Fair enough, you are right, it's much more chilled and there are far far less loons. I was there yesterday all day and it is boring though. Can't get a colada for love nor money unlike miami. Very different places, just quite close to each other and have beaches.
Craft beer and hipster nonsense very limited in Miami outside of mid town thankfully, totally not needed when you have beautiful Latina women sunshine and rum.
Staying in Fort Lauderdale rather than miami is like staying in Worthing rather than brighton. Times a million. Don't fly 8 hours and then not stay in Miami.
That said If you want to do the glades and keys but don't want south beach nonsense prices for a stay, aim for coral gables or...