How to Find Rooftop Bars in Long Beach

Long Beach, California, is a coastal city renowned for its vibrant culture, scenic harbor views, and dynamic nightlife. Among its most sought-after experiences are rooftop bars—elevated venues that blend craft cocktails, panoramic vistas, and urban sophistication. Whether you’re a local looking to discover a new favorite spot or a visitor planning a memorable evening, knowing how to find rooftop bars in Long Beach can transform an ordinary night out into an unforgettable one. But with dozens of venues, shifting seasonal openings, and limited visibility online, locating the best rooftop bars requires more than just a quick Google search. This guide offers a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to uncovering Long Beach’s hidden and popular rooftop gems, backed by best practices, trusted tools, real-world examples, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Step-by-Step Guide

Finding rooftop bars in Long Beach isn’t just about searching for “rooftop bars near me.” It demands a strategic, multi-layered approach that combines digital research, local insight, and on-the-ground verification. Follow these seven detailed steps to systematically uncover the most desirable rooftop venues in the city.

Step 1: Define Your Criteria

Before you begin searching, clarify what you’re looking for. Rooftop bars vary widely in atmosphere, pricing, dress code, and amenities. Ask yourself:

• Do you prefer a quiet, intimate setting or a lively, music-driven scene?
• Are you seeking stunning ocean or city skyline views?
• Is outdoor seating with heaters or fire pits important for cooler evenings?
• Do you prioritize craft cocktails, wine lists, or craft beer selections?
• Are you looking for live music, DJ sets, or a more relaxed ambiance?

Answering these questions helps filter out venues that don’t match your preferences, saving time and increasing satisfaction. For example, if you’re celebrating a special occasion, you might prioritize venues with reservation systems and private cabanas. If you’re on a budget, you’ll want to focus on happy hour spots with affordable small plates and drink specials.

Step 2: Use Advanced Google Search Techniques

Google remains one of the most powerful tools for discovering hidden gems. Instead of typing “rooftop bars Long Beach,” use precise search operators to refine results:

• “rooftop bar” “Long Beach” + “view” – This finds venues explicitly mentioning views.
• “best rooftop bar Long Beach 2024” – Adding the current year surfaces recent reviews and updated lists.
• site:tripadvisor.com “rooftop bar” Long Beach – Restricts results to TripAdvisor, where user photos and detailed reviews are abundant.
• “rooftop bar” Long Beach -restaurant -cafe – Excludes unrelated results using the minus operator.

Also, scroll through the “Images” tab on Google. Many rooftop bars are visually distinctive—think string lights, infinity pools, or palm-tree-lined terraces. Seeing actual photos helps confirm authenticity and ambiance before visiting.

Step 3: Explore Local Food and Beverage Blogs

Local bloggers and food influencers often uncover venues that don’t appear in mainstream listings. Search for:

• “Long Beach food blog rooftop bars”
• “Best rooftop bars in Long Beach 2024”
• “Hidden rooftop bars Long Beach”

Look for blogs like Long Beach Eats, OC Weekly, and LAist, which regularly feature curated lists and firsthand reviews. These sources often include insider tips—such as the best time to arrive for sunset views, which nights feature live jazz, or which bars offer complimentary valet.

Pay attention to posts with embedded photos, timestamps (to ensure they’re current), and comments from other readers. A blog post from 2022 may no longer reflect the current state of a venue—many rooftop bars operate seasonally or change management frequently.

Step 4: Leverage Instagram and TikTok for Visual Discovery

Visual platforms like Instagram and TikTok are goldmines for discovering rooftop bars. Search hashtags such as:

• LongBeachRooftop

• RooftopBarLB

• LongBeachNightlife

• SunsetInLongBeach

Filter results by “Recent” to see the most current posts. Look for geotagged photos from verified users or local influencers. Many venues post daily updates about events, happy hours, or weather-related closures. Instagram Stories are especially useful—they often show real-time crowds, lighting conditions, and even menu highlights.

Follow local accounts such as @longbeachfoodie, @lb_nightlife, and @visitlongbeach. These accounts frequently feature rooftop bar spotlights, often including links to websites or reservation platforms. Don’t ignore TikTok: short videos of cocktails being poured against a sunset backdrop or crowds clinking glasses on a terrace can be more revealing than a static photo.

Step 5: Check Reservation Platforms and Event Listings

Many rooftop bars in Long Beach operate on reservation-only systems, especially on weekends. Use platforms like:

• Resy – Popular for upscale venues and fine dining rooftops.
• OpenTable – Offers real-time availability and verified reviews.
• Yelp – Filters for “Reservations Accepted” and “Outdoor Seating” are critical.
• Eventbrite – Search for “Long Beach rooftop” events to find pop-ups, themed nights, or seasonal openings.

