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Nothing inspires relaxation quite like a beach vacation. And since libations are usually part of the experience, you may as well imbibe at a bar with a view. The California Coast is full of spectacular beach bars, and these are some of the top rated choices to have a few rounds.

Guava Beach Bar & Grill, San Diego

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You’ll find the Guava Beach Bar, a laid back sports bar, in Mission Beach. They’re known for their lively atmosphere, weekend brunch, and happy hour, which is Monday Friday from 3-6 PM and features 50% off all drinks.

The Kraken, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Encinitas

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The Kraken has won numerous local awards, and it’s known as the place to go for live music and dancing in the area. Plus, it’s located in the beautiful Cardiff-by-the-Sea community.

Belmont Brewing Company, Long Beach

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Long Beach is full of beautiful beachside bars, and the Belmont Brewing Company happens to be the oldest operating brewpub in Southern California. Enjoy a top notch point on their seaside outdoor patio.

Shellback Tavern, Manhattan Beach

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Shellback Tavern is a dream come true for anyone at Manhattan Beach who enjoys cheap beer, watching beach volleyball, and catching stunning ocean sunsets.

Whiskey Red’s, Marina Del Rey

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Marina Del Rey is a beautiful area, and you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the harbor and roaring fire pits when you hang out at Whiskey Red’s. The views and the extended happy hour make this a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.

Moonshadows, Malibu

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Moonshadows was ranked one of the Top 50 Beach Bars in the World on CNN Travel, so they must be doing something right. Though it now has a lot more competition than it did when it opened nearly 50 years ago, it’s one of the only spots on the beaches of Malibu with a dramatic outdoor bar perched right over the rocks.

Paradise Cove, Malibu

Paradise Cove is another Malibu gem, and it’s one of the only places in Los Angeles County where you’re legally allowed to drink alcohol while sticking your feet in the sand.

Shore Bar, Santa Monica

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This enormous cocktail lounge in Santa Monica has a seaside Nantucket theme and an amazing menu. Try a Pier Pressure, which is rum, lime juice, grenadine and egg whites.

On the Waterfront Café, Venice

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Want to throw back some German brews while munching on a Bavarian pretzel, all while soaking up the sun at Venice Beach? You can at On the Waterfront.

Venice Ale House

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You’ll find this charming retreat right on the Venice Beach Boardwalk with a welcoming selection of microbrews and tasty gastropub fare.

Moss Beach Distillery

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Moss Beach Distillery is known for its notorious ghost, The Blue Lady. Unsolved Mysteries once taped a show about The Legend of the Blue Lady, and now people come from all over the world in hopes of getting a glimpse. But even if you don’t see a ghost, the drinks on the ocean view dog-friendly patio with views of the Moss Beach area will lift your spirits.

Surf Lounge, Pacifica

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Pacifica is a laid back community, and this locally loved dive bar emulates its spirit. Surf Lounge is a great place to relax with friends while enjoying fruity drinks with umbrellas in them.

A Grape in the Fog, Pacifica

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Not only is this the best name for a wine bar ever, but this Tuscan-style eatery in Pacifica is one of the best finds ever. Their wine list changes about every 30 days, and it’s always spectacular.