Hollywood Beach, Florida

This is one of Florida's east coast's "undiscovered" gems. Most Americans head for the more glamorous Ft. Lauderdale and Miami Beach, can you say South Beach? However, my beach of choice in this part of the world is Hollywood Beach.

This is a place those of us who are not "beautiful" people, as in CSI-Miami, can go to unwind and enjoy ourselves and not spend a fortune. However, I should say the French Canadians have definitely found it. If you go during the winter, English is almost a second language. I may not know what they're saying, but I definitely know when someone is having a good time. These folks are definitely having a good time.

We prefer to stay at the Beach House Hotel, right on A1A. It is right across from the Intercoastal Waterway and only a block from the ocean. There is an open courtyard in the middle and a swimming pool on the roof, which is about six stories high. Prices are very reasonable. There are lots of mom and pop motels in the area.

What we REALLY like is that there are probably 25 bars within a quarter mile of the place. No worry about DUIs here. Park the car and walk the next several days.

Then there is that great asphalt boardwalk that runs several miles. The beach is on one side and a myriad of small shops, the inevitable tee shirt places, and restaurants on the west.

I see that GQ ranked Le Tub's burger as the best in the US. Le Tub is about two blocks away, right next to Capone's Flicker Light which is a Chicago sport fan's home away from home. They had a major party there during last year's Super Bowl.

We haven't been to Hollywood Beach since 2000, but went there quite often before that.

As Cold as it is Today, I've Got HB on My Mind. --RoadDog