The Flora Bama Lounge and Package is a world-renowned destination on the Gulf Coast. This famous beach bar is known for live music, bushwhackers, and all the fun.
Flora Bama
When we first started visiting the Gulf Coast before moving here we kept hearing about the world famous bar the Flora-Bama.
I am going to admit in my head that I built it up to be this huge thing that made me a bit nervous. I am not sure why but all the talk from people had me wondering what I was getting into the first time I visited.
When we finally went for the 1st time and saw the bras hanging from the ceiling, great live music, and people of all shapes and sizes having a great time, I had to wonder why I thought it was going to be a place I wouldn't be comfortable.
The Flora-Bama is a beach bar honky-tonk that is open to anyone. That being said, make sure you bring your ID if you plan to drink because they will check it, and if you try to bring a fake ID, they will cut it up.
Fair warning: we have seen it happen, and it is not worth trying. The front entrance staff know what they are doing, and they are good at it!
Locals, tourists, visitors, athletes, dancers, singers, snowbirds, and really anyone looking for a fun time will love the Flora-Bama Lounge!
TL;DR Don't have time to read the full article? Here are my top finds:
🏨Hotels and Vacation Rentals
📍Tours
✨What's New in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
A bit of Flora Bama History
50+ years ago, in 1962, the State of Florida gave the State of Alabama two miles of beachfront land when they planned the construction of the Perdido Pass Bridge.
The Tampary family built a small beach bar with a package store on the new State Line. The Flora-Bama was constructed in 1964, two years after the road was completed.
Over time, the Flora Bama Lounge grew as traffic to the area increased. New sections of the lounge were added to accommodate larger crowds as they were needed.
On April 17, 1978, Joseph Gilchrest purchased the lounge and package store and brought in daily live music. In 1986, Pat McClellan became a partner and they created epic events and more fun.
In 2009, John McInnis and Cameron Price became the co-owners of teh Flora-Bama in partnership with Joe and Pat. The four owners continue to carry the bars traditions while making it a place everyone wants to visit.
The building was severely damaged in 2004 when Hurricane Ivan hit the Gulf Coast. They rebuilt the bar into two levels in 2010.
Flora Bama Oyster Bar Menu
The Oyster Bar is located in the main Flora-Bama and servers sandwiches, oysters, and the world-famous Bushwacker.
Menu Highlights
Build your own Bama Burger - Topped with mushrooms, jalapenos, bacon, cheddar and Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickle, served on a challah bun with fries or veggies.
Chicken club sandwich - grilled or blackened chicken served on a challah bun with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, Swiss cheese, and sliced bacon.
Blue Chair Bay Shrimp Taco - Deep fried shrimp tossed in a Blue Chair Bay Key lime sauce and served on a corn taco shell with lettuce, Pico de Gallo, and sour cream.
Sausage dog - ¼ pound Polish sausage dog topped with grilled onions and peppers, served on a hoagie roll.
Kids Menu - Grilled cheese or kid's chicken tenders served with a side of fries or veggies.
Gluten-Free - shrimp taco, oysters, chicken salad
Vegan - Maybe the fries but it would depend what oil they are cooked in.
Vegetarian - ¼ pound Beyond Beef burger served on a toasted garlic challah bun with romaine lettuce, tomato, onions, and dill pickles.
Signature Cocktails - Bushwacker! Voted Best Bushwacker by our community!
Flora Bama Events
The Flora-Bama has epic events year-round! From the Polar Bear Dip on the 1st of January to the Mullet Toss to church on Sundays there is always something going on.
Big Flora-Bama events require pre-purchased tickets! Most of the big events will sell out in advance so make sure to buy early.
Make sure to print your receipt / confirmation upon purchase and bring your ID for entrance. You can also use your email confirmation on your phone for entry.
Polar Bear Dip - January 1st - Join hundreds of new friends taking a dip in the Gulf of Mexico together!
Super Chili Bowl Cook-Off - Super bowl weekend with funds donated to the American Cancer Society.
Boozy Bee Spelling Bee - March 10, 2024 - Participants attempt to spell words while enjoying an adult beverage or two or more. Bee costumes are highly recommended. Contestants are chosen on day of event.
Easter Egg Hunt and Bunny Drop - The Easter Bunny will skydive onto the beach as part of this annual event! Easter egg hunts are divided by age so kids can truly enjoy the experience of grabbing Easter eggs.
