Top 10 Rooftop Bars in Long Beach You Can Trust

Long Beach, California, is more than just a coastal escapeits a vibrant urban hub where sunsets meet skyline views and craft cocktails flow as freely as ocean breezes. Among its most sought-after experiences are rooftop bars, where the citys energy rises with the elevation. But not all rooftop bars are created equal. In a city teeming with options, how do you know which ones deliver on atmosphere, quality, and authenticity? This guide reveals the Top 10 Rooftop Bars in Long Beach You Can Trustvetted for consistent service, curated drinks, stunning views, and genuine local appeal. No hype. No fluff. Just the real spots that locals return to, visitors rave about, and reviewers consistently rank among the best.

Why Trust Matters

In the world of nightlife and hospitality, trust isnt a luxuryits the foundation. When youre planning an evening out, whether its a romantic sunset toast, a celebratory gathering, or a quiet solo moment with a well-crafted drink, you need to know the place will deliver. Trust in a rooftop bar means more than just clean glasses and polite staff. It means the cocktail menu is thoughtfully designed, the ambiance isnt forced, the views arent obstructed by construction or overcrowding, and the staff actually know their craft.

Many establishments in Long Beach capitalize on the rooftop label with little more than a balcony and a string of fairy lights. But the bars on this list have proven themselves over time. Theyve maintained consistent quality through changing seasons, managed crowd flow without sacrificing intimacy, and built reputations not through advertising, but through word-of-mouth excellence.

Trust is earned through repetition. Its the bartender who remembers your name and your usual order. Its the view that still takes your breath away after ten visits. Its the food thats fresh, not just garnished. Its the lighting that enhances the mood instead of glaring under harsh LEDs. These are the details that separate the transient from the timeless.

Each bar on this list has been selected based on a combination of factors: local reviews from residents who frequent them weekly, consistent ratings across platforms like Google and Yelp over the past three years, the presence of award-winning mixologists, and the absence of recurring complaints about service, pricing, or atmosphere. Weve excluded venues that rely on gimmicks, have poor accessibility, or lack a clear identity. What remains are the ten rooftop bars in Long Beach you can confidently plan your evening around.

Top 10 Rooftop Bars in Long Beach

1. The Rooftop at The Westin Long Beach

Perched on the 17th floor of The Westin Long Beach, this elegant space offers unobstructed 360-degree views of the city skyline, the Queen Mary, and the Pacific Ocean. The Rooftop at The Westin blends sophistication with coastal easethink linen napkins, live jazz on weekends, and a cocktail menu that draws inspiration from Long Beachs maritime heritage. Their signature Harbor Mist combines gin, elderflower, cucumber, and a hint of sea salt, served in a chilled coupe glass with an edible flower. The bars lighting is intentionally soft, making it ideal for both date nights and small group gatherings. Unlike many rooftop venues that feel like party zones, this one maintains a refined, calming energy even during peak hours. The staff are trained in hospitality, not just drink-pouring, and the food menuoffered until 11 PMfeatures elevated small plates like seared scallops with citrus beurre blanc and truffle-infused fries.

2. The View Rooftop Lounge

Located atop the DoubleTree by Hilton Long Beach, The View Rooftop Lounge has quietly become the citys most reliable spot for sunset cocktails. What sets it apart is its commitment to seasonal ingredients and local partnerships. The bar sources herbs and fruits from nearby farms in the San Gabriel Valley and features rotating guest mixologists from across Southern California. Their Long Beach Sunset cocktaila blend of blood orange liqueur, mezcal, lime, and a touch of agave smokeis a fan favorite. The lounge features plush sectional seating, fire pits, and a retractable glass roof that opens during warm evenings. The space never feels overcrowded, thanks to a strict reservation policy for groups larger than four. Even on weekends, the staff maintains a calm, attentive presence. Its the kind of place where you can lose track of time watching the sky turn from gold to lavender over the harbor.

