Santa Monica's Best Happy Hour [Updated 2025]

With my taste buds sharpened and a keen eye for ambiance, I dove deep into the vibrant world of Santa Monica’s happy hours. After sampling sips and bites at 12 top-notch locations, I’ve unearthed some real treasures that promise to elevate your after-work unwind or weekend escape.

Trust me, I’ve navigated the bustling scene, from trendy rooftop bars to cozy beachfront hideaways, ensuring that each spot I’ve selected not only serves incredible deals but also captures the essence of our sun-soaked beach city. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, get ready to discover the ultimate places to toast the end of your day!

The Brixton

Highlights
Best traditional style burger
Kind and attentive staff
Popular brunch destination
Perfectly charred meat
Reservations recommended

As I stepped into The Brixton, I was immediately embraced by its vibrant atmosphere. This delightful spot is not just a bar; it's a celebration of good food and fun! I quickly discovered that their happy hour offers a perfect blend of value and quality, especially with their traditional style burger—a must-try!

The seasoned staff were wonderfully attentive, ensuring that my glass was never empty, a blessing during those bustling hours. I felt like a VIP as they swiftly navigated the crowd, making everyone feel valued. But let’s talk about the food! The perfectly charred meat on my burger was succulent, revealing flavors that danced on my palate.

What truly sets The Brixton apart, though, is its atmosphere—a beloved destination for brunch and evening gatherings alike. Given its popularity, making reservations is a clever move, ensuring you don't miss out on this gem. Overall, The Brixton thrives in the art of happy hour, blending great vibes with excellent service. It’s not just a place to drink; it’s a destination for creating memories, and trust me, you’ll want to return!

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The Upper West

Highlights
Phenomenal menu options
Awesome and fun service
Delicious steak fajitas tacos
Beautiful atmosphere
Tasty short rib dish

Nestled in the vibrant streets of Santa Monica, The Upper West presents a happy hour that's as delightful as the ocean breeze. From the moment I stepped inside, I was enveloped by a beautiful atmosphere that strikes a perfect balance between laid-back comfort and modern chic. The bartenders greeted me with awesome and fun service, which set the tone for an enjoyable evening.

Now, let's talk about the food—oh, the food! The phenomenal menu options include an irresistible offering of steak fajitas tacos that simply melted in my mouth. Each bite was bursting with flavor, giving me that warm, happy feeling even before the drinks arrived. Not to mention the tasty short rib dish that had me doing a happy dance in my seat.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the ambiance only got better, making it an idyllic spot for relaxation and unwinding after a long day. If you’re looking for a place that delivers exquisite flavors and lovely vibes, The Upper West has certainly earned its title as one of the best happy hour venues in Santa Monica. Cheers to that!

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Library Alehouse

Highlights
Happy Hour 4-6 PM
$7 Beers on Tap
Delicious Buffalo Wings
Tasty Chef's BBQ Fries
Cool Patio Seating

Library Alehouse has quickly become one of my favorite spots for happy hour in Santa Monica! Their happy hour runs from 4 to 6 PM, giving you ample time to unwind after a long day. As soon as I stepped in, I was greeted by a lively atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a drink with friends.

What really caught my eye was the $7 beers on tap—they have a rotating selection that's sure to impress any beer lover. I decided to pair my brew with their delicious buffalo wings, which were perfectly sauced and utterly satisfying. Speaking of delectable bites, the tasty Chef's BBQ fries are a must-try. They add a fun twist to your typical happy hour fare.

I couldn't resist heading to their cool patio seating for a perfect evening ambiance. The combination of great food, refreshing drinks, and a relaxed vibe truly sets Library Alehouse apart. Honestly, if you find yourself in Santa Monica craving a delightful happy hour experience, you're in for a treat here. So gather your friends and embrace the joyous spirit at Library Alehouse—it’s the place where your happy hour dreams come true!

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The Backyard

During my visit to The Backyard, I discovered a charming oasis perfect for unwinding after a long day. The happy hour menu offers delightful cocktails at unbeatable prices, from refreshing margaritas to creative craft brews. The outdoor seating under twinkling lights creates a cozy atmosphere, encouraging guests to linger a little longer. I particularly loved their tasty mini sliders, which paired perfectly with my drink. The relaxed vibe and friendly staff made me feel right at home. For anyone seeking a cheerful escape, The Backyard is the place to savor great drinks and good company in sunny Santa Monica!

