5 Best Cocktails on the Beach

We found five delicious concoctions along the shores of the Gulf. For the responsible drinker, enjoying a tasty mixed drink at a favorite bar on the beaches is a prime way to celebrate the holidays. Not surprisingly, rum and fruit are sought-after ingredients at these Florida beach bars. Here are some (but certainly not all) of the best cocktails to find at bars on the Gulf beaches.

• , St. Pete Beach: With a new law in place, Caddy’s is the only bar on Sunset that allows drinking surfside. Enjoy an ice cold Lounge Lizard for just $5.50 and during Happy Hour (M-F, 11-6) it’s only $4.50. The mixup of banana liqueur, coconut rum, cranberry and pineapple juices keeps the party goers coming back for more.
• VIP Lounge, 10625 Gulf Boulevard, Treasure Island.
  Although Mexican food is the specialty, VIP boasts a mean Margarita. It’s a favorite for locals. There are grades of Margaritas, starting with the $5-Well, moving up to the $10.50-Top Shelf. VIP prepares its own Margarita mix, on site, then blends it with the chosen tequila, triple sec and a fresh lime to top it off.
• Naked Tchopstix, 111 Boardwalk Place West, John's Pass.
  The Tchpstix may be new to John’s Pass, but the drink menu is unique and fits in perfectly. For $6.99, guests can enjoy a Sakepolitan. The Asian-inspired drink is a combination of sake, orange liqueur and cranberry juice. Lime on top gives it  zest all its own.
• : This local spot is known for its delicious daiquiri selection. Live music is played most nights and guests can enjoy indoor or outdoor seating while sipping on a drink. A popular selection at Daiquiri Deckis is the Kryptonite Daiquiri. It is made up of the venue’s very own “Deck Diesel,” a rum runner and Electric Lemonade with Diesel Fuel. The cost is $5 and during Happy Hour (M-F, 11-7; Sat, 3-7) it’s buy one, get one.
• : Known mostly for its Irish craft and specialty beers, Mickey Quinn’s on Indian Shores offers one of the best Rum Runners in town. Bartenders take Myers dark rum, pour in some light rum, add blackberry liqueur and orange juice then shake it to perfection. It is over ice for $8.