Bars 150 to 175 Sarasota, Fort Myers, Venice Areas
I think it's time for us to get away. We've both been fed up with our day to day and I've got this perfect place for us in mind, a slice of heaven where we can unwind. Let's go to Ft. Myers on the beach, right about sunset.
-The Detentions "Ft. Myers"
-The Detentions "Ft. Myers"
Our good friends Bri and Nate (who at one point were doing this adventure with us) were down visiting from Pittsburgh. We knew that we were nearing the end and wanted to spend some more time with them at a couple beach bars. They were staying in Venice so Sarasota was just a short drive away.We always enjoy any time we can spend with them! From there we continued on, just us, to Ft. Myers for a mini vacation.
Bar 150: Marina Jacks
Marina Jacks is a great beach bar and restaurant right on the bay. The marina is in sight and despite the cooler temperatures it was a fantastic day! The food was delicious!
Rum Runner, Siesta Sands Martini, Margarita, Mojito.
The Siesta Sands martini was a refreshing drink that would be quite good on a hot day! All of the drinks were a little strong, we definitely got our money's worth but we joked that we weren't in college anymore and they could have been a little bit weaker to be more drinkable.
The margarita and mojito were both very fresh drinks.
Bar 151: O'Leary's Tiki Bar and Grill
Our next stop was at O'Leary's. It is just down the marina and a quick walk. This isn't as upscale, much more of a tiki bar. Still some great views!
The service was a bit slow. We tried to get a couple of drinks at the outside bar first but it was taking a while. Once we finally were acknowledged, we wanted to get a pitcher of Pacifico, but they didn't have any pitchers. We ended up with just glasses of beer but all of the waiting meant we had plenty of time to take photos!
Because this was bar 151, Ryan tried to order a rum drink with a 151 floater, but to our surprise they didn't carry the product. We thought it was somewhat standard so we were a little taken back. Either way we still celebrated and enjoyed the views!
The Cuban Mule was light rum, orange curaco, fresh lime, ginger beer and bitters. The bartender was friendly and the service was fast. The drinks were reasonably priced and the atmosphere was nice!
Ryan ordered a Bob Williams Manhattan. It was okay, but I thought it tasted a bit like cough syrup.
Overall the food was really good. We each had the panko lime chicken. The food came quickly but the drink was really delayed. The service was lacking a bit as we sat for a while after we were done eating.
Bar 154: Lani Kai Island Resort
This is absolutely a bar where you go to party Spring Break style. Most of the bar is outside with lots to do directly on the beach. Live music was going, people playing volleyball and cornhole. We were a little overdressed because it was colder out but the beach was hot and we wish we had our bathing suits on.
Standing on the beach at Lani Kai with The Cottage in the background.
Bar 155: Cottage Bar and Grill
Right next to Lani Kai, with a great view of the beach is The Cottage. This is a little more mellow than Lani Kai and a place we would definitely go back to!
Ryan ordered a Starburst shot. We have ordered "shots" in lots of places and the amount of liquid varies. This was recommended by the bartender and she was right on the money. It was delicious!
Bar 156: Beached Whale
Beached Whale is across the street from Cottage and Lani Kai. You still have a little view of the beach from the top deck which is where we chose to sit.
And a view of these guys... speedos were all over Ft. Myers!
Most of the beach bars that we visit always have the same drinks, so we look for something that is different. Beached Whale delivered this in the form of their salty pretzel shot. It was interesting and something we would try again. Whipped vodka, frangelico, and a salted lemon on the side.
Bar 157: Nemos on the Beach
We hit Nemos just a little before Sunset. We got a spot at the railing overlooking the beach and ordered a Key Lime shooter.
We were just one day off from Ohio Day and Ryan was kind of bummed that we missed it!
We waited a while for it to be served to us and it was pretty good but not a lot of liquid even for a shot.
