Snook Haven
5000 East Venice Avenue
Venice, FL 34292
(941) 485-7221
Website
Hours: 11:30 am to 8:00 pm
Location: On the Myakka River
Drink: Wine and Beer
Eat: Back Woods Smokehouse
Music: Live local bands daily
Parking: Own parking lot
Boat Access: Yes
Unique Feature: Tucked away on the banks of the Myakka river
Overview
To find Snook Haven which is located just off Interstate 75 at exit 191, you just need to travel west to E. Venice Drive and travel down a road that looks more like a state park than the entrance to a beach bar. At the end of the road is Snook Haven, a long time gathering place for locals and visitors to enjoy a bite to eat, have a few drinks (wine and beer only), and listen to some great music.
Snook Haven has been around since 1948. This eclectic bar is located on the Myakka River and has some of the friendliest employees of any bar we’ve been to. There is nothing upscale about this place, but there is no doubt everyone is there to have a good time.
Once you arrive, step up to the service window. Order your food and drinks, and step outside to find an umbrella covered picnic table. Place the number given to you when you ordered on your table. When your food is ready, the wait staff will find your number and bring your order to the table.
The crowd is definitely older. But this older Sunday afternoon crowd was one of the most lively crowds that we have seen at a Florida beach bar. Sit by the bandstand or along the shores of the Myakka River. Come by boat or car. This heavily wooded site on the river's edge is definitely old Florida and a place you will enjoy visiting.
Snook Haven has music 7 days a week. There was a band called Bandana playing when we visited. The band was fantastic and played for tips. All the bands at Snook Haven play for tips. One of the waitresses went table to table soliciting contributions, and patrons were more than happy to contribute. Snook Haven is one of those places that may have you wondering why you picked it when you arrive and never wanting to leave when it’s time to go.