45 Best Dive Bars near Santa Ana

“Great place for drinks bartender was awesome and super nice. Great beer selection and great music too“

“Fantastic classic rock cover bands every night from 9pm to 1am! Great bar selection and drinks are priced right.“

“Showed up with my boy who was visiting from out of town. Never been to a lounge or bar in Santa Ana before. This is definitely the neighborhood spot, but they made me and my friend feel like regulars.

Claudia hooked it up with the libations. She made it happen. I mean you won’t get Clase Azul here but you’ll get first class food and service.

I had no idea the food was going to be on point as it was and it surprised me. You expect bar food, but this food is on another level. Fresh made tortilla chips served hot with mouth watering and juicy tacos. I had the asada and al pastor. Served hot and fresh.

Claudia and the chef Josh made it real nice for the experience. I highly recommend if you’re in Santa Ana. It’s dark in there so when we came out the doors at 5p you definitely need sun shades or time to adjust.

It’s a perfect vibe in there. Lookout for the baby giraffe!“

“Love this place. Sleepy little dive bar with hands down, the most hilarious K.J. on Wednesday nights. Service is always fast and happy to see you. Pool tables are always clean and ready to go. Only complaint. I really wish they served pitchers. Easily my favorite place to spend a Wednesday night.“

“A MUST go. As a veteran and parent to an active service member who was in the area during military training this place is a must go for all veterans or military members. The pizza is out of this world and probably top two of the best I’ve ever had in my life. The atmosphere is great and Johnny is a class act guy.“

“It’s a wonderful place to hang“

“This bar is clean and the prices are great!!! Friendly bartenders and patrons �“

“Always a blast at the Blarney Stone! Regulars that will make your day and bartenders that know your drink! They are hard working and great people you will love them all no matter who is working! All the memories and Great Wall decor it’s worth checking it all out! Different things going on all the time no matter what day of the week! I go every time I visit Orange county! You may just find your people here !! Cheers!
(Also.. you can get food next door , just ask and anyone will tell ya! I recommend the carne asada fries)
Forever grateful for the people I have met here!“

“EVERYTHING. this bar is fantastic. cute atmosphere, incredible staff, great drinks. Ask jesse for a pistachio shot.“

“Just saw s blurb where some creek water customers left 20$ on a 400 tab. Then the SD is catching hell over posting it? And worse yet, some people were of the opinion that the tip tip was fine! All those people that bashed The SD, are people you never want in your establishment. If you cant tip stay your cheap ass home“

“This place is an absolute gem in Costa Mesa. I stopped in for a drink and the atmosphere is exactly what you want from a local spot. It is vibrant, laid back, and full of character.

I really enjoyed the setup. The walls are covered in so many unique stickers that you could spend an hour just looking at them. It makes for such a cool, personal vibe while you enjoy your beer.

Everything was perfect for a relaxing night out. Whether you are grabbing a pint or just hanging out at the bar, it is a great time. I will definitely be back.“

“Laid back with classic rock, some hip-hop and alternative. Good deals on drinks when you’re there early. Nice owner and locals“

“First time here on a Thursday afternoon/evening.
It is a chill vibe.
On my last two beers 🍻🍺 then I am out.
Nice to find this little hidden 💎 in Westminster from being a Veteran alcoholic I know better to be in these type of Bars on the weekends unless I know everyone personally
My first impression cool to chill and get away on a slow day.
With people straight off of work like me mellow.“

“LOVE the GOAT‼️♥️ 1st place I headed on my last day to begin my RETIREMENT‼️ Life is good‼️😃“

“A strip mall bar, that is exactly what it should be. Locals at the bar, cheap drinks and a jukebox playing. Will return for the drink prices alone and I'll stay for the good vibes.
Also the beer selection was excellent. Just good ol' reliable classics. Not a whole lot for the beer nerds but this isn't really that kinda place.“

“The Pen is a local pool bar , the people are all pretty friendly . It's a kick back , easy going , mostly grown up place to hang out and kill some time at . It's clean and respectful , sports on the tube and always music for the ear .“

“Bartender Jonny was very welcoming and knowledgeable. Affordable drinks. Plenty of TVs. 3 pool tables. 1 juke box. Plenty of interesting characters. Give it a shot.“

“Fun place bartenders are nice, They host Pool league and a Dart league several nights a week dart players are older folks who can be slightly rude but otherwise fun place for any night of the week they have TouchTunes jukebox that has an app you can pick almost any song you can think of it's fun“

“If you're looking for a true Newport Beach classic, Cassidy's Bar & Grill is one of those places that absolutely deserves a visit. Whether you're stopping in after a day at the beach, bar hopping through the Peninsula, or just looking for a place with great people and cold beer, Cassidy's delivers every single time.

