Posted: Friday, Mar 8th, 2024

By Visit Ventura

5 Must Visit Unique Cocktail Bars in Ventura, CA

Welcome to Ventura, where the coastal breeze mixes perfectly with sipping on a craft cocktail on an outside patio. During the day, you can find plenty of ways to play outside and enjoy our green hills and crowd-free ocean beaches. At night, find a lively Main Street lined with live music, breweries, and elevated cocktail bars. With our charming downtown and its walkable streets, Ventura has plenty to do for a night out on the town with your friends and family. And what better way to experience Ventura’s nightlife than checking out some unique cocktail bars in Ventura?

If you’re looking for a unique cocktail bar in Ventura, read on for five must-try spots to spice up the night!

VenTiki Tiki Lounge and Lanai

Ventiki cocktails in ventura

Start the night off at VenTiki, a local staple. Step into a tropical paradise with fun tiki glasses, palm trees, and a pretty lowkey atmosphere. VenTiki is known for its famous Mai Tai which is an absolute must-try if this is your first time at VenTiki (the Hurricane is another great choice)! There are plenty of items on the food menu as well to make it a meal. Hang out outside on their patio and enjoy the sunshine during the day, or, if you’re coming at night, sit by their outdoor fire pit. VenTiki is a truly unique cocktail bar in Ventura that is a must-visit during a night out in town or for happy hour!

Rocks and Drams

Step into Rocks and Drams for an elevated night out. Blending an old Hollywood feel with modern and elevated cocktails, if you’re looking for a sophisticated drink, Rocks and Drams is for you. The mixologists at Rocks and Drams pay attention to the little details — just look for their ice cube that’s stamped with their name. Sit inside at the bar or on a cozy velvet green couch and spend the evening hanging out with your friends. Don’t miss out on ordering food at Rocks and Drams either — the garlic noodles are killer. Starting at Rocks and Drams is a great way to start the night out!

The Saloon

Late night spots in Ventura: The Saloon

A popular spot for a younger crowd, head to the Saloon for a taste of the Wild West with a modern twist. Their dancefloor is always packed making the Saloon the perfect stop to dance the night away. Plus, it won’t be hard to find something delicious on their cocktail menu (try A Starry Night!). With a lively atmosphere and great drinks, The Saloon is a great choice if you’re looking for a unique cocktail bar in Ventura. 

Strange Beast

Head over to Strange Beast for incredible cocktails and an Asian-inspired menu. When you walk in you might second guess where you are — are you in Ventura or a cool, moody izakaya in Tokyo? Neon signs and vintage rock and roll posters line the walls of Strange Beast, making it the perfect spot to have a killer cocktail in Ventura. Known for its eclectic decor and innovative drinks, this bar is a favorite among locals. Try the Ube Pina Colada and their handrolls! Strange Beast is truly a unique cocktail bar in Ventura that you have to check out!

Bank of Italy Cocktail Trust

Bank of Italy Cocktail Trust

Housed in a historic building, this cocktail bar pays homage to Ventura’s past with its speakeasy-inspired ambiance. Slip into a cozy booth or hang out at the bar. A favorite stop for a night out in Ventura, a craft cocktail enthusiast won’t be disappointed by the drink menu. Try their popular Guiseppe the Wise for an easy drink. Bank of Italy Cocktail Trust is the perfect example of Ventura mixologists at their finest — whatever drink you sip on for the night you’ll love.

These five unique cocktail bars in Ventura are great places to check out during a night out in Downtown Ventura. But there are a ton of other spots all across town that promise an awesome and memorable evening. Check out our Cozy Restaurant and Comfort Food Guide here and a guide to Ventura’s Happy Hour spots here. Cheers!

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