Few American cities have Latin communities as large, diverse and vibrant as Miami. The cascade of cultures spans from the Caribbean to South and Central America. Naturally, this leads to tremendous Latin American influence in Miami's culture. That influence manifests itself in the diversity of restaurants, art, and of course, nightlife. Miami's hottest Latin clubs feature a smattering of thumping Caribbean beats, vivacious dancing, and unbridled exuberance. The best local Latin joints are among Miami's hippest locales. 

It seems like Wynwood is home to all of Miami's latest hot spots. El Patio combines Wynwood's counterculture, often rustic feel and fuses it with a cozy, almost upbeat atmosphere. While it feels contemporary and casual, its interior design reminds you of something homey and casual. It's almost as if you can imagine Latin mothers and or grandmothers cooking away as little ones run around. But instead of kids, El Patio has singles, young professionals, and general party seekers populating its spacious interior. And with a D.J. spinning everything from Latin classics to modern reggaeton, the rhythm of the music will definitely hit your soul. 
 
This is the one case when you'll want to be tied to an old ball and chain. Ball & Chain first opened its doors in 1935 and enjoyed a highly successful 22-year run until it closed its doors in 1957. In its original heyday, the Calle Ocho fixture welcomed superstar performers like Billie Holiday. This made Ball & Chain one of Miami's hottest spots before Miami had even gained its reputation as one of the nation's premier party scenes. Nearly 50 years later, a pair of local brothers reopened the iconic bar, which quickly regained its place near the top of Miami's party hierarchy. Now a local watering hole welcoming Latin lovers, dance enthusiasts and more, the new Ball & Chain is among Miami's hottest Latin clubs. 
 
The great thing about Miami is that the city's vibrancy shines through even in the most unexpected locations. La Covacha is a prime example of this. The nightclub is located in Doral, which is more of a suburb and warehouse district than a buzzing bastion of excitement. However, for the better part of the last decade, La Covacha has managed to generate all the buzz and excitement the city of Doral needs as one of the area's meccas of Latin music. The parties and salsa dancing kick off as early as Thursday and persist through the weekend. One of the reasons for the three-day tour de fun is because La Covacha regularly plays host to some of the world's most prominent Latin performers. And with Downtown Doral slowly growing into its own as a go-to destination,  La Covacha's vibrancy shows no signs of flickering out. 
 
South Beach's oldest Latin club definitely ranks among Miami's best. It's also one of the largest clubs in Miami with several rooms offering unique experiences at one of the area's most dynamic locales. What makes Mango's among the area's best Latin clubs isn't just the persisting thump of Latin rhythms. It's the architecture, ambiance, and overall motif. Mango's feels like you're stepping into an authentic piece of Caribbean art. And the rotating tabletop dancers bring it all home for a near-perfect night out. 
 
The best Latin clubs offer a natural blend of the traditional, classic architecture and modern luxuries. No club epitomizes this like Hoy Como Ayer. The name may be a mouthful for those who don't speak Spanish, but it  translates to "Today, As Yesterday." With its walls lined with photos of Latin music's luminaries, and rhythms ranging from conga drums to modern electronic drum patterns, you feel an instant draw to the dance floor. And you'll dance today just as you did yesterday. 
 

Club Tipico Dominicano

This Allapattah joint is dealing with a case of dual identities. By day, it serves piping hot traditional (or typical, as its name says) Dominican fare. However, once the sun sets on weekends, Club Tipico Dominicano is a favored stop for salsa, bachata, and merengue dancing. It's always a bit of a hole in the wall no matter the time of day, but that's what gives this joint its edge and character. 

Conga Bar   

A restaurant, bar and lounge, Conga Bar has something for just about everyone. But if you're a fan of rhythmic beats, dancing, and fairly affordable drinks, then this is certainly the stop for you. While there isn't an officially designated dance floor, that won't stop you from strutting your stuff. When the party gets going, it spills into nearly every corner of Conga Bar, so don't be shy. Especially not when the occasional conga line starts.

Riviera Live  

While Riviera Live isn't exactly a Latin nightclub, it does offer one of Miami's best Latin nightlife experiences. Riviera Live is a one-hour dinner and cabaret show which harkens back to classic 1950s performances in Havana. The performers are athletic and authentic and paired with a traditional Latin fare, you'll likely be satisfied by taking in the dancing rather than doing the dancing. 

Latin spice lights up Miami on a nightly basis. But if you want the best of what the city has to offer, you have to attend visit one of Miami's hottest Latin clubs. 

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Cover photo by Ardian Lumi on Unsplash