Ft. Lauderdale

Everyone, this post is more about where to stay than what to eat. I'm planning a surprise birthday get-a-way for my wife for a long weekend in Ft. Lauderdale. I'm not trying to spend a fortune on this trip, as it will count for our big vacation this year. Here's my question for those how have been there, is it better to stay near or on the Hollywood Boardwalk or the Ft. Lauderdale Beachfront Promenade? I'm sure this will depend on whether I rent a car and the likes. I know my wife will love the beach, but we are very active types and might get bored if secluded only a beach for more than a day and half.
Thank you.

I was just there a few weeks ago. Based on your criteria, I'd suggest you stay as close as possible to Las Olas, which is the main drag in Ft. Lauderdale on the mainland with bars and restaurants. Truth be told, you'll probably want to venture out by car to the far-flung strip malls for more LTH-style fare. My fellow travellers were not looking for a great experience, so we went to the supposed best place on Las Olas, Johnny V. It was fine but not-ready-for-prime-time. I made a run to Jack's Old Fashioned Hamburgers, which was a solid throwback that would be at home on Sunset in LA. It's been documented here by GWiv. I've heard great things about Pelligrino's from Jazzfood who knows the area well.

Back to hotels, the Hilton was surprisingly nice with a good pool/bar setup. The St. Regis looked great for a splurge.

Johnny V's the best on Las Olas? Very wrong. While I'm somewhat biased (actually not somewhat) not in a million years. PM me for details if interested.

Mark's Las Olas is ready for prime time and was @ one point, truly wonderful. He was one of the original "Mango Gang" doing Floribbean Cuisine with Norman van Aken and Allen Susser. This was his flagship restaurant. He's got a few so accept no substitutes. Been awhile though so I'd check first. Just walk up and look @ the menu that changes very often. Usually numerous interesting items to be had. Service can be a bit iffy. I actually used to keep his menus, I've probably got about a dozen here @ home.

Pellegrino's is a must (just north in Pompano, no scene, just great food) and has been written about here. Cafe Martorano is great as well (with scene and worth it wait) Philly-Italian with no written menu, Chef d j's from the line (a man after my own heart), Godfather or Goodfellas on video monitors with restaurant coming to a standstill every time Freddo gets shot in the boat. Pinky ring capital of South Florida and the molls they attract. MMMM Scampi bread. Share entree's though, as they're too huge. Expensive.