Nightlife

Most visitors and islanders view hanging out at a bar and having dinner as an evening unto itself. Most travelers hit the sack early, preparing for their next day's adventure early in the morning. Don't expect the late-night festivities to go much past midnight.

Except on the slowest of evenings, there's usually one spot that's hotter than any other because it's featuring a DJ or live band. The venues vary, but your hotel staff will usually know where to direct you to find the evening's best entertainment.

On Friday and Saturday nights, Aunt Sha's Kitchen, South Side (tel. 345/948-1581), turns into an island social center with music (mostly reggae and soca) supplied by a DJ and an occasional happy hour.

Live music is often featured at the Bar at Brac Reef Beach Resort, South Side (tel. 345/948-1323) -- one of the island's most popular bars, especially with visitors. Monday night is the manager's party, Wednesday night is karaoke night, and Thursday is movie night. Nonguests are always welcome. It's open from 11am to 1am daily.

Coral Isle Club, South Side, east of Denis Point (tel. 345/948-1581), is the island's top karaoke bar, with a DJ on Wednesday through Saturday nights. The bartender's specialty is a Blue Lagoon, costing CI$5 and made with tequila and vodka. The bar is open daily from 7:30am to 11pm.

For a good time on Friday and Saturday nights, join the islanders filing into the previously recommended hotel, restaurant, and bar La Esperanza, Stake Bay (tel. 345/948-0531). Dig into mounds of barbecue or jerk chicken prepared by the owner himself, Bussy, and enjoy the island band that often plays on Friday and Saturday nights. On other nights, a blaring jukebox is responsible for the music, which can range from top tunes of the 1940s to calypso. The inside lounge has a full bar, TV, pool tables, and a seaside ambience. It's open daily from 9am to 1am.