For example, The Rooftop at The Westin Long Beach often hosts “Sundown Sessions” with live acoustic sets—these are listed on Eventbrite and promoted via email newsletters. If a venue requires reservations, its absence on Resy or OpenTable may indicate it’s either closed, seasonal, or operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Always cross-reference reservation availability with Google Maps reviews. If a bar is listed as “open” but shows no reservations available for the next two weeks, it may be fully booked or have limited capacity.

Step 6: Engage with Local Online Communities

Reddit, Facebook Groups, and Nextdoor are underutilized resources for authentic, unfiltered recommendations. Join groups such as:

• “Long Beach, CA Local Life” (Facebook)
• “r/LongBeach” (Reddit)
• “Long Beach Food Lovers” (Nextdoor)

Post a simple question: “Looking for the best rooftop bar in Long Beach with ocean views—any hidden spots?” You’ll often receive replies from locals who’ve been there recently, including tips like:

• “The rooftop at The Shoreline is only open Friday–Sunday after 5 PM.”
• “Ask for the ‘Skyline Cocktail’—it’s not on the menu.”
• “Parking is free after 8 PM behind the building.”

These community-sourced insights are invaluable. Unlike corporate reviews, these come from people who live in the area and know the nuances—like which nights have the least noise, or which bar lets you bring your own blanket for chilly evenings.

Step 7: Visit in Person During Off-Peak Hours

Even with digital research, nothing beats firsthand verification. Visit a shortlisted venue during off-peak hours—such as a Tuesday at 5:30 PM—to assess:

• Access: Is there a clear entrance? Is it behind a hotel lobby? Is there a separate elevator?
• Atmosphere: Is the space well-maintained? Are there adequate seating and lighting?
• View: Is the view obstructed by construction, trees, or nearby buildings?
• Staff: Are employees knowledgeable and welcoming?

Many rooftop bars are located atop hotels, restaurants, or mixed-use buildings. The entrance may not be obvious from the street. For example, the rooftop at The Westin is accessed via the hotel’s main lobby and elevator—signage is minimal. Arriving early lets you observe how the space transitions from day to night and whether the lighting, music, and crowd vibe match your expectations.

If you’re unsure whether a rooftop is open, call the main number of the building or hotel. Ask: “Is the rooftop bar currently operating, and what are the hours?” This avoids wasted trips and confirms seasonal availability.

Best Practices

To maximize your success in finding and enjoying rooftop bars in Long Beach, adopt these best practices. These strategies ensure you avoid common pitfalls and make the most of your time and budget.

Plan Around Sunset Hours

Long Beach’s most coveted rooftop experiences occur during golden hour—the 30 to 60 minutes before sunset. This is when the Pacific Ocean glows amber, the skyline lights up, and the atmosphere becomes magical. Most rooftop bars see peak traffic during this window. To secure the best seats:

• Arrive at least 45 minutes before sunset.
• Reserve a table in advance if possible.
• Request a “sunset-facing” table when booking.

Some venues, like The Rooftop at The Westin, offer reserved sunset seating packages. Others may allow you to “hold” a table with a drink order—always ask.

Check Seasonal Closures

Not all rooftop bars operate year-round. Due to coastal weather patterns—fog, wind, and cooler temperatures—many close between November and February. Always verify operating status before visiting. Look for:

• “Seasonal Hours” noted on Google Maps or the venue’s website.
• Recent Instagram posts from the past week.
• Comments on Yelp stating “closed for winter.”

For example, The Terrace at The Waterfront Beach Resort typically opens in March and closes in October. Planning ahead prevents disappointment.

Dress Appropriately

Long Beach rooftop bars vary in dress code. While some are casual and relaxed, others enforce a smart-casual or even upscale policy. Avoid:

• Flip-flops, athletic wear, or tank tops at upscale venues.
• Overly formal attire (like tuxedos) at laid-back spots.

When in doubt, check the venue’s website or social media for dress code hints. Photos of patrons often reveal the norm. A general rule: if it’s a hotel rooftop, lean toward polished casual. If it’s a standalone bar, jeans and a nice top are usually fine.

Understand Parking and Transportation

Many rooftop bars are located in downtown Long Beach or near the waterfront, where parking is limited and expensive. Best practices include:

• Using ride-share services (Uber, Lyft) to avoid parking fees and stress.
• Checking if the venue offers valet or validation for nearby lots.
• Using the Long Beach Transit system—many rooftop bars are near the A Line or Beach Bike Path.

