When you’ve had a big day on the water there’s the time-tested tradition that one simply must make time for after the boats are back in their slips: the sunset toast, the act of celebrating a good day on the water. This is the “after-sail” enjoyment of good food and drink. The sunset toast is as much a part of boating as the actual boating itself.
So after a day spent shushing, sliding and floating (or relaxing) around our beaches you are warranted to an afternoon of eating, drinking and revelry, refueling and toasting to the beach gods for more beach days to come. So set up shop at one of Florida’s sunset happy hour spots that will have you continuing the wintertime waterfront merrymaking.
The Palm Beach resort offers many dining options in its Royal Poinciana Village, but The Flagler is perfect for those looking for a fine dining experience. With its curated and classy menu featuring locally-sourced meats and a lengthy wine list, The Flagler is a nice spot to relax as you recount your time on the water. The menu also features a Chef Experience where chef Ryan Swarts will create a menu tailored just for your table.
If you like your cocktail with a side of atmosphere, kick off your boat shoes and head to one of the cutest beach bungalows in Naples, located just behind the Montage along the oceanfront promenade. Choose from black and red checkered chairs, a rustic couch or simply belly up to the wooden bar and grab yourself a glass of rosé. This winter dream boasts small bites, an assortment of wines by the glass, and a champagne list that will transport you from Florida to France in a single sip.
RIME is probably the world’s only dockside raw bar located at the end of Palm Beach’s marina pier in a refurbished boathouse. RIME’s Oyster Happy Hour makes 2:00-3:00 p.m. prime time for some happy hour beach snacks and beverages. Get oysters on the half-shell for $2.50 and pair them with bubbles, brews, or wine. If oysters aren’t your jam, try the lobster rolls and chowder. Open Thursday-Sundays from 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Eat, Drink, Lounge in the heart of Main Street. After a day of riding docks, descend the stairs at Fletchers to their intimate Library Lounge reminiscent of a speakeasy, where you can share small plates and enjoy crafty cocktails by the fire.
Though The Owl Bar’s storied past began in Thermopolis, Wyoming, the restored 1890’s bar now calls the famous the Miami Film Festival resort its home. The cozy cabin-like lounge features creative cocktails such as Wildflower and their Strawberry Basil Margarita, and a seasonal menu, along with live music performed by local and national artists on the weekends.
Located just outside of Sarasota, Siesta Key Resort hosts the Cinnabar Lodge, named after a local soft, red gemstone. The qualities of this gemstone are reflected in the warm and rustic feel of the lounge. A place for live music, specialty cocktails, lunch and an overall solid lounge to kick back and warm up after a day out on the water.