Top 6 Best Beach Bars in Tampa on the Water

Tampa Bay is known for its stunning beaches, year-round sunny weather, and laid-back lifestyle. But if you’re craving more than just sunbathing and swimming, the area boasts some incredible beach bars where you can sip tropical cocktails, listen to live music, and even dance the night away. Whether you’re looking for a lively party scene or a peaceful spot to unwind, The beach bars in Tampa offer something for everyone.

Here is our list for the best beach bars in Tampa and St. Pete. Where you can party and relax all while having your toes in the sand!

1. Whiskey Joe’s in Tampa: A Waterfront Paradise

Located right on the water, Whiskey Joe’s in Tampa is the perfect spot to relax with great food, drinks, and stunning views. But also at at Whiskey Joe’s, they know how to party.

You can’t have a list of the best beach bars to visit in Tampa without having Whiskey Joe’s on it.

There’s live entertainment on Thursday, Friday, twice on Saturday, and Sunday. When the music starts and the sun goes down, this Florida beach bar is packed with fun loving beach goers, locals, and tourists. Dance with your toes in the sand or on the hardwood dance floor that sits in front of Whiskey Joe’s large band stand.

Whiskey Joe’s has two happy hours; 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM. You can arrive by car or boat. Just drive your boat, wave runner or raft right up to the sand.

Why Visit: Fun and lively atmosphere, right on the water, live music


2. Caddy’s on the Beach (Treasure Island)

caddy's on the beach

One of the more popular locations in South Florida is Caddy’s on the Beach is the spot you’ll want to check out. Located on Treasure Island, this beach bar offers a perfect blend of delicious food, refreshing cocktails, and a lively, festive atmosphere.

With daily happy hour specials, a large outdoor patio, and live music throughout the week, it’s the ultimate beach bar for those who love a good party.

Caddy’s also offers sand volleyball courts, which makes it the perfect venue for those looking for some fun in the sun. Whether you’re coming for the drinks or the entertainment, Caddy’s won’t disappoint.

Why Visit: Great happy hour, live music, volleyball, and fun social atmosphere.


3. Jimmy B’s Beach Bar (St. Pete Beach)

Jimmy B's Beach Bar

Jimmy B’s Beach Bar is a St. Pete Beach staple. One of the most energetic and craziest bars on St. Pete. This lively bar boasts an energetic, no-frills beach vibe with live music, cold drinks, and friendly faces all around.

Enjoy their signature cocktails and ice-cold beers while you kick back on their outdoor patio or dance to the tunes of local bands. Whether you’re a beach lover, a live music fan, or simply someone who wants to have a great time on the sand, Jimmy B’s offers the perfect atmosphere.

Their large outdoor seating area and direct access to the beach allow you to enjoy both the sun and the music simultaneously.

Why Visit: High-energy atmosphere, live music, beachfront access.


4. Salt Shack on the Bay (Tampa)

For a more sophisticated, yet laid-back beach experience, Salt Shack on the Bay offers an amazing mix of stunning views, great food, and refreshing cocktails.

Located on the waters of Tampa Bay, this upscale beach bar provides a perfect spot to kick back and enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the bay. The laid-back, coastal vibe combined with live music makes it ideal for both relaxing and having a fun time.

Salt Shack’s wide range of craft cocktails and fresh seafood is a crowd favorite, and the outdoor seating area allows guests to enjoy the beauty of Tampa Bay’s scenic waters.

Why Visit: Gorgeous sunset views, excellent cocktails, and an upscale vibe.


5. Hula Bay Club (Tampa)

hula Bay beach club

If you love tiki bars like I do then Hula Bay Club is your go-to destination. Situated on the shores of Tampa Bay, this fun beach bar offers a tiki-inspired setting with a wide selection of craft cocktails and delicious bites.

Known for its vibrant nightlife, Hula Bay Club often features live music and DJ sets, creating a lively vibe that will keep you dancing all night long. The bar has a certain club feel to it and after being out and taking in the rays all day long, it’s a great spot to end the night with a bang with some close friends! Also a great spot to meet some new friends as well.

The outdoor patio with views of the water and the relaxed island-style ambiance make it a unique addition to Tampa Bay’s beach bar scene.

Why Visit: Fun tiki vibe, live music, great cocktails, and vibrant atmosphere.


6. Sandbar Beach Bar (St. Pete Beach)

Sandbar Beach bar

If you’re looking for bites and beverages right on the sand, then The SandBar Patio is the spot for you. By day you can relax poolside and savor tropical beach drinks and tasty snacks, and by night you can gather with your group by the fire and enjoy sunsets, s’mores, and signature drinks. 

The Sandbar Bar is where the action happens, with a lively crowd, great cocktails, and delicious bites to pair with your drinks. Their happy hours and events make it one of the best beach bars in the area, and it’s perfect for anyone looking to combine beach fun with great food and drinks.

Why Visit: Fun retro vibe, great happy hours, beautiful Gulf views.

Conclusion

The Tampa Bay area is such a fun and energetic area to have some great vibes at. There are so many beach bar options but we laid out the top six for you to try when you’re there.

Something about being in the sun all day just puts everyone into a great mood and a mood to party and have a blast! Wherever you end up, you really can’y go wrong with having a refreshing drink in your hand while taking in the beach and the rays of the Florida sun. And at night the party and energy comes alive!

Hope this guide helps and we will see you in the next one!

For some inspiration on the best beaches in Florida, click here

For a guide on Clearwater Beach, click here!

For a guide on Vero Beach, Florida, click here!