December 18–22, 2026 | Ocean Center | Daytona Beach, Florida
College basketball returns to Daytona Beach just in time for the holidays! The 2026 Daytona Beach Shootout brings talented men’s and women’s college basketball programs from across the country to the Ocean Center for several days of exciting competition.
Presented by Sport Tours International, the Daytona Beach Shootout has become a popular holiday tournament for small colleges and universities. The 2026 event includes NCAA Division II and Division III men’s and women’s teams, with participating teams playing two counting games along with scheduled practices during their time in Daytona Beach.
With competitive basketball inside the Ocean Center and the Atlantic Ocean just steps away, the tournament combines college athletics with a December getaway to one of Florida’s most famous beach destinations.
About the Daytona Beach Shootout
The Daytona Beach Shootout gives college basketball programs an opportunity to compete outside of regular conference play while enjoying a destination tournament experience before the holiday break.
Fans can expect talented student-athletes, competitive matchups and plenty of basketball throughout the event. For families and supporters traveling with their teams, it’s also a chance to turn tournament travel into a few days at the beach.
The Ocean Center provides an ideal setting for the event, placing teams and fans in the heart of Daytona Beach and within walking distance of the ocean, restaurants, attractions and the Daytona Beach Boardwalk.
Men’s & Women’s College Basketball
One of the things that makes the Daytona Beach Shootout especially exciting is the opportunity to watch both men’s and women’s college basketball in one destination.
The tournament attracts programs from around the country, giving basketball fans the chance to see teams they may not normally have an opportunity to watch in person. These games also provide valuable non-conference competition as teams prepare for the second half of their seasons.
Whether you're traveling to support your favorite school or simply love college basketball, the Daytona Beach Shootout offers several days of action at the Ocean Center.
Make It a December Getaway to Daytona Beach
December is a great time to experience Daytona Beach. Between games, visitors can enjoy walks along the beach, explore the Daytona Beach Boardwalk, visit local restaurants and attractions, or simply enjoy Florida's mild winter weather.
For families traveling together, having extra space can make a multi-day tournament trip even more enjoyable.
Max Beach Resort offers spacious one-, two- and three-bedroom residences with full kitchens, washers and dryers, separate living areas and expansive terraces. Our two-bedroom residences sleep up to six guests, while three-bedroom residences can accommodate up to eight, making them a great option for families and groups traveling together for the tournament.
Guests can also enjoy direct beach access, our heated pool and hot tub, fitness center, oceanfront lawn and plenty of space to relax between games.
2026 Daytona Beach Shootout Event Details
Event: Daytona Beach Shootout
Dates: December 18–22, 2026
Location: Ocean Center Arena
Address: 101 N. Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, FL
Sport: Men’s & Women’s College Basketball
Divisions: NCAA Division II & Division III
Admission: Open to the public
Game schedules, participating teams, ticket information and streaming details may be updated as the tournament approaches.
For the latest tournament information, visit Sport Tours International – Daytona Beach Shootout.
Basketball, Beach & a Holiday Getaway
The Daytona Beach Shootout is more than a basketball tournament—it’s an opportunity for players, families and fans to experience competitive college basketball while enjoying a few days along Florida’s Atlantic Coast.
Cheer on your favorite team at the Ocean Center, spend some time on the beach and make your December basketball trip a Daytona Beach getaway.
We look forward to welcoming Daytona Beach Shootout teams, families and fans to Daytona Beach this December!
