The island city of Alameda, California, is a small municipality adjacent to Oakland. Frequented by wind surfers and vacationers, Alameda is known for its historic Victorian-style architecture, picturesque beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Nightlife is low-key but fun in Alameda, and there are a number of dance clubs and bars with live music. Although the city is decidedly family-oriented, there are plenty of places for adults to party down and enjoy a full night of dancing.
This tiki bar in the heart of Alameda’s historic Bay Station Shopping District is a favorite among locals and visitors. Forbidden Island's tropical decor features bamboo huts, waterfalls and palm trees. Choose from a list of fruity cocktails and daiquiris made from fresh-squeezed seasonal juices. Every third Thursday of the month features DJ Tanoa’s mix of rockabilly, classic country, jive, stroll and twist. On other nights, you’ll hear a mix of disco, '80s pop and surf music. Forbidden Island’s back porch is pet-friendly, so bring your dog along for the fun.
Forbidden Island Tiki Lounge
1304 Lincoln Ave.
Alameda, CA 94501
(510) 749-0332
forbiddenislandalameda.com
Island Paradise Club’s laid-back Caribbean atmosphere and world-music events have made it a popular choice among Alameda’s international crowd. Located in Alameda's West End, Island Paradise Club features live bands and DJs playing a mix of reggae, dance hall, samba, merengue, salsa, soca and R&B. Choose from a number of party packages if you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary or other event. Be aware of Island Paradise Club’s moderately enforced dress code: no tennis shoes, no baseball caps, no flip-flops, no hoodies and no sports wear.
Island Paradise Club
1436 Webster St.
Alameda, CA 94501
(510) 865-3225
islandparadiseclub.com
Located just across Oakland Inner Harbor, this enormous dance club, sports bar and karaoke lounge caters to a mixed crowd of locals and out-of-towners. The big dance nights are Friday and Saturday, when DJs fill the house with a mix of hip-hop, Top 40 and R&B. Kimball’s Carnival also offers an appetizer menu featuring pizzas, buffalo wings, chicken quesadillas, nachos and salads. For a break from dancing, Kimball’s has 18 Brunswick pool tables, 15 large-screen TVs that play major sporting events and a large cocktail area. Wednesdays and Thursdays feature specialty cocktails.
Kimball’s Carnival
522 Second St.
Oakland, CA 94607
(510) 444-6979
kimballscarnival.com
