The Hollywood Beach Broadwalk in South Florida remains one of my favorite places to this day. It’s one of those rare places, parallel to the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, that has something to offer everyone, whatever your age. I’ve been visiting the Hollywood Broadwalk and the beach since I was a child and have seen it go through many different iterations. I’ve seen it change in countless ways – from dilapidated beach cottages giving way to elegant three-story homes – and yet it somehow retains its unique charm, blending old Florida with modern seaside living.

Every time I go back, I find exactly what I need: sun therapy, a good workout, or a little of both. Some days I lather up with sunscreen and go enjoy the Florida sun on the sand. Other times, I put on my running shoes for a jog by the ocean, enjoying the fresh, salty air and endless horizon. And when I’m looking for some downtime, there’s nothing like strolling the Hollywood, Florida Broadwalk, stopping for a cold beer at Riptides, or sampling bites at the many restaurants that line the path. This area truly has it all, and after my last visit, I was reminded why it remains a favorite getaway.

The Broadwalk in Hollywood, Florida has come a long way since its beginnings. Stretching nearly 2.5 miles along the ocean, this classic seaside promenade was first built in the early 1920s. Its origins date back to 1920, when entrepreneur Joseph Young, founder of Hollywood, in Florida, envisioned a resort community inspired by the glamor of Atlantic City. Purchasing land in 1921, he embarked on an ambitious project, and by 1923 the Broadwalk, a 30-foot-wide pink cement promenade, was completed. It quickly became the first paved crossing on Hollywood Beach, providing a sunny haven for families escaping the harsh northern winters.

Hollywood Beach and the Broadwalk eventually prospered, thriving during Florida’s land boom of the 1920s and establishing a reputation as a relaxed yet elegant beach destination. Over time, it has retained a nostalgic feel while adapting to the times, allowing it to preserve that quintessential Old Florida charm alongside new developments.

Today, the Broadwalk is a bustling destination that attracts millions of visitors each year. With hotels, condos, and restaurants dotting the Strip, it’s easy to get lost in beach bliss. Bike rentals are available to ride the Broadwalk, or you can rent an umbrella and a pair of beach chairs to relax all day. The restaurants, many of which offer tempting two-for-one drink specials all day, make it hard to resist a casual meal or happy hour with an ocean view.

During my last visit, I was reminded why weekday afternoons on the Broadwalk are my favorite. By avoiding the weekend crowds, I could find parking more easily (although at around $4 an hour, it’s not cheap) and enjoy the relaxed energy of a ready Friday crowd starting the weekend. I passed the new Margaritaville Resort, joining the mix of rollerbladers, joggers and sun-seeking vacationers.

After a mile and a half, I turned around and headed towards Counter currentsone of my favorite places to have a relaxed drink. Sitting with a cold Amstel Light, the Atlantic stretching out before me, I listened to a guitarist playing classic rock hits that drifted in the ocean breeze. In that moment, life seemed utterly perfect, with the Broadwalk once again offering me a slice of pure South Florida bliss.