13 Best Cocktail Bars in Marina Del Rey

“Such a fabulous gem in the marina with a retro-plush- nautical dinning room, an outside patio tiki bar over looking the boats and a dim lit swanky bar inside with a fire place, great art and tasty tunes that throw you back to a generation you might have never lived, yet still feels nostalgic. Food is an innovative twist on the classics with cocktails that broaden your drinking horizons. Service is great and the hospitality is neighborly. Cool for a place for a sip and a bite, but will easily be your main event for the evening. Highly recommend exploring all the vibes they have to offer.“

“Walking into Old Lightning feels like stepping into Pablo Moix’s private whiskey collection—rare, curated, and full of bottles you’ve only seen in photos. Hidden behind Scopa, the bar features an incredible lineup of high-end spirits: single cask Springbanks, rare Willetts, unique Balvenies, and other bottles you’ll probably never see again. Prices are high (sometimes maybe a bit too high), but you're paying for access to some truly special stuff.

What really makes this place stand out, though, is Oscar. He’s not just pouring drinks—he’s setting the tone for the whole experience. Super knowledgeable, but never pretentious. Inviting, energetic, and clearly passionate about what he does. He listens to what you like, asks the right questions, and then somehow nails exactly what you were in the mood for—whether that’s a rare pour or a killer cocktail you didn’t even know you wanted. His energy really brings the whole vibe together and makes it feel less like a fancy bar and more like a personal tasting experience.

If you're into whiskey or just curious to try something you won’t get anywhere else, it’s definitely worth visiting.“

“The work that these people do and the children's lives that they touch is awesome ❤️“

“We had the pleasure eating at Baja Cantina yesterday. Delicious food, we had mushroom tacos, chicken fajitas and watermelon margeritas. The best host David, a gentle giant, softspoken and polite - what a great asset to the Baja Cantina team 👏“

“I’ve always wanted to see the turtle racing! I loved it, and April, the turtle vet was really cool and told me all about how they take care of the turtles. Be aware, I showed up and I felt like the oldest person there! (I’m 42) This is a college kid night and if you’re down for that energy, it’s really fun.“

“Indians right on the way to the pier with nice outdoor seating. Map clear, service friendly and attentive. It was a little cooler in the evening and we had our own heater at the table. Cocktails ? well mixed and round off an evening on site. The food was well seasoned and the size was appropriate for the price/performance ratio. We always find a place and there is always a place to sit for a longer time - check only when asked and not, as is often the case, directly at the table - so this is particularly pleasant for European guests... Parking at the pier is subject to a charge depending on time/day $5-20

Parking: 3min walk from the pier/parking lot. Fees apply. On public holidays it can be crowded in the evenings but never a problem during the week“

“I celebrated my Birthday with my family today. The food was delicious and the atmosphere was amazing!!“

“Was just there week ago food always fresh hot staff always great helpful. 10-10 for sure“

“Nice walk-up bar with great food at the pool deck area at the Ritz-Carlton, Marina Del Rey. The staff is very friendly and helpful; they have numerous servers walking the pool deck to take orders, deliver eats & drinks and make sure the guests stay well-fed and hydrated! They also have outdoor seating at the restaurant patio, some with a fire pit. During our few days staying at this property, they came around about once an hour with free samples of drinks and snacks to try, which was really nice.“

“Delicious and inviting ambiance.....the place is very nice“

“Kai is an amazing chef. The food is flavorful and everything that you need. He has an a lovely variety of selections. The environment is inviting and positive. The staff is courteous, professional and friendly. The music is just what you need to enjoy a day or night out with your friends, colleagues, family, etc. I'm definitely coming back!!“

“Beautiful place. Pet-friendly. Great service. Tasty food.“

“Went here for the first time last week for Cinco de Mayo, and it was a vibe. I love the glow-in-the-dark wall painting and the dimly lit, chill atmosphere. Food, drinks, and service were excellent. I will definitely be back, especially for the pineapple margaritas 🍹“