Bar 158 Pier Side Grill
This bar is right on the beach and has a great view of the pier and gulf. We sat at the outside bar and Danny was our bartender. He is one of the hardest working, and best bartenders we have seen! He recommended the Blue Lagoon shot (formerly Blue Balls!). We really enjoyed our time there even though it was short.
This was delicious and something we will try to make at home. My Mom is always looking for a blue drink that doesn't have pineapple juice.
Bar 159 Lighthouse Resort Tiki Bar
This was one that we almost skipped due to timing but we are so glad we didn't! Hidden in the back of the resort this was a delightful stop.
Ryan had a Washington Apple shot, it was pretty sweet and nothing special but the bartenders were a good time and made the atmosphere good.
Ryan ordered "Sex With An Alligator". Lots of liquid and strong! We had to take our time with this one and food was a necessity!
Bar 162: Smokin' Oyster Brewery
Give me oysters and beer for dinner every day of the year and I'll feel fine. - Jimmy Buffett
We really enjoyed the food and time at this bar. The guitarist was really good and made the night. Our server was attentive and really friendly.
Bar 163 Beach Pub
What an amazing dive bar! This is right on the beach, and a kick-ass dive bar. We got there a little bit later in the evening, after sunset, and there was only one other patron there. We had time to chat with the bartender and the other guy there. Lots of fun and we can imagine what it would be like with live music, which we missed by a few hours! It is beer and wine only so I had a Key West Sunset Ale.
Bar 164: Outrigger Tiki Bar
We had to travel a bit to reach this bar but it was much quieter on this side of the island. The Outrigger Tiki Bar is at the back of the resort and right on the beach. It had a little bit of a Jimmy B's feel to it. Since it was a Sunday night and kind of late there were not a lot of people there.
Ryan ordered a sweet tea voka and lemonade.
Here is a Behind The Scenes Look at The Beach Bar Challenge. Drinking water, updating our drink list and checking Facebook.
Bar 165: The Nauti Mermaid Dockside Bar and Grill
We parked and it took us a little while to find this place. Thanks to the Florida Beach Bar book we were able to locate it by the photos in the book!
It was really windy but the views were gorgeous. Wish we had enough money to have one of these boats!
I had a mimosa and it was the perfect start to the day!
Bar 166: Bert's Bar and Grill
We enjoyed the view and snacked on an order of chicken fingers at this bar. Nice to watch the boats come in! I also enjoyed a glass of pinot grigio.
Bar 167: Lock N' Key Restaurant
We traveled to Englewood for our next couple stops. First one was Lock N' Key and we were introduced to the Beach Beer. Liquor 43 with cream on the top. Their claim to fame, at the bar, is the pull tabs that tell you if you are going to pay full price, half price of $0.50 for your drink. We got full price but it was lots of fun to try for something less!
We decided to embrace the drink of the area and I ordered another Beach Beer. This one came in it's own mug! Lots of fun!
This would be a great place to come back and have lunch or dinner!
Bar 171 Hurricane Charley's
In 2004 Hurricane Charley destroyed most of Punta Gorda. This bar/restaurant tells the story of the hurricane and then celebrates the recovery that this area has done!
We are always happy to see a Florida Beach Bar sticker in a window!
We enjoyed sitting on the back bar and patio and getting ready for sunset.
Ryan enjoyed his Tiki Tea, sailor jerry spiced rum, ice tea and lemonade. Hit the spot after a long day of beach bars!
Bar 172: Harpoon Harry's
Not too far away is Harpoon Harry's. Also on Charlotte Bay, has a great view for the sunset. We couldn't get a table outside and decided it was better to be inside and decided there were probably northerners who really needed to be outside and enjoy the weather!
I really enjoyed Sweetwater 420 Pale Ale! A perfect drink to enjoy at Sunset!
Bar 173: TT's Bar on Charlotte Harbor
Our last stop for the evening was TT's. We got there after dark and it was getting chilly. They had fire pits going and heaters inside. This felt like a beach party on a California Beach that you see in the movies.
