rush.
Where to Go with Your Rental Car in Port Everglades
Once you’ve got the car, the hardest part is deciding where to go first. If you want to stay local, drive 15 minutes north to Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale. It’s the place to be for boutique shopping, riverside dining, and a much more relaxed atmosphere than the busy port area. Parking is fairly easy to find in the municipal garages, and it’s a great spot to stretch your legs after a flight or a cruise.
For a taste of wild Florida, head west on I-595 for about 30 minutes to reach the Everglades Holiday Park. This is your chance to see alligators in the wild and take an airboat ride through the ‘River of Grass’. Having a car makes this trip significantly cheaper and easier than booking a tour bus, and you can leave on your own schedule.
If you’re craving the city lights, drive south on US-1 or I-95 for about 45 minutes to Miami and South Beach. While Miami traffic can be busy, the drive is straightforward. You can park in a garage in South Beach and spend the day admiring the Art Deco architecture or soaking up the sun. Alternatively, drive north along the coast to Palm Beach to see the opulent mansions and the famous Worth Avenue shopping district.
Tips for Driving in Florida
Driving in Florida is generally a pleasant experience, but there are a few quirks to keep in mind. First, remember that Americans drive on the right side of the road. Speed limits are posted in miles per hour (mph), not kilometers. Highways usually allow speeds of 65-70 mph, but school zones are strictly enforced at 20 mph—do not speed in these areas as fines are heavy.
Toll roads are very common in this region, especially on the Florida Turnpike and around Miami. Many rental cars come equipped with a SunPass transponder, which automatically pays tolls. Be aware that rental companies often charge a daily fee for this convenience, even if you only use it once. Check your rental agreement; sometimes it’s cheaper to pay cash (where available) or buy your own portable pass if you plan on driving long distances.
Finally, be prepared for the weather. Florida is famous for its sudden afternoon thunderstorms, especially in the summer. These can reduce visibility to zero in seconds. If you hit a downpour, slow down and put your headlights on. Also, keep an eye on the fuel gauge—gas stations are plentiful, but prices near the airport and port are usually higher. Drive a few miles inland to fill up for a better price before returning your vehicle.
Ready to hit the road? Use the search widget at the top of the page to compare deals from top suppliers and book your car hire in Port Everglades today.