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The Misfit Bar & Restaurant

The Misfit Bar & Restaurant is a true gem in Santa Monica's happy hour scene! With a vibrant atmosphere and a quirky decor, I felt instantly at home. Their happy hour runs from 3 PM to 6 PM, offering tantalizing deals like $5 drinks and half-priced appetizers that are simply irresistible. I couldn’t get enough of their crispy Brussels sprouts and $7 craft cocktails. The staff was friendly, adding to the inviting vibe. If you’re looking to unwind after a long day, this spot is a must-visit for a delightful blend of flavor and fun!

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1212 Santa Monica

At 1212 Santa Monica, the happy hour feels like a breath of fresh ocean air! With $5 craft beers and delightful $7 cocktails, the drinks are as refreshing as the coastal breeze. Their small bites, especially the crispy Brussels sprouts, are a must-try, elevating the experience beyond the average happy hour. The ambiance strikes the perfect balance between chic and welcoming, perfect for unwinding after a long day. The friendly staff adds to the charm, making each visit feel like a special occasion. In short, if you're seeking a vibrant spot to sip and savor, 1212 is where the magic happens!

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Chez Jay

Nestled just a stone's throw from the beach, Chez Jay is a delightful gem where nostalgia meets local charm. Their happy hour offers an inviting selection of $5 draft beers and divine cocktails that whisk you away to a sun-soaked paradise. The ambiance is casual yet vibrant, perfect for unwinding after a long day. I savored their crispy fried calamari, perfectly seasoned, making each bite a joy. Plus, the bartender’s witty banter adds a sprinkle of fun to the experience! Chez Jay truly captures the essence of Santa Monica’s beach culture, making it an absolute must-visit for happy hour enthusiasts.

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Bodega Wine Bar

Nestled in the heart of Santa Monica, Bodega Wine Bar offers a delightful escape during their happy hour. With a selection of $5 wines and $4 bites, my taste buds were in for a treat! The warm ambiance and friendly staff added to the charm, making it a perfect spot to unwind. I savored their signature bruschetta, bursting with fresh flavors. Plus, the eclectic crowd adds a vibrant touch to the atmosphere. If you're seeking a relaxed yet chic vibe, you won't want to miss this gem. Cheers to great sips and delicious nibbles at Bodega! 🍷✨

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Lobster & Beer Santa Monica

Lobster & Beer Santa Monica is a delightful gem where ocean breezes and savory seafood collide to create an unforgettable happy hour. I was instantly enchanted by their irresistible lobster rolls and ice-cold craft brews, perfect for a sweet indulgence post-work. The vibrant atmosphere invites you to kick back and unwind, complemented by friendly staff eager to enhance your experience. With tantalizing deals on bites and sips, this spot effortlessly earns its place among the top happy hour destinations in Santa Monica. If you’re searching for fun flavors and coastal vibes, you absolutely can't miss it!

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Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe

Nestled just steps from the ocean, Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe exudes a laid-back charm that instantly makes you feel at home. Their happy hour specials are a delightful mix of affordable drinks and mouthwatering bites. I savored crispy fish tacos while sipping on a refreshing margarita, both at fantastic prices. The vibrant atmosphere, complete with lively surf tunes and friendly locals, sets the perfect backdrop for an evening unwind. If you’re seeking a quintessential Santa Monica experience, this spot is a must-visit during happy hour! The combination of sun, good vibes, and great deals is undeniably enchanting.

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The Whaler Santa Monica

Nestled just steps from the beach, The Whaler Santa Monica offers a delightful happy hour that captures the essence of coastal charm. The ambiance is laid-back yet vibrant, perfect for unwinding after a long day. With specials like $5 well drinks and $6 craft beers, you can treat yourself without breaking the bank. Don't miss their mouthwatering fish tacos, which pair perfectly with a chilled cocktail. The sunset views from the patio are simply breathtaking! If you’re in search of a spot that radiates fun and offers tasty bites, The Whaler is definitely worth the visit!

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Sugar Palm Santa Monica

At Sugar Palm Santa Monica, happy hour feels like a tropical getaway! ✨ With delightful $5 craft beers and $7 specialty cocktails, my taste buds danced in bliss. The ambiance boasts a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a long day. I particularly loved their mini tacos, which were bursting with flavor and paired beautifully with my drink. The attentive staff added to the experience, making me feel right at home. If you're searching for a charming spot to kick back, I wholeheartedly recommend indulging in this oasis of happiness! 🌴🌊

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