May 28, 2018
South Beach has a long and treasured tradition of absolutely wild salsa nights. Places like Mango’s and YUCA 501 make South Beach a Mecca for salseros. See for yourself what the fuss is about, and check out some of these hot salsa clubs around South Beach.
The stuff of legends, Mango’s is a Miami icon. Anything goes in this classic haunt, with its spicy dancers, sweaty masses and blasting live music. You never know what’s going to happen at Mango’s, and that’s kinda the whole point.
Not ready to dive into the deep end at Mango’s? That’s okay because on weekdays Salsa Mia turns Mango’s into one of Miami’s most endearing salsa clubs. For well over a decade now, Salsa Mia has been luring salseros in with their friendly vibes and fantastic live entertainment. Come for the nightly classes, and stay for the party afterward. This place gets really spicy on weekends, with some of the best Latino live music in town, punto. Plus, they do some decent drinks, and pretty good food, too.
Anyone worth their salt in the South Beach salsa crowd knows YUCA 501 like the back of their hands. YUCA, or Young Urban Cuban-Americans, sports a sprawling upstairs ballroom that serves as a stomping ground for the best of local talent. Their expertly managed classes on Wednesday and Friday nights are pretty much mandatory for anyone eager to break into salsa. Plus, the downstairs restaurant serves up some of the fanciest Cuban cuisines this side of Little Havana. Do yourself a favor, and try the paella with one of their famous tropical cocktails.
Wait – what’s American Social doing on a list of salsa clubs? In recent years, it feels like virtually everyone in Miami is trying to get in on the salsa craze, with many other clubs and restaurants putting on their own salsa nights. Just across the bridge from South Beach, American Social is one of the few such establishments to do salsa right. Their Wednesday salsa parties are seriously brilliant, with a great DJ and some ridiculously good drinks specials. Try one of their amazing mojitos, then hit the dance floor. They even have complimentary classes.
Back in the heart of South Beach, Salsa Central is primarily a Latin dance school. Their best known for their expert private and group classes, catering to everyone from beginners to seasoned pros. Oh, and did we mention they put on some of the hottest parties in South Beach? This is the place to be if you want to mingle with serious salseros.
If you’re looking for a relaxed, friendly salsa club, then South Beach Salsa Classes is for you. They primarily deal in salsa classes and mellow social events. It’s family-friendly, welcoming and perfect for anyone looking to sharpen their moves.
Another great spot for classes, Salsa Driven is first and foremost about providing salsa classes. They have a massive rapporteur, with instructors expert in everything from LA/NY style to Cuban Rueda and more. Driven really comes to life on Monday nights, though, when their workshops conclude with an all-out party, plus drinks specials. It’s great fun and a very welcoming community.