Callahan&#x27;s

Hands down Brady's yacht club was just