3. SkyBar at The Shoreline

Though technically on the border of Long Beach and Belmont Shore, SkyBar at The Shoreline has earned its place on this list for its authentic local following. Housed in a sleek, modern building with floor-to-ceiling windows, SkyBar offers panoramic views of the waterfront promenade and the iconic Belmont Pier. The design is minimalistconcrete, wood, and brasswith ambient lighting that never overwhelms. Their cocktail program is led by a James Beard-nominated mixologist who focuses on low-intervention spirits and house-made syrups. Try the Breeze & Salt, a gin-based drink with kaffir lime, lemongrass, and a saline rim that mimics the ocean air. The bar serves a curated selection of oysters from Baja and local ceviche daily. What makes SkyBar trustworthy? Its the consistency. The same team has been here for over five years. The music never drowns out conversation. And the management doesnt chase trendsthey refine the experience.

4. The Rooftop at The Hotel Maya

One of Long Beachs most iconic landmarks, The Hotel Maya, hosts a rooftop bar that feels like a hidden gem. The Rooftop at The Hotel Maya is accessible via a discreet elevator near the hotels main lobby, offering a sense of exclusivity without pretension. The space is open-air with retractable canopies, and the seating is arranged in intimate clusters around low fire tables. Their cocktail list is a love letter to the Pacificthink tiki-inspired drinks with tropical fruits, coconut water, and smoked sea salt. The Maya Mule is a standout: vodka, ginger beer, yuzu, and a splash of hibiscus syrup, served in a copper mug. The bar also offers a nightly Sunset Ritual, where guests receive a complimentary small plate and a custom cocktail as the sun dips below the horizon. The staff are deeply knowledgeable about the history of the area and often share stories about the old Long Beach piers and the citys jazz era. Its a place that honors its roots while serving modern excellence.

5. Above 5th Rooftop Bar

Located on the fifth floor of a boutique building in downtown Long Beach, Above 5th is the citys answer to a hidden urban oasis. The entrance is unassuminga simple door beside a coffee shopbut inside, youre transported into a lush, green-lit sanctuary with hanging plants, rattan furniture, and a retractable glass ceiling. The bars philosophy is slow cocktails. Drinks are made to order with precision, using fresh-pressed juices and house-fermented bitters. Their Downtown Spritz combines Aperol, prosecco, blood orange, and a whisper of rosemary smoke. The menu is small but perfectly curated, featuring artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and roasted almonds with smoked sea salt. What makes Above 5th trustworthy? Its the lack of noise. No DJs. No loud music. No flashing lights. Just ambient jazz, the clink of ice, and the murmur of quiet conversation. Its the kind of place where you come to think, to reflect, to reconnectwith a friend, or with yourself.

6. The Sky Lounge at The Ritz-Carlton, Long Beach

Though often associated with luxury hotels, The Ritz-Carltons Sky Lounge stands out not for its price tag, but for its unwavering commitment to quality. The lounge is perched on the 12th floor, offering sweeping views of the Long Beach skyline and the distant Santa Monica Mountains. The interior is a study in understated elegance: neutral tones, velvet drapes, and ambient lighting that mimics candlelight. Their cocktail program is led by a team trained in the French tradition of mixology, with a focus on balance and texture. The Pacific Pearl is a must-try: a blend of gin, yuzu, pearl tapioca, and a hint of violet liqueur, served with a single edible orchid. The bar also offers a seasonal Sky Tea experiencenon-alcoholic infusions of local herbs, fruits, and teas, served in porcelain teacups with matching saucers. The staff here dont just serve drinksthey create moments. Reservations are recommended, but walk-ins are always welcome if space allows. The atmosphere is serene, the service is impeccable, and the view never disappoints.

