Arabella Franco
Drinking on the beach is a fun way to relax and unwind, but it's important to know the local laws before you crack open a cold one. In the case of Fort Myers Beach, Florida, there are some restrictions on alcohol consumption that you should be aware of. While the beach itself is a popular destination with soft, white sand and mild waves, drinking alcohol on the beach is generally not allowed. However, there are nearby bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a drink, and some sources suggest that discreet drinking from non-glass containers may be tolerated by authorities. So, if you're planning a trip to Fort Myers Beach and want to include some alcoholic beverages, be sure to check the local regulations and drink responsibly.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Alcohol consumption | Generally prohibited on the beach, but allowed in designated areas in certain beach towns and in restaurants on the beach |
| Open containers | Allowed in specific types of containers, e.g. plastic bottles or cups |
| Legal drinking age | 21 years |
| Penalties for public drinking | Misdemeanor charge, fine of up to $250, potential jail time for severe cases or repeat offenses |
| Fort Myers Beach rules | Alcohol is not allowed on the beach, except in restaurant property located on the beach |
What You'll Learn
Drinking on the beach: allowed or not?
Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, and Fort Myers Beach is no exception. With its soft, white sand and mild waves, it's a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. But what about drinking alcohol on the beach? Is it allowed, or could you end up in trouble?
The Rules
In Florida, public consumption of alcohol is generally prohibited in parks, beaches, streets, or any other public places. However, Fort Myers Beach has specific rules regarding alcohol consumption. While it is illegal to bring and consume open containers of alcohol on the public beach, there are some exceptions and workarounds. Firstly, there are bars on the beach with roped-off sections where you can purchase and drink alcohol. Secondly, some people have reported discreetly drinking their own alcohol from coolers or water bottles without issue. It seems that as long as you are responsible and not causing a disturbance, you may be able to get away with it. However, it's important to note that open containers of alcohol are still illegal, and you could be fined or even charged with a misdemeanor if caught.
Tips for Drinking on the Beach
If you decide to bring your own alcohol to the beach, here are some tips to stay safe and avoid trouble:
- Pour drinks into travel mugs or other inconspicuous containers instead of drinking from obvious beer cans or bottles.
- Avoid glass bottles, as they are prohibited on many beaches. Opt for plastic or metal containers instead.
- Be discreet and respectful. Don't draw attention to yourself or cause a disturbance to others.
- Clean up after yourself. No one likes a litterbug!
- Check the specific rules and regulations of the beach you're visiting. Some beaches may have designated drinking areas or allow drinking during certain hours.
- Always have a designated driver if you plan to drive after drinking.
Alternatives to Drinking on the Beach
If you don't want to risk drinking on the beach, there are plenty of bars and restaurants near Fort Myers Beach where you can enjoy a drink legally. The town has a vibrant happy hour scene, with many establishments offering daily drink specials. You can also visit the Fort Myers Brewing Company, a popular local brewery with a taproom and outdoor space.
So, while drinking on Fort Myers Beach may be technically illegal, it seems that many people get away with it by being discreet and responsible. However, it's always best to check the local laws and regulations before you go, as they can change and may vary from beach to beach. Remember to drink responsibly and respect the beautiful natural environment!
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Drinking discreetly: a good idea?
Drinking discreetly on Fort Myers Beach may be a good idea if you want to avoid getting into trouble. While the beach is a public place, and drinking in public is generally prohibited in Florida, some people choose to drink alcohol discreetly on the beach. It is important to note that drinking openly can lead to trouble with the authorities.
Fort Myers Beach has soft, white sand and mild waves, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The beach is approximately 7 miles long, stretching from Bowditch Point Park in the north to just before the bridge to Lovers Key in the south. The beach can be busy, especially during Spring Break in March, and there are restaurants, bars, and shopping areas conveniently located nearby.
Drinking alcohol on the beach is not allowed, except in designated areas within restaurant premises on the beach. However, some people choose to bring their own alcohol and consume it discreetly. It is advised to pour drinks into travel mugs or use alcohol in water bottles to avoid drawing attention. It is also important to note that open containers of alcohol, such as beer cans or bottles, are more likely to be stopped by authorities.
To avoid any issues, it is recommended to consume alcohol responsibly and not draw attention to yourself. Drinking discreetly and being mindful of your surroundings can help ensure a pleasant beach experience without any legal repercussions. However, it is essential to be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding alcohol consumption in public places.
In addition to alcohol restrictions, Fort Myers Beach also prohibits driving on the beach and diving from the pier. Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash, and it is important to clean up after them. Public access to the beach is readily available, with designated paths, streets, and parks, making it easy for visitors to enjoy the beach responsibly.
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Bars and restaurants on the beach
While drinking alcohol on Fort Myers Beach is prohibited, there are several bars and restaurants located on the beach where you can purchase and consume alcoholic beverages. These establishments offer a variety of happy hour specials and discounts on drinks and food.
Bayside Sports Bar and Grille
Happy Hour: Monday through Friday, 2 PM-6 PM. Domestic drafts, well drinks, and house wines are on special.
Cabanas Beach Bar & Grille
Happy Hour: 3pm to 6pm daily. Enjoy $7 16oz craft drafts, $6 16oz domestic drafts, $6 house wines, and $5 single liquor well drinks.
JWB Grill
Happy Hour: Monday through Thursday, 4pm to close. Guests seated at the bar enjoy $4 off wines by the glass and featured cocktails, $5 beer and seltzers, and $12 small plates.
License To Chill Bar & Grill
Happy Hour: Monday through Thursday, 2 PM-6 PM. $10 Margaritaville cocktails, frozen concoctions, and appetizers, plus $5 beer and seltzers.
Lighthouse Waterfront Restaurant
Happy Hour: 11am to 5pm every day. Food specials are available.
Marker 92 Waterfront Bar & Bistro
Happy Hour: Daily from 3pm to 6pm.
Matanzas on the Bay
Happy Hour: 3pm to 6pm daily. Enjoy a variety of drink specials, including a Fire-Chata Shot for $6, domestic bottles for $2.75, and well drinks for $3.50. Food specials are also available.
Mr Waves Island Bar
Happy Hour: 3pm to 6pm daily. $1 off domestics, wines, and well drinks.
The Nauti Mermaid Dockside Bar and Grill
Happy Hour: Daily from 3pm to 6pm.
Wahoo Willies
Happy Hour: Monday through Friday from 2pm to 5pm. $4 well drinks, $4 domestics, $5 imports, $6 house margaritas, $8 skinny margaritas, $5 proper 12 shots, and $6 rum runners. Food specials are also available.
Yucatan Beach Stand
Happy Hour: Monday through Friday, 2pm to 5pm at the bar. Food and drink specials are available.
In addition to these beachfront bars and restaurants, Fort Myers is also home to the Fort Myers Brewing Company, one of the largest breweries in Florida. They offer a variety of craft beers, food trucks, live music, and family-friendly events.
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Happy hours at beach bars
Fort Myers Beach has a range of beach bars and restaurants offering happy hours with great deals on drinks and food. While drinking on the beach itself is prohibited, there are a few bars located directly on the beach that have roped-off sections where you can purchase and consume alcoholic beverages. Here are some of the top spots to enjoy happy hour at beach bars in Fort Myers:
- Bayside Sports Bar and Grille: Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday, 2 PM to 6 PM, with specials on domestic drafts, well drinks, and house wines.
- Cabanas Beach Bar & Grille: Daily happy hour from 3 PM to 6 PM, featuring deals on craft and domestic drafts, house wines, and single liquor well drinks.
- JWB Grill: From Monday to Thursday, guests seated at the bar can enjoy $4 off wines by the glass and featured cocktails, along with $5 beer and seltzers, as well as $12 small plates.
- License To Chill Bar & Grill: Happy hour takes place Monday to Thursday from 2 PM to 6 PM, offering $10 Margaritaville cocktails, frozen drinks, and appetizers, as well as $5 beer and seltzers.
- Mr. Waves Island Bar: Daily happy hour from 3 PM to 6 PM with $1 off domestics, wines, and well drinks.
- Wahoo Willies: Happy hour from Monday to Friday, 2 PM to 5 PM, featuring specials on well drinks, domestics, imports, house margaritas, shots, rum runners, and food.
Remember to consume alcohol responsibly and follow local regulations. It is recommended to contact the establishments before visiting to confirm their happy hour timings and offers, as they may change without notice.
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Drinking laws and penalties
In Fort Myers Beach, alcohol is not allowed on the beach, except in the premises of restaurants and bars located on the beach. The public consumption of alcohol is generally prohibited in Florida, including on beaches, parks, streets, or any other public places. However, certain beaches have designated areas where alcohol consumption is allowed, and some locales permit alcohol consumption on beaches with specific open container laws.
The legal drinking age in Florida is 21 years, and it is illegal for anyone under 21 to possess or consume alcohol. The penalties for violating public drinking laws in Florida can be severe. If caught with an open container of alcohol or visibly intoxicated in a public place or on a beach where alcohol consumption is prohibited, individuals may be charged with a misdemeanour, resulting in a fine of up to $250. In some cases, if it is a recurring offence or if the circumstances are severe, one could even face up to 90 days in jail. Most public drinking offences result in a ticket, especially for first-time offenders. However, repeated offences may lead to harsher penalties.
When visiting Fort Myers Beach, it is important to abide by the local drinking laws and regulations. While drinking alcohol on the beach is prohibited, there are several bars and restaurants located on the beach where alcohol can be purchased and consumed within their premises. These establishments offer happy hours and specials, providing an opportunity to enjoy a drink while adhering to the local laws.
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Frequently asked questions
No, alcohol is not allowed on the beach, except in the restaurant properties located on the beach. However, some people do bring their own alcohol and drink discreetly.
If caught with an open container of alcohol or visibly intoxicated on a beach where alcohol consumption is prohibited, you may be charged with a misdemeanor, resulting in a fine of up to $250. In some cases, you could even face jail time.
Yes, there are several bars and restaurants on Fort Myers Beach that offer happy hour specials, including Bayside Sports Bar and Grille, Cabanas Beach Bar & Grille, JWB Grill, and Lighthouse Waterfront Restaurant.
Yes, some Florida coastal towns allow alcohol on their beaches, including Cocoa Beach, Lido Key, Madeira Beach, Redington Beach, Siesta Key, and St. Petersburg Beach. However, specific regulations and restrictions vary by beach, so it's important to check the rules before drinking on any beach.
Yes, Fort Myers Beach offers a variety of activities besides drinking, including swimming, boating, and wildlife watching. You can also enjoy the soft, white sand and mild gulf waves.
