Jacksonville, Florida, might be more vibrant than you think when it comes to Latin dance and nightlife. If you’re searching for places to move your feet to salsa, merengue, bachata, or reggaeton rhythms, Jacksonville offers a few hotspots worth checking out. While the local Latin community might seem hidden during the week, weekends bring opportunities to find your rhythm on the dance floor. Here’s a guide to some of the dance clubs in Jacksonville, FL, based on local experiences.
One of the most consistently recommended options is Havana Jax Restaurant & Ultra Lounge, located at 2578 Atlantic Boulevard. As the name suggests, it operates as both a restaurant and a dance club. Havana Jax seems to be a reliable choice, especially on weekends. Friday nights might be a bit quieter, but Saturdays tend to draw a larger crowd. The music is a diverse mix, ensuring there’s something for everyone who enjoys Latin beats, including salsa, merengue, bachata, and reggaeton. You can find more information and potentially check their event schedule on their website.
Another spot to consider is Bongo’s Cuban Cafe, situated at 12192 Beach Boulevard. Bongo’s functions as a restaurant with a dance floor. While they offer live music and dancing, experiences can vary. One personal account mentions a disappointing band experience, leading to a return visit being unlikely. It’s advisable to check reviews or their event listings to get a sense of the music and atmosphere on any given night before heading out. Their website might provide details on upcoming events and musical acts.
http://www.bongosjax.com/
http://www.bongosjax.com/eventos.html
For those near Orange Park, Elixir, formerly hosting Latin nights on Fridays, could be an option. Located at 341 Park Ave, Orange Park, FL 32073, Elixir’s Latin night was once known for a DJ who favored reggaeton music. The venue itself was considered decent, but the strong focus on reggaeton might not appeal to everyone. It’s recommended to check if they still host Latin nights and inquire about the music style if you’re interested in visiting.
The Globe Nightclub, located at 11000 Beach Boulevard, is described as a large discotheque. While it attracts a younger crowd and often features reggaeton music, it can also be associated with occasional issues. Saturdays are mentioned as a night to check it out, possibly Fridays too, though the music scene leans heavily towards reggaeton. If you enjoy high-energy reggaeton and a large club atmosphere, The Globe could be a place to explore, but it’s worth being aware of the potential for a younger, sometimes rowdy, crowd. Their website may offer insights into their events and music themes.
http://www.theglobenightclub.com/
For a midweek dance option, Twisted Martini, situated at Jacksonville Landing downtown, used to host Latin nights on Thursdays. Twisted Martini is portrayed as a nice bar with a mixed crowd and a good-sized dance floor. It was considered a decent alternative to weekend options, offering a less reggaeton-centric experience. Given that Jacksonville Landing has undergone changes, it’s best to confirm if Twisted Martini is still operating and if they continue to have Latin nights before planning a visit.
In conclusion, Jacksonville’s Latin dance scene offers a few choices, with Havana Jax appearing as the most consistently recommended for a mix of Latin genres. Twisted Martini (if still operational with Latin nights) could be a good Thursday option. Bongo’s and The Globe present alternatives, but it’s wise to check recent reviews and event details to ensure they align with your musical preferences and desired atmosphere. For serious salsa enthusiasts, the trip to Orlando, as mentioned, might still be the preferred option for a dedicated salsa experience. Keep an eye out for local events like the Puerto Rican Parade mentioned around September 22nd, as these can also be great opportunities to experience Latin culture and dance in Jacksonville.
