15 Top Bars And Nightlife Spots In Florida

Florida is known for its lively nightlife and diverse bar scene. From bustling city clubs to laid-back beach bars, the state offers many places for people to enjoy their evenings.

A lively nighttime street in Florida with people enjoying bars and outdoor seating under palm trees and colorful lights.

The 15 top bars and nightlife spots in Florida provide a mix of exciting venues where visitors can find great drinks, music, and atmosphere. These spots attract locals and tourists who want to experience the best of Florida’s after-dark entertainment.

1) HarborWalk Village, Destin

Evening view of a busy waterfront village with bars, restaurants, boats, and people enjoying the nightlife by the water.

HarborWalk Village is a popular nightlife spot in Destin. It offers a mix of bars, restaurants, and live music.

Visitors can enjoy drinks at places like AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar or dance at Coyote Ugly. The waterfront setting adds to the lively atmosphere. It is a key destination for varied nighttime entertainment in Destin.

More details are available at the HarborWalk Village nightlife guide.

2) LIV Miami

A lively nightclub interior with people dancing and socializing under colorful lights around a modern bar.

LIV Miami is a popular nightclub inside the Fontainebleau Miami Beach. It offers a high-energy atmosphere with top DJs and live performances.

The club is known for its upscale vibe and VIP service. Guests often visit for special events like birthdays and celebrations.

LIV combines luxury with Miami’s vibrant nightlife. It regularly draws both locals and tourists seeking a lively night out more about LIV Miami.

3) The Broken Shaker, Miami

Outdoor bar scene with people enjoying drinks and socializing at The Broken Shaker in Miami during the evening.

The Broken Shaker is a well-known bar located inside the Freehand Miami. It offers handcrafted cocktails made with fresh ingredients and unique flavors.

The atmosphere is relaxed and cozy, making it a good spot to hang out with friends or for a casual date.

Guests can also enjoy a small menu of bar bites, including tacos and empanadas. The average price per cocktail is about $13.

More details can be found at the Broken Shaker Miami.

4) Cé La Vi, Miami Beach

Rooftop bar in Miami Beach at sunset with people socializing, city skyline, and palm trees.

Cé La Vi in Miami Beach offers a modern setting with sleek design and stunning views. It is popular for its rooftop bar that overlooks the city and ocean.

The menu features carefully crafted cocktails made with fresh ingredients. Guests often enjoy the relaxing atmosphere for both daytime and evening visits.

5) The Wharf, Jacksonville

Evening view of a lively waterfront area with bars, outdoor seating, and colorful lights reflecting on the water at The Wharf in Jacksonville.

The Wharf is a popular outdoor spot on the St. Johns River in Jacksonville. It offers a mix of bars, food trucks, and open-air seating.

People come here to enjoy live music and events in a relaxed setting.

The atmosphere is casual, making it a good place to hang out with friends any time of day.

6) Rooftop Bar, West Palm Beach

People enjoying drinks and socializing at a rooftop bar with a city skyline and palm trees in the background during sunset.

This rooftop bar sits atop the Canopy by Hilton hotel. It offers views of downtown West Palm Beach and the Intracoastal Waterway.

Guests can enjoy fresh Florida-fusion dishes with ingredients often sourced locally. The atmosphere is relaxed, with a poolside setting that adds to the experience.

The bar combines city skyline views and casual dining. It is a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking an outdoor hangout. More details are available at the West Palm Beach rooftop bars page.

7) Hemingway’s Lounge, Key West

Interior of a warm and inviting bar with wooden furniture, colorful bottles, and a few people enjoying drinks in a cozy tropical setting.

Hemingway’s Lounge is a popular spot in Key West for visitors who enjoy a calm and classic bar experience. It offers a cozy atmosphere and drinks inspired by the writer Ernest Hemingway.

The bar is known for its strong cocktails and vintage decor. It’s a place for people to relax after exploring Duval Street. The lounge connects to the history of Key West’s literary past.

8) The Beachcomber, Daytona Beach

People enjoying drinks and socializing at a beachfront bar with palm trees and the ocean in the background during sunset.

The Beachcomber is a popular nightlife spot in Daytona Beach. It offers a relaxed atmosphere near the ocean, perfect for those who want to enjoy music and drinks by the water.

It features live bands and DJs regularly, attracting locals and visitors alike. The bar serves a variety of cocktails and beers at reasonable prices.

