Navy Beach, Montauk
There's really nothing more “summer” to us than the feel of warm sand under our toes while simultaneously sipping on a strong cocktail, amidst a cool salty breeze. Heavenly. And after a crazy beach dance party last week in Montauk, we think we more than proved we were born to be beach bums.
Now that we’re bi-coastal, the waterfront has been beckoning us for some extra quality time this summer–and we’re happy to oblige. Which is why we've been scouting our favorite spots in New York and Cali where we can experience the ultimate summer combination: booze + beach. To get you through the summer, here’s a list of our favorite ocean-side spots on both coasts. Surf’s up!
New York:
Navy Beach, 16 Navy Road, Montauk, (631)-668-6868
Step in Navy Beach in Montauk and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a family’s beach house meets yacht club, but without all the pretense. Nautical themed and overlooking the water, Navy Beach serves up signature cocktails and a killer menu from Chef Paul Labue. In fact, we're considering moving in. We especially like the nautical décor touch they've added to the place–flags that spell out “drink." Clearly, we're on the same page.
The Surf Lodge, 183 South Edgemere Street, Montauk, (631)-668-1562
We’ve clocked an embarrassing amount of time at The Surf Lodge, because you’ll always find Kanon behind the bar here. A laid-back surfer style attitude makes this a great spot along the water (not technically on the beach, but we love a lakeside view too) to grab a drink whenever we Jitney our way to Montauk for the weekends. There’s the occasional live music performance, food by chef Sam Talbot, and a great looking crowd each time we go. Done deal.
Ruschmeyers, 161 2nd House Road, Montauk (631)-668-2877
Ben Pundole's latest Montauk project is like a childhood fantasy–but for the over 21 crowd (queue the vodka). With teepees, kite boarding, biking and a slew of other lakeside activities, Ruschmeyers lets us relive our memories from summer camp all season long. Plus, the guys behind NYC's The Fat Radish are heading up the restaurant menu. A winning combination.
Water Taxi Beach, South Street Seaport, North side of Pier 17, New York City (212)-896-4600
You don’t always have to travel far and wide to find the comforts of a beach (especially if you live in NYC). Which is why when we’re feeling beachy minus that whole transportation thing, we’ll grab a drink at the Water Taxi Beach along the waterfront near the South Street Seaport. The sand may be imported, but we're OK with that. Drinks and a great view of the Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges are reason enough for a visit.
Ricky’s Crabby Cowboy, 435 East Lake Drive, Montauk, (631)-668-3200
Besides being among the most cleverly-named bars we’ve been to, it’s also among the most fun. We danced the night away here for Shark Attack Soundz last week and let’s just say, we haven’t stopped talking about how much fun we had. Bonus: they have an awesome fresh seafood menu (lobster rolls! Fish ‘n chips!)– you can even make s’mores by the firepits.
California:
Duke's Malibu, 21150 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu (310)-317-0777
If any place can transport us to the shores of Hawaii without having to board a plane, it's Duke's in Malibu. And that's a very, very good thing to have in your back pocket come summer. Plus, their seasonal Barefoot Bar and regular schedule of beach parties always keeps us coming back for more.
Rusty Pelican, 2735 West Coast Highway, Newport Beach, (949)-642-3431
With a fantastic view of Newport Harbor, the Rusty Pelican is a welcome spot for anything from a brunch with friends to an intimate date night out. We especially love their seafood selection (Alaskan King Crab, anyone?). And the drinks–well, we can't complain on that end either. Next time you find yourself cruising through Newport, definitely give this one a look. You won't regret it.
Union 101, 1108 South Coast Highway 101 (at the corner of J Street), Encinitas, (760)- 230-2337
The recently opened Union’s motto is “Devoted to the craft,” and we love their commitment to a great atmosphere and of course, cocktail menu. Located in Encinitas near the water, we don’t have a hard time finding something delicious to eat and imbibe here–especially because yours truly is stocked behind the bar.
The Lobster, 1602 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, (310)-458-9294
With an ocean-side view of the historic Santa Monica Pier, The Lobster, is the perfect place to chow down on delicious seafood while taking in a great sunset–and a refreshing summer cocktail. There's nothing that spells out summer quite like a lobster dinner with a side of vodka, if you ask us.
Venice Whaler Bar & Grill, 10 Washington Blvd (at Venice Boardwalk), Venice (310)-821-8737
We love the quirky, youthful vibe of Venice Beach– and amongst our favorite spots along the fishing pier is the Venice Whaler Bar & Grill. It's got all the makings for a fun night out: live music, cocktails, live sporting event screenings, and of course, a Pacific sunset every night. Not too shabby.
