Paul Kushner
One of the greatest reasons to visit the “City of Angeles” is to enjoy its stunning waterfront views, and what better way to enjoy them than at one of the best waterfront bars in Los Angeles?
Regardless of whether you’re visiting or have lived here all your life, the allure of LA’s beachfront is appealing to so many.
That said, let’s explore swanky lounges, laid-back beachfront spots, and everything in between. You’ll be soaking in the ocean breeze at the most picturesque watering holes in no time!
The Strand House
117 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Phone: (310) 545-7470
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The Strand House is a lovely, fine-dining spot on Manhattan Beach that provides nice views of the water and farm-fresh meals.
This restaurant has a sleek, contemporary feel that makes the perfect complementary setting for sipping on tasty classic cocktails and watching the sunset.
It’s a great spot to go for date nights or dinner with close friends.
Malibu Farm Pier Café
23000 E Pacific Coast Hwy Building C, Malibu, CA 90265
Phone: (310) 456-8850
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Malibu Farm Pier Cafe is located right on the Malibu Pier and offers sweeping Pacific Ocean views.
It’s an ideal place to go with friends, especially for weekend brunch and lunch, to enjoy freshly made salads and pizzas and enjoy cold cocktails like a bloody mary, pina colada, or cucumber gin.
Nobu Malibu
22706 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
Phone: (310) 317-9140
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Nobu Malibu is another Malibu hot spot, and it’s one of the most fun places to get drinks in the area if you want to feel like a fancy celebrity while enjoying a martini alongside your lobster.
Although this might sound a bit much for some people, I genuinely appreciate the high-class yet super trendy feel of Nobu Malibu, especially for special events like date nights or birthdays.
The Penthouse
1111 2nd St, Santa Monica, CA 90403
Phone: (310) 393-8080
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If you’re wondering where to get a drink with one of the most romantic vibes in the entire city, check out The Penthouse, a Californian restaurant, and bar with stunning top-floor views from the Huntley Hotel.
In addition to the incredible surroundings, I enjoy eating brunch here, especially the huevos rancheros and eggs benedict.
Coupling those two items with a mimosa makes for a great day – especially if you get a seat by the window!
The Lobster
1602 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Phone: (310) 458-9294
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It may come as no surprise that The Lobster, located near the Original Muscle Beach Santa Monica, specializes in seafood and makes exceptional Maine lobster dishes.
I love viewing the Santa Monica Pier, in all its activity and glory, while chowing down lobster mac and cheese or a lobster roll.
In terms of drinks, you’ll be able to choose from a decent list of sparkling, rose, white, and red wines, as well as specialty cocktails and a variety of beers.
I tend to get a Chardonnay with my lobster dish or the local Smog City Brewing Lil Bo Pils pilsner.
Duke’s Malibu
21150 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
Phone: (310) 317-0777
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Another highly praised seafood restaurant with gorgeous waterfront views is Duke’s Malibu, a
Hawaiin-inspired restaurant and bar serving tasty island cuisine and cocktails with umbrellas.
It’s one of the most fun places to go out if you and your friends like to share appetizers, drink Mai Tai cocktails, and even spot some dolphins during your meal! What can get better than that?
Moonshadows Malibu
20356 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
Phone: (310) 456-3010
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Another cool waterfront spot in Malibu, in the Big Rock area, is a New American restaurant and bar called Moonshadows Malibu.
Like Duke’s, some of the appeal is the Tiki-themed patio and cocktails, but arguably its main draw is the view of the Pacific coast that is undeniably mesmerizing.
This is one of my favorite spots for relaxing after a long day while sipping on a Weihenstephaner beer or a timeless white wine.
Geoffrey’s
27400 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
Phone: (310) 457-1519
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Geoffrey’s, located on the cliffside of Escondido Beach, is an elevated restaurant and bar – both metaphorically and literally!
The cliffside location gives you expansive views of the ocean and a cozy, romantic feel, perfect for date nights, birthdays, anniversaries, or other special events.
The first time my partner took me here, I was impressed immediately by the space alone, and then the food and drinks impressed me even more.
I recommend sharing the paella and getting a specialty drink, like the French Sunset with Pama pomegranate liqueur, The Malibu Lava Flow with Malibu rum and strawberry puree, or the Pineapple Ginger Mojito with Cruzan rum and fresh pineapple.
SALT Restaurant & Bar
13534 Bali Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
Phone: (424) 289-8223
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I enjoy going to SALT Restaurant and Bar – which is located right on the Marina Del Rey Marina – to have a view of both the sea and dozens of boats perched up on the marina.
This chic spot is at the Marina del Rey Hotel’s poolside area, so it’s ideal on a hot day if you want to take a quick dip before your food and drinks come out.
Steak and seafood are the main contenders here, but the creative cocktails are also to die for.
My favorite cocktail is the Double Indemnity, with Jack Daniel’s single barrel rye, Foro dry vermouth, orange bitters, and more.
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