Holland Park

A Waterfront Haven

Tucked along the Intracoastal Waterway in Hollywood, Florida, Holland Park blends natural beauty with recreational spaces in a way that makes you forget you're in the middle of a bustling urban area. This waterfront park is a favorite spot for both Hollywood residents and visitors looking to escape the crowds at nearby beaches.

Climb for the Views

If you do nothing else at Holland Park, make time to scale the observation tower - trust us, it's worth the climb. From the top, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Intracoastal Waterway. Watch boats glide by, spot impressive mansions along the shore, and take in the patchwork of residential sailboats bobbing in the water against a backdrop of lush Florida greenery.

Just a heads-up: the tower occasionally closes for maintenance, so you might want to check if it's open before making the trip specifically for this feature.

Nature at Your Pace

The park's walking trails and bicycle path wind through patches of native vegetation, creating a surprisingly serene nature experience. The trails aren't particularly challenging, making them excellent for a casual stroll or an easy bike ride. You'll find yourself weaving through areas with mangroves - those fascinating salt-tolerant trees that function as natural nurseries for marine life.

There's also a wheelchair-accessible eco-walk that, while relatively short, provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature without venturing far from civilization. This path doubles as a fishing spot, which brings us to our next point...

For Water Lovers

Holland Park is great for anyone who loves being on or near the water. The park has three boat ramps with direct access to the Intracoastal Waterway, all kept clean and well-maintained. If you're planning to launch your boat on a weekend, we'd recommend arriving early - trailer parking fills up quickly.

Not bringing a boat? No problem. The park has become a hotspot for kayaking and paddleboarding, with easy access to explore nearby mangrove paths and canals. There's something magical about gliding through these waterways, especially in the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon.

Cast a Line

Fishing enthusiasts will feel right at home here. The park offers several spots along the Intracoastal where you can cast your line while enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The eco-walk acts as a particularly good fishing pier, giving you access to deeper water without needing a boat.

Gather and Grill

When hunger strikes, you'll appreciate the well-designed picnic areas and pavilions scattered across the park. Complete with barbecue grills, these spaces make Holland Park an ideal setting for family gatherings or casual cookouts with friends.

For larger gatherings, check out the two main pavilions - the larger one even comes equipped with electric and water connections, great for hosting events. Beyond these designated areas, you'll find plenty of open green spaces where you can spread out a blanket and relax.

Wildlife Encounters

One of the park's unexpected delights is the variety of wildlife you might spot during your visit. Keep your eyes peeled for various bird species and the ubiquitous Florida iguanas. If you're really lucky, you might catch glimpses of manatees and dolphins in the adjacent waters. Some visitors have even reported crocodile sightings in the area, but these are less common.

Stay until sunset if you can - the views across the water as the day ends are truly spectacular, offering a moment of tranquility that feels miles away from the energy of Hollywood's beach scene.

The Practical Stuff

The park offers clean restrooms that are wheelchair accessible, making it friendly for visitors of all mobility levels. Parking for personal vehicles is free, however you should note there's an hourly fee for trailer parking on weekends and weekdays if you're bringing a boat.