Photos: The Golden Tiki Las Vegas (left, middle) & The Inferno Room Indianapolis (right)

As snowflakes encrust on your car windshield and salt dissolves on the sidewalk, we’re throwing confetti at top tiki bars across the country that give us a sense of warmth this season. These local tiki-bar heroes bring the beach to our souls and provide us with escapism when we need it most. Now, let a warm breeze wash over you as we unveil 2019’s top 12 tiki bars in the USA.

Methodology: This is a list of the best tiki bars in the USA according to Yelp. We identified businesses in the “tiki bars” category, then ranked those spots using a number of factors including the total volume and ratings of reviews. We included only one business per state for geographic diversity.

1. Undertow in Phoenix, AZ

Photo: Yelper Cam A (with a Scorpion Bowl cocktail)

“When you walk downstairs, it feels like you’re on a pirate ship. They have “windows” that look out to the ocean… (and) a breeze that really makes you feel like you’re in a different environment… Their drinks are crafted beautifully and each of them gives off a certain feeling and taste.” – Yelp Elite Brian F

2. The Golden Tiki in Las Vegas, NV

Photo: Yelp Elite Joanna V (with a Pupu Platter)

“I’m not sure if it was the shooting-star ceiling, video poker built into the bar, chick DJ spinning old vinyls, or the reasonably-priced, not-too-sweet drinks that got me… but I’m hooked!” – Yelp Elite Joline E

3. Foundation in Milwaukee, WI

Photo: Yelper Rachel F (with a Blacklit Chartreuse Swizzle cocktail)

“Entering Foundation is truly like taking a trip to your favorite Caribbean or Hawaiian hole-in-the-wall. The decor is exceptional, especially the blowfish lamps… Drinking one of their cocktails is great because the flavors are layered in a way that keeps things interesting from the first sip to the last swig.” – Yelp Elite Phillip C

4. Wiki Waki Woo Tropical Bar & Lounge in Honolulu, HI

Photo: Yelp Elite Dan O

“Tucked away in the back of an antique shop, you’ll need the shop’s secret password to get in! Once you’re upstairs, you’ll be transported back in time to a WWII era speakeasy, full of memorabilia, friendly staff, and fun drinks!” – Yelp Elite Anna B

5. Tiki-Ti Cocktail Lounge in Los Angeles, CA

Photo: Yelper Isabella B (with a Bayanihan cocktail)

“The first hint of Filipino influences was the nipa hut (think of a hut on stilts) on many of the graphics. Then I saw a drink called the Bayanihan on the menu – well, of course I had to get it!! Think: rum drink heavy on the coconut. The cocktails here are killer on every level.” – Yelp Elite Jay S

6. 4 Kahunas Tiki Lounge in Arlington, TX

Photo: Yelper Tara L (with a Tiki Torch and Blue Hawaiian cocktail)

“These guys squeeze their own juice, make their own elaborate garnishes, and use top-shelf, eclectic liquors to put new twists on tiki drinks. My personal favorite is the Lifesaver, or the Frog when you want to fire for effect.” – Yelper Joshua H

7. Death or Glory Bar in Delray Beach, FL

Photo: Yelper Fabian G (with a Mai Tai cocktail)

“Decorated with pretty lights and a tiki-bar theme, it was very easy to feel chill and laidback. I ordered a drink that came with an orchid flower, colored flamingo straw and a chunk of pineapple! My drink was cute but don’t let it fool you – it was definitely strong!” – Yelp Elite Juliet N

8. Pokito in Brooklyn, NY

Photo: Business owner (with assorted cocktails)

“From the old-fashioned dumbwaiter pulling up food behind the bar, to the hand-painted floors, every detail at Pokito feels thoughtful… They also have great cocktails – the Matcha Mama is a unique coconut, creamy vodka and matcha (duh)…” – Yelp Deanna A

9. Cellar 335 in Jersey City, NJ

Photo: Yelper Lara D (with assorted cocktails)

“Once you step inside it’s like going through a doorway to tiki Narnia. Inside you will find vast artwork throughout (the) walls, Tiki god statues throughout, red leather seating, dark lighting for an intimate feel, and a vibe that makes you want to stay and see the sun come up.” – Yelp Elite Lorena S

10. Hale Pele in Portland, OR

Photo: Yelper Thien-Nga N (with a Boo Loo cocktail served in a pineapple)

“This place is a tropical party! While the exterior is discreet and unassuming, the inside is an instant luau with tikis, blowfish and other fun, brightly-colored island decor. The music makes you wanna don a grass skirt and dance the hula, especially when someone orders the flaming volcano drink! The fruity list of libations is extensive but easily navigable. Many tropical concoctions are served in a fun glass.” – Yelp Elite Jessica K

11. Porco Lounge & Tiki Room in Cleveland, OH

Photo: Yelper Shilpi K (with a Tiki Bob’s cocktail)

“Amazing place! They do tropical drinks right. Don the Beachcomber, Trader Vic, all aspects of tiki culture and history are respected and revered at Porco. The bar staff is enthusiastic, expertly mixing tasty, well-balanced drinks all night. My favorites are the Painkiller and the Rum Barrel, but you really can’t go wrong with anything on (or off) the drinks menu.” – Yelper John G

12. Lost River in Detroit, MI

Photo: Yelp Elite Samantha H (with Sweet Jules and Tako cocktails)

“You’ll find all of the classic tiki drinks in their perfectly-executed forms – the mai tai is a mai tai — no funny business… Each drink has its own style drinking vessel and decoration. I can’t wait to try the Wee Bathtub Gin in a little bathtub mug! Too awesome!” – Yelp Elite Lidi E

Don’t see your state listed? Download the Yelp app and search ‘tiki bar’ to find what’s around you. Ideas for other cozy-warm Yelp searches: fireplace, hot toddy, twinkle lights… the list goes on. Cheers!