One of the first things you'll notice is how professional and hardworking the security staff is. Tai, Will, Troy, and Saed do an incredible job keeping the place safe and making sure everyone has a good time. They're respectful, approachable, and always on top of things, but here's a friendly piece of advice... don't screw with them. They're there to keep the atmosphere fun for everyone, and they do that job exceptionally well.

The bartenders are just as awesome. Both Dereks and Brian have always treated me like family. They're fast, friendly, know how to keep the drinks flowing, and somehow remember faces even after a packed weekend. Great bartenders can make or break a neighborhood bar, and these guys are a huge reason Cassidy's has built such a loyal following over the years.

And let's talk about the food.

The burgers are seriously underrated. They're exactly what you'd hope for after a few beers, fresh, juicy, cooked right, and absolutely hit the spot. Whether you're grabbing lunch or trying to recover from a long night out, you won't leave disappointed. Voted best in all of Orange County multiple times, dont forget the sauce!

What really makes Cassidy's special, though, is the atmosphere. It's one of those rare bars where locals, visitors, regulars, and first timers all seem to fit right in. The conversations come easy, the staff makes you feel welcome, and every visit has the potential to become another great story.

As the founder of Beerslut, I can honestly say places like Cassidy's have inspired a lot of our blog stories and even some of our clothing designs just like Beachball & Baja Sharkies. It's a genuine neighborhood bar with personality, history, and the kind of authentic Newport Beach character that's becoming harder to find.
Its honestly my absolute favorite for a plethora of reasons.

If you're in Newport Beach and want to experience a real local institution dive bar instead of just another trendy spot, put Cassidy's Bar & Grill at the top of your list.“

“Great little place to have a quick drink or spend a Friday or Saturday night. They have multiple TV sets for watching the game,two pool tables and an old school shuffle board .the place is clean and even they bathrooms were kept clean and fresh.The bartender was a beautiful young woman with an affectionate smile and was busy and still made sure to c g neck on her customers and make sure they were good.i would recommend this spot over any other in the Tustin area come down to nite it's always funn“

“My wife and I were on vacation from AZ and visited this great dive bar three times. Everyone treated us like regulars and we fit right in. Bartenders and the patrons were all so welcoming and nice. The AZ couple will be back every time we visit Huntington Beach. Thanks for the hospitality, shots, and ride to the airport!“

“Newport Beach in my opinion is one of the best beaches for young families. The beach itself is flat, easy to walk on, and continues out into the water. Small waves that run along the beach make it easy and confidence-building for the little ones. Very clean, bathrooms are close, and lifeguards are present and very active. Parking is the only factor that might take a bit. You have to cruise the parking lot to find someone pulling out.“

“Great selection of pool-side food and drinks. The hours are a little limited 12pm - 6pm. Side of French Fries were absolutely fantastic and cost $10. Had a virgin strawberry daiquiri which was from a mix but still was descent. The chips and guacamole plate looked really good. Great way to relax at the Westin poolside and treat yourself to good food.“

“love this place I always enjoy myself when I go met new friends while I was there“

“Great place love going there !“

“It's an Awesome place to have a drink and Par-tay the cocktail waitresses we're a total blast my band played there Saturday Oct 29th and we were treated with the best of respect by all can't wait to come back and play again .. Switch-Blade Rocks !“

“If you are into dive bars, this is a good one. It's actually really chill inside and the patrons that come here are just looking to have a good time and maybe chat with some cool bikini bartenders.
We usually stop in after a game for some pool and drinks and have always had great service and not too long of a wait for a game of pool. Drinks are average to good prices and the girls are quick with the service.
Solid 5 stars for the atmosphere and service.“

