Florida Cigar Guide
Discover the finest cigar shops, lounges, and tobacco stores across Florida. Your complete guide to premium cigars in the Sunshine State.
About Florida's Cigar Scene
Florida boasts one of the richest cigar cultures in the United States, with deep historical ties to the industry dating back to the late 19th century. From the historic cigar factories of Tampa's Ybor City to the vibrant cigar lounges of Miami, Florida offers cigar enthusiasts an unparalleled experience. With over 500 cigar shops across the state, Florida is truly a paradise for cigar lovers seeking premium tobacco products, expert knowledge, and welcoming atmospheres to enjoy their favorite smokes.
Cigar History in Florida
Florida's cigar history is deeply intertwined with Cuban immigration and the development of Ybor City in Tampa, which became known as the "Cigar Capital of the World" in the early 20th century. When Vicente Martinez Ybor moved his cigar manufacturing operations from Key West to Tampa in 1885, he established what would become a booming industry. At its peak, Tampa had over 200 cigar factories producing millions of hand-rolled cigars annually. The Cuban Revolution in 1959 led to another wave of Cuban cigar makers immigrating to Florida, particularly to Miami, further enriching the state's cigar culture. Today, Florida continues this proud tradition with hundreds of specialty shops and lounges that celebrate the art and craft of fine cigars.
Popular Cigar Cities in Florida
Top-Rated Cigar Shops in Florida
Cigar Events in Florida
Tampa Cigar Festival
Date: April 15-17, 2024
Location: Ybor City, Tampa, FL
Annual celebration of Tampa's rich cigar heritage featuring tastings, rolling demonstrations, and special releases from premium manufacturers.
Miami International Cigar & Spirits Festival
Date: September 8-10, 2024
Location: Miami Beach Convention Center, Miami, FL
Luxury event showcasing the finest cigars and spirits from around the world, with opportunities to meet master blenders and industry celebrities.
Florida Cigar & Spirits Expo
Date: November 12-13, 2024
Location: Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, FL
The largest gathering of cigar enthusiasts in Florida featuring over 100 exhibitors, educational seminars, and exclusive product launches.
Florida Tobacco Laws
- Florida's Clean Indoor Air Act prohibits smoking in most enclosed indoor workplaces, but exempts retail tobacco shops, designated smoking guest rooms at hotels, and standalone bars.
- To qualify for the tobacco shop exemption, the establishment must generate 10% or more of its revenue from the sale of tobacco products and accessories.
- The legal age to purchase tobacco products in Florida is 21, in compliance with federal law.
- Local municipalities may have additional restrictions on outdoor smoking in public places like beaches and parks.
- Cigar bars that derive at least 10% of their gross revenue from tobacco sales are exempt from indoor smoking prohibitions if they meet certain ventilation requirements.
Fun Facts About Florida's Cigar Culture
- Tampa was once known as the "Cigar Capital of the World," producing an estimated 500 million cigars annually at its peak in the 1920s.
- Ybor City's cigar factories employed a unique tradition of having a "lector" (reader) who would read news, literature, and political content to workers as they rolled cigars.
- The oldest cigar factory building still standing in Tampa is the El Reloj factory, built in 1910 and still producing cigars today under the J.C. Newman Cigar Company.
- Miami's Little Havana neighborhood is home to Calle Ocho (8th Street), where visitors can watch cigars being hand-rolled in the traditional Cuban style.
- Florida is home to the headquarters of several major premium cigar brands, including Arturo Fuente, Padrón, and Drew Estate.
- The annual Great Smoke event in West Palm Beach is one of the largest outdoor cigar events in the country, attracting thousands of enthusiasts.
Regional Cigar Highlights
Tampa & Ybor City
The historic heart of Florida's cigar industry, Ybor City was once home to over 200 cigar factories. Today, visitors can explore the J.C. Newman Cigar Factory, the last operating cigar factory in Tampa, or visit the Ybor City Museum State Park to learn about the area's rich cigar heritage. The district is also home to numerous cigar shops and lounges where you can enjoy hand-rolled cigars in historic surroundings.
View Tampa Cigar ShopsMiami & Little Havana
Miami's Little Havana neighborhood, particularly along Calle Ocho (8th Street), is a vibrant center of Cuban culture and cigar tradition. Visitors can watch skilled torcedores (cigar rollers) practice their craft in shop windows, visit the numerous cigar lounges, and enjoy authentic Cuban coffee while smoking a premium hand-rolled cigar. The annual Calle Ocho Festival celebrates this rich cultural heritage.
View Miami Cigar ShopsFrequently Asked Questions
What are the best cigar shops in Florida?
Based on customer reviews and ratings, some of the top-rated cigar shops in Florida include . These shops offer excellent selection, knowledgeable staff, and great ambiance.
Can you smoke cigars on Florida beaches?
Smoking regulations on Florida beaches vary by location. As of 2023, a new state law allows local governments to restrict smoking on public beaches and in parks. Many popular beaches in Miami-Dade, Broward, and other counties have implemented smoking bans. It's best to check local regulations before lighting up on any Florida beach.
Where can I find authentic Cuban cigars in Florida?
Due to the U.S. trade embargo with Cuba, authentic Cuban cigars cannot legally be sold in Florida or anywhere in the United States. However, Florida is home to many cigar makers with Cuban heritage who create excellent cigars using traditional Cuban methods and similar tobacco varieties. Many shops in Little Havana and Ybor City offer these "Cuban-style" cigars that rival their Cuban counterparts in quality and flavor.
What is the best time to visit Florida for cigar events?
Florida hosts cigar events throughout the year, but the most comfortable weather for enjoying cigars outdoors is during the winter months (November through April) when temperatures are milder and humidity is lower. Major events like the Tampa Cigar Festival (April), the Florida Cigar & Spirits Expo (November), and various manufacturer events are typically scheduled during these months.
Explore Florida's Cigar Shops Today
Discover the perfect cigar shop for your needs. Browse our comprehensive directory of Florida cigar retailers, read reviews, and find your next favorite smoke.
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