What to Do in Delray Beach after Dark

Delray Beach may be best known for its beaches, but its nightlife is just as noteworthy and filled with experiences you’ll relive long after you’ve returned home.

Downtown Delray Beach is a prime destination for the kind of night out real life back home just doesn’t allow. But don’t think we’re simply listing the best bars and restaurants that serve up fancy cocktails on famed Atlantic Avenue. Delray’s nightlife scene extends to a garage-turned-arts enclave; a speakeasy-style social club that, upon closer inspection, is edgier than you think; and many other ways to make your night out one you’ll remember for a long time. Here, we offer a little something for everyone, from romantic spots for couples to plenty of ways to live it up just moments from Delray Sands Resort, The Atlantic Suites on The Ave, and Opal Grand Oceanfront Resort & Spa

For Handcrafted Cocktails: Get a Little Weird at Dada

Located in one of the oldest historic homes in Delray Beach, Dada prides itself on being non-conformist. The food, the drinks, the atmosphere, the music, and even the staff in this Delray Beach bar are imbued with an artistic license that’s as refreshing as it is startling. The work of local, independent artists adorns the walls inside – think: abstract paintings, “living” art made of succulents and vines, and eerie, otherworldly portraits. Meanwhile, form meets function on the intimate outdoor dining and garden area, where eclectic decor is mixed in with herb gardens and lights strung overhead twinkle merrily. Head to Dada for the live entertainment you’ll find every night, including open mic, comedy, singer-songwriters, live bands, and even a classic movie night on Sundays.

For Some Monkey-ing Around: Monkey Bar

In addition to the marquee restaurant of Drift, Monkey Bar is also one of Opal Grand’s on-site restaurants. But where Drift is all about taking guests on a coastal culinary voyage, this bright, playful space open until 10 p.m. is all about getting down to monkey business. With an interior accented with living green walls, a bar set beneath a foliage-wrapped canopy, and a large overhead skylight, it feels a bit like slinging drinks back in the heart of the jungle – there are even hanging ceramic monkeys. And to really hit the theme home, the clever cocktail menu boasts inventive creations with names like The Smoking Banana (mezcal, rum, and banane du brésil) and The Baboon (rum, vermouth, dry curacao, and angostura bitters).

For an Upscale Outing That’s a Bit Off-Beat: Honey

Set right on Atlantic Ave, Honey portrays itself as an upscale social club that’s just a little bit funky. Picture an interior that resembles something of a New York-style speakeasy with wood carved paneling and posh couches, but with offbeat touches, like Victorian era-style paintings that, upon closer inspection, depict subjects adorned in graffiti (a la Napoleon sporting sunglasses and pink spiked hair). And the back patio centers around a sculpture-like tree adorned in bird cages. Just remember to dress appropriately: business casual dress is required.

For a Tropical Venue Combining Cocktails, Cabanas, and Games: THRōW Social

Newly opened on Southeast Second Avenue in 2022, THRōW Social is bright-pink flamingo-themed “socializing center,” home to three tropically-chic bars, VIP cabanas, a courtyard stage where bands and deejays perform, and an abundance of games. In fact, the main attraction might just be all the games – we’re talking axe throwing, dedicated board game lounges, something called “TapGlo Pong,” and much more.

For Indie Live Entertainment: A Garage Gone Contemporary

You’ll find Arts Garage in the ground level of Old School Square’s parking garage. But don’t let the humble digs fool you – this contemporary cultural center was recently awarded a “People’s Choice” award by the Knight Foundation. On any given night, you can catch a world-renowned musician on the stage or take in a cutting-edge theater performance. While there is a bar, patrons are permitted to BYO-whatever food and drink, leading you to potentially think the laissez-faire attitude carries over to the performances. Yet, patrons are pleasantly surprised by the rigorous standards Arts Garage has for its stage, resulting in performances that rival the caliber of big city stages.

For a Couple: Intimate Drinks under the Sea

A stark departure from the tired clichés you find in most seafood restaurants, Latitudes offers a fresh, modern spin on a nautically infused menu and decor. From the moment you walk in, you’ll be dazzled by the sleek and sexy design that hinges on an underwater bubble theme, transporting you from Delray Beach to the bottom of the sea. Grab a seat in the chic lounge for a nightcap before you head back to your room.

For a (Bar) Hopping Good Time: Late Nights on “The Avenue”

With more than 100 bars and restaurants, Delray Beach’s Atlantic Avenue is a central downtown thoroughfare where music spills out of crowded bars, restaurants, and cafés. On any given night, you can rub elbows with locals and tourists alike, and with classic rock to island reggae, chances are you’ll find something for everyone’s taste, if you walk a block or two in either direction.