The Hollywood Beach Broadwalk in South Florida still remains one of my favorite places to this day. It’s one of those rare spots, running parallel to the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, that has a little something for everyone, no matter your age. I’ve been visiting the Hollywood Broadwalk and beach since I was a kid and have watched it go through many different iterations. I’ve seen it change in countless ways—ramshackle beach cottages giving way to sleek, three-story homes—and yet it somehow retains its unique charm, blending old Florida with modern beachside living.

Whenever I return, I find just what I need: sunshine therapy, a good workout, or a bit of both. Some days, I lather on sunscreen and head out to soak up the Florida sun on the sand. Other times, I lace up my running shoes for a jog along the ocean, taking in the fresh, salty air and the endless horizon. And when it’s downtime I’m after, there’s nothing like wandering the Hollywood, Florida Broadwalk, stopping for a cold beer at Riptides, or sampling bites from the many restaurants lining the path. This area really does have it all, and after my last visit, I was reminded why it’s remained a favorite escape.

The Broadwalk in Hollywood, Florida, has come a long way since its early days. Stretching nearly 2.5 miles along the ocean, this classic seaside promenade was first constructed in the early 1920s. Its origins trace back to 1920 when entrepreneur Joseph Young, the founder of Hollywood, Florida, envisioned a resort community inspired by the glamour 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 complete. It quickly became the first paved passage on Hollywood Beach, offering a sunny haven for families escaping the harsh northern winters.

Hollywood Beach and the Broadwalk eventually flourished, thriving during Florida’s 1920s land boom and carving out a reputation as a relaxed but stylish beach destination. Over time, it has retained a nostalgic allure 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 annually. With hotels, condos, and restaurants dotting the strip, it’s easy to get lost in beachside bliss. Bike rentals are available for cruising the length of the Broadwalk, or you can rent an umbrella and a pair of beach chairs to lounge the day away. The restaurants, most of which boast tempting two-for-one drink specials all day, make it hard to resist a laid-back meal or happy hour with an ocean view.

On my latest visit, I was reminded of why weekday afternoons on the Broadwalk are my favorite. Avoiding the weekend crowds, I could find parking more easily—though at about $4 an hour, it’s not cheap—and enjoy the relaxed energy of a Friday crowd ready to start the weekend. I strolled past the new Margaritaville Resort, joining the mix of rollerbladers, joggers, and sun-seeking vacationers.

After a mile and a half, I turned back and made my way to Riptides, one of my go-to spots for a casual drink. Sitting with a cold Amstel Light, the Atlantic stretched before me, I listened as a guitarist played classic rock hits that drifted on the ocean breeze. At that moment, life felt utterly perfect, the Broadwalk offering me a slice of pure South Florida bliss yet again.