The Wharf Fort Lauderdale prohibits out-of-state spring break under the age of 23

FORT LAUDERDALE, Florida. – COVID-19 does not seem to have prevented many students from flocking to Fort Lauderdale, because the bars along Las Olas and A1A are apparently so crowded that at least one popular place is working to narrow the crowds – even if it means only allow out-of-state people to enter if they are 23 or older.

In a statement posted Friday on Instagram, The Wharf Fort Lauderdale, (a popular Fort Lauderdale bar, located in Miami), announced the shocking move: until March 31, they will restrict guests with out-of-state identities to those 23 years or older.

The post says, in part, “During the spring break #WharfFTL will be 23+ for all guests with out-of-state ID 😄 #KnotWorking.”

The smiley face emoji really seems to speak a lot, as reports of crowded bars with customers without a mask started to emerge later this week.

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The post continues, “General admission and guided tours are welcome💙 however, we will operate at reduced capacity. For guaranteed admission, book a table by visiting us at wharfftl.com, by calling (954) 372-7606 or by sending an email to [email protected].😷 Masks must be worn at all times when walking through common areas and when you’re not eating or drinking. “

In a statement shared with Local 10 News, The Wharf management said:

“With the anticipated influx of university-aged students from outside the state, we believe this is the responsible thing to do to protect our guests and employees from the spread of COVID-19, as well as to help keep our doors open for the long term. “

Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis says he is in favor of the measure.

“I think it is a very creative way of trying to minimize the number of customers that they are going to invite to their space, because now we are still in the middle of COVID,” said Trantalis.

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The mayor is well aware of the problems the city has faced on the pier. In November, the deal closed temporarily after dozens of people were seen shoulder to shoulder, without social distance and ignoring the safety rules of COVID-19 for not wearing masks.

The last self-imposed constraint, says management, is an effort to follow the rules and remain open.

At least one customer on Friday afternoon disagreed.

“I mean, they’re doing a great job of making sure people wear masks, so I think that’s kind of silly,” she said.

In Miami Beach, the city increased the number of police officers on spring break, but said what has been seen so far is nothing compared to what visitors can expect this weekend. According to the authorities, more inspection measures will be implemented this week, with school break on spring break and increased occupancy rates at local hotels.

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Do you know of any other bars in South Florida taking these steps? Please contact us at [email protected].