For example, The Rooftop at The Shoreline is accessible via the 2nd Street parking structure, which offers $5 validation with a $25 food and drink minimum. Always confirm parking options before you go.

Follow the Happy Hour Rules

Happy hour is the most cost-effective way to enjoy rooftop bars. Most venues offer discounted drinks and small plates between 4–7 PM, Monday through Friday. But rules vary:

• Some only offer happy hour on the bar, not outdoor seating.
• Others require you to order food to qualify for drink discounts.
• A few don’t offer happy hour at all—especially on weekends.

Always check the menu online or call ahead. A well-timed happy hour visit can save you $20–$40 per person.

Verify Weather Conditions

Coastal weather can change rapidly. Even on a sunny day, wind or fog can make a rooftop experience uncomfortable. Check the forecast before heading out:

• Wind speeds above 15 mph may make outdoor seating unpleasant.
• Fog rolling in from the ocean can obscure views.
• Light rain may lead to temporary closures or canopy use.

Call the venue 1–2 hours before your planned visit if weather is uncertain. Many places will let you know if they’re operating outdoors or moving guests indoors.

Tools and Resources

Several digital tools and online platforms streamline the process of discovering, evaluating, and booking rooftop bars in Long Beach. Here’s a curated list of the most effective resources.

Google Maps

Google Maps is indispensable. Search “rooftop bar Long Beach” and use filters:

• “Open Now” – Ensures the venue is currently operating.
• “Outdoor Seating” – Confirms the rooftop is accessible.
• “Highly Rated” – Sorts by 4.5+ stars.
• “Photos” – View real images uploaded by users.

Pay attention to the “Questions & Answers” section. Locals often ask about parking, noise levels, and pet policies here.

Yelp

Yelp remains one of the most reliable review platforms. Use these filters:

• “Rooftop” under “Amenities.”
• “Date Range: Last 30 Days” – Ensures recent feedback.
• “Photos” – Look for user-submitted rooftop views.
• “Sort by: Most Relevant” – Avoids outdated or spammy reviews.

Read both 5-star and 1-star reviews. A 5-star review might say, “Best sunset view ever!” while a 1-star might reveal, “Closed for renovations since June.” Together, they give a balanced picture.

Resy and OpenTable

These reservation platforms confirm legitimacy and availability. If a venue doesn’t appear on either, it may be a pop-up, seasonal, or unlicensed operation. Always check:

• Booking confirmation emails.
• Cancellation policies.
• Party size limits.

Some rooftop bars, like The Rooftop at The Westin, require prepayment for weekend reservations. Know the terms before booking.

Instagram and TikTok

As noted earlier, these platforms offer real-time visual confirmation. Use the following tactics:

• Search geotags: “The Rooftop at The Shoreline.”
• Follow local photographers who specialize in urban nightlife.
• Use Instagram’s “Saved” feature to compile a private list of top venues.

Many venues tag their posts with

LongBeachRooftop, making discovery easier.

Long Beach Tourism Website

The official Visit Long Beach website features curated lists of “Top Rooftop Bars,” often updated seasonally. These lists are vetted by local tourism boards and include:

• Hours of operation.
• Reservation links.
• Accessibility information.
• Special events.

It’s a trustworthy source for official, non-sponsored recommendations.

Local News Outlets

Publications like the Long Beach Press-Telegram and LA Weekly occasionally publish feature articles on new rooftop openings. Search their archives using keywords like “new rooftop bar Long Beach.” These articles often include interviews with owners and exclusive details not found elsewhere.

Real Examples

Let’s examine three actual rooftop bars in Long Beach—each representing a different experience. These examples illustrate how the strategies above lead to successful discoveries.

1. The Rooftop at The Westin Long Beach

Location: 400 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802

Discovery Method: Found via Resy, confirmed by Instagram geotags, and cross-referenced with a blog post from Long Beach Eats.

Experience: This is the city’s most iconic rooftop bar. Located on the 11th floor, it offers sweeping views of the harbor, Queen Mary, and Catalina Island. The decor is modern and minimalist, with fire pits and plush lounge seating. The cocktail menu features signature drinks like the “Harbor Spritz” and “Catalina Mule.”

Insider Tip: Visit on a Friday evening for “Sundown Sessions,” featuring live acoustic music. Arrive by 5:30 PM to secure a west-facing table. Valet is available, and parking validation is offered with a $25 minimum spend.

