Ft. Lauderdale is nice. The lifestyle is what you make of it. The beaches are usually fun, but can get crowded if you go to some of the popular/touristy areas. There's ton's of fishing, surfing, watersports, etc. if that's what you're into.
Plenty of restaurants, bars, and breweries around if you prefer to go out. There's a lot of casino's if you like to gamble.
Miami is not too far off and offers a lot of things to do (art, restaurants, clubs, more beaches, etc.). But Miami is pretty polarizing and a lot of people avoid it (myself include).
If you're not from South Florida, prepare for heat pretty much all year round. The summers can get a little too hot (90+ and humid), but its worth it when fall/winter rolls around and everyday is a beach day (70's-80's) while the rest of the country is in a snow storm.
Driving here pretty much sucks, no getting around that. Driver's are incredibly rude and hostile. Be careful and avoid the highways when possible. Otherwise, learn how to drive like a south Floridian (no turn single, tailgate constantly or you'll get cut off, honk at everyone and give them the bird).
All in all, South Florida is a pretty good place to live I think. But, like most other places, it's what you make of it. You can get caught in the hustle and bustle, work crazy hours and never have a chance to go outside, in which case you'll hate it.
Or you can try to live a balanced life, and take advantage of everything it offers, in which case you'll love it.
AUD 99
BEC 96
FAR 94
REG 96