HOLLYWOOD

Packed with fun for any age, Hollywood Florida which is located just north of Golden Beach is absolutely one of the most family-friendly places anywhere. Known as the “Diamond of the Gold Coast,” Hollywood is pristine, yet exciting. With more than seven miles of white-sand beaches, visitors and residents alike delight in this eco-friendly paradise that is opulent in water and nature activities. Jet skiing, diving, fishing, surfing, snorkeling, and parasailing are among the areas most popular outdoors pastimes, and the opportunity to take advantage of these activities are prolific.

Rent bicycles by week, day, or hour and relish in a picturesque adventure alongside the newly reconditioned oceanfront Broadwalk. This 2.5 mile-long promenade is lined with charming restaurants, cafes, and sweet shops as well as spectacular resorts, boutique hotels, and charming seaside bed & breakfasts and inns.

Jump onto the trolley and visit Arts Park. This Downtown Hollywood attraction features demonstrations of glass blowing and fun for kids such as an interactive fountain where children can frolic in lively bursts of water, and an ingeniously designed playground formed specifically to stimulate creativity.

Or take a kayak trip and view the sunset at the Anne Kolb Nature at West Lake Park. This 1,500-acre marvelous mangrove is an eco-system that beckons visitors to wander through its brackish territory by foot, bike, or paddle. Discover photo exhibits, a film screening room, and aquariums at the park or take a narrated excursion aboard a 25-passenger covered boat and explore the open waters and tidal creeks of West Lake. For more information on Anne Kolb Nature at West Lake Park, please call (954)926-2480. Their address is 1 Sheridan Street, Hollywood, FL 33019

Hollywood North Beach Park is another fantastic regional feature. Take the whole family here and explore an eco-friendly sea-turtle hatchery or climb a 60-foot park observation tower featuring fantastic vistas of Hollywood Beach, the Coastal Mangrove area and the Intracoastal Waterway. Or, picnic, go kayaking, and spend the day fishing. There are outdoor showers and changing rooms available on-site and plenty of opportunities for boating, volleyball, and snorkeling. Plus, lifeguards are on duty from 9 a.m. - 5p.m. daily. For more information, please call (954)926-2444. Their address is 3601 North Ocean Drive, Hollywood, FL 33019

The Seminole Tribe of Florida also makes its home in Hollywood. Families can spend time in a delightful Seminole Okalee Indian Village and view alligator shows, live history demonstrations, and see traditional arts and crafts. Take the Billie Swamp Safari and watch history come to life as voyagers explore more than 2,200 prolific acres of Big Cypress Reservation. Hop on an airboat ride or stroll through the safari and view water buffalo, deer, bison, wild hogs, alligators, eagles, and hawks. For more information, please call (800) 949-6101

Along Hollywood Broadwalk visitors can take pleasure in more than two miles of running, walking, bicycling or inline skating. Bordered by a six-mile stretch of Hollywood's renowned coastline, charming hotels, boutique shops, and delightful cafes, it is the perfect place to relish in life's little pleasures. The beach area features free WiFi and is neighbored by West Lake Nature Preserve, which is a fantastic place to sit back and take in nature while discovering Florida's early habitat. Plus the beach offers plenty of opportunities for volleyball, group yoga, paddleball, Tai Chi classes, golf and tennis. From its luxurious and rentable cabanas and sun beds, to its ecotourism, water sports, sizzling nightlife, and weekend organic farmers' market, Hollywood has a truly unique setting.

And Hollywood's historic downtown area is the frosting on this distinctive cake. This region is the backdrop for all kinds of festivals, entertainment, and street markets. Characterized by brick-lined walks, unique sidewalk cafes, six blocks of charming boutiques, dozens of exquisite eateries, and lovely art galleries, historic downtown is the quintessential place to savor South Florida.

Many Williams Island residents take pleasure in the charming character of Hollywoods' truly distinctive milieu. Enjoy art and cultural exhibitions, music, electrifying nightlife, a myriad of gaming opportunities, and fun for people of all ages. Hollywood, FL will carry you into a state of pure bliss.