Daytona Beach Establishes Itself as Home to America’s Best Beach Bars

No shoes, no shirt, no problem — this welcoming phrase perfectly captures the essence of America’s top beach bar. Located in Daytona Beach, Florida, the Ocean Deck Restaurant & Beach Club has recently claimed the prestigious title of the best beach bar in the United States according to readers of USA Today.

This iconic establishment stands as a beacon for both locals and tourists drawn to Daytona Beach for its vibrant culture, including the popular bike week and the renowned NASCAR events that grace the region annually.

Celebrating Florida’s Coastal Gems

Proudly representing Florida, the Ocean Deck Restaurant & Beach Club leads a remarkable roster of three beach bars from the Sunshine State that made it into the top 10 rankings for 2025. Joining the Ocean Deck are:

1. Flora-Bama Lounge, Package & Oyster Bar in Pensacola, Florida — ranked second
2. Sloppy Joe’s on the Beach in Treasure Island, Florida — ranked seventh

Both bars reside along the picturesque Gulf coastline, showcasing Florida’s thriving beach bar culture.

The Journey from Hot Dog Stand to Beach Bar Icon

Originating as a humble hot dog stand in 1957, the Ocean Deck has transformed into a flourishing restaurant and bar. After the retirement of its long-time owner Dick Keough, Connie and Matt Fuerst took the reins in 2012 to continue its legacy.

“He always said he wanted to own this place,” Connie Fuerst reflected, emphasizing her husband’s deep-rooted passion for the restaurant industry. Today, the Ocean Deck remains the only bar in Daytona Beach that is literally situated on the sands, as Fuerst explained.

“Everything else has to be on a seawall. We are grandfathered into that rule,” she noted. This unique advantage allows patrons to wander in from the beach, still in their swimsuits, to enjoy drinks and the lively atmosphere.

A Place for Music and Culinary Delights

The Ocean Deck isn’t just about drinks; it offers a vibrant experience that includes beach concerts and weekend karaoke events, creating an unforgettable ambiance for guests. The restaurant caters to late-night crowds as well, boasting kitchen hours until 1 a.m. to satisfy early-morning appetites.

Among the culinary highlights, Fuerst recommends the signature Ocean Decker burger, renowned for its impressive size and delightful combinations. “It features onion rings, cheese, bacon, ham, tomatoes, lettuce, and pickles,” she explained. “Standing about eight inches tall, we have to use a steak knife to hold it together. It has become a favorite among our customers.”

The National Beach Bar Landscape

While Florida claims the top spots, it is Hawaii that boasts the highest number of beach bars within the top 10. All Hawaiian establishments, however, occur on resort properties, which contributes to a different bar culture along the islands.

Just behind Florida, California enters the scene with two beaches bars making the list. Additionally, South Carolina’s Tiki Hut at Beach House proudly represents the Deep South at third place.

Top Beach Bars in America

Here is a concise look at the top 10 beach bars across America for 2025:

1. Ocean Deck Restaurant & Beach Club – Daytona Beach, Florida
2. Flora-Bama Lounge, Package & Oyster Bar – Pensacola, Florida
3. Tiki Hut at Beach House – Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
4. Reunion Kitchen + Drink – Santa Barbara, California
5. Copper Bar at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel – Kohala Coast, Hawaii
6. Mai Tai Bar at the Royal Hawaiian Resort – Honolulu, Hawaii
7. Sloppy Joe’s on the Beach – Treasure Island, Florida
8. The Crow’s Nest – Santa Cruz, California
9. House Without a Key at Halekulani on the Beach – Waikiki, Honolulu, Hawaii
10. The Edge of Waikiki at Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort – Honolulu, Hawaii

Final Thoughts

The success of the Ocean Deck Restaurant & Beach Club and other top beach bars reflects more than just drink specials and culinary creations. It showcases the unique experiences these establishments bring to local culture and tourism. With their vibrant atmospheres and stunning coastal views, these bars continue to attract visitors year-round, solidifying their status as essential components of Florida’s beach lifestyle.