When you think of the perfect Florida getaway, images of sandy tiki bars, tropical drinks, and stunning sunsets naturally come to mind. While the Treasure Coast offers plenty of those classic beachfront staples, the local scene boasts a remarkable diversity of high-end lounges, historic taverns, and vibrant waterfront destinations. Following the recent release of USA Today‘s highly anticipated “Bars of the Year 2026” nominations—which rightfully featured the Sandbar at Capt Hirams Resort in Sebastian—we are taking a closer look at several other exceptional local establishments that absolutely deserve a place in the national spotlight.
From historic 1920s oceanfront decks in Vero Beach to elevated boathouse lounges and lively local wineries in Fort Pierce, the Treasure Coast is home to a world-class hospitality scene that rivals any major tourist destination in Florida.
Right here in Vero Beach, locals know there is no shortage of incredible places to grab a drink and soak in the coastal atmosphere. A true historical landmark, Waldo’s Restaurant & Bar at The Historic Driftwood Inn offers unparalleled Old Florida charm. Built in the 1920s by Waldo Sexton using salvaged beach driftwood, this oceanfront staple invites guests to enjoy live weekend music and tropical signature drinks, like Waldo’s VooDoo Juice, right on the wooden beach deck. Just a short trip down to Central Beach, Grind and Grape provides a completely different, yet equally beloved, experience. Owned by local brother-sister duo Ryan and Ashlee Wykoff, this vibrant venue transitions seamlessly from a daytime coffee and dessert cafe to a lively evening wine bar complete with crafted cocktails and themed events.
In neighboring Sebastian, waterfront dining remains unmatched. Squid Lips Overwater Grill recently completed impressive 2025 cosmetic renovations, outfitting their exterior bar with fresh bamboo. Diners can enjoy sweeping, open-air views of the local marina and the Sebastian Inlet Bridge while keeping an eye out for resident dolphins.
Venturing slightly south into Fort Pierce and the surrounding areas reveals even more culinary and cocktail treasures:
- Harbor Cocktail Lounge: An elevated boathouse-style venue in Fort Pierce featuring ocean-themed cocktails and a unique food delivery partnership with nearby Taco Dive via modern QR code ordering.
- Summer Crush Vineyard & Winery: The region’s first and only winery, sprawling across 10 acres. Opened by Gary Roberts in 2012, it specializes in native muscadine and tropical fruit wines, including their signature Old Florida White.
- Boston House Restaurant: Housed in a beautifully restored 1909 mansion, this waterfront destination features an Americana menu of porterhouse steaks and lobster rolls, paired with outdoor astroturf seating overlooking the beautiful Indian River Lagoon.
- Little Jim Bait & Tackle: Evolving from an abandoned 1944 Navy Guard shack into a beloved lagoon-front bar, this spot serves up famous frozen rum drinks alongside a rich local history.
- Square Grouper Tiki Bar: A 21-and-up outdoor venue perched above the Fort Pierce Inlet, offering panoramic sunset views, live music, and tables nestled right in the sand.
Rounding out the wider Treasure Coast region, Hobe Sound’s Harry and the Natives remains an eclectic Old Florida favorite. Originally opened on Pearl Harbor Day in 1941, it boasts an extensive classic cocktail menu and a rich community legacy under owner Harry MacArthur. Meanwhile, Sailor’s Return in Stuart offers an elegant waterfront experience at the Sunset Bay Harbour and Marina. With 930 feet of complimentary dock space, guests can easily arrive by boat to enjoy wagyu sirloins and specialty martinis against the backdrop of an ethereal Florida sunset.
Whether you are a longtime Vero Beach resident or a visitor exploring the wider Indian River and Martin counties, these vibrant venues prove that our local bar and restaurant scene is truly second to none.