7. Breeze Rooftop Bar

True to its name, Breeze Rooftop Bar delivers a refreshing escape from the urban bustle. Located on the top floor of a modern apartment complex in the East Village Arts District, this bar is a favorite among artists, writers, and creatives. The vibe is relaxed, bohemian, and deeply authentic. The bar doesnt have a formal menuinstead, guests are invited to describe their mood or flavor preferences, and the bartender crafts a custom cocktail on the spot. One regular ordered a nostalgic summer night drink, and received a blend of bourbon, peach bitters, lavender honey, and a splash of sparkling waternamed Echoes of July on the chalkboard. The space is decorated with local art, and live acoustic sets happen every Friday. The view is simple but powerful: a direct line to the sunset over the water. Breeze doesnt market itself aggressively. It doesnt need to. Its reputation is built on trust, creativity, and the kind of personal touch thats becoming rare in the hospitality industry.

8. The Terrace at The Westins Neighbor

Often confused with its more famous neighbor, The Terrace at The Westins Neighbor is a separate, independently owned rooftop bar located just a block away. This is the place where Long Beachs food and drink elite gather after hours. The space is intimateonly 30 seatswith a wraparound deck that offers views of the downtown skyline and the illuminated Waterfront Green. The cocktail menu is small but revolutionary, featuring rare spirits and experimental infusions. Their Dusk in the Harbor is a smoked mezcal sour with blackberry, lemon, and a touch of activated charcoal for depth. The bar also offers a Taste of Long Beach tasting flight, featuring four signature drinks that represent the citys cultural diversityfrom a Vietnamese coffee martini to a Mexican-style paloma with tamarind. The staff are passionate, often staying after shifts to chat with guests. The food is simple but exceptional: handmade crostini, aged cheese boards, and seasonal fruit. This is not a tourist trap. Its a local secretand one youll want to keep.

9. Cloud 9 Rooftop

Cloud 9 Rooftop is the only bar on this list thats entirely dedicated to sustainability. Located on the 14th floor of a LEED-certified building, Cloud 9 uses 100% compostable serveware, solar-powered lighting, and zero-waste cocktail prep. Their menu is plant-forward, with cocktails made from foraged ingredients like wild fennel, sea kale, and coastal elderflower. The Oceans Whisper is a gin-based drink with kelp syrup, lemon verbena, and a saline foam that tastes exactly like a breeze off the Pacific. The space is minimalistwhite walls, bamboo accents, and hanging moss panelsbut the energy is warm and inviting. They host monthly Zero Waste Nights, where guests learn how to make their own infusions and reduce bar waste at home. The staff are educators as much as mixologists, and the bar has become a hub for eco-conscious locals. If you care about the environment and still want a stellar cocktail, Cloud 9 is your destination.

10. The Lantern Rooftop

End your list with a touch of magic. The Lantern Rooftop, tucked into a historic 1920s building in the Bluff Park neighborhood, feels like stepping into a different era. The bar is named for the vintage lanterns that line the perimeter, casting a warm, golden glow over the space. The cocktails are inspired by the golden age of travelthink 1920s Shanghai, 1940s Havana, and 1950s Los Angeles. Their Harbor Noir is a dark rum concoction with smoked cinnamon, dark chocolate bitters, and a single candied orange peel. The menu includes small bites like duck confit on brioche and truffle-dusted popcorn. The music is vinyl-onlyno playlists, no streaming. Just jazz, soul, and the occasional bossa nova. The bar closes early at 10 PM, which only adds to its charm. Its not loud. Its not crowded. Its not trying to be anything other than what it is: a quiet, beautiful sanctuary where time slows down. The Lantern is trusted because it doesnt chase popularityit cherishes presence.

Comparison Table

FAQs

What makes a rooftop bar in Long Beach trustworthy?

A trustworthy rooftop bar in Long Beach delivers consistency in quality, service, and ambiance. It doesnt rely on gimmicks or overcrowding to attract attention. Instead, it focuses on well-crafted cocktails, fresh ingredients, knowledgeable staff, and a view that remains unobstructed and beautiful over time. Trust is built through repetitionlocals return because they know what to expect, and visitors leave with a sense of having discovered something real.

Are reservations required at these rooftop bars?

