Decorated with seashell creations hanging from the ceiling and a sleepy, overweight bar cat that takes refuge on the counter, Sandy’s is one of a kind. Though you won’t find martinis or Moscow mules, cans of beer and shots of whiskey are promised. If the doors are open, be sure to stop in. The hours are random. 

This old-school dive offers an impressive beer selection, a pool table, and late-night pizza served until 2 a.m. Located near a port with tourists disembarking from cruise ships, it’s also a great place to meet people passing through.

The Strand’s go-to dive is a nice respite on the island, offering a place to bask in the ice-cold air conditioning while hitting the tourist beat. Daily drink specials range from draft beers and Deep Eddy bloody marys to cheap buckets during football season, with a big-screen TV to watch sports.

A favorite among bartenders, this watering hole is always brimming with interesting people and beckons casual conversation with its wraparound design. Don’t miss out on the kitchen specialties like the classic Reuben sandwich and the daily specials at its low-key happy hour, which keep guests in stitches from the wild stories that locals share.

This island standard is two bars in one. Molly’s, on the left, features a long bar with plenty of space to talk in private, while Old Cellar bar has its own bartender, jukebox, and a dartboard for those up for a challenge. For the Irish whisky drinkers, both have plenty of options to choose from. Be sure to ask for Snow, one of the city’s beloved bartenders.

Known for its older, less rowdy crowd, this hole in the wall offers a laid-back island vibe, with plenty of chilled-out conversation. Hungry? Grab the best mushroom and swiss burger on the island and breathe in the salty air on the back patio.

Though dancing and karaoke are typical offerings, Albatross also offers impromptu barbecue, shot-chugging contests, and live music depending on the night. On any day, though, expect strong drinks, plenty of people watching, and the best kind of chaos.

This library is less about books and more about drinks and vibes. Found right off the beach, this skateboarder hangout is an island dream that’s open seven days a week from 2 p.m. until midnight. Visitors can jam out to punk rock tunes from live bands, and check out the waves crashing in while enjoying their drink of choice.

This gay dive features a popular drag show, beach views, and a back patio that can go from mild to wild within a song. Plus, there’s a swimming pool and occasional late-night movie showings on the big screen outside.

An authentic neighborhood sports bar, Gizmo is a hot spot for islanders just getting off work or tourists in the know. In it for a cold Bud Light and an Astros game? This is the spot.

Watch the waves — and interesting strangers — roll in at this no-frills seawall spot. The Poop Deck offers prime views of the Gulf and people walking by en masse on busy weekends. Known for notoriously cheap drinks, this bar also promises riveting pool matches, a cast of regulars, and a mean margarita.

Near the island’s end, Woody’s offers stunning views of a quiet Gulf from all sides. The bottles of beer are cheap, and whatever the drink order — be it cranberry and vodka or a double Jameson — it’s coming strong. If you’re coming to the island on your Harley, this out-of-the-way joint is worth the ride.