The South's Ultimate Beach Bars for 2025: Where to Sip, Relax, and Soak Up the Sun
Drinks simply taste better when there’s an ocean breeze in the air or warm sand between your toes. Fortunately, the South’s coastline is dotted with unforgettable beach bars of all styles—from laid-back patios to colorful dives to pirate-themed taverns. For our 2025 South’s Best Awards, we invited you, our readers, to vote for your all-time favorite beach bars—and you delivered.
Here’s the ranked list of treasured and iconic spots you chose.
How We Selected the South’s Best Beach Bars
An online survey was conducted by third-party agency Proof Insights among Southern Living consumers. Participants were asked to rate their favorite places across the South between July 10 and August 21, 2024. The survey received over 10,000 responses, ensuring a diverse and representative selection.
10. Peg Leg Pete’s – A Pirate’s Paradise at Pensacola Beach
Located right behind a marina, Peg Leg Pete’s began in 1991 selling oysters and shrimp. Today, this pirate-themed tavern has a lively bar, a full menu of seafood favorites, and even a live beach cam you can check anytime from anywhere.
Website: peglegpetes.com
Address: 1010 Fort Pickens Rd, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561
9.Pink Pony Pub – Gulf Shores’ Iconic Bubblegum-Pink Hotspot
You can’t miss the Pink Pony Pub—its bright bubblegum-pink exterior with a drink-sipping pony mural has been a Gulf Shores landmark since 1956. While it’s a popular spring break destination, it also offers a surprisingly extensive menu featuring steaks, salads, and local seafood like crab claws.
Website: pinkponypub.net
Address: 137 E Gulf Pl, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
8. Sea Pines Beach Club – Oceanfront Lounging on Hilton Head Island
Set within the picturesque Sea Pines community, this beach club offers a sprawling patio made for cocktails and sea breezes. The cozy outdoor bar and oceanfront seating make it the perfect spot to kick back and take in the view.
Website: seapines.com
Address: 87 N Sea Pines Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
7. The Mucky Duck – A Beloved Classic Making Its Comeback
Despite suffering major damage from recent hurricanes, The Mucky Duck remains a cherished institution on Captiva Island. Plans are underway for its reopening, promising to bring back the same laid-back atmosphere and crowd-pleasing menu that locals and visitors love.
Website: muckyduck.com
Address: 1546 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva, FL 33924
6.Tortuga Jack’s – Tropical Vibes and Margaritas on Jekyll Island
Few spots offer the festive coastal vibes of Tortuga Jack’s. This casual watering hole dishes out fresh Baja Mexican cuisine and salt-rimmed margaritas, perfect for enjoying in its colorful, open-air setting.
Website: tortugajacks.com
Address: 201 Beachview Dr N, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
5. The Wharf – Waterfront Dining with Unforgettable Views
Perched above the marshes of Jekyll Island’s National Historic Landmark District, The Wharf’s wraparound deck offers panoramic waterfront views. It’s an ideal place to enjoy fresh seafood and a breezy sunset.
Website: jekyllclub.com
Address: 371 Riverview Dr, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
4. The Hangout – The Ultimate Beach Party Destination
Covering nearly three acres, The Hangout in Gulf Shores is made for beach lovers and music fans. With firepits, outdoor games, live music, and even an annual music festival, it’s more than just a bar—it’s a beachfront playground.
Website: thehangout.com
Address: 101 E Beach Blvd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
3.The Windjammer – Legendary Live Music by the Sea
Famous for hosting acts like Darius Rucker since the 1990s, The Windjammer is a music lover’s dream. But even if you’re not here for a show, the stunning Atlantic Ocean views, a cold drink, and crispy fried pickles are reason enough to visit.
Website: the-windjammer.com
Address: 1008 Ocean Blvd, Isle of Palms, SC 29451
2. Brogen’s South – A Cozy Hideaway with Soundside Views
Brogen’s South in St. Simons Island is a favorite for its relaxed vibe and charming upper-level views of St. Simons Sound. Inside, its weathered wood decor, sports screenings, and classic burgers make it a cozy spot for late-night fun.
Website: brogens.com
Address: 200 Pier Aly, St. Simons Island, GA 31522
1.Flora-Bama – The South’s Most Legendary Beach Bar Experience
For over 60 years, Flora-Bama has been the ultimate beach bar, attracting everyone from snowbirds and tourists to fishermen and spring breakers. Known for its live music, fresh seafood, and the famous Bushwacker—a rich, chocolatey liquor milkshake—this sandy-floored spot truly captures the spirit of the South.
Website: florabama.com
Address: 17401 Perdido Key Dr, Pensacola, FL 32507