It took us a while to be acknowledged at a table but once we moved to the bar the bartender was quite attentive.
To end the evening, Ryan ordered Rum Chata on the rocks. This is such a great liquor!
Bar 174 Nav-A-Gator Grill
We started our trip home slowly as we still had a few more bars to hit. The Nav-A-Gator was close to our hotel and we enjoyed our stop. We ordered a drink and walked around the vast dock and grounds. There is a lot to do here and we'd love to go back sometime when they have live music as we are sure this place is crazy fun!
They were featuring their Island Monkey drink and it didn't disappoint. We were there on Fat Tuesday so the Mardi Gras colors of the drink garnish. How fun is this?!
We enjoyed our relaxing walk around the dock with drink in hand!
Bar 175: Snook Haven
We have been to Venice numerous times and always talked about going to Snook Haven but have never really had the time to go. We made sure to go this time and we are glad we did!
The road leading to Snook Haven reminded me a lot of being up north in Wisconsin. Lots of un-touched Florida and it was glorious!
Snook Haven is beer and wine only. I enjoy a local J Dubs Poolside. Not quite as hoppy as I usually like my beer but it paired well with the amazing, signature ribs of Snook Haven!
We are on a countdown to our beach bar award presentation! Just a couple more bars left. Thanks for following along on this journey with us!
Marina Jacks is a great beach bar and restaurant right on the bay. The marina is in sight and despite the cooler temperatures it was a fantastic day! The food was delicious!
Rum Runner, Siesta Sands Martini, Margarita, Mojito.
The Siesta Sands martini was a refreshing drink that would be quite good on a hot day! All of the drinks were a little strong, we definitely got our money's worth but we joked that we weren't in college anymore and they could have been a little bit weaker to be more drinkable.
The margarita and mojito were both very fresh drinks.
Bar 151: O'Leary's Tiki Bar and Grill
Our next stop was at O'Leary's. It is just down the marina and a quick walk. This isn't as upscale, much more of a tiki bar. Still some great views!
The service was a bit slow. We tried to get a couple of drinks at the outside bar first but it was taking a while. Once we finally were acknowledged, we wanted to get a pitcher of Pacifico, but they didn't have any pitchers. We ended up with just glasses of beer but all of the waiting meant we had plenty of time to take photos!
Because this was bar 151, Ryan tried to order a rum drink with a 151 floater, but to our surprise they didn't carry the product. We thought it was somewhat standard so we were a little taken back. Either way we still celebrated and enjoyed the views!
Bri saved the day though when she realized that we were at Bar 151 at exactly 1:51! We took a photo to commemorate!
Bar 152 Parrot Key Caribbean Grill
The next day we made the drive to Fort Myers Beach to see the bars in that area. After waiting in traffic we made it to our first stop. We stayed for just a short time but we could see us spending a lot more time there in the future. The drinks were good and a nice departure from some of the typical beach bar drinks.
The Cuban Mule was light rum, orange curaco, fresh lime, ginger beer and bitters. The bartender was friendly and the service was fast. The drinks were reasonably priced and the atmosphere was nice!
Bar 153: Doc Ford's Rum Bar and Grille
Just down the bay is Doc Ford's and a sure bet for a good time. This place was hoppin'! It took a little bit to find a place to park but we could hear the live music from the moment we got out of the car. We needed lunch so we sat out on the upstairs patio but could still hear the music!
Ryan ordered a Bob Williams Manhattan. It was okay, but I thought it tasted a bit like cough syrup.
Overall the food was really good. We each had the panko lime chicken. The food came quickly but the drink was really delayed. The service was lacking a bit as we sat for a while after we were done eating.
Bar 154: Lani Kai Island Resort
This is absolutely a bar where you go to party Spring Break style. Most of the bar is outside with lots to do directly on the beach. Live music was going, people playing volleyball and cornhole. We were a little overdressed because it was colder out but the beach was hot and we wish we had our bathing suits on.