“Reviewed this place on yelp as well! I come here almost every night and adore it. Truly feels like a second home (with a lot more booze- lol) If you get to meet the bartender Kat you’re in for the best time. I’ve adored her since the minute she started there. I haven’t seen her as much lately- hope that changes. Other than that, this place is truly the best local bar in Orange County.“

“Been a nice place for many years to sit have a beer, catch a game or sip some wine with a date. My favorite is shooting the breeze or some pool. Serving staff always cordial and with a smile. Pretty decent selection of Taps, bottle and canned beers. Lots of Big Screens to boot“

“Great dive bar. Pool and darts“

“While I will get personal in this review to a degree, I will also be completely honest. The people you meet at ruby's are a mixed bunch between wonderful and terrible. Though that speaks of the patrons. Among which I have met what might as well be a brother to me, an only child naturally. A father to me, someone raised by a single mother. As well as plenty of friends who care... but also those who'd just take advantage, the good people far outweighed the bad. The ownership is up in the air right now due to a divorce where either potential option has their perks and I'll remain neutral despite saying that the husband's choice in manager needs to learn humility and how to speak to people, an issue many young managers face and must learn in the field when first given a leadership position. As well as the wife's choice could stand to learn when to say no. Regardless though during their personal issue, the staff remains strong and solid. Bartenders who genuinely care enough to personally make sure customers get home safe and sound, as well as give a chance to noble souls amongst the downtrodden, and I speak as someone in love with one and living with one as well.. when alone and broken before, and it was more than one of them, nearly all of them who put in an effort towards helping me through multiple deaths in the family as well as my partner of 10 years leaving me. They are trusting, sometimes too much for their own good, and there is a reason I make the drive from lake Elsinore to anaheim more often than not, and rarely their westminster location still despite the options in between. I have faith in ruby's, it's regulars, and it's staff... no matter who leads it between Cherie and Mike, I know so long as it maintains its spirit, it can and will survive and do well. And I say this as someone with their popularity in reviews based mostly in negative truths. Ruby's sports bar is one of few establishments I place faith and trust in. And if anyone who reads this finds me there, let me know and we'll take a shot on me to Ruby's and the hope and memories it creates!“

“Invited my friend for her Bday treat and was not disappointed 🤩 steak was melting in my mouth and my friend said that fillet mignon was super tender !! potatoes and veggies simply delicious 😋 very good service and atmosphere 🥰 highly recommended 5⭐️👌“

“It’s a great place to have a beer.“

“How is it I've owned a business in Orange for 14 years and this is the first time I've been to the Olive Pit?! I missed out! Lovely, sweet, lovely welcoming lovely bartenders (Friday noonish). Patrons welcomed my wife and I even though we were strangers. Love the funky, backside-below location. We'll be back!“

“Great spot to visit with Friends and or Family for drinks on a Friday or Saturday night. Mix drinks range from $12 - 14 bucks which is a good deal especially because the surrounding Bars charge more. If you have not been to Paul's Bar in Orange, I would recommend that you stop by for a few drinks especially if you want to Bar hop at the downtown orange circle.

Parking: If you go on a Friday or Saturday night during summer, I recommend Uber or carpool.“

“Friday night Prime Rib is the best you’ll ever have...“

“Love the atmosphere, everyone that walks in just wants to have a drink, a good time and make friends... Best little dive bar in Costa Mesa and Penny is the coolest bar tender :-)“

“The bansTumbleweed are great me and my friend are there almost every Friday and Saturday night. That’s how much we love Tumbleweed.“

“A + Beers and Service --- 1/2 Price of the Hipsters bars.“

“LOVE the GOAT‼️♥️ 1st place I headed on my last day to begin my RETIREMENT‼️ Life is good‼️😃“

“This bar is rocking! Great music, bar maids, and cool crowd!“

“I came to visit the store next door. Decided to walk in. I was greeted with one of if not the most appropriate greeting a dive bar bartender can give you if their goal is to make me a regular. If you are not a dive bar fan... We understand.“

“I have only great memories of the Beach Ball in the early 1980's when Phil Johnson was owner or manager. Beach Ball always had a live band on Sunday afternoons. Great drinks great people great memories and times“

“We always have good time at cups Bartender. Steph“