Just steps from the sand in Cocoa Beach, Dirty Birds Tiki Bar & Grill delivers an easygoing beach-town hang paired with a surprisingly elevated tiki experience, especially if you know exactly where to go.
Lined with burning tiki torches and large thatched-roof tiki huts, covering both the upstairs and downstairs areas, Dirty Birds is definitely a Florida beach town vibe. The food items are your typical, low-fuss, surfside beach items like mahi tacos and wings.
We tried the fried shrimp platter and the Islander Smash Burger; both were pretty solid options. You can order the full menu at both the inside and outside areas.
It’s lively, casual, and unmistakably Florida. But the real standout is hidden inside.
Dirty Birds Tiki Bar & Grill Hidden Tiki Bar
The Roost: where tiki fans should head
Tucked indoors is The Roost, a more traditional tiki escape designed by Typhoon Tommy, known for revamping iconic spots like the Mai-Kai and Suffering Bastard (a favorite Orlando area hidden bar). This is where Dirty Birds shifts from beach bar to true tiki lounge. Expect bamboo walls and ceilings, carved tiki masks, cozy booths, moody lighting, and a secret cocktail menu that’s absolutely worth seeking out.
The Roost opens at 4:00 p.m. most days, later than the outdoor areas, and that timing matters. While you can order the full food menu both inside and out, the cocktail program truly shines indoors. If you’re sitting on the patio, stick with beers or classic bar drinks. If you want thoughtfully crafted tiki cocktails, save them for The Roost.
What to Order
From the secret menu, the Rum Barrel is the clear star. It's easily one of the best we’ve had. The Jurassic Parched also stood out. The standard Mai Tai and Zombie on the regular menu didn’t quite hit the same high notes, so we strongly recommend asking about the off-menu options when you’re inside.
By the way, this tropical spot is by the same folks behind 4th Street Filling Station, a favorite spot of our Editor. Both Dirty Birds and 4th Street Filling Station are just about 10 minutes from Jetty Park, a great beach and campground.
Know Before You Go
- Inside vs. outside: Patio for live music, casual drinks, and beach vibes. The Roost for serious tiki cocktails and a more intimate date-night feel.
- Parking: Located at the busy intersection of Minuteman Causeway and A1A, parking can be tricky. There’s a garage next door with rates ranging from hourly pricing to daily maximums—very on-brand for a beach town.
- Events: Keep an eye on Dirty Birds’ social media for live music, special events, and holiday celebrations. Their New Year’s Eve party, in particular, looks like it could be a fun way to ring in the year by the beach.
If you’re planning a Cocoa Beach trip, Dirty Birds gives you options: laid-back patio energy or a tucked-away tiki escape.
Dirty Birds Bar & Grill
Address: 142 Minutemen Cswy, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
321-613-2580
