Nestled between the shimmering waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, Hollywood Lakes stands as one of South Florida’s most storied and picturesque neighborhoods. Rich in architectural beauty, historic significance, and natural wonder, Hollywood Lakes offers a glimpse into the past while embracing a vibrant present. From grand boulevards and lakeside parks to elegant historic homes, the neighborhood’s unique character makes it a beloved destination for residents and visitors alike.
The Origins: Vision of a Dream City
Hollywood Lakes was born from the ambitious vision of Joseph Wesley Young, a charismatic developer and entrepreneur. In the early 1920s, Young dreamt of creating a “New City” by the sea—a luxurious, planned community inspired by the grandeur of Hollywood, California. He selected the area for its unique geography, naturally separated by two large manmade bodies of water: North Lake and South Lake. These twin lakes not only provided stunning vistas but also promised an upscale waterfront lifestyle.
Young’s plan for Hollywood included wide, tree-lined boulevards, scenic parks, and a network of roads that would encourage residents to enjoy outdoor living and recreation. Hollywood Boulevard, the main artery, was designed as a stately promenade leading straight down to the sands of Hollywood Beach—a testament to Young’s dedication to beauty and accessibility.
How Hollywood Lakes Got Its Name
The “Hollywood” moniker, of course, was chosen to evoke the glitz and glamour of its California cousin. The “Lakes” distinction refers to the two impressive freshwater lakes—North Lake and South Lake—that anchor the neighborhood. These lakes were originally part of Young’s elaborate development plan, engineered both for stormwater management and to provide residents with boat access, fishing, and recreation right at their doorstep. Today, they remain defining features and are celebrated in the names of surrounding streets, such as Northlake Drive and Southlake Drive.
Landmarks and Historic Buildings
*Young Circle and Hollywood Boulevard*
At the heart of the neighborhood sits the iconic Young Circle, a traffic circle and park dedicated to the founder himself. This green space, officially known as ArtsPark at Young Circle, has long been a gathering place for community events and festivals. From here, Hollywood Boulevard stretches east, lined with lush medians and a number of beautifully preserved early-20th-century homes.
*Hollywood Lakes Historic District*
The Hollywood Lakes Historic District, added to the National Register of Historic Places, lies between Hollywood Boulevard and the lakes. Here, you’ll find an array of architecture dating from the 1920s and 1930s, reflecting styles like Mediterranean Revival, Mission, and Art Deco. Stroll down streets such as Jefferson Street, Polk Street, and Harrison Street to appreciate the craftsmanship and detail of these lovingly maintained residences.
*Hollywood Beach Broadwalk*
Just a short walk east, the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk beckons. This oceanfront promenade, a cornerstone of Young’s city plan, was completed in the 1920s and remains a favorite spot for leisurely strolls, bike rides, and people-watching, offering stunning views of the Atlantic at sunrise.
*Hollywood Women’s Club*
Located at 501 North 14th Avenue, the Hollywood Women’s Club is another cherished landmark. Founded in 1922, this historic building has served as a social and civic hub for generations, supporting community projects and fostering local culture.
Neighborhood Evolution Over the Decades
The story of Hollywood Lakes is one of resilience and renewal. Like much of Florida, the area felt the sting of the Great Miami Hurricane of 1926, which devastated many original structures. Yet, through several booms and busts—from depopulation during the Great Depression to a postwar resurgence—the neighborhood has endured and thrived.
The real estate explosion of the 1950s and 1960s brought new families seeking the waterfront lifestyle, while the 1980s and 1990s saw a renewed interest in historic preservation. Local efforts, spearheaded by neighborhood associations and the city, have ensured that vintage homes and landmarks remain protected even as the area adapts to modern life.
Today, Hollywood Lakes enjoys a diverse mix of residents, from retirees and young families to artists and professionals. Community pride runs deep, and neighborhood gatherings—like outdoor concerts at ArtsPark, parades along Hollywood Boulevard, and picnics by the lakes—are a cherished tradition.
Parks, Schools, and Community Spirit
*West Lake Park and Holland Park*
Green spaces anchor life in Hollywood Lakes. West Lake Park, stretching along Sheridan Street, offers kayak launches, nature trails, and mangrove preserves teeming with wildlife. Holland Park, located off Johnson Street on the Intracoastal, provides scenic overlooks, a playground, and shaded picnic areas.
*South Broward High School*
Education has long been a pillar of the neighborhood. South Broward High School, established in 1938 on Federal Highway (US-1), continues to serve generations of students and stands as a source of local pride.
*Ecumenical and Community Institutions*
The area’s heritage is further underscored by its diverse houses of worship, including St. Johns Lutheran Church and several historic synagogues, reflecting the inclusive spirit that has defined Hollywood since its earliest days.
Why Residents Love Hollywood Lakes
Ask any longtime resident what makes Hollywood Lakes so special, and the answer is almost always the same: a unique sense of place. The neighborhood’s broad boulevards, majestic old trees, and sparkling waterways embody the quintessential Florida lifestyle, while its historic homes and community landmarks provide a tangible connection to a proud past.
Whether it’s the laughter of children at a lakeside park, the sight of couples walking along the Broadwalk at sunset, or neighbors gathering beneath the shade of a banyan tree, Hollywood Lakes is more than just a neighborhood—it’s a living chapter of Hollywood’s ongoing story.
As Hollywood Lakes continues to flourish, one thing remains clear: this community’s enduring beauty and spirit will enchant generations to come, just as Joseph Young once dreamed.