Planning a trip to South Florida? Hollywood Beach is a destination worth adding to your itinerary. Located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, this coastal area combines sandy beaches, oceanfront dining, outdoor activities, and a lively atmosphere that makes it easy to spend an entire day by the water.
At the heart of the experience is the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, a nearly 2.5-mile promenade along the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a few relaxing days in South Florida, this guide covers what to see, what to do, and where to stay near Hollywood Beach.
What Is the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk?
The Hollywood Beach Broadwalk is a pedestrian-friendly, brick-paved promenade that follows the coastline. It brings together beach access, restaurants, cafés, shops, and places to stop and enjoy the ocean views.
Unlike a traditional beachfront destination where activities are spread across different areas, the Broadwalk makes it easy to explore at your own pace. You can start with a morning walk, rent a bicycle, take a break for lunch, or return in the evening to enjoy dinner by the water.
The promenade welcomes walkers, joggers, cyclists, and rollerbladers, making it an appealing destination for visitors who want to spend time outdoors.
For practical visitor information, beach access points, and parking options, explore the City of Hollywood’s official Hollywood Beach guide.
Best Things to Do at Hollywood Beach
One of the best things about Hollywood Beach is the variety of experiences available along the coastline. You can keep your visit simple or plan a full day around the beach and its surrounding attractions.
1. Walk or Bike Along the Broadwalk
Exploring the Broadwalk on foot is one of the easiest ways to experience the area. Take in the ocean views, watch the activity along the promenade, and stop whenever something catches your attention.
If you prefer to cover more ground, consider renting a bicycle from a local rental provider. Cycling can be a convenient way to explore more of the beachfront during your visit.
For a quieter experience, consider going earlier in the morning, when you can enjoy the coastal scenery before the busier parts of the day.
2. Spend Time on the Beach
Of course, no visit to Hollywood Beach is complete without time on the sand. Spend a few hours swimming, relaxing by the ocean, or simply enjoying the Florida sunshine.
The beach also works well for travelers who want a flexible itinerary. You can spend the morning by the water, head to a nearby restaurant for lunch, and return to the beach later in the afternoon.
If you’re visiting with family, check the city’s information about beach access and facilities before you go.
3. Explore Water Activities
Hollywood Beach offers opportunities to enjoy the water beyond swimming. Depending on weather conditions and local availability, visitors may find activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and other water sports in the area.
If you’re interested in a particular activity, check directly with local operators for availability, age requirements, prices, and safety guidelines before making plans.
4. Enjoy Live Music by the Ocean
The Hollywood Beach Theatre adds another dimension to the beachfront experience with live music and public performances.
Depending on the schedule, you may be able to catch a performance while exploring the Broadwalk or enjoying an evening near the water. Check the City of Hollywood’s official events calendar for upcoming performances and local events.
5. Visit the Shops and Beachfront Businesses
Part of the appeal of the Broadwalk is the chance to explore without following a strict itinerary. Along the promenade, you’ll find shops, cafés, restaurants, and bars that make it easy to take a break between activities.
Whether you’re looking for a casual drink, a place to sit after a walk, or a meal overlooking the ocean, the beachfront businesses help make the area a destination in its own right.
Where to Eat at Hollywood Beach
Dining is an important part of the Hollywood Beach experience. The Broadwalk has a variety of restaurants and cafés where you can stop for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a casual drink.
Oceanfront Dining
For a meal with a view, look for restaurants along the Broadwalk. These spots offer the opportunity to enjoy the coastal atmosphere while taking a break from the beach.
Depending on the restaurant, you may find seafood, American classics, international dishes, and casual menus suited to a relaxed day by the water.
Casual Cafés and Quick Bites
If you don’t want to interrupt your beach day with a long meal, the area also has casual dining options. Cafés and quick-service restaurants can be convenient for coffee, a light lunch, or a snack between activities.
Dinner Along the Broadwalk
As the day winds down, consider returning to the promenade for dinner. An evening meal near the ocean is a simple way to round out a day at the beach without needing to travel far for another activity.
Because restaurant hours and menus can change, check individual businesses before visiting, especially if you have a specific place in mind.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Hollywood Beach?
Hollywood Beach can be enjoyed throughout the year, but the best time for your visit depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for.
For morning walks: An early start can mean a quieter promenade and a more relaxed atmosphere.
For a full beach day: Plan around the weather forecast, bring sun protection, and leave time for breaks in the shade.
For dining and evening entertainment: Late afternoon and evening are good times to explore the restaurants and see what’s happening along the Broadwalk.
For a weekend getaway: Consider staying nearby so you can visit the beach at different times of day without having to make the journey back and forth from a distant location.
Before heading out, check the local weather and any relevant beach advisories.
Where to Stay Near Hollywood Beach
Choosing where to stay can shape your entire visit. Some travelers prefer to be directly on the beachfront, while others appreciate staying in a nearby neighborhood that offers dining, entertainment, and convenient access to several South Florida destinations.
When comparing hotels near Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, consider the distance to the beach, transportation options, breakfast, parking, and what you would like to explore beyond the coastline.
Stay at The Harrison Hotel in Downtown Hollywood
Located at 1925 Harrison Street in Downtown Hollywood, The Harrison Hotel offers an alternative for travelers who want to explore the beach while staying close to the city’s dining and entertainment district.
Hollywood Beach is approximately two miles from the hotel, around a 10-minute drive depending on traffic. The hotel also notes that the Holley Trolley stops one block away and offers rides to the beach for $1; check current service details before your trip.
Guests can enjoy à la carte breakfast, poolside restaurant & bar, free Wi-Fi, a heated outdoor pool, and a 24-hour fitness center. The downtown location also puts restaurants, shops, and local attractions within walking distance.
Explore the hotel’s Hollywood Beach and Broadwalk guide or browse the available rooms and suites to plan your visit.
Tips for Planning Your Hollywood Beach Visit
A little preparation can help you make the most of your time by the ocean.
- Bring sun protection. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are useful for spending extended time outdoors.
- Wear comfortable footwear. The Broadwalk is ideal for walking, so choose shoes that are comfortable for exploring.
- Plan your transportation. If you’re driving, review the city’s Hollywood Beach parking information before arriving.
- Check event schedules. Live music and public events can add something extra to your visit, but schedules may vary.
- Leave room for flexibility. One of the pleasures of the Broadwalk is being able to stop for a meal, browse a shop, or spend more time by the water without following a rigid schedule.
- Explore beyond the beach. Downtown Hollywood offers another side of the destination, with local restaurants, shops, public art, and entertainment.
Make Hollywood Beach Part of Your South Florida Getaway
Hollywood Beach and the Broadwalk offer a combination of ocean views, outdoor activities, casual dining, and entertainment that makes the area easy to enjoy at your own pace.
Whether you’re planning a beach day or a longer South Florida getaway, staying in a convenient location can make it easier to experience more of the destination.
At The Harrison Hotel Downtown Hollywood, you can enjoy the city’s dining and entertainment district while keeping Hollywood Beach within easy reach.
Explore our current hotel offers and start planning your next South Florida stay.