The Best Tiki Bars in America (2025 Guide)

From iconic rum havens in California to immersive escapes in Florida and Oregon, this is your ultimate guide to the best tiki bars in America – organized by state. Whether you’re a seasoned tiki enthusiast or just looking for a fun night out with a mai tai in hand, these bars are worth the trip.

California

California is the tiki capital of the U.S., hands down. From historic legends to immersive newcomers, here are the must-visit spots:

Smuggler’s Cove (San Francisco)

• Arguably the most iconic tiki bar in the U.S. Smuggler’s Cove delivers moody lighting, layered nautical decor, and an encyclopedic rum collection. This is a must for any tiki fan.

Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar (Anaheim)

• Disney magic meets tiki fantasy. Located at the Disneyland Hotel, expect erupting volcanoes, animatronics, and wildly fun drinks.

Strong Water (Anaheim)

• Set inside a shipwreck, this bar offers some of the most immersive theming and creative cocktails in Southern California. Pro tip: make a reservation.

Bootlegger Tiki (Pasadena)

• A cozy, candlelit hideaway serving bold, tropical cocktails in a historic space with a modern edge.

False Idol (San Diego)

• Hidden behind a walk-in cooler, this speakeasy-style tiki bar brings the drama with fiery punch bowls and a lightning show on the ceiling.

Tiki-Ti (Los Angeles)

• A tiny but mighty LA landmark since 1961. Known for its charm, regulars, and the infamous Ray’s Mistake cocktail.

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Arizona

UnderTow (Phoenix)

• This underground tiki bar transports you aboard a spice-trading ship—with thunder, lightning, and expertly crafted cocktails.

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Michigan

Max’s South Seas Hideaway (Grand Rapids)

• A two-story tiki dream. With rare vintage decor, museum-quality art, and a stellar cocktail menu, Max’s feels like a portal to Polynesia in the Midwest.

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Florida

Mai-Kai (Oakland Park)

• A true tiki institution. Recently reopened after restoration, this legendary spot offers floor shows, original Don the Beachcomber recipes, and over-the-top atmosphere.

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Louisiana

Latitude 29 (New Orleans)

• Founded by tiki historian Jeff “Beachbum” Berry, this elegant French Quarter bar balances tiki classics with thoughtful innovation.

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Georgia

The SOS Tiki Bar (Decatur)

• A local gem with strong drinks, cheeky decor, and a flaming cocktail menu that knows how to party.

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Illinois

Three Dots and a Dash (Chicago)

• One of the most stylish tiki bars in the country, hidden beneath the streets of Chicago. Don’t miss the Bamboo Room for a curated rum experience.

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Wisconsin

Foundation (Milwaukee)

• A cozy spot with vintage vibes and strong drinks—perfect for a laid-back night with tiki flair.

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Nevada

The Golden Tiki (Las Vegas)

As over-the-top as Vegas itself. Animatronics, pirate caves, and cocktails as bold as the decor.

Frankie’s Tiki Room (Las Vegas)

• Darker, smoky ambiance and a powerful skull–rating cocktail menu. Open 24/7 with strong legacy status.

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New York

Sunken Harbor Club (Brooklyn)

• An intimate, nautical-themed bar above Gage & Tollner. Dramatic, beautiful, and well-crafted.

Paradise Lost (Brooklyn)

• A newer tiki bar that leans tropical-modern with lush plants, rum-forward drinks, and date-night energy.

Otto’s Shrunken Head (Manhattan)

• Equal parts dive bar and tiki den. It’s fun, funky, and full of personality.

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Oregon

Hale Pele (Portland)

• This tiki bar is famous for its lightning effects and volcano drinks. A true experience from the moment you step inside.

The Alibi (Portland)

• A Portland staple since the 1940s. It’s retro, it’s loud, and it’s always a good time.

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Planning a Tiki Crawl?

Want to see your favorite tiki bar added to the list? Drop it in the comments – I’m always looking for my next tropical escape.