The Uncertain Future of the Historic Hollywood Beach Resort: A Tale of Glory and Decline
Historic Hollywood Beach Resort: A Jewel of the Past Faces an Uncertain Future
Hollywood, FL — Once a glittering jewel of South Florida’s coastline, the Historic Hollywood Beach Resort now stands quiet behind chain-link fencing, its grand past fading into uncertainty. The nearly century-old landmark, affectionately known as “The Grand Lady,” is deserted, leaving locals and historians alike pondering its future.
A Grand Beginning with Historic Roots
Built in 1925 by Hollywood founder Joseph Young, the 500-room resort was the first of its kind in Broward County. For decades, it served as the heart of Hollywood Beach, drawing visitors with its charm and elegance. Longtime resident Greg Domas fondly recalls the vibrant atmosphere of the resort, reminiscing, “Back in the early 90s, there was an arcade over here. I used to come here and play.”
During World War II, the hotel transitioned into a naval training school and later became home to the Florida Bible College. Its storied history is now a stark contrast to the silence that envelops the property.
An Empty Icon on the Oceanfront
For over a year, the Hollywood Beach Resort has remained vacant after being declared unsafe for occupancy. A tall fence now encircles the property, keeping out curious onlookers and former guests alike. Clive Taylor, president of the Hollywood Historical Society, expressed concern over the resort’s uncertain fate. “This hotel is sitting here with an ownership that has not submitted formal plans to the city, so we can’t comment on if we’re for or against anything,” he said. “We are in a state of limbo, just like somebody who is on life support.”
Attempts by CBS News Miami to reach the property’s owners for comment were unsuccessful, leaving the community in suspense.
Preservation Hopes Clash with Redevelopment Dreams
Taylor is spearheading efforts to preserve the resort, emphasizing its significance to Hollywood’s identity. “If Palm Beach gets to have their Breakers preserved and saved, if Miami gets to have their Biltmore, doesn’t Hollywood deserve to have our signature hotel restored and preserved for the public to enjoy?” he argued.
However, not everyone shares this vision. Some residents, including Domas, believe it may be time to consider new developments. “Maybe a new hotel or something,” he suggested, reflecting a growing sentiment for change.
The City Looks Toward the Future
As Hollywood prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary, the timing for the resort’s fate couldn’t be more critical. “There just isn’t another building that is more important right now in this moment in time, on the 100th anniversary of our city, than the Hollywood Beach Hotel,” Taylor stated. “We hope that it doesn’t disappear from the landscape.”
A spokesperson for the City of Hollywood indicated that the property’s owners are currently collaborating with city officials, expressing optimism for the future of the historic structure. “We are excited for what the future holds,” they said.
Whether that future involves restoration or redevelopment remains to be seen. For now, the “Grand Lady” of Hollywood Beach waits in silence, her fate resting somewhere between history and hope. As the community reflects on its past, the question lingers: will this iconic landmark rise again, or will it fade into memory?
