LANightlife

THE NIGHTLIFE GUIDE

Santa Monica nightlife guide to upscale bars, beachside pubs, rooftop views and sexy lounges

Discover places to eat, drink and party in Santa Monica.

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Situated along a spectacular stretch of coastline and featuring an iconic pier, Santa Monica is a premier destination for nightlife, dining and entertainment. Full of young professionals, surfers and students, this upscale urban neighborhood offers a diverse selection of music venues, bars and hangouts. With some of the most expensive real estate in the world, this affluent area has drink prices to match - but you can still find great happy hour deals at various pubs and bars.<br /><br />Many of the venues are situated near the world-famous Santa Monica Pier, a popular attraction for tourists and locals with more movie credits than most actors. Alongside the beach you'll find surf shacks and dive bars, many open late. Head to the nearby Third Street Promenade for a fun selection of bars and clubs, along with awesome street performers and late-night dining. Nearby Main Street is better known for shopping than for parties, but it still offers numerous taverns, bars and Irish pubs.<br /><br />All over Santa Monica and especially along the coastline, you'll find ritzy rooftop bars and poolside lounges serving refreshing cocktails so that you can enjoy an evening of breathtaking views, beautiful people and a laid-back beachside atmosphere. - Shilo Urban

LOCAL FAVORITES

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Bar

Big Dean's Cafe

1615 Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica 90401 Big Dean's Oceanfront Cafe, a quintessential beach bar right off the Santa Monica Pier is the best place to be for year round sunshine and beachside fun with a side of fish and chips.

Bar

Harvelle's

1432 4th St, Santa Monica 90401 Since 1931, this classic club has been a go-to nightlife spot for locals. Listen to live blues and rock music, watch burlesque dancers, and kick back with a cold one in a relaxed environment.

Restaurant

O'Brien's

2226 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica 90403 A lovely and lively Irish pub, this joint features Irish breakfast all day long, and is a go-to for lunch, sports, and a hearty dinner.

Irish Pub

Sonny McLeans

2615 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica 90403 Clover-colored, casual hangout that is often full of sports fans, this Irish tavern and gastro pub serves classic Irish favorites and traditional New England cuisine with California flair. Play darts or a round of pool with your friends, try the karaoke,

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English Pub

The Britannia Pub

318 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica 90401 If you're looking to grab some brews with some cool Brits, the Britannia has got you and your friends covered this weekend.

Lounge

1212 Santa Monica

1212 3rd St Promenade, Santa Monica 90401

Bar

Bar Chloe

1449 2nd St, Santa Monica 90401 With a trendy vibe, low light and top-shelf cocktails, this lounge offers an intimate setting to savor the sophisticated bistro cuisine. Candles, chandeliers and a well-dressed crowd help to create an elegant atmosphere.

Venue

Barker Hangar

3021 Airport Avenue, Santa Monica 90405

American Restaurant

Barneys Beanery

1351 3rd St Promenade, Santa Monica 90401

Theater

Barnum Hall Santa Monica High School

600 Olympic Blvd, Santa Monica 90405

Bar

Basement Tavern

2640 Main St, Santa Monica 90405 Descend into this subterranean haunt for a heavy pour of whiskey and a side of vintage grit. With its dim lighting and energetic live sets, it remains the ultimate "locals only" escape hidden beneath a Victorian manor.

Hotel

Best Western Gateway Hotel

1920 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica 90404

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