Miami Completely Snubbed on Best Beach Bars Ranking

Well, well, well, USA Today's 10Best list of the Best Beach Bars in the U.S. dropped on May 28, and guess who got snubbed? That's right: Miami and Miami Beach. Not. One. Single. Spot. It's like they made a list of the best pizza joints in the U.S. and didn't mention New York. Blasphemy.

According to USA Today, an expert panel nominated their top beach bars across the country. Then, readers voted to decide which beach bars are most exceptional.

The publication's list includes four popular beachfront bars in Honolulu, Hawaii, including Edge of Waikiki at Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort in Honolulu, Hawaii, at no. 10, and House Without A Key at Halekulani Hotel in Honolulu, Hawaii, at no. 9. But then, when it came down to selecting Florida spots, readers voted for Sloppy Joe's on the Beach at Bilmar Beach Resort in Treasure Island, Florida, at no. 7, Flora-Bama in Pensacola, Florida, at no. 2, and Ocean Deck Restaurant and Beach Bar in Daytona Beach, Florida, at no. 1! Really? The Alabama-Florida line and Daytona Beach? Although both are legendary spots, we need to chime in.

If USA Today wants to sip their piña coladas overlooking a parking lot somewhere else, fine. Miami will be over here doing what it does best: vibing, thriving, and sipping mojitos with our toes in the sand. Here are four Miami gems that should've made the list.

The Cleat (Key Biscayne)

The Cleat is such a Miami hidden gem that we almost feel guilty writing about it. Tucked inside Bill Baggs State Park and voted Best-Kept Secret (Dining Division) by New Times in 2024, it serves unbeatable sunsets, funky live music, and the best fish dip in Miami (all at an affordable price tag). With tables right on the sand and a menu of ceviche, shrimp cocktails, and strong drinks, it nails the vibe for the ultimate low-key beach bar. 1200 Crandon Blvd., Key Biscayne, at No Name Harbor; instagram.com/thecleat or lighthouserestaurants.com.

Joia Beach (Watson Island)

Hidden away on a stretch of sand with Biscayne Bay views, Joia Beach serves up Euro beach club vibes with a Miami twist (plush daybeds and influencer sightings included). Guests can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere featuring DJ sets and a menu that includes a full raw bar and dishes like crispy lobster tails and beef carpaccio. 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami, at Jungle Island, 305-400-7280; joiabeachmiami.com.

Monty's Sunset (South Beach)

Monty's Sunset in South Beach is a quintessential Miami beach bar with a laid-back atmosphere, waterfront views, and great live music. Nestled at the Miami Beach Marina, it's the perfect spot to enjoy fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and witness some pretty unforgettable sunsets over the marina. Monty's is the definition of chill Miami vibes (and it's great for people watching). 300 Alton Rd., Miami Beach, at Miami Beach Marina, 305-672-1148; montyssobe.com.

Nikki Beach (South of Fifth)

Since 1998, Nikki Beach has been Miami's OG beach bar, serving brunch, beats, and beachy cocktails with a side of glamour and a lot of sandy toes. Decades later, the Saint-Tropez-style, open-air party spot continues to draw high-enders en masse. 1 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach; 305-538-1111; nikkibeach.com.