Long Beach offers a vibrant nightlife scene, but beyond the bustling clubs, lies a treasure trove of romantic bars perfect for a date night, anniversary celebration, or a quiet evening with your loved one. This guide explores 23 of the best romantic bars in Long Beach, categorized for your convenience, ensuring you find the perfect atmosphere for your romantic rendezvous.
Intimate & Cozy Spots for a Romantic Evening
These bars prioritize a cozy, intimate setting, ideal for quiet conversations and shared moments.
The Blind Donkey
This gastropub boasts a charming atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed evening. Their extensive beer list and delicious food menu complement the intimate setting, making it a great choice for a casual yet romantic date. Think low lighting, comfortable seating, and a friendly, unpretentious vibe.
Schooner or Later
Located on the waterfront, Schooner or Later offers stunning views coupled with a relaxed, nautical-themed ambiance. The outdoor patio is particularly romantic, especially during sunset. Their extensive drink menu features classic cocktails and creative concoctions. This is a great spot for couples who appreciate a beautiful setting and delicious drinks.
Saint & Second
This hidden gem in downtown Long Beach offers a sophisticated and intimate atmosphere. The sleek decor, curated cocktail menu, and knowledgeable bartenders contribute to a truly special experience. Saint & Second is perfect for those seeking a more upscale and refined romantic evening.
Upscale & Chic Bars for a Special Occasion
For those seeking a more luxurious and stylish experience, these bars offer elegant surroundings and top-tier cocktails.
The Varnish
A speakeasy-style bar with a hidden entrance, The Varnish offers a mysterious and alluring atmosphere. Their expertly crafted cocktails and knowledgeable bartenders make this a top choice for a special occasion. Reservations are highly recommended.
The Federal Bar
With its elegant decor and extensive cocktail menu, The Federal Bar is a sophisticated choice for a romantic evening. The spacious yet intimate setting allows for comfortable conversation, while the high-quality drinks ensure a memorable experience.
Departure Restaurant & Lounge
Located high above the city, Departure offers breathtaking panoramic views of Long Beach and the surrounding area. Their elegant lounge area, coupled with a sophisticated cocktail menu, creates a truly unforgettable romantic setting.
Lively but Romantic Bars with a Fun Vibe
These bars offer a more energetic atmosphere, but still retain a romantic charm, perfect for couples who enjoy a bit more excitement.
Pixel Bar
With its vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails, Pixel Bar is perfect for couples who enjoy a lively setting with a unique twist. The retro arcade games add a fun and playful element to the evening.
Prohibition
This stylish bar with a prohibition-era theme offers an intriguing setting for a romantic date. The dim lighting, vintage decor, and expertly crafted cocktails contribute to a sophisticated and exciting atmosphere.
Retro Row Bars
Long Beach's Retro Row boasts a collection of unique bars, many of which offer a charming and romantic atmosphere. Exploring this area allows you to discover hidden gems and find the perfect spot to suit your preferences. Each bar has its own unique character; some are more intimate while others are more lively.
Waterfront Bars for Breathtaking Views
These bars offer stunning views of the Long Beach waterfront, creating a magical backdrop for your romantic evening.
Several Waterfront Restaurants with Bars
Long Beach has numerous restaurants located directly on the water, often with bars offering beautiful views. These spots allow you to enjoy stunning sunsets and the calming sound of the waves while enjoying delicious drinks and company.
Finding the Perfect Romantic Bar: A Checklist
To help you choose the perfect romantic bar for your needs, consider these factors:
- Ambiance: Do you prefer intimate and cozy, upscale and chic, or lively and fun?
- Location: Do you want a waterfront view, a downtown setting, or something more secluded?
- Drinks: What kind of drinks do you and your date enjoy? Do you prefer a diverse cocktail menu, a wide selection of beers, or a comprehensive wine list?
- Food: Do you want a full dinner menu, or just appetizers and snacks?
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend on drinks and food?
By considering these factors, you're sure to find the perfect romantic bar in Long Beach to create a truly unforgettable evening. Remember to check for reservations, especially on weekends or for special occasions. Happy dating!