Best Bars in Marathon



It was an interesting trip to the Keys. I’d never been in October. Apparently either the hurricanes scared all of the locals out, or they usually all go on vacation then. It was like Paris in August. Some restaurants, attractions and shops were closed. But what was left was really nice, and fortunately the hurricanes hadn't hit there.

As many of my regular readers know, I like to take a drink every now and then. On vacation in the Florida Keys, I managed to convince Mrs. Datanerd that a predinner drink was a requirement. So, we stopped at four tiki bars before dinner in the time we were there. Two of them stood out.

Burdine’s was our favorite. On the second floor of a quickie-mart for boats and boaters, this bar stands out for its views. It’s right on the boat channel into Boot Key harbor, across from mangrove where multitudes of birds roost. Looking out on the channel, you can watch the sun set. Beers were cold, served with coozies to keep them cool. They do not have liquor, only beer and wine. Surprisingly, they do make frozen drinks. Mrs. Datanerd thought well of the pina colada, made with agave wine and orange wine. I usually drank Kalik beer, which was a relative bargain at $3. According to both locals and the bartender, they make great hamburgers. Go there, and watch the sunset, drink a beer. You’ll relax whether you want to or not.

Our second favorite was Cabana Breezes Tiki Bar in Key Colony Beach. We were staying on KCB, and it’s not that big. We could have walked there, but were usually going further out for dinner, so we drove. It’s a tiki bar, restaurant, and beach club. Apparently, if you’re drinking there, you can use their fishing pier, which is pretty cool looking. You’re sitting right on the beach, looking out on the Atlantic Ocean. No sunset view, but a very comfortable place to hang out. Key West Ale is on tap for $2.25. Mrs. Datanerd liked all of the frozen drinks. We had shrimp there for a snack, and they were good. I recommend this place, especially if you’re staying in KCB.

The Island Tiki Bar is around Mile Marker 54 on the Overseas Highway. I wasn’t that impressed. It felt more like someone trying to make a tiki sports bar. Not my idea of a good time, although I have friends that swear it’s the best place. Had the conch ceviche. It was ok, although it was more of a Mexican style.

Finally, there was the Tiki Bar at the Quay restaurant. The restaurant was closed for vacation, but the bar was open. The bar was packed with what I think were locals. It looked slightly grungy, and I had the feeling that I had walked into a private party. I’d not recommend this one.

Next: Restaurant Reviews (including the Conch Fritter Shootout).

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