Bar 155: Cottage Bar and Grill
Right next to Lani Kai, with a great view of the beach is The Cottage. This is a little more mellow than Lani Kai and a place we would definitely go back to!
Ryan ordered a Starburst shot. We have ordered "shots" in lots of places and the amount of liquid varies. This was recommended by the bartender and she was right on the money. It was delicious!
Bar 156: Beached Whale
Beached Whale is across the street from Cottage and Lani Kai. You still have a little view of the beach from the top deck which is where we chose to sit.
And a view of these guys... speedos were all over Ft. Myers!
Most of the beach bars that we visit always have the same drinks, so we look for something that is different. Beached Whale delivered this in the form of their salty pretzel shot. It was interesting and something we would try again. Whipped vodka, frangelico, and a salted lemon on the side.
Bar 157: Nemos on the Beach
We hit Nemos just a little before Sunset. We got a spot at the railing overlooking the beach and ordered a Key Lime shooter.
We were just one day off from Ohio Day and Ryan was kind of bummed that we missed it!
We waited a while for it to be served to us and it was pretty good but not a lot of liquid even for a shot.
Bar 158 Pier Side Grill
This bar is right on the beach and has a great view of the pier and gulf. We sat at the outside bar and Danny was our bartender. He is one of the hardest working, and best bartenders we have seen! He recommended the Blue Lagoon shot (formerly Blue Balls!). We really enjoyed our time there even though it was short.
This was delicious and something we will try to make at home. My Mom is always looking for a blue drink that doesn't have pineapple juice.
Bar 159 Lighthouse Resort Tiki Bar
This was one that we almost skipped due to timing but we are so glad we didn't! Hidden in the back of the resort this was a delightful stop.
Ryan had a Washington Apple shot, it was pretty sweet and nothing special but the bartenders were a good time and made the atmosphere good.
Bar 160 Yucatan Beach Stand
Where are the shots?!
One of our keys to being able to hit so many bars is to make sure we don't drink a lot of liquid or alcohol at once. If we have the option we will go with a weaker shot.
This wasn't it.
Ryan ordered "Sex With An Alligator". Lots of liquid and strong! We had to take our time with this one and food was a necessity!
Bar 161: Nervous Nellie's
We got to Nervous Nellies right around dinner time after we put our name in at Smokin' Oyster Brewery. We didn't have a lot of time so we went to the inside bar. The outside patio overlooks the bay and we would have preferred to be out there.
I ordered a vodka/cranberry with lime and it was pretty standard. The bartenders were friendly and fast! Would love to come back when we have more time.
Bar 162: Smokin' Oyster Brewery
Give me oysters and beer for dinner every day of the year and I'll feel fine. - Jimmy Buffett
We really enjoyed the food and time at this bar. The guitarist was really good and made the night. Our server was attentive and really friendly.
Bar 163 Beach Pub
What an amazing dive bar! This is right on the beach, and a kick-ass dive bar. We got there a little bit later in the evening, after sunset, and there was only one other patron there. We had time to chat with the bartender and the other guy there. Lots of fun and we can imagine what it would be like with live music, which we missed by a few hours! It is beer and wine only so I had a Key West Sunset Ale.
Bar 164: Outrigger Tiki Bar
We had to travel a bit to reach this bar but it was much quieter on this side of the island. The Outrigger Tiki Bar is at the back of the resort and right on the beach. It had a little bit of a Jimmy B's feel to it. Since it was a Sunday night and kind of late there were not a lot of people there.
Ryan ordered a sweet tea voka and lemonade.
Here is a Behind The Scenes Look at The Beach Bar Challenge. Drinking water, updating our drink list and checking Facebook.
Bar 165: The Nauti Mermaid Dockside Bar and Grill
We parked and it took us a little while to find this place. Thanks to the Florida Beach Bar book we were able to locate it by the photos in the book!
