Jacksonville, Florida, boasts a vibrant Latino community, and if you’re looking for salsa dance clubs near you to immerse yourself in the rhythm and excitement, you’re in the right place. While the local scene might be considered by some to be still developing, there are indeed venues where you can find your salsa fix. Let’s explore some options for salsa enthusiasts in Jacksonville.
For a consistent weekend option, Havana Jax Restaurant & Lounge stands out. Located at 2578 Atlantic Boulevard, this venue offers a dedicated dance club alongside its restaurant. Havana Jax provides a mix of Latin rhythms, including salsa, merengue, bachata, and reggaeton, ensuring a lively atmosphere for dancers. While Fridays might be a bit quieter, Saturdays typically see a more energetic and crowded dance floor, making it a popular choice for those seeking a salsa night out. You can check out their website at http://www.havanajax.com/ for more details on events and opening hours.
Another spot to consider is Bongo’s Cuban Cafe & Restaurant at 12192 Beach Boulevard. Bongo’s operates as a restaurant with a dance floor and has hosted live bands. While past experiences might vary regarding band quality and the size of the dance floor, it’s worth checking their schedule for upcoming events. Their website, http://www.bongosjax.com/ and events page http://www.bongosjax.com/eventos.html, can provide updates on their entertainment offerings. It’s advisable to confirm if they are currently featuring salsa music or Latin nights, as their musical focus can fluctuate.
Elixir Bar & Grill, formerly located at 341 Park Ave in Orange Park, was known to have Latin nights on Fridays. However, it’s important to note that their music selection leaned heavily towards reggaeton. If you prefer primarily salsa, this might not be the ideal spot, and it’s recommended to verify if they still host Latin nights and what the current music style is. Contacting them at (904) 215-4400 could provide updated information.
For those seeking a larger club experience, The Globe Nightclub, situated at 11000 Beach Boulevard, is a sizable discotheque. While it attracts a younger crowd and often features reggaeton music, it might occasionally include salsa in its playlist, particularly on Saturdays. It’s advisable to check their event schedule at http://www.theglobenightclub.com to see if salsa nights are planned or if their music mix aligns with your preferences. Keep in mind that it’s known to be predominantly reggaeton-focused.
Lastly, Twisted Martini, a bar previously located at the Jacksonville Landing downtown, used to host Latin nights on Thursdays. This venue offered a mixed crowd and a decent-sized dance floor. It was considered a reasonable option for a midweek salsa outing. However, it’s crucial to confirm if Twisted Martini is still operating and if they continue to host Latin nights, as locations and event schedules can change.
In conclusion, while Jacksonville’s salsa scene might not be as extensive as in larger metropolitan areas, there are still options for finding salsa dance clubs near you. Havana Jax appears to be a consistent and reliable choice for salsa dancing, especially on Saturdays. Bongo’s and potentially The Globe could offer salsa depending on their event schedules. It’s always best to check the venues’ websites or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on their Latin nights and music styles to ensure you find the perfect spot to enjoy salsa dancing in Jacksonville. For a more dedicated salsa experience, some enthusiasts even consider taking a trip to nearby Orlando, which is known for its more established and diverse Latin dance scene.