Interstate Mullet Toss - Have you ever wanted to toss a dead mullet fish across the Alabama Florida state line? If the answer is yes this event is for you!
Flora Bama Fishing Rodeo - This fishing tournament event is held at the Flora-Bama Ole River Grill beach area over the span of three days.
Flora-Bama Freedom Run - Participate in a 4-Mile Run/Walk Course or the 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk!
Bulls on the Beach - Three nights of bull riding next to the Flora-Bama! Professional bull riders from across the southeast
Oktoberfest - Break out your finest Bavarian outfits and celebrate Oktoberfest.
Frank Brown Songwriter's Festival - The Frank Brown International Songwriter Festival in
Flora Bama Thanksgiving Potluck - Bring a covered dish to share with new friends. The Flora-Bama provides the turkey and ha.
Santa Drop at Flora Bama - Enjoy Santa skydiving onto the beach, kids crafts, games, and tons of festive fun.
Flora-Bama Christmas Potluck - Bring a covered dish to share with new friends as you celebrate the holiday season. The Flora Bama provides the turkey and ham.
Flora-Bama New Years Eve Bash - Make sure to buy tickets ahead of time! This event WILL sell out! There is live music on three stages, party favors, great food, and of course champagne.
Daily & Weekly Events
Bingo - Daily from 1 - 4 pm enjoy bingo in the Test State, free to play and family friendly, with prizes for every game.
Ladies Night - Every Wednesday from 6 - 9 pm, Ladies get their first drink free
Flora-Bama Membership Card
You can purchase an Annual Flora-Bama Membership Card online or in person at the store.
Flora-Bama members get:
- FREE admission every night including Mullet Toss. (Excluded on other special events)
- FREE 1st drink every Thursday on Membership Night
- 10% discount in Flora-Bama Gift Shop
Why you will love Flora Bama
- Kenny Chesney loves the bar
- Alabama-Florida State Line photo opportunity.
- World-Famous Bushwacker Cocktail
- Great live music daily
- One of the best bars in Orange Beach
- Gulf Coast's greatest beach party
Some of the famous celebrities and Big Names that have visited the bar include Kenny Chesney, Jimmy Buffett, Drake White, John Rich, Kid Rock, Hank Williams Jr, Riley Green, Justin Moore, Billy Currington
Things to know when planning a visit to Flora-Bama
Address - 17401 Perdido Key Drive, Perdido Key, FL. 32507
Located on the Florida-Alabama border
Phone - 251-980-5118
Hours - Open 365 days a year with live music every day
Gift Shop - 9am to 2:30am
Flora-Bama 10am to 2:30am
Food & Alcohol Sales begin daily at 11AM
Live music begins daily at 12PM
Acceptable Identification - Driver's License, Passport, Military, State Issued. They do not accept paper IDs.
The Flora-Bama is located in the state of Florida and Florida law states that we DO NOT accept LA Wallet / Digital ID's.
Age Requirements - Family friendly for all ages every day until 6pm.
At 6pm, only those ages 18 and older will be permitted entry.
Those who are 18 to 20 years old can stay all night as long as they are in the door by 10PM with no re-entry.
Cover Charge - A cover charge is collected daily beginning at 6 pm.
$5 for 21 and older
$15 for 18-21 years old
Accessibility - There is accessible parking spaces right near the entrance.
There is an elevator that provides access to the upper floor.
Plus Size Seating - There are a lot of different seating options within the bar. There are picnic tables, booths with wooden benches, and chairs with arms on the beach.
Dress Code/Suggestions - Casual, beach bar, comfortable, fun clothes.
There are tons of bras hanging from different things in the bar. You may want to plan ahead if you want to join this tradition.
Pets - Pets are not allowed in the Flora-Bama including emotional support animals.
Parking - There is parking across the street from the Flora-Bama in the dirt lot.
DO NOT BRING - outside alcoholic beverages, food, weapons, or anything ridiculous. There is security at the door that will use a metal detecting wand and have you empty your pockets into a basket before entry.
Restaurants and Attractions nearby
Flora-Bama Yacht Club - Enjoy a great meal with a view!
Flora Bama Ole River Grill - Located across the street from the main Flora-Bama and offers great food, friendly staff, and amazing water views.
Flora-Bama Marina - jet ski rentals or a pontoon boat rental right across the street. Hire the Flora-Bama team to take you out on boat tour, sunset cruises, and more.
