Curator’s statement
Welcome to Miami Beach, where sun-soaked days give way to electrifying nights. With a rich blend of classic dive bars, trendy hotspots and hidden speakeasies, Miami Beach offers a nightlife experience like no other. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or a short escape, this guide will take you on a journey through the best bars Miami Beach has to offer. This includes Sweet Liberty, Bar Derrière, Swizzle Rum Bar, The ScapeGoat, Kill Your Idol, Club Deuce and Ted’s Hideaway.
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Day 1: Beach Time and Hidden Gems
Start your adventure by checking into The Betsy Hotel, a chic boutique hotel located right on Ocean Drive. After settling in, hit the beach to soak up the sun and take in the vibrant atmosphere.
Start your night at Sweet Liberty Drinks & Supply Co. It's known for its award-winning cocktails and relaxed atmosphere. It's the perfect place to start your Miami Beach bar crawl. Try their famous piña colada or the crowd-pleasing Strawberry Smash.
Just a short walk away is Water Lion, an intimate bar offering craft cocktails and a cozy ambiance. This hidden gem is perfect for enjoying a quiet drink before the night's festivities ramp up.
Later in the evening, head to Bar Derrière, a speakeasy-style bar tucked away behind a secret entrance. Bar Derrière provides a unique drinking experience with its eclectic decor and innovative cocktails.
Day 2: Tiki Bars and Iconic Spots
Consider soaking up the previous night’s festivities with brunch at True Loaf Bakery, a local staple.
After a relaxing day exploring Miami Beach, go to the oldest bar in Miami Beach, Mac's Club Deuce. It has history. This iconic dive bar is a favorite among locals and celebrities alike. Grab a seat at the bar, order a cold beer or a classic cocktail and soak in the authentic Miami Beach vibe.
Ted's Hideaway is a popular dive bar in South Beach. It has a simple atmosphere, cheap drinks and late-night hours, which are similar to the dive bar theme. It has a similar loyal following to Club Deuce.
Next, make your way down the street to The ScapeGoat, a small but mighty bar known for its impressive whiskey selection and friendly bartenders.
Make sure to pace yourself to get to the best bar in Miami Beach, Swizzle Rum Bar & Drinkery. Swizzle is a hidden gem that beckons rum aficionados and cocktail enthusiasts alike. This dimly lit, intimate speakeasy with tropical decor transports you to a bygone era of sophisticated sipping. The bar's extensive rum selection sets the stage for visually stunning and expertly crafted cocktails. Whether you're having a classic daiquiri or trying the new creations of their skilled mixologists, Swizzle promises a memorable trip through the world of rum.
Day 3: Recovery and Exploration
Get ready for your bar crawl with a big brunch at Big Pink. It's a local favorite because it has a lot of food and classic American comfort food. Enjoy dishes like fluffy pancakes, omelets and breakfast burritos to fuel up for the day.
Wrap up your Miami Beach adventure with a visit to The Broken Shaker, a stylish cocktail bar located at the Freehand Miami. Known for its inventive drinks and lush outdoor setting, The Broken Shaker offers the perfect ambiance for your final night in Miami Beach.
If you are still awake and walking straight, go to Kill Your Idol. This bar has retro style and a punk rock feel. With its quirky decor and live music, Kill Your Idol is a fun and lively spot to end the evening (as it does not even open until 8 pm nightly).
Additional Days
Miami Beach's bar scene is as diverse as it is vibrant, offering something for every type of nightlife enthusiast. Whether you're drinking fancy cocktails at a secret bar or drinking cold beer at a classic dive, each bar promises a unique and memorable experience. Cheers to an unforgettable Miami Beach getaway!
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Kelsey Parry
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Miami. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, A Complete Cruiser’s Guide to the Port of Ketchikan, Alaska.