12 Best Tiki Bars in Sarasota & Nearby | Local’s Guide to Island Vibes
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Looking for the best tiki bars in Sarasota and nearby beach towns? You’re in luck! Whether you’re craving sunset views, live music, or a rum-soaked cocktail with your toes in the sand, these Sarasota tiki bars (and nearby gems on Siesta Key, Nokomis, Venice, and Anna Maria Island) deliver serious tropical vibes. Here’s your ultimate guide to 12 tiki spots locals and visitors love.
O'Leary's Tiki Bar & Grill – Classic Sarasota Bayfront Spot
- 5 Bayfront Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236
Located right on the waterfront, O’Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill serves up Mai Tais, live music, and unbeatable views of Sarasota Bay. This iconic bar is one of the most popular Sarasota tiki bars for catching a sunset while soaking in tropical ambiance.
Lido Beach Resort Tiki Bar – Lido Key
- 700 Benjamin Franklin Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236
You don’t have to be a hotel guest to enjoy the Lido Beach Resort Tiki Bar. Sip a Mango Tango cocktail while gazing out at the Gulf of Mexico. It’s a must-stop on any list of Siesta Key tiki bars and nearby favorites.
Lido Key Tiki Bar – Behind the Ritz-Carlton
- 1234 Benjamin Franklin Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236
Hidden right on the sand behind the Ritz-Carlton, the Lido Key Tiki Bar is worth the hunt for parking. Order their signature Suffering Bastard and enjoy a true toes-in-the-sand tiki experience.
Evie’s at Spanish Point | The Tiki – Osprey
- 135 Bayview Dr, Osprey, FL 34229
A true local gem, Evie’s at Spanish Point offers a relaxed, “in-the-know” atmosphere. Order a Navy Grog, kick back, and enjoy this quiet slice of tiki paradise just south of Sarasota.
Casey Key Fish House & Tiki Bar – Osprey
- 801 Blackburn Point Rd, Osprey, FL 34229
Nestled right on the water, this rustic spot with its separate rustic tiki bar pairs Asian-inspired seafood with potent cocktails. Try the Scorpion Bowl and watch the sunset melt over the bay.
The Kokonut Hut – Anna Maria Island
- 900 Gulf Dr N, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
For beachfront dining and tiki vibes, head to The Kokonut Hut on Anna Maria Island. Their signature Painkiller is the ultimate tropical mood booster. This is one of the most beloved Anna Maria Island tiki bars for both locals and vacationers. No doubt, it’s one of my favorite spots for capturing tropical vibes while sipping my own tropical slushy while clocking out for a few minutes.
Sharky’s on the Pier – Venice
- 1600 Harbor Dr S, Venice, FL 34285
Don’t skip Sharky’s tiki bar, known for its lively atmosphere and stunning pier views. Order the Shark Bite, then stroll the iconic Venice Pier for the full experience. Who knows, you may even experience dolphins performing aerial acrobatics just for you and your friends who also can’t help but enjoy a stroll along the pier.
Nokomo’s Sunset Hut – Nokomis
- 690 S Tamiami Trail, Nokomis, FL 34275
Caribbean food, live music, and unbeatable sunsets — Nokomo’s Sunset Hut has it all located a short hop & a skip from Sarasota right off 41 (bayside) in Nokomis. Their Rum Runner is the perfect way to wrap up a day exploring Florida’s Gulf Coast, playing a round of golf, or (less fun!) working the job.
Bridge Tender Tiki Bar – Anna Maria Island
- 135 Bridge St Marker 49, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
At the Bridge Tender Tiki Bar, you’ll find tropical cocktails, waterfront views, vibrant sunsets and quite possibly the BEST tropical vibes of any of the amazing tiki bars on my list. I know I should pick favorites, but darn this one’s linked to the BEST Historic area in Southwest Florida – Historic Bridge Street. Among the Anna Maria Island tiki bars, it stands out for its live music and chill island vibe. PS – The ‘No Snowmobile’ policy is strictly enforced.
Drift In Tiki Bar – Anna Maria Island
- 120 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
Step back in time at the Drift In Tiki Bar, a classic Old Florida spot a stone’s throw from Bridge Tender Tiki Bar. Did you know this iconic tiki was once owned by Babe Ruth? With its historic charm and ocean breezes located on Historic Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach, it’s a must-visit for tiki lovers. Absolutely cannot beach AMI’s amazing tropical vibes.
Captain Curt’s Sniki Tiki – Siesta Key
- 1204 Old Stickney Point Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242
Located near Siesta Beach, Sniki Tiki is a lively spot with tropical drinks, live music, and a laid-back island feel. Plus, you cannot go straight to the Sniki Tiki without grabbing some of the best seafood in Sarasota. Their clam chowder – dare I say – is better than the chowder I’ve enjoyed in Maine (gasp!). I know, I’m not supposed to challenge longstanding carved-in-stone truths, but their chowder is delicious. Among the Siesta Key tiki bars, this one is a local favorite for post-beach cocktails, steps away from Siesta’s Crescent Beach & the iconic Point of Rocks.
Cruisin’ Tikis – Floating Tiki Bar in Sarasota Bay
- 946 Siesta Dr, Sarasota, FL 34242
For the ultimate tiki adventure, book a Cruisin’ Tiki — a floating tiki bar that cruises Sarasota Bay. Bring your own drinks, play your favorite tunes, and enjoy a tiki boat experience like no other.
Final Sip: Awesome Tiki Bars in Sarasota
From toes-in-the-sand drinks to floating tiki cruises, these tiki bars in Sarasota and nearby beach towns capture the essence of Florida’s Gulf Coast nightlife. Whether you’re hopping between Siesta Key tiki bars or heading north to Anna Maria Island tiki spots, each location offers a unique flavor of paradise.
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🍹 Which Sarasota tiki bar will you hit first? Tell us in the comments!
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Hi, I’m Mike – real estate agent, photographer, and blogger. Come along as I dive into all things Sarasota, Florida, share insider tips and exciting stories that make this place special. For 20+ years, I’ve helped countless people buy and sell property. Before I transitioned to full-time real estate, I taught high school English & coached basketball.”
