Miami Guide To Waterfront Drinking

Your guide to waterfront drinking in Miami

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Miami becomes a playground for locals during the summer. The crowds thin, leaving more room at the bar, in the pool and on the sand–not to mention on the road.

Of course, any outdoor activity in Miami's summer heat demands a body of water nearby. We've picked our favorite spots for summer drinking, by the pool or the ocean.

WATERING HOLE  WHY YOU SHOULD DRINK THERE
Restaurant Michael Schwartz

(South Beach)

The latest Michael Schwartz restaurant is new, but The Raleigh retains its vintage charm. Flanked by a gumbo limbo tree, the outdoor bar overlooks a gorgeous pool worthy of Esther Williams. Follow a dip (call the hotel to reserve a poolside spot) with a fine martini.
Bar Centro

(South Beach)

Retreat to The Bazaar's outdoor bar after a day at the beach. Arrive when Bar Centro opens at 6 p.m., and ensure ample time for a languorous cocktail hour overlooking the pool. Dry Cava-based white sangria might even refresh you enough for a sunset walk on the water.
Cantina Beach

(Key Biscayne)

Remember Key Biscayne? Even if you don't, head to The Ritz-Carlton anyway and settle in under the thatched hut facing the ocean. As you sip a Margarita made with one of the 100 premium tequilas available at the bar, make a mental note to come here more often.
Broken Shaker

(Mid-Beach)

Yes, the bar at the Freehand Miami hotel appears in Tasting Table often, but with good reason: How can we not mention the subtropical poolside paradise, especially when it serves cocktails like The Life of Mr. Pryor, made with rum, local mangoes, coconut pulp and allspice syrup?
 Bahía

(Brickell)

You may already know Edge Steak & Bar at the Four Seasons, but have you been to Bahía, the outdoor lounge? Get lunch and a Mango Pisco Sour. Stay for the pool, solo ($25 per person) or with friends ($75 for a cabana for 4). Should you become overheated, retreat indoors for a Hibiscus Mojito at the bar at Edge.
Social Club and Sandbar

(South Beach)

Both bars at the Surfcomber Hotel are relatively under the radar. That means easier access to terrific cocktails created by bartender Chad Phillips. Drink the frothy, rum-laced New Cuban at the bar in the front of the hotel. Outside at Sandbar, order a Pimm's-based God Save the Queen after a swim in the pool.
The Local House

(South Beach)

Technically, you won't see water while you lounge at The Local House. But the ocean is only a block away, close enough for a salty breeze. Soak it in, along with a stunning Martini made with a splash of Lillet. It's served with a Kumamoto oyster garnish and another oyster on the side.