One of the main hotspots here in Downtown Santa Monica is called The Bungalow, which is an outdoor bar at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel and Bungalows.

Although they don’t offer a happy hour (get with it, Bungalow!!!!!), it’s a great place to look at the ocean, people-watch or watch the sunset. The Baja-style cottage has an outside wooden deck with a bar, couches and twinkling lights. This spot gets crowded at night but it’s best in the early evening when there is still an ocean view.

If the patio isn’t for you, head to the Study, the Slate Room (a private dining room), the East Garden or the game room (complete with a pool table).

The main bar area has a wood-burning stove, in keeping with the wooden/rustic theme.

The Bungalow is a super-laid back lounge, but it’s full of high-energy people. This is a young person’s bar for sure – college students and young professionals go here to see and be seen. It’s also a pricey outing – $12 for a glass of sangria – and almost impossible to find a table or seating area at any given time. Essentially what you are paying for is the view.

Check it out if you’ve never been, or take a visiting out-of-town friend to really impress them. The whole place screams”LA!”

Please excuse me, it’s time for me to go sip on some red wine sangria in a wine glass with a straw.

Bungalow is open:

Monday – Friday 5 p.m. – 2 a.m.

Saturday 2 p.m. – 2 a.m

Sunday 2 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Disclosure: This post is not associated with The Bungalow in any way. I received no compensation for this post.