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Florida’s Best Beach Bars

Your Guide to the Sunshine State’s Beach Bar Culture

Florida’s warm climate and more than 1,300 miles of coastline make it the perfect place for a thriving beach bar scene. From laid‑back tiki shacks to lively oceanfront hotspots, the state offers endless places to kick back with a cold drink and enjoy the coastal breeze. The beach bars featured in this guide highlight the best of Florida’s natural beauty, relaxed lifestyle, and vibrant social atmosphere.

Whether you’re a local with a favorite go‑to spot or a visitor eager to soak in the Florida vibe, there’s a beach bar for every mood. Some offer quiet corners for sunset cocktails, others pump out live music late into the night, and many strike the perfect balance between the two. No matter your style, you’ll find friendly faces, great drinks, and unforgettable views.

Below, we explore the top beach bars across Florida in 2024—from the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic Coast and down through the Florida Keys. Each one brings its own flavor, charm, and coastal magic.

Top Beach Bars on the Gulf Coast

Florida’s Gulf Coast is known for its sugar‑white sand, calm waters, and lively nightlife. Clearwater, St. Pete Beach, and Naples each offer standout beach bars worth adding to your must‑visit list.

Shephard’s Tiki Beach Bar & Grill – Clearwater

A Clearwater icon, Shephard’s is famous for its sweeping beachfront views, upbeat energy, and signature “Tiki Punch” cocktail. Live music fills the air daily, with bands playing everything from reggae to rock. As regular visitor Maria Lopez says, “There’s no better place to unwind and enjoy the Florida sunset than Shephard’s.”

Undertow Beach Bar – St. Pete Beach

For a more relaxed vibe, Undertow Beach Bar sits directly on the sand and is known for its “Beach Bomb” drinks and friendly, come‑as‑you‑are atmosphere. Volleyball courts and water sports rentals add a fun, active twist. Bartender Jake Simons sums it up well: “You come for the drinks but stay for the community.”

Sunset Beach Bar & Grill – Naples

Located at the Naples Beach Hotel, this spot blends elegance with coastal charm. Tropical cocktails, gourmet bites, and nightly live music set the tone, but the real star is the sunset view. As regular Tom Harris puts it, “Sunset Beach Bar is where elegance meets the raw beauty of the Gulf Coast.”

Each of these Gulf Coast favorites offers something unique—from high‑energy parties to upscale relaxation—making them top contenders for Florida’s best beach bars in 2024.

Must‑Visit Beach Bars on the Atlantic Coast

Florida’s Atlantic Coast brings a different kind of energy—vibrant, lively, and full of personality. Miami Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Daytona Beach each offer iconic beach bars with their own distinct flair.

The Clevelander – Miami Beach

A Miami Beach staple, The Clevelander is known for its extensive drink menu, poolside lounging, and electric nightlife. It’s the perfect spot for those who want to soak up the sun by day and dance under the stars by night.

Elbo Room – Fort Lauderdale

A historic landmark since 1938, the Elbo Room is beloved for its laid‑back vibe, live music, and unbeatable beachfront location. Visitors love its friendly atmosphere and timeless charm, making it a favorite for both casual afternoons and lively evenings.

Ocean Deck – Daytona Beach

Ocean Deck is a Daytona classic, serving up fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and daily live entertainment. Beach volleyball tournaments, reggae nights, and a fun, energetic crowd make this bar a standout along the Atlantic Coast.

These Atlantic Coast hotspots offer more than great drinks—they deliver memorable experiences, strong community vibes, and the kind of coastal fun Florida is famous for.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Some of Florida’s best beach bars are tucked away in smaller towns or off the main tourist path. These hidden gems offer authenticity, character, and a true taste of local beach culture.

The Honu – Dunedin (Gulf Coast)

This beloved tiki bar features hand‑carved wooden statues, vintage surfboards, and a relaxed island vibe. Locals rave about the friendly service, famous fish tacos, and handcrafted cocktails.

Gilbert’s Resort Tiki Bar – Key Largo (Florida Keys)

Right on the water’s edge, Gilbert’s offers stunning sunset views, live music, and a laid‑back Keys atmosphere. Fresh seafood favorites like conch fritters and grilled shrimp pair perfectly with their signature Key Lime Colada.

Sandbar Sports Grill – Cocoa Beach (Atlantic Coast)

A favorite among surfers and beach lovers, Sandbar Sports Grill is lively, colorful, and unpretentious. With surfboards overhead, beach murals on the walls, and a menu full of hits like coconut shrimp and mahi‑mahi sandwiches, it’s a must‑stop in Cocoa Beach.

These local favorites showcase the heart and soul of Florida’s beach bar culture. Venturing off the beaten path often leads to the most memorable experiences.