Happy Hour Hero
Your guide to the best happy hours in Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach isn’t just known for its rugged coastline, iconic art galleries, and laid-back charm—it’s also home to one of the most vibrant happy hour scenes in Orange County. Whether you’re a local looking to unwind after work or a visitor hoping to make the most of a golden-hour view, Laguna has you covered with enticing deals, ocean breezes, and handcrafted bites.
Here’s your guide to the best happy hours in Laguna Beach, from breezy rooftops to cozy craft kitchens.
1. The Cliff Restaurant
Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 3:00–6:00 PM (bar & fire-pit areas only)
Why Go: Few places rival The Cliff’s panoramic ocean view, and their happy hour specials—half-price appetizers and $2 off all drinks—make the experience even sweeter. Live music on weekends brings an added touch of California cool.
Must-Try: Calamari, fish tacos, and a crisp glass of sauvignon blanc while the sun sets over the Pacific.
2. Finney’s Crafthouse
Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 3:00–5:00 PM
Why Go: A favorite among locals for its energetic vibe and value, Finney’s serves up $5 beers, select appetizers starting at $7, and a $15 combo meal (burger or fried chicken sandwich + a beer or soda).
Pro Tip: Grab a booth inside or people-watch on the patio while sipping a local IPA.
3. Lumberyard
Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 3:00–6:00 PM (bar & patio only)
Why Go: Known for its rustic-chic charm, Lumberyard offers $5 beers, $8 wines and cocktails, and $10 small plates. It’s also one of the best places in town for half-off wine deals.
Don’t Miss: The truffle fries and half-price wine by the glass on Wine Wednesdays.
4. Starfish Laguna Beach (Opium Hour)
Happy Hour: Daily, 3:00–6:00 PM
Why Go: This Asian-fusion favorite delivers with half-price cocktails, sake, and wine, plus small plates like sushi rolls, crispy calamari, and dumplings—most under $10.
Insider Scoop: Locals swear by Starfish’s “Opium Hour,” and it’s easy to see why—it’s one of the few happy hours in town that runs every day.
5. Coyote Grill
Happy Hour: Daily, 3:00–6:00 PM
Why Go: South-of-the-border vibes, ocean air, and a menu full of flavor. Try the $6 tacos, ceviche, and calamari alongside $7 margaritas and tequila shots.
Good For: Laid-back afternoons with a view, or a budget-friendly date night.
6. Rumari Italian Cuisine
Happy Hour: Wednesday–Sunday, 3:00–6:00 PM
Why Go: A newer addition to the happy hour scene, Rumari pairs classic Italian and Mediterranean fare with drink specials like $5 beers, $8 cocktails, and $10 wines.
Perfect For: A more intimate happy hour with upscale European flavors.
7. Oak Laguna Beach
Happy Hour: Tuesday–Friday, 3:00–6:00 PM
Why Go: This modern, stylish spot serves chef-driven comfort food and artisanal cocktails at great prices during happy hour.
Best Bet: Try the craft cocktails and inventive flatbreads while seated on their sun-drenched deck.
Honorable Mentions
Mozambique – A lively rooftop and safari-themed decor; happy hour daily with drink and small plate specials.
The Rooftop Lounge – Arguably the most iconic ocean view in Laguna, with sunset cocktails and weekday deals.
Brussels Bistro – Belgian brews, mussels, and fries during their daily 4–6 PM happy hour.
C’est La Vie – A casual French café offering a long happy hour (3–7 PM) with beachfront views.
Hennessey’s Tavern – Old-school vibes and reliable $5 drinks and snacks from 3–7 PM on weekdays.
Suggested Happy Hour Crawl
Start at The Rooftop Lounge – Grab a cocktail with a view.
Stroll to Finney’s – Snack on sliders and sip a craft brew.
Swing by Starfish – Share sushi rolls and lychee martinis.
End at The Cliff – Watch the sky fade to pink with wine and apps by the firepit.
Final Pour
Laguna Beach offers more than just surf and sunshine—it’s a happy hour haven where every stop delivers personality, flavor, and often, an unbeatable view. Whether you’re looking for tacos and tequila, wine with a sea breeze, or beer and burgers, there’s a barstool here with your name on it.
So next time you’re in town, skip the traffic and toast to the sunset. 🍹