Beyond the Broadwalk

By Beth Luberecki

Published: September 18, 2008

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No matter where you are in Hollywood, it's impossible not to feel a connection to the water. Stroll the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, and there's the Atlantic Ocean, serving as the promenade's eastern boundary and a constant temptation to the bikers, walkers and joggers on the path. Drive down A1A, and to your west is the Intracoastal Waterway, site of a steady stream of boat traffic and a number of restaurants offering dockside dining. Head to one of the city's many parks, and you just might find yourself paddling a kayak or canoe. You can even find the wet stuff in Downtown Hollywood, where ArtsPark at Young Circle features both an interactive children's fountain and a water sculpture by Ritsuko Taho.

So whether you want to get in the water or out on it, you can do it in Hollywood.

Getting Wet

Hollywood boasts seven miles of beaches, which have been designated Blue Wave beaches by the Clean Beaches Council, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting America's shores. And the area's expanse of white sand and turquoise waters makes it easy to see why. No wonder folks are serious about their beach-going in these parts.

The Hollywood Beach Broadwalk runs along two and a half miles of this beachfront and is lined with shops, restaurants and hotels (many are members of the Superior Small Lodging program and offer a one-of-a-kind experience). The recently renovated Charnow Park, also located on this stretch, features playground equipment and an interactive fountain where kids can make a splash.

At the north end of the Broadwalk sits Hollywood North Beach Park, a 56-acre spot that offers beach access along with amenities like a concession stand and picnic tables. A 60-foot observation tower rewards climbers with great views of the ocean and Intracoastal Waterway. A little farther north is John U. Lloyd Beach State Park, home to more than two miles of natural beachfront. It's a bit more quiet and secluded here, perfect for a peaceful day in the sun.

Setting Sail

Boaters find just as many reasons to make their way to Hollywood as beach lovers. Located between Fort Lauderdale and Miami, the city is easily accessible by car, boat or plane, and visitors who arrive by boat have many options when it comes to tying-up.

At the Hollywood Marina, on the Intracoastal not far from downtown, boaters find 55 boat slips, a fuel dock and public boat ramp. The Marina at Diplomat Landing, part of the Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa complex, features 14 slips and can accommodate vessels up to 140 feet.

Don't have your own boat? You can still get out on the water, thanks to fishing and diving charter companies based in the area. Why not take a deep-sea fishing trip aboard Sea Legs III?

Paddle Power

You can cruise Hollywood's waterways in a more low-tech fashion by paddling a kayak or canoe. Rentals are available at several locations, like John U. Lloyd Beach State Park and West Lake Park.

The latter, a 1,500-acre preserve, provides plenty to explore by both boat and foot. Paddlers can rent watercraft on the north side of the park and ply the waters of this mangrove tidal estuary, where wildlife sightings might include anything from crabs to egrets. Back on shore, several trails offer an alternate look at the park, while the Anne Kolb Nature Center houses exhibits that further detail the importance of this wild kingdom.

On Dry Land

A day on the water doesn't have to end with dinner. Many waterfront restaurants call Hollywood home, with everything from casual pizza joints to fine dining establishments. A multicultural mix can be found along the Broadwalk, where choices range from Argentinean to Turkish cuisine. On the Intracoastal, dining options include the world-famous Le Tub, hailed by GQ magazine and The Oprah Winfrey Show for its burgers.

Other landside attractions in Hollywood include serene spas and championship golf. The Aventura Mall is a five-minute drive away, where fashionistas can shop till they drop at Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom and some 280 other stores and restaurants. And who knows? They just might find the perfect bikini for a day at the beach.

To plan a Hollywood Beach Getaway, call 877-672-2468 or visit www.VisitHollywoodFL.org.

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