The Best Floating Bar Experiences You Need on Your Bucket List
- ituajeokojie
- Sep 10
- 3 min read
If you’ve ever dreamed of sipping cocktails in the middle of turquoise waters while music plays and boats float by, a floating bar experience needs to be at the top of your bucket list. These spots are a step above your standard swim-up bars—you can easily spend the entire day at one and even plan your trip around it.
Here are two of my all-time favorite floating bar experiences that are worth flying for:
🌊 Noah’s Ark – Turks & Caicos
Located just off the coast, Noah’s Ark in Turks & Caicos is more than just a floating bar—it’s a full-day vibe.
How to Get There: You’ll take a boat ride out to the bar ($1 for round trip ferry at the dock), and once you arrive, the energy is unmatched. Expect a mix of R&B, Caribbean, and hip hop beats setting the tone for the day.
What to Do: Beyond sipping cocktails, you’ll find floating trampolines, tables right on the water, and even jet skis you can rent. Private boats pull up throughout the day, making the whole spot feel like one big floating block party.
Food & Drinks: Don’t miss the shack serving comfort plates—perfect after hours of swimming and lounging.
Why It’s Worth It: The crystal-clear waters of Turks & Caicos make everything feel like a postcard moment.
🍹 Filthy Friday – Bocas del Toro, Panama
For those who love variety, Filthy Friday in Bocas del Toro is the ultimate floating bar crawl.
The Experience: You’ll hop by boat between three to four floating bars, each with its own unique vibe. From electronic to house to Latin beats, there’s something for everyone.
Perks: Your ticket includes a fun temporary tattoo, your own cup for unlimited drinks, and a drawstring bag to keep essentials with you.
Scenery: The boat rides themselves are an adventure—the lush tropical scenery makes the journey as fun as the destination.
Why It’s Worth It: Instead of one floating bar, you’re getting multiple in a single day, each with its own crowd, music, and atmosphere.
Tips & Tricks for Visiting Floating Bars
Since floating bars aren’t your average hangout spot, here are a few things to know before you go:
Don’t bring valuables: Anything you take is fair game for getting wet, so leave jewelry, designer bags, and expensive electronics behind.
Pack light: A swimsuit, cover-up, sunscreen, and a waterproof pouch for your phone are all you really need.
Stay hydrated: Between sun, swimming, and cocktails, it’s easy to overdo it—alternate with water throughout the day.
Bring cash: Most floating bars do not accept cards, cash is still king for tips and smaller purchases.
At Filthy Friday the most common language is Spanish, rules are explained in Spanish.
Plan your trip around it: Both Noah’s Ark and Filthy Friday are full-day experiences—you won’t want to rush them.
Why Floating Bars Belong on Your Bucket List
Floating bars combine the best of travel: breathtaking destinations, music, food, and the chance to meet people from all over the world. Whether you’re dancing on trampolines in Turks & Caicos or hopping between bars in Bocas del Toro, the memories you’ll make will stay with you long after your tan fades.
✨ So, which floating bar should I try next? Drop your recommendations in the comments—I’m always looking for the next unforgettable experience!
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