2. The Terrace at The Waterfront Beach Resort

Location: 1200 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802

Discovery Method: Found via Google Images search for “Long Beach rooftop sunset,” then verified on the resort’s website and Yelp.

Experience: Open seasonally (March–October), this open-air terrace offers panoramic ocean views and a relaxed, resort-style vibe. The menu includes craft cocktails, local wines, and small plates like shrimp tacos and charcuterie boards. Live DJs play on weekends.

Insider Tip: The terrace is dog-friendly. Bring your pup and request a corner table near the railing. Happy hour runs 4–6 PM daily with $8 cocktails and $6 appetizers. Reservations are strongly recommended after 6 PM.

3. The Rooftop at The Shoreline

Location: 121 E 1st St, Long Beach, CA 90802

Discovery Method: Discovered through a Reddit post in r/LongBeach titled “Hidden rooftop bar with no sign?”

Experience: Tucked above a boutique hotel, this intimate, unmarked rooftop is a local secret. No signage on the street—enter through the hotel lobby and take the elevator to the 5th floor. The vibe is cozy and artsy, with string lights, vintage furniture, and a curated vinyl playlist. Drinks are affordable, and the view overlooks downtown’s skyline.

Insider Tip: Ask for the “Secret Menu”—a handwritten list of cocktails not printed on the main menu. The “Downtown Mule” is a standout. No reservations accepted; arrive before 7 PM to guarantee seating. Parking is free after 7 PM in the adjacent public lot.

FAQs

Are rooftop bars in Long Beach open year-round?

No, many rooftop bars operate seasonally, typically from March through October, due to coastal weather patterns. Some, like The Rooftop at The Westin, offer year-round access with heating and covered seating, but others close entirely during colder months. Always verify current operating status before visiting.

Do I need a reservation for rooftop bars in Long Beach?

It depends on the venue. Upscale or hotel-based rooftops like The Westin or The Waterfront Beach Resort strongly recommend or require reservations, especially on weekends. Smaller, independent spots like The Rooftop at The Shoreline operate on a first-come, first-served basis. When in doubt, book ahead to avoid disappointment.

Can I bring my pet to rooftop bars in Long Beach?

Some rooftop bars are pet-friendly, particularly those attached to resorts or with large outdoor patios. The Terrace at The Waterfront Beach Resort welcomes dogs. Others may allow service animals only. Always call ahead or check the venue’s website before bringing your pet.

What’s the best time to visit a rooftop bar in Long Beach?

For the best views and atmosphere, arrive 30–45 minutes before sunset. This gives you time to settle in, order drinks, and enjoy the transition from daylight to twilight. Happy hour (4–7 PM) is ideal for budget-conscious visitors.

Are rooftop bars in Long Beach expensive?

Prices vary. Upscale venues charge $16–$22 for cocktails, while casual spots offer drinks for $10–$14. Happy hour deals can reduce prices by 30–50%. Food menus typically range from $12–$20 per item. Overall, Long Beach rooftop bars are more affordable than those in Los Angeles or San Francisco.

Is there parking available near rooftop bars?

Yes, but options vary. Many venues offer valet service or parking validation with a minimum spend. Public parking structures are available downtown, with rates ranging from $3–$15 per hour. Ride-sharing is often the most convenient option, especially near the waterfront.

Can I visit a rooftop bar without dining or drinking?

Most rooftop bars require a minimum purchase to access the space, especially if it’s part of a hotel or private venue. However, some allow you to purchase a single drink to enjoy the view. Always ask when you arrive.

Are rooftop bars kid-friendly?

Generally, no. Most rooftop bars are adults-only venues, especially after 6 PM. Some, like The Terrace at The Waterfront Beach Resort, allow children during daytime hours. Always check the venue’s policy before bringing minors.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect rooftop bar in Long Beach is less about luck and more about strategy. By combining digital research, local insights, visual platforms, and firsthand verification, you can uncover venues that offer not just drinks and views—but truly memorable experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the glittering harbor lights of The Rooftop at The Westin, the resort-style charm of The Terrace at The Waterfront Beach Resort, or the hidden intimacy of The Rooftop at The Shoreline, the key is to plan ahead, verify details, and embrace the rhythm of the city’s coastal nightlife.

Remember: the best rooftop bars aren’t always the most advertised. Often, they’re the ones whispered about in Facebook groups, captured in Instagram Stories at golden hour, or revealed by a friendly bartender who knows the secret menu. Use the tools, follow the best practices, and trust your curiosity. Long Beach’s skyline is waiting—and with the right approach, you’ll find the perfect perch to enjoy it.