9) Blowin’ Smoke, Panama City Beach

A lively bar scene with people enjoying drinks and socializing in a colorful, tropical-themed setting.

Blowin’ Smoke is a popular spot in Panama City Beach known for its relaxed vibe. It offers a good selection of cigars and drinks for those who enjoy smoking in a social setting.

The bar appeals to both locals and visitors looking for a quieter place to unwind. Its atmosphere is casual and comfortable, making it a good option for a laid-back night out.

10) E.R. Bradley’s Saloon, Sarasota

Interior of a lively bar with wooden counters, shelves of liquor bottles, and people enjoying drinks and conversation.

E.R. Bradley’s Saloon is a popular spot in Sarasota known for its relaxed atmosphere and classic bar vibe. It offers a good selection of drinks and often hosts live music, making it a favorite for many locals.

The saloon has a casual, spacious setting with both indoor and outdoor seating. It is located in a convenient area, which adds to its appeal for night visitors. More details about E.R. Bradley’s Saloon can be found on GoTonight.

11) The Edison, Fort Myers

People socializing and enjoying drinks at an outdoor bar patio with warm lighting and greenery at night.

The Edison is a well-known spot in Fort Myers, open since 2008. It offers a mix of casual dining and a lively bar scene.

Located near the historic Edison & Ford Winter Estates, the venue honors one of Fort Myers’ notable past residents.

Guests can enjoy American classics and drinks while overlooking the Fort Myers Country Club. The atmosphere balances history with a modern nightlife feel.

More details about The Edison can be found at the Edison Tavern website.

12) The Castle, Orlando

Nighttime exterior of The Castle in Orlando with people gathered outside enjoying the lively nightlife.

The Castle is a unique nightlife spot in Orlando known for its gothic style and vibrant music scene. It hosts many events, including live shows and dance parties, attracting a diverse crowd.

The venue features multiple rooms with different music genres, offering something for everyone. Its atmosphere is darker and more alternative compared to typical bars.

Visitors often praise its strong community vibe and themed nights, making it a standout in Orlando’s nightlife. More details about Orlando’s nightlife spots can be found at Orlando Nightlife • A Complete Guide.

13) The Blue Martini, Tampa

Interior of a stylish bar with people enjoying drinks and socializing under blue and purple lighting.

The Blue Martini in Tampa is known for its wide variety of martinis and upscale lounge atmosphere. It attracts both locals and visitors looking for a lively night out.

The bar offers live music and DJ sets, making it a popular spot for dancing. It also features a spacious layout with comfortable seating.

Located in the heart of Tampa, it is a key part of the city’s nightlife scene. More details about Blue Martini can be found on their Yelp page.

14) The Cigar City Brewing, Tampa

Interior of a busy brewery bar with people enjoying drinks and socializing around wooden counters and beer taps.

Cigar City Brewing is a well-known brewery in Tampa, established in 2009. It operates the Spruce Street Brewery & Taproom, where many popular beers like Jai Alai IPA are brewed.

The taproom offers more than 20 beers on tap, including some only available at this location. It also has a full kitchen serving Tampa-inspired dishes to pair with their beers.

People visit for the quality beers and the chance to see where Cigar City Brewing started. More details can be found at the Cigar City Brewing Taproom.

15) The Tipsy Turtle, Fort Lauderdale

People socializing outside a brightly lit bar with tropical plants and string lights in Fort Lauderdale.

The Tipsy Turtle is a popular bar in Fort Lauderdale known for its casual, beachy vibe. It offers a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can enjoy a range of beers and cocktails.

The bar features indoor and outdoor seating, making it a good spot to unwind after a day at the beach. It often hosts live music and events, adding to its lively nightlife appeal.

What to Expect From Florida’s Nightlife

A lively Florida street at night with people enjoying drinks outside colorful bars under neon lights and palm trees.

Florida’s nightlife offers a mix of lively crowds, diverse venues, and distinct dress codes. Visitors can find everything from beach bars and dance clubs to upscale lounges. Knowing what to expect helps in choosing the right spot and enjoying the night without surprises.

Atmosphere and Ambiance

Nightlife in Florida varies widely depending on the city and type of venue. Miami features high-energy clubs with loud music, neon lights, and a glamorous crowd. South Beach is known for its exclusive lounges and rooftop bars that offer scenic views and a trendy vibe.

