The 2 Best Wine Tours in Daytona Beach
Daytona Beach isn’t just about motorsports and beaches; it’s also a surprising destination for wine lovers and those seeking memorable scenic experiences. Whether you want to sip bubbly while watching a stunning sunset from a luxury boat or explore local wine bars on a lively party bus, Daytona offers options that go beyond standard wine tastings. These tours highlight the area’s scenic waterways and vibrant nightlife, giving you a chance to indulge, relax, and enjoy some of Florida’s best laid-back experiences.
In this guide, you’ll find detailed descriptions of two top-rated wine-themed tours. The Daytona Beach Champagne Sunset Cruise offers an elegant 1.5-hour experience on the water, perfect for couples or anyone craving a romantic sunset with bubbly and snacks. Meanwhile, the Great Daytona Wine Bar Tour takes you on a spirited 4-hour journey through local wine bars, ideal for socializers and those wanting a taste of Daytona’s lively bar scene. Both tours have excellent reviews and great value, so your choice depends on whether you prefer a serene cruise or an energetic wine bar crawl.
Quick Overview
This guide covers two highly-rated tours: a luxury sunset cruise with champagne that’s intimate and scenic, and a wine bar tour on a party bus that’s social and energetic. The cruise is best for those looking for romance or a relaxing escape, while the bar tour suits guests who want to sample diverse wines and explore local hotspots with a fun group. Both tours are rated 5 out of 5 and offer unique ways to enjoy Daytona’s hospitality and scenery.
1. Daytona Beach Champagne Sunset Cruise
This Daytona Beach Champagne Sunset Cruise offers an elegant 1 hour 30 minutes on a luxury Sea Ray boat, perfect for witnesses of the area’s stunning sunset views. With only 8 passengers, it guarantees an intimate experience. The cruise departs from Cassen Park and takes you along the Halifax River, where you’ll pass historic waterfront mansions and scenic islands with white sand beaches and palm trees.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of a small group setting, professional captain, and the chance to see dolphins—all while sipping chilled champagne with snacks. The reviews praise Captain Eric’s friendliness and knowledge, with one guest noting, “The sunset was beautiful and the coolest part was getting to see dolphins!” The calm waters and picturesque scenery make this cruise ideal for couples, celebrating special occasions, or anyone wanting a peaceful way to enjoy Daytona’s natural beauty. The $89 price packs in a memorable experience with spectacular sunset views, fine bubbly, and personal attention.
Bottom line: This cruise is perfect if you’re looking for a romantic, relaxing experience with excellent value, beautiful scenery, and a touch of luxury.
2. The Great Daytona Wine Bar Tour
At $65, the Great Daytona Wine Bar Tour takes you on a lively 4-hour journey through 3 or 4 top local wine bars with the fun party bus of Fun Coast Tours. This tour is not all-inclusive—no drinks are included in the price—but the hosts negotiate discounts at each stop, making it a budget-friendly way to sample some of Daytona’s best wine and food pairings. The itinerary kicks off at Madeline’s Wine Bar in Downtown Daytona Beach, known for its impressive wine list, charcuterie boards, and creative flatbreads.
Guests consistently praise the friendly driver Steve for his local insights and accommodating style. One reviewer shared, “We finished watching a rocket launch on the river—what a night!” The tour appeals to those who enjoy socializing, exploring different venues, and experiencing Daytona’s nightlife scene. The 4-hour duration allows ample time to relax, try different wines, and soak up the local atmosphere. While it’s not a formal tasting tour, the chance to visit several stylish wine bars makes it a great value, especially given the negotiated discounts.
Bottom line: This tour suits travelers eager for fun, mingling, and a taste of Daytona’s vibrant wine bar scene in a relaxed, social setting.
How to Choose
Deciding between these two tours depends on your mood and interests. If your idea of a perfect evening is watching a sunset over calm waters with a glass of champagne, the Sunset Cruise offers romance, serenity, and a touch of luxury. It’s best for couples, anniversary celebrations, or anyone seeking a peaceful, scenic escape.
On the other hand, if you’re more into socializing, enjoying local nightlife, and tasting a variety of wines in multiple venues, the Wine Bar Tour is a lively, flexible option. It provides a more energetic atmosphere and the chance to explore Daytona’s bar scene. Consider your budget—at $89 for the cruise and $65 for the bar tour—and what kind of experience you want to remember.
Booking early is recommended, especially for the sunset cruise during peak season, and check the weather forecast—clear evenings make for better sunsets, after all. Both tours are suitable for moderate activity levels, but the bar tour involves some walking between stops.
Final Thoughts
Daytona Beach offers a surprising range of wine-related experiences. The Champagne Sunset Cruise stands out for its romantic, scenic qualities, making it perfect for a special celebration or quiet reflection. Meanwhile, the Wine Bar Tour delivers a lively, social experience for those eager to sample local favorites and meet new friends.
If you’re traveling as a couple or celebrating a special occasion, the cruise’s intimate setting and stunning views make it a top choice. For groups or solo travelers who enjoy lively nights and tasting different wines, the bar tour delivers fun and value. Either way, booking early ensures you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences—both embody the relaxed yet adventurous spirit of Daytona’s hospitality.
Enjoy your time on the Fun Coast, and cheers to discovering its best wine experiences!