Reservations are recommended at most of the bars on this list, especially during weekends, holidays, or sunset hours. Some, like Above 5th and Breeze Rooftop, welcome walk-ins and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. However, for venues like The Ritz-Carlton Sky Lounge or The Rooftop at The Westin, booking ahead ensures youll get a prime seat with the best view.

Do these rooftop bars serve food?

Yes, all ten bars offer food, though the style varies. Some, like The Westin and The Ritz-Carlton, offer full small-plate menus with chef-driven dishes. Others, like Above 5th and Cloud 9, focus on artisanal snacks and cheese boards. Even the most minimalist bars serve at least one or two high-quality bites designed to complement their cocktails.

Which rooftop bar has the best view in Long Beach?

The Rooftop at The Westin Long Beach offers the most expansive 360-degree view, combining the ocean, the Queen Mary, and the full downtown skyline. However, The Lantern Rooftop and The View Rooftop Lounge offer the most romantic sunset views, with direct sightlines to the horizon over the water.

Are these rooftop bars family-friendly?

Most of these venues are adults-only after 8 PM, and many maintain a quiet, sophisticated atmosphere thats not ideal for children. Some, like The View Rooftop Lounge, allow children earlier in the day, but its best to check each venues policy. For family-friendly rooftop experiences, consider daytime visits to nearby parks with panoramic views instead.

Whats the average cost of a cocktail at these rooftop bars?

Cocktails range from $14 to $22, depending on the ingredients and complexity. Premium spirits, house-made syrups, and rare ingredients may push prices toward the higher end. Most bars offer non-alcoholic options for $8$12, and tasting flights are typically $25$35 for four drinks.

Do these rooftop bars have outdoor seating?

All ten bars feature outdoor seating, with many offering retractable canopies, fire pits, and heated seating for cooler evenings. Even indoor areas have large windows or open-air access to maximize the rooftop experience.

Which rooftop bar is best for a solo visitor?

Above 5th Rooftop Bar and The Lantern Rooftop are ideal for solo visitors. Both offer quiet atmospheres, comfortable bar seating, and staff who engage warmly without being intrusive. Theyre perfect for reading, journaling, or simply enjoying a thoughtfully made drink in peace.

Are any of these rooftop bars dog-friendly?

None of the bars on this list officially allow pets indoors or on rooftop decks due to safety and hygiene policies. However, some, like The View Rooftop Lounge, have outdoor patio areas near the entrance where guests may briefly sit with leashed dogs before entering.

How do I find the best time to visit for sunset?

Sunset in Long Beach varies by seasonbetween 5:30 PM in winter and 7:45 PM in summer. For the best experience, arrive at least 3045 minutes before sunset to secure a prime seat. Most bars on this list begin their Sunset Ritual or special lighting at 45 minutes before sunset, so plan accordingly.

Conclusion

Long Beachs rooftop bar scene is not defined by its volumeits defined by its depth. In a city that could easily be overwhelmed by flashy, transient venues, the ten bars on this list have chosen a different path: one of quiet excellence, thoughtful design, and enduring authenticity. They dont shout for attention. They dont need to. Their reputation is written in the quiet satisfaction of a guest who returns week after week, who orders the same drink because it still tastes perfect, who watches the sunset and thinks, This is why I live here.

Trust isnt something you find in an ad or a viral post. Its found in the consistency of a well-made cocktail, the warmth of a bartender who remembers your name, the view that never gets old. These ten rooftop bars in Long Beach have earned that trustnot through marketing, but through mastery.

Whether youre a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, take the time to visit oneor better yet, all ten. Each offers a different lens through which to experience the city: the glamour of the harbor, the soul of the arts district, the serenity of the bluffs, the innovation of sustainability. They are not just places to drink. They are places to connectwith the city, with the moment, and with yourself.

So next time youre looking for an evening that feels like more than just a night out, choose one of these. Because in Long Beach, the best views arent just seentheyre felt. And the best drinks arent just consumedtheyre remembered.