It was really windy but the views were gorgeous. Wish we had enough money to have one of these boats!
I had a mimosa and it was the perfect start to the day!
Bar 166: Bert's Bar and Grill
We enjoyed the view and snacked on an order of chicken fingers at this bar. Nice to watch the boats come in! I also enjoyed a glass of pinot grigio.
Bar 167: Lock N' Key Restaurant
We traveled to Englewood for our next couple stops. First one was Lock N' Key and we were introduced to the Beach Beer. Liquor 43 with cream on the top. Their claim to fame, at the bar, is the pull tabs that tell you if you are going to pay full price, half price of $0.50 for your drink. We got full price but it was lots of fun to try for something less!
Bar 168: Flounders Restaurant and Tiki Bar
Just down the road is Flounders! What a lively place! We wish we had more time to spend here but duty calls!
We decided to embrace the drink of the area and I ordered another Beach Beer. This one came in it's own mug! Lots of fun!
Bar 168: Farlows on the Water
It was time for lunch and we couldn't have picked a better place. We sat on the outside patio and the food was amazing! Nice to have a break from your typical beach bar fare.
Ryan ordered a fresh, agave margarita and we split a house salad and coconut shrimp. It was a secluded patio with a great view.This would be a great place to come back and have lunch or dinner!
.
Bar 170: Stump Pass Grill
We didn't spend a lot of time here but the view was really fantastic. There is just something about boats and water that calms us. The sauvignon blanc didn't hurt either!
Bar 171 Hurricane Charley's
In 2004 Hurricane Charley destroyed most of Punta Gorda. This bar/restaurant tells the story of the hurricane and then celebrates the recovery that this area has done!
We are always happy to see a Florida Beach Bar sticker in a window!
We enjoyed sitting on the back bar and patio and getting ready for sunset.
Ryan enjoyed his Tiki Tea, sailor jerry spiced rum, ice tea and lemonade. Hit the spot after a long day of beach bars!
Bar 172: Harpoon Harry's
Not too far away is Harpoon Harry's. Also on Charlotte Bay, has a great view for the sunset. We couldn't get a table outside and decided it was better to be inside and decided there were probably northerners who really needed to be outside and enjoy the weather!
I really enjoyed Sweetwater 420 Pale Ale! A perfect drink to enjoy at Sunset!
Bar 173: TT's Bar on Charlotte Harbor
Our last stop for the evening was TT's. We got there after dark and it was getting chilly. They had fire pits going and heaters inside. This felt like a beach party on a California Beach that you see in the movies.
It took us a while to be acknowledged at a table but once we moved to the bar the bartender was quite attentive.
To end the evening, Ryan ordered Rum Chata on the rocks. This is such a great liquor!
Bar 174 Nav-A-Gator Grill
We started our trip home slowly as we still had a few more bars to hit. The Nav-A-Gator was close to our hotel and we enjoyed our stop. We ordered a drink and walked around the vast dock and grounds. There is a lot to do here and we'd love to go back sometime when they have live music as we are sure this place is crazy fun!
They were featuring their Island Monkey drink and it didn't disappoint. We were there on Fat Tuesday so the Mardi Gras colors of the drink garnish. How fun is this?!
We enjoyed our relaxing walk around the dock with drink in hand!
Bar 175: Snook Haven
We have been to Venice numerous times and always talked about going to Snook Haven but have never really had the time to go. We made sure to go this time and we are glad we did!
The road leading to Snook Haven reminded me a lot of being up north in Wisconsin. Lots of un-touched Florida and it was glorious!
Snook Haven is beer and wine only. I enjoy a local J Dubs Poolside. Not quite as hoppy as I usually like my beer but it paired well with the amazing, signature ribs of Snook Haven!
We are on a countdown to our beach bar award presentation! Just a couple more bars left. Thanks for following along on this journey with us!
