Living in Southern California, I typically gravitate towards cocktail spots with gorgeous ocean views! Although there is a wonderful amount of coastline here,
in reality there are few oceanfront properties that truly give you an incredible oceanfront experience. After spending years trying out various spots, I have rounded up my top 10 favorite sunset beach cocktail locations so you can experience the best the SoCal Orange County coast has to offer!
1. The Studio at The Montage
The Montage Hotel in Laguna Beach is one of my
all time favorite locations
for sunset cocktails. The pristine property is situated on one of the
most beautiful beaches in Southern California, and there are several key spots for drinks at the hotel. My favorite spot to visit, however, is The Studio, which can be found after walking through the hotel’s gorgeous farm-to-table gardens.
If you’re lucky, you can grab a spot on one of their two patio couches overlooking the ocean, which come with fire pits, blankets, and incredible service. Prices are on the high-end since The Montage is a five star resort, but the amazing property and gorgeous views always make it worth the splurge!
2. Hotel Laguna
No matter the season, the outside patio at Hotel Laguna is always a great choice for sunset cocktails! With stunning views in both directions, this historic Spanish-style property offers cocktails and appetizers at fairly moderate prices for Laguna Beach. Though the aesthetics of the patio itself may be slightly lacking, the view of the sun setting into the ocean make up for it!
3. Splashes at Surf and Sand Hotel
The Splashes Bar at the Surf and Sand Hotel in Laguna Beach is one of the closest ocean views you can get in Orange County! The small bar is just about
25 feet away from the surf, and from my favorite spot by the window you can watch both the sunset as well as the immaculate beach life happening below.
Drink prices are what you would expect for an upscale hotel, but they come with a breathtaking view.
4. The Deck on Laguna Beach
This hidden gem in Laguna Beach is located right on beach, offering a remarkable oceanfront dining and cocktail experience! As with most beach front spots, The Deck can be busy, but tables are worth the wait. The bar also offers standing room where you still have a panoramic view of the ocean.
5. The Beachcomber
This off-the beaten path restaurant can be found nestled within the
Historic District of Crystal Cove State Park. While it’s a bit of a trek to get to, the ten minute walk from the parking lot to the beach takes you through the gorgeously renovated 1930s beach resort town.
For the ultimate ocean view,
sit on the deck for dinner. However, we usually opt for drinks at their side barand walk around to the beach right at sunset.
Prices at this laid-back spot are mid-range, and while it can be busy at peak times, the limited parking helps to keep the beach
from being overrun with crowds.
6. China Cove PicnicIf you’re looking to have a sunset picnic, China Cove in Corona del Mar is a must. Packing drinks and a meal for the beach
is one of my favorite ways to experience the SoCal sunset, and can be made even easier by
grabbing a bottle of wine and sandwiches at a local deli.
(As with any public beach,
make sure to check local alcohol laws or be discreet!)
This hidden beach can be accessed by a flight of stairs
in the waterfront neighborhood,
which then take you down to an intimate beach facing Newport Harbor.
7. Fisherman's Bar
Located on the San Clemente pier,
Fisherman’s Bar
is an old-school oceanfront spot with a daily cocktail hour.
While their interior and basic wine list might not be the greatest draw,
come for the magnificent ocean view, painterly skies, and incredible clam chowder.
Keep in mind during summer months especially, finding a spot on the patio
(or even a parking spot)
can be difficult since it’s first-come first-served.
8. Monarch Beach Resort Monarch Beach Resort, formerly The St. Regis,
is a gorgeous upscale property in Southern Californiathat offers several spots for sunset cocktails and a view.
While it’s technically located across the highway from the beach,
the hotel is set up high enough so you get
180 degree views of the water!
Aveo Table + Bar is their Mediterranean
“farm-to-bar” restaurant with a gorgeous view,
while 33 Degrees North offers a living-room style vibe
with spectacular views as well.
9. The Rooftop Laguna Beach
Tucked on top of the
Casa Del Camino hotel in Laguna Beach,
this vibrant cocktail spot is one of the few rooftop options in Laguna Beach.
Their prices for cocktails and appetizers
are moderate for the beach
(they even have a happy hour during the week),
which makes it a very popular destination.
Make a reservation for one of the tables near the railing
to get a magnificent sunset view.
10. Crystal Cove Beach Picnic
Another one of my favorite beach picnic spots,
Crystal Cove is the perfect place for an intimate sunset cocktail.
Sunsets and cocktails shouldn’t just be limited to the rich —
several of the best spots can simply be found on the sand!
Since it’s a state beach,
you’ll either need a beach pass or pay $15 for parking.To get to the beach,
there is a tunnel that runs beneath Pacific Coast Highway,
but make sure to check the weather beforehand
since the tides can affect the passageway!
Even though it’s one of the busiest beaches in the summer,
it clears out by sunset so you practically have the beach to yourself!
Keep in mind that you need to be very discreet with your wine here
since you can get a ticket if it’s too noticeable
(a Corksicle bottle works wonders!)To read more about each of these fabulous locations, you can read my full posts here:The Studio at the MontageHotel LagunaSplashes at Surf and Sand HotelThe Deck on Laguna BeachFisherman's BarThe BeachcomberChina Cove PicnicMonarch Beach ResortCrystal Cove Picnic
As always my friendsI wish you love and joyas you style your life
