New Year's Eve Party on the Beach

New Year's Eve is not just any night of the year. It is the last night of the year – the time to say goodbye to 2011 and ring in 2012.

If having a good time is on your agenda, the beaches is the place to go. From sipping tropical drinks to feeling the sand between your toes to gazing at the gorgeous sea, pony up to one of the bars or restaurants on the beach for a night to remember. (Think about this: Tourists pay thousands of dollars for vacations like this!)

Here is a local's guide to 5 places to go on the Gulf beaches. Did we leave anything or anyone out? Let us know! We will update as the magical night draws near.

1. The Drunken Clam- 46 46th Avenue, St. Pete Beach: Starting at 9 pm on New Year’s Eve, is proud to host the Dave Perri Band. The group is a combination of covers from the 1960s, '70s and '80s. They also have a slew of originial tunes that will keep bodies rocking until the clock strikes 12. 
2. The Undertow- 3850 Gulf Boulevard, St. Pete Beach: The Funky Seeds will be jamming at for New Year’s Eve. With no cover charge, guests can enjoy live music, free champagne and food plus a light show that the bar dubs as “amazing.” 
3. Jimmy B’s- 6200 Gulf Boulevard, St. Pete Beach: Party rockers can get started early at New Year’s Eve bash. Live music will be played all afternoon and into the night. The Blue Lightning Band will be kicking off the set at 2 p.m.; then at 7:30, Phoenix will take the stage to ring in 2012 with style.  Jimmy B’s will be handing out free party favors and glasses of champagne for a midnight toast.
4. Daiquiri Deck- 14995 Gulf Boulevard, Madeira Beach: From 9 a.m. on December 31 until 3 a.m. on the first day of the new year, Big Brother will be rocking with the crowd. balloon drop happens at midnight, with prizes inside for guests. There is a $10 cover (presale), or $12 (at the door) will earn drink specials, free champagne at midnight and party favors. Music lovers can also upgrade ($40/person or $70/couple) for All You Can Drink on domestic drafts, wine, wells and dinner.
5. Crabby Bill’s Loading Dock- 401 Gulf Boulevard, Indian Rocks Beach: Live music starts at 6 p.m. with Jeff Gurney playing his “acoustic rock with a twist” act. Shot specials will be in store for party goers as well. At 10 p.m., will be on the mic, jamming into 2012. will be handing out free glasses of champagne for a hallmark toast at midnight.