In contrast, places like Destin and Panama City Beach lean toward relaxed beach bars and casual dance halls. Motor Speedway areas bring a rowdy, biker-style scene with lively saloons. Most venues emphasize a social and festive mood, but some also offer live music or DJ sets.

The vibe changes from place to place, so visitors should pick locations that match their energy, whether it’s wild partying or laid-back fun.

Dress Codes and Entry Requirements

Dress codes in Florida nightspots can range from casual beachwear to upscale club attire. Miami clubs often require upscale casual or formal wear. This means no flip-flops, shorts, or tank tops. Men might need collared shirts, and women often wear stylish dresses or chic outfits.

In beach towns like Destin, dress codes tend to be more relaxed, but some bars still have rules to keep crowds orderly. Many clubs enforce age limits, usually 21 and older, and require valid ID for entry.

Some places charge a cover fee, especially on weekends or for special events. It’s common for popular spots to have lines, so arriving early or making reservations helps avoid delays.

More on specific clubs and bars to visit can be found at this Miami nightlife guide and the list of party cities in Florida.

Tips for a Memorable Night Out

A lively nighttime street scene in Florida with people socializing outside bars and clubs under colorful neon lights and palm trees.

Planning ahead improves the overall experience. Knowing how to get there and back safely, plus securing your spot in advance, helps avoid common issues. These details make a night out smoother and more enjoyable.

Transportation and Safety

Choosing the right transportation is key. Using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft reduces the risk of drunk driving. If driving, arranging a designated driver beforehand is wise.

It’s important to know the hours and locations of the nearest public transport. Tampa, for example, has some late-night bus routes but they can be limited.

Carrying a charged phone and sharing your location with a friend or family member adds an extra safety layer. Always stay aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night.

Lastly, remembering venue closing times and city curfews can prevent unexpected problems when leaving.

Making Reservations

Many popular Florida bars and clubs fill up fast, especially on weekends. Booking ahead is often necessary to secure entry or a table.

Reservations can usually be made online or by phone. Some places charge a deposit, so checking the cancellation policy in advance is smart.

For groups, it’s best to book together rather than separately. This helps avoid seating issues and splits the bill more easily.

If unsure about the dress code or age limits, confirming these details during the reservation process saves time and trouble at the door.

Frequently Asked Questions

A lively nighttime street scene in Florida with people enjoying drinks outside bars and palm trees lining the street.

Florida offers a variety of nightlife experiences, from lively beach towns to upscale city bars. Visitors can find destinations known for dancing, live music, craft cocktails, and unique bar atmospheres throughout the state.

What are the most popular nightlife destinations in Florida?

Miami stands out with spots like LIV Miami and The Broken Shaker, known for energetic crowds and premium drinks. Destin’s HarborWalk Village and Jacksonville’s The Wharf also attract visitors looking for vibrant nightlife by the water. Orlando offers a different scene focused on clubs and late-night entertainment.

Which bars in Florida offer the best live music experience?

The Wharf in Jacksonville is popular for live music and outdoor events. Destin’s HarborWalk Village also hosts live bands regularly, creating a festive atmosphere. In Miami, many bars offer live performances, including some smaller spots with local artists.

How does the nightlife in Miami compare to that of Orlando?

Miami nightlife is more upscale and trendy, with high-end clubs like LIV Miami and rooftop lounges such as Cé La Vi in Miami Beach. Orlando’s scene is more diverse and sometimes more casual, with clubs that cater to tourists and locals alike, focusing on dancing and themed nights.

What are some unique themed bars in Florida?

Florida has several bars with distinct themes, including trendy tiki bars and vintage cocktail lounges. The Broken Shaker in Miami offers a unique, relaxed vibe with handcrafted drinks in a tropical setting. Other coastal towns have beach-themed bars with laid-back atmospheres.

Can you recommend any rooftop bars with ocean views in Florida?

Cé La Vi in Miami Beach provides stunning ocean views alongside its rooftop bar experience. Many beachfront cities such as Miami and Destin have rooftop spots where patrons can enjoy sunsets and ocean breezes while having a drink.

Where can one find the best craft cocktails in Florida?

Bars like The Broken Shaker in Miami are known for their creative, well-crafted cocktails using fresh ingredients. Rooftop bars like Cé La Vi also serve expertly mixed drinks, focusing on quality and unique flavors. Craft cocktail lovers can find excellent options in major nightlife cities across Florida.

15 Top Bars and Nightlife Spots in Florida