Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Santa Monica

Cool nightlife

Nightlife that manages to be cool without trying so hard that it becomes inaccessible.

Based on 555 Opinions
+552
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Harvelle's image 1
Harvelle's image 2
Harvelle's image 3
View all

Small venue with an intimate stage hosts live band karaoke and soulful melodies. Vintage bar vibe combines with professional, classy atmosphere and inviting dance floor. Friendly crowds enjoy great music without pretension.

Small clubs here offer killer sound and lights that create a lively atmosphere. The music lounge features excellent customer service that stands out among other clubs.

A cool dive bar opens at 8:00 PM with a cool vibe at the bar and a cool bartender. Karaoke and live music add to the atmosphere, supported by a cool staff throughout.

People are saying

"I loved the live music and the amazing atmosphere here."

"The live band karaoke here is amazing and so much fun."

"This place has a cool vintage bar vibe."

Good to know

1

Karaoke with a live band happens every Wednesday night.

2

Entry costs $10, which includes a drink minimum of two per person.

3

Live music performances occur on weekends and Tuesday nights.

02
The Georgian Hotel image 1

Hotel offers oceanfront views with rooms featuring vintage glamour and spacious suites. Atmosphere stays bustling day and night, blending charm with lively energy. Amenities include a speakeasy bar, secret library, and terrace restaurant with live music.

Extraordinary bar area and lounge fit well in a small space. Downstairs offers a jazz lounge with warm lighting, velvet textures, and well-balanced cocktails.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were so polite and helpful with everything."

"The ocean view from our suite was breathtaking."

"The lounge's warm lighting and velvet textures create a stylish, friendly nightlife."

Good to know

1

The hotel has a speakeasy opening this summer.

2

The Georgian Room will open in about a month.

3

Check-in is available as early as 11 AM.

03
LouLou Santa Monica image 1
French restaurant

Rooftop restaurant offers cool views of water and Ferris wheel with a club-like vibe created by a live DJ and percussionist. Atmosphere suits large groups and blends beachy elegance with lively energy.

Evenings shift to a club-like environment with a DJ spinning tracks. The spot blends a dinner club vibe with a rooftop lounge feel, making it lively for celebrations.

A rooftop bar offers cool views and a creative drinks menu. The atmosphere feels really cool and inviting.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

"The atmosphere here is so cool and relaxed."

"It's like a club with loud music and a DJ."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks, making it worthwhile.

2

Expect long wait times during busy events, like Valentine's Day.

3

The restaurant turns into a lively party after 9 pm with dancing.

04
Holey Moley Golf Club Santa Monica image 1

Miniature golf course features unique themed holes spread over several floors with a great bar and live magician entertainment. Atmosphere is loud and crowded, with karaoke music playing openly and tight spaces causing frequent bumping. The vibe suits energetic nights out rather than quiet, relaxed play.

Nightlife centers on fun and unique mini golf with beautifully decorated lounge areas for snacks and socializing. It suits group outings like girls' night out with a lively, playful vibe.

Unique mini golf holes and a lively DJ create a cool vibe. Friendly bartenders add to the fun atmosphere and occasional magic shows bring extra excitement.

People are saying

"The mini golf here is amazing fun and super creative."

"The nightlife here is amazing, with attentive staff like Elvis."

"Elvis's exceptional service made our visit so cool."

Good to know

1

Events can cost over $1000 for limited time slots, so plan accordingly.

2

No kids are allowed after 8pm, so check age restrictions before visiting.

3

The venue lacks air conditioning, making it very hot during summer visits.

05
The Room Santa Monica image 1

Small downstairs bar and dance club with unique open layout and disco ball creates a communal vibe. Music focuses on hip hop and R&B, with DJs playing a mix of oldies and pop that keeps the dance floor lively but never overcrowded. Crowd tends to be diverse and welcoming, favoring good times over college scenes.

A small local club with a back alley entrance next to a sex shop offers a downstairs bar and dance club vibe. The sound focuses on hip hop music, blending lounge and club elements.

A downstairs bar and dance club with cool music and lighting sets a distinct vibe. The staff is cool, adding to the overall atmosphere.

People are saying

"This nightclub's music is fire and keeps everyone dancing."

"The music and lighting here are cool."

"The DJ's music and decor make for cool nightlife."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 9 to 10:30 PM with discounted drinks.

2

Entry is free for all guests.

3

The DJ starts playing around 10 PM, creating a lively atmosphere.

06
1212 Santa Monica image 1
New American restaurant

Large space with dog-friendly patio and live DJ music creates a loud, fun atmosphere that energizes the evening. Outdoor seating features fire pits enhancing the vibe. Music volume often challenges conversation but adds to the lively environment.

A modern cozy lounge with a bonfire sets a lively scene that shifts into a nightclub vibe on weekends. The space features a great DJ and energetic atmosphere similar to a Vegas day club.

Atmosphere feels very cool with a nice ambiance. Music adds to the cool vibe during brunch and dinner.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful, fresh, and delicious."

"The drinks here are flavorful, refreshing, and beautifully presented."

"The atmosphere here is really cool and nice."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

All-night happy hour is available on Mondays, offering great deals.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events like the Super Bowl.

07
Santa Monica Proper Hotel image 1

Boutique hotel with warm, comforting vibe and beautiful, charming design offers a rooftop pool oasis and panoramic city views. Spaces range from relaxed rooftop bars to lively restaurants with strong energy. Guests encounter a mix of calm ambiance indoors and vibrant social scenes on the rooftop.

Stylish lounges and a dreamy poolside setting create a stunning oasis for nightlife. The downstairs restaurant feels more like a lounge with inviting spaces to sit and work at the bar.

People are saying

"This hotel's design is beautiful, stylish, and incredibly comfortable."

"The vibe here is modern, relaxed, and effortlessly cool."

"The bar staff here are impressive and talented."

Good to know

1

Valet service fee is $55, but some guests report being charged $70.

2

Additional $40 per night for amenities not disclosed at check-in.

3

The pool and bar may be closed for private events, impacting guest access.

Discover more

Santa Monica, California

Area guide
Loading Map...