For the first time in its history, the city of Miami Beach will legally allow the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages on some of its public beaches.
The change -received with enthusiasm by many residents and tourists, but also with skepticism by some local officials- is part of a pilot program approved last week by the city commission, with a vote of 5-2.
“We're simply trying to emulate the great beaches of the world; that's part of our vision,” explained Miami Beach Commissioner Kristin Rosen González, in statements reported by Local10.
What does the program consist of?
The approved plan authorizes the regulated sale of alcoholic beverages for one year in two specific areas of the coastline: in front of Lummus Park and at the beach at the level of 21st Street.
Both areas are under the concession of the Boucher Brothers, a company with a long history as the official beach service provider in the city.
The measure grants them, and only them, the license to sell beer, wine, and mixed drinks directly on the sand, every day between 11:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., as explained by Rosen González.
The details of the menu are still in the development phase.
“It saves me from having to walk ten or five minutes to the nearest beach bar; instead, I can have it while sitting down,” celebrated Henry Kogan, quoted by Local10.
Income for the city and concerns about order
The economic incentive is significant. Miami Beach will receive a guaranteed minimum of $250,000 annually from this program, in addition to a share of between 18% and 20% of all alcohol sales, as confirmed by Commissioner Rosen González.
The money may be allocated to education, culture, and nonprofit organizations.
However, the debate has not been without tensions.
Some officials and residents expressed concerns about the impact on public safety, order on the beach, and urban cleanliness.
“We take one step forward, but then we step back three. This does not align with the direction we want to take in terms of public safety,” said Commissioner Alex Fernández, one of the dissenting votes, as reported by CBS News.
Fernández emphasized that, while the city could benefit economically, the risks of excessive consumption, disturbances, or litter on the beach could outweigh the gains.
The dilemma of the "unregulated"
A recurring argument among supporters of the program is that legalization will allow for better control of what is already happening in practice.
The commissioner Joe Magazine -who voted in favor- emphasized that alcohol is already present on the beaches, but often in a clandestine manner and without oversight.
"I prefer to have something regulated rather than have things being sold... daisies sold from people's backpacks," commented Magazine during a hearing in June.
According to the Miami Beach police chief, Wayne Jones, in 2024, there were 151 arrests related to unauthorized alcohol sales on the beach.
Tourists like Lola Mason, a regular visitor from Texas, have also expressed their distrust of unregulated street vendors.
"I have never bought it because I don't know what it's made with. Whether the alcohol is real alcohol. And if they haven't added anything," he stated to the local press.
Divided opinions
On the street, the measure has been mostly received with enthusiasm. Some believe that the change reflects reality and enhances the experience of those who visit the beach.
"This is the beach, this is Miami, people come here to have fun", said Osiris Ramírez. "Giving us that, making things a little bit easier for us, that's the key," he added.
“I believe it will really help, because you see a lot of people with coolers, selling random drinks; you never know what's inside. It's not regulated. And then there are minors bringing their own coolers; it can't be controlled and they get a bit rowdy,” said Steve Turk, as quoted by Local10.
Others, like lifelong resident Orlando Alonzo, acknowledge the benefits but urge caution:
“I’m from here, so I don’t like to carry coolers. [...] I think if they manage it, there won’t be a problem. But they will definitely need to place more garbage bins.”
What’s coming: Licenses, cocktails, and oversight
Although the program has already been approved, there is still no exact date for the start of sales to take effect.
The municipal administrator retains the authority to suspend or cancel it at any time, and a prior licensing process will be required.
Meanwhile, officials are finalizing details on how to ensure that sales are limited to individuals over 21 years old, in a safe, clean, and regulated environment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Alcohol Sales on Miami Beach
What does the pilot program for alcohol sales in Miami Beach entail?
The pilot program authorizes regulated sales of alcoholic beverages for one year in two specific areas along the coast of Miami Beach: in front of Lummus Park and at the beach by 21st Street. The concession for these sales has been granted exclusively to the company Boucher Brothers, allowing the sale of beer, wine, and mixed drinks from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
What are the concerns regarding safety and order on the beaches of Miami Beach?
Some officials and residents have raised concerns about the impact on public safety and order at the beach due to the sale of alcohol. There is worry about potential excessive consumption, disturbances, and increased litter on the sand, which could undermine the economic benefits of the program. The measure seeks to regulate an already existing practice of alcohol consumption on the beaches to maintain a more controlled environment.
What economic benefits are expected from the sale of alcohol on the beaches of Miami Beach?
Miami Beach expects to receive a guaranteed minimum of $250,000 annually from this program, in addition to a percentage of between 18% and 20% of all alcohol sales. These revenues could be allocated to areas such as education, culture, and nonprofit organizations, which represents a significant incentive for the city.
How is the sale of alcohol on the beaches related to safety measures during Spring Break?
During Spring Break, Miami Beach implements strict security measures to manage the influx of tourists and prevent disorder. These include restrictions on alcohol sales in certain areas and an increased police presence. Although the pilot program for alcohol sales is underway, the city remains committed to ensuring a safe environment for residents and visitors, especially during large-scale events like Spring Break.
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