The Best Places in Los Angeles to Drink Outdoors

Located on the rooftop pool deck of the Freehand Hotel in Downtown L.A., Broken Shaker offers an eclectic menu of craft cocktails and small bites in an urban setting that's tailor made for Instagram. A James Beard Award finalist and winner of Tales of the Cocktail’s Best American Hotel Bar award, Broken Shaker serves up refreshing drinks infused with homemade elixirs and exotic ingredients, bringing coastal flavors to the center of the city.

This rooftop bistro and bar boasts incredible views of the Downtown L.A. skyline with ample outdoor spaces to sit, dance or just people-watch. The swanky locale hosts daily events, including champagne brunch on the weekends and live music and DJs nightly. Day or night, it’s the perfect setting for a classy time.

Located in the Arts District, this sequel to the original Everson Royce in Pasadena opened in September 2015 as a collaboration between Chef Matt Molina (previously at Mozza), Silverlake Wine co-founder Randy Clement, his wife April Langford, and Joe Capella. Known locally as ERB, the lively neighborhood spot boasts an impressive spirits collection, a selection of signature cocktails, and one of L.A.'s best patios - the expansive outdoor space features communal seating, centerpiece tree, string lights and a bocce ball court. The “My, That’s Better” neon sign at the bar could easily refer to the outstanding burger, which is worth a trip to Downtown L.A. by itself.

Step back in time to the glamorous Golden Age of Hollywood at this historic poolside café and bar. Marilyn Monroe, Charlie Chaplin and Clark Gable have all been guests at the Hollywood Roosevelt’s pool, and it remains a hotspot to this day. The Tropicana is the scene of lively pool parties during weekend days, and turns into a more low-key spot at night. As for what to drink here, you can’t go wrong with a martini!

Hidden behind a "garage sale" just off Hollywood Boulevard, Good Times at Davey Wayne's is one of the Houston Hospitality group's most popular venues. Inside, it's a '70s bachelor pad inspired by the Houston brothers' father. Outside, it's a groovy backyard party with Astroturf, hammocks, dancing roller skaters on the roof, and boozy snow cones served from an Airstream trailer.

This picturesque rooftop bar offers breathtaking views of the Hollywood Hills as well as its West Hollywood surroundings. Sip a craft cocktail under string lights while you catch the sunset, then huddle around a fire pit as the city lights come up. The rooftop bar offers non-traditional bar bites with an Asian flare, including bao, tofu fries and curry shrimp. Those with a sweet tooth should go for the soy caramel popcorn – the perfect complement to any drink.

The tri-level bar offers two floors of outdoor seating, including a picturesque garden area complete with a swing and photo booth, and a rooftop patio offering views of the legendary Sunset Strip. The best time to go to this casual West Hollywood bar/restaurant is during its weekday happy hour, when drinks start at $5 and light bites start at $3. Oyster lovers, don’t miss the $1 oysters all night on Tuesdays!

The Den on Sunset is a casual Hollywood haunt that has a sizable outdoor patio full of picnic tables, making it a great place to go with a group. Play a game of Connect Four or Jenga from the bar’s collection of board games, while sipping on a beer from their extensive beer list. It’s a safe bet for a fun time during a sunny day or happy hour, or come at night to dance to the DJ under string lights.

This low-key West Hollywood bar and restaurant is an ideal destination for a lazy weekend afternoon or after-work drink on their outdoor patio. In addition to a weekday happy hour, they also have weekly events, including Trivia Tuesday, $6 Wine & Beer Wednesdays, and the ever-popular Sunday Karaoke night.

This glamorous West Hollywood go-to located at the Mondrian Los Angeles has one of the best views of the city, thanks to its location at the top of Sunset Boulevard. Enjoy a cocktail while lounging by the pool during the day, or come at night to mix and mingle under the stars. You can't go wrong with the Skybar Mojito - it's available in classic, watermelon, blueberry, raspberry and pineapple.

While this posh rooftop pool and bar is only open to hotel guests during the day, at night it's the perfect spot to enjoy small bites and cocktails above the glittering lights of Beverly Hills. During the summer, enjoy panoramic views – from Downtown L.A. to the Hollywood Hills.

Located on the Santa Monica boardwalk, this no-frills backyard bar offers a plethora of outdoor seating just steps away from the sand. It’s the perfect place to grab a beer on a sunny day and catch a sports game while taking in some rays. The bar has been a staple since 1902, when it was known as Larry’s Lunch Room, before being taken over by Big Dean in the 1970s. The landmark has served such famous names as Cary Grant and Arnold Schwarzenegger, and continues to be beloved by L.A. locals.

If you're in Venice Beach, be sure to enjoy the breathtaking views from the High Rooftop Lounge at Hotel Erwin. High is special for many reasons, especially because this kickback bar is the only one of its kind in Venice. Combine panoramic Pacific views, a DJ to set the mood, and intimate, cozy couches - blankets included! - and you’ve got the recipe for a relaxing evening. Whether you’re there to cool off with a Blood Orange Julep or warm up with a Lemon Apple Toddy, High offers must-see views that are perfect for a first date or group gathering.

It's hard to find a beach view that matches the one at this Venice landmark. The bar and restaurant has been a beachside staple since 1944, and has entertained a bevy of high-profile musician clients including The Beatles, the Beach Boys and the Doors. Snag a spot on the outdoor deck to savor the Venice sunshine while enjoying a beer or specialty cocktail. The Whaler also offers nightly entertainment, from karaoke to jazz nights and DJs.