There is nothing like a night of dancing to throw off the stress from a hectic school week. But if you’re not yet 21, the club scene might seem less-than-exciting. Rest assured there are a variety of 18-plus night clubs that are more fun than high school dances and can scratch that dancing itch you’ve been carrying around.

Rage Nightclub 

The music: The tunes at Rage, West Hollywood’s gay club, will vary from night to night. Friday night is Asian night, so a visit will yield you a good dose of top-40 names and a sprinkling of tunes from Asian pop stars. Travel to the second floor for less of a crowd and some hip-hop jams.

The scene: The dance floor, albeit small, comes with two large TVs, a stage and fancy lights. Arrive early, as it gets crowded and steamy. The crowd seems to be mostly in groups, so bring along a few friends.

Rage Nightclub is located at 8911 Santa Monica Blvd.

Boardner’s by La Belle  

The music: Boardner’s nights are as diverse as its crowd. Friday nights are now Tabu nights with everything from top-40 to Latin music. Bar Sinister Saturday nights offers a completely different experience, with gothic, industrial and alternative tunes. Not all nights are 18-plus, but the venue is still very friendly toward those younger than 21.

The scene: Boardner’s has two floors decorated in a vintage style, complete with small chandeliers, comfortable couches inside and out and even gleaming black ashtrays. Though the pedestals say professional dancers only, that doesn’t stop a few brave souls from rocking out on top of them. Plan on seeing a diverse crowd no matter the night. Most club-goers are friendly and willing to just sit and chat when the dance floor gets too hot.

Boardner’s is located at 1652 North Cherokee Ave.

Club DV8/Level 3

The music: Each DJ changes the flavor of the night, but since this is a club advertised by KIIS FM on a regular basis, the emphasis is mostly on loud, naughty music. Expect heavy amounts of raunchy hip-hop, à la early 50 Cent, with some top-40 sprinkled in.

The scene: The interior of DV8 is posh with two dance floor areas and white curtained rooms. Security is tight, so be ready to be branded with Xs on both hands if you’re not 21 and supervised by flashlight-armed security weaving through the dance floor. Subtle invitations to dance do not exist in this club, so be prepared for the unexpected. There is also a stripper pole-clad stage, and, as the night progresses, a group of go-go dancers keeps the vibe going.

Club DV8/Level 3 is located at 6801 Hollywood Blvd.

The Echoplex 

The music: Though better known for being a concert venue for up-and-coming bands, this venue also has club nights. You can groove to a variety of tunes, including specialty nights like The Smiths night — a night exclusively dedicated to The Smiths’ music. The age limit and cover fee varies, so check online ahead of time.

The scene: Expect an eclectic mix of styles, ages and music tastes. The dance floor is not too large and the crowd seems to travel mostly in groups, but the stand-only tables are a good place to chat with someone new and sip a drink.

If you’re not 21, a shockingly sweet Shirley Temple will run you only $3.

The Echoplex is located at 1822 Sunset Blvd.

Florentine Gardens 

The music: This is definitely one of those clubs where it’s hard to hear yourself think, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The music includes everything from old and new hip-hop to top-40 tunes.

The scene: Prepare to wait in line and be thoroughly patted down by security before going inside. The dance floor is surprisingly large with various lights and more than a few boxes to stand and flaunt your moves on. Those of you under 21 will not be allowed inside the bar, but there is a separate room where you can buy soda, water and even take advantage of a buffet that includes dishes like spaghetti and pasta salad. The room also includes ’50s-diner-like tables where you can cool off.

Florentine Gardens is located at 5951 Hollywood Blvd.