The Best Places in Los Angeles to Drink Outdoors

The Venice Whaler; Credit: Rachel Jonas

Given that the weather is (almost) always perfect in L.A., there’s always an occasion to grab a drink outside. Savor the sunshine and warm nights at these bars that feature indoor and outdoor spaces, patios and rooftops.

E.P./L.P.

This picturesque rooftop bar offers breathtaking views of the Hollywood Hills as well as its West Hollywood surroundings. Sip a craft cocktail under string lights while you catch the sunset, then huddle around a fire pit as the city lights come up. The rooftop bar offers non-traditional bar bites with an Asian flare, including bao, tofu fries and curry shrimp. Those with a sweet tooth should go for the soy caramel popcorn – the perfect complement to any drink.

603 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.855.9955, http://eplosangeles.com/

 BIG DEAN’S OCEANFRONT CAFÉ

Located right on the Santa Monica boardwalk, this no-frills backyard bar offers a plethora of outdoor seating just steps away from the sand. It’s the perfect place to grab a beer on a sunny day and catch a sports game while taking in some rays. The bar has been a staple since 1902, when it was known as Larry’s Lunch Room, before being taken over by Big Dean in the 1970s. The landmark has served such famous names as Cary Grant and Arnold Schwarzenegger, and continues to be beloved by L.A. locals.

1615 Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica, 310.393.2666, http://www.bigdeansoceanfrontcafe.com/

PEARL’S ROOFTOP

The tri-level bar offers two floors of outdoor seating, including a picturesque garden area complete with a swing and photo booth, and a rooftop patio offering views of the legendary Sunset Strip. The best time to go to the casual West Hollywood bar/restaurant is during its weekday happy hour, when drinks start at $5 and light bites start at $3. Oyster lover? Don’t miss their $1 oysters all night on Tuesdays!

8909 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 310.360.6800, http://pearlssunset.com/

PERCH

This rooftop bistro and bar boasts incredible views of the Downtown L.A. skyline and ample outdoor spaces to sit, dance or just people-watch. The swanky locale hosts daily events, including champagne brunch on the weekends and live music and DJs nightly. It’s the perfect venue for a classy evening (or day) out.

448 S. Hill St., Los Angeles, 213.802.1770, http://perchla.com/

THE DEN ON SUNSET

This casual Hollywood haunt has a sizable outdoor patio full of picnic tables, making it a great place to go with a group. Play a game of Connect Four or Jenga from the bar’s collection of board games, while sipping on a beer from their extensive beer list. It’s a safe bet for a fun time during a sunny day or happy hour, or come at night to dance to the DJ under string lights.

8226 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, 323.656.0336, http://www.thedenonsunset.com/

BUNGALOW

Going to Bungalow is akin to going to an adult house party. The one-of-a-kind venue – located right across the street from Santa Monica Beach – centers around a chic 1947 beachside cottage house, but there is plenty of space to be outside and enjoy the fresh ocean air including two outdoor bars. The perennial hotspot is ideal for a daytime margarita, a sunset glass of sangria, or a few stiff drinks once the sun goes down and the twinkle lights on the venue’s many trees begin lighting up.

101 Wilshire Blvd., Santa Monica, 310.899.8530, http://www.thebungalowsm.com/

THE BELMONT

This low-key West Hollywood bar and restaurant is an ideal destination for a lazy weekend afternoon or after-work drink spent on their outdoor patio. In addition to a weekday happy hour, they also have weekly events, including Trivia Tuesday, $6 Wine & Beer Wednesdays, and the ever-popular Sunday Karaoke night.

747 N. La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles, 310.659.8871, http://www.belmontla.com/

EVERSON ROYCE

Wine enthusiasts will find plenty to love about this hip Pasadena wine shop/bar. Come on a Tuesday to experience their “Easing Your Way Into the Week” tasting, which includes tastes of three wines, plus cheese and charcuterie pairings for $15. There are also tastings throughout the week, and free 90-minute parking right next door.

155 N. Raymond Avenue, Pasadena, 626.765.9334, http://www.eversonroyce.com/

TROPICANA AT THE HOLLYWOOD ROOSEVELT

Step back in time to the days of Old Hollywood glamour at this historical poolside café and bar. Marilyn Monroe, Charlie Chaplin and Clark Gable have all been guests at the Roosevelt hotel’s pool, and it remains a hotspot to this day. The Tropicana is the scene of lively pool parties during weekend days, and turns into a more low-key spot at night. As for what to drink here, you can’t go wrong with a martini!

7000 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, 323.856.1970, http://www.thehollywoodroosevelt.com/nightlife/tropicana-pool-cafe

This article originally appeared on Discover Los Angeles.