Cobalt - the perfect place for lunch or dinner on the water! Their menu is filled with gulf seafood, sandwiches, and delicious options you will have a hard time choosing from.
The Gulf - The Gulf Orange Beach offers amazing food, epic views, and a casual atmosphere perfect for a beach trip!
Top things to do on Perdido Key - The best things to see and do while exploring Perdido Key.
Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tours
These are some of our favorite tours available in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama.
Dolphin Tours - Book a dolphin cruise here
Check out our experiences on Hammock Time Tiki Tours, Explorer Dolphin Cruise, Southern Rose Dolphin cruise, Cruise OB (Orange Beach), Sail Wild Hearts, Sunset Sail and Dolphin Tour, and the Sunny Lady Dolphin Cruise.
Slingshot Rentals - Use code GULFJOURNEY To save 10% off a Slingshot Rental with Gulf Coast Rental Co in Orange Beach
Pontoon Boat Rentals - Enjoy cruising the waters of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach on a Pontoon. Check out the pontoon boats with slides for extra fun. Book your Boat Rental Here
Parasailing - Check out the epic views as you parasail in the Gulf of Mexico. Look for wildlife and you float high above the water. Book your Parasailing Trip Here
Jet Ski Rentals - Jet Ski Tours and rentals are a great way to explore the back bays of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Book your Jet Ski Rental Here
Click here to see all of the top rated tours and activities available in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
Additional Orange Beach and Gulf Shores Articles
Orange Beach Restaurants on the Beach - The best Orange Beach and Gulf Shores Restaurants on the Beach and or with a Waterview!
Unique Things to do in Orange Beach - There are so many fun things to do while visiting the Gulf Coast.
Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Bachelorette Party Ideas - Planning a girl's trip down to the beach check out all of these fun ideas and things to do.
Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Lodging
If you are visiting and need to book accommodations, here are our recommendations. We have personally stayed at each of these lodging options (except Margaritaville, coming 2027!):
Use code GULFJOURNEY at checkout with Spectrum Resorts and Beachball Properties for an exclusive discount!
🏖️ Beachball Properties - Vacation houses and condos throughout Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Use Code GULFJOURNEY for a discount. Book with Beachball Properties
🏖️ The Beach Club Resort and Spa (Fort Morgan) - Beachfront condos with amazing amenities, a spa, and the incredible Coast Restaurant on-site. Use Code GULFJOURNEY for a discount with Spectrum Resorts. Book The Beach Club
🏖️ Turquoise Place (Orange Beach) - Our favorite resort in the area! Luxury amenities, epic Gulf-front views, and stunning condos. Truly unforgettable. Use Code GULFJOURNEY for a discount with Spectrum Resorts. Book Turquoise Place
🏨 The Tides Hotel (Orange Beach) - Gorgeous beachfront hotel with a great breakfast buffet, outdoor pool, and top-notch customer service. Book The Tides
🏨 Island House Hotel (Orange Beach) - Right on the beach with epic views from every room. Book Island House
⛺ Timberline Glamping (Orange Beach) - Stay in an amazing glamping tent with a private bathroom, right next to Gulf State Park. Book Timberline
🏨 The Lodge at Gulf State Park - Beachfront Hilton hotel in Gulf State Park offering epic views, sustainable practices, and great on-site restaurants. Book The Lodge
🏨 Springhill Suites Orange Beach - Located next to The Wharf with a gorgeous pool. Perfect location for shopping and dining. Book Springhill Suites
🔜 Margaritaville Resort Orange Beach (Coming 2027) - The highly anticipated Margaritaville resort is coming to Orange Beach! The first phase opens in 2027 and will include beachfront cottages, bungalows, condos, pickleball courts, and an entertainment district.
The map below shows the current hotels and vacation rentals available in the area. You can select the dates you are visiting to see current availability.
Don't miss our other Gulf Coast destinations, including Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Dauphin Island, Fairhope, Fort Morgan, Foley, Mobile, Bayou La Batre, Alabama, and so many more!
We also have articles on the Emerald Coast of Florida, including Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Pensacola Beach, Navarre Beach, Panama City Beach, Perdido Key, Pensacola, and more.
Keep an eye out for articles on the Gulf Coast of Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, and Florida!
Check out our Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok pages for more great ideas for the Gulf Coast.
Roy Walton
Always a great place to go for a good time