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A chic, rooftop bar and restaurant with ocean views and a Mediterranean-inspired menu.
A trendy, beachside bar with a relaxed, Baja-inspired vibe and multiple bars and patios.
An intimate, classic speakeasy with a focus on craft cocktails and live jazz music.
A cozy wine bar with a curated selection of natural wines and small plates.
A historic dive bar and restaurant with a classic, old-school vibe and a loyal following.
A curated evening itinerary from early drinks to late-night dancing.
Start with cocktails or craft beers at a neighborhood bar. Keep it relaxed — the night is young.
Elephante
Downtown Santa Monica ·
Hit the main strip. Rooftop bars, live music, or a lively pub crawl through the best neighborhoods.
Calabra
Downtown Santa Monica ·
The clubs open up. Dance floors fill, DJs take over, and the real nightlife begins.
The Buffalo Club
Mid-City ·
The heart of Santa Monica's nightlife, with a dense concentration of bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues. From rooftop bars with ocean views to historic dive bars, there is something for everyone.
A more laid-back neighborhood with a bohemian vibe. Known for its beachfront bars, casual cafes, and surf culture.
A diverse neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial areas. Home to a variety of bars, from cozy wine bars to lively karaoke spots.
| District | Best For | Crowd | Walk Score | Top Venues |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown Santa Monica | Rooftop bars | — | ||
| Ocean Park | Beachfront bars | — | ||
| Mid-City | Wine bars | — |
Santa Monica has a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene, with a wide range of options to suit every taste. From chic rooftop bars with ocean views to historic dive bars and lively karaoke spots, there is something for everyone.
Some of the best bars in Santa Monica include Elephante, The Bungalow, The Georgian Room, Offhand Wine Bar, and Chez Jay. These bars offer a variety of experiences, from trendy and upscale to casual and laid-back.
Nightlife in Santa Monica typically starts around 9:00 PM, with many bars and restaurants staying open until 2:00 AM. However, some of the more popular spots can get crowded early, so it is always a good idea to arrive early or make a reservation.