So, you want to go out and have a drink or two and do not want to go far? Staying at the luxury Eiko’s Beach House in Treasure island is in a great spot for tropical drink fans because we are located near some of the best bars in Treasure Island. Afterall, who doesn’t love a cold one after a long day of fun in the sun? So without further ado, here are the best bars in Treasure Island, Fl:
Gators Café and Saloon
Gators Café and Saloon is an obvious choice. First of all, you can walk to this establishment from Eiko’s Beach House in 5 minutes flat! Also you can bring the kids who can have soft drinks and lunch/dinner. Or you can go alone or with a friend and enjoy the down home Florida hospitality.
Gators boasts 3 separate bars, one outside and two inside. The inside bars are geared up for sports and it is fun watching patrons dress in team colours to support their in-state and out of state teams.
No fighting just good natured kidding around.
Guests also enjoy sitting back and listening to the live music which can range from fair to great. During the day it’s possible to dolphin watch from the upper bar or just chat with the super friendly bartenders.
If you are staying for lunch/dinner or just feel peckish, we suggest you try the gator bites which are made from authentic Florida alligators. How do they taste? A cross between chicken and pork with a pinch of fish. We’re not kidding! Fried and dipped in sauce is the best way to eat them but some Floridians eat it with a hefty dose of salt. Also we like the coconut shrimp while we sip our rum runners while admiring the sunset.
Life is a beach at Gators.
Sloppy Joes in Treasure Island
Another hang out we recommend is Sloppy Joes in Treasure Island.
This is a five minute drive instead of a walk so you will need a designated driver; however, it’s worth the hassle. This bar/restaurant is situated right on the beach at the Bilmar resort.
While parking can be difficult, try the valet service and make the effort to go in. An evening in Sloppy Joes on the Beach is like being in Florida as you used to remember it.
It has two tiered bars and the views of the beach are almost the same as the views from Eiko’s Beach House, except you have wait staff looking after your food and drink needs.
Now this may sound “touristy” but we recommend you get a 64 oz. Fish Tank drink. As they serve this imagine your poor server who needs to carry this to your table without spilling a drop? Now we recommend you do not drink this alone but with a friend and start relaxing!
If you have the munchies get the egg rolls. Also if you happen to be a Margarita fan we strongly urge you to consider the Pauline’s Peril Margarita.
If you bring your under 21 children you can get them a non-alcoholic Fish Tank so why not?
Ricky T’s Bar and Grille
Nobody can check out the bar life in Treasure island without going to Ricky T’s Bar and Grille. Located in the heart of downtown Treasure Island and across Gulf Blvd from the beach, this is the place where you will never feel alone.
Less than a five minute drive from the Eiko’s Beach House, the vibe here is tremendous. Parking can be difficult but there is free parking for patrons. Why do we loveRicky T’s?
Live music rocks the place throughout the day and the bar staff are super friendly.
They have three bars to choose from but be aware the vibe is great but not a place for quiet conversation. There always seems to be a crowd at Ricky T’s and this says a lot. You can come on your own ( via Uber) or with a group of friends and just join the party.
Our favourite drinks are the Blue Hawaiian and for me they make a perfect Bloody Mary with just the right amount of spice for a kick but not too much heat to put me off.
Ricky T’s has been here for about 20 years and as they open at 7 am and close at 2 am you can almost always find a party whenever you feel the need to extract yourself from your private paradise at Eiko’s Beach House.
Conclusion
There you have it, the best bars in Treasure Island and at most only a 5 minute drive from the Eiko’s Beach House. Of course you can choose to bring your own rum, beer or gin and tonic to the beach house and create your own party. While you stay in this nearly perfect slice of heaven, your choices for your vacation or should I say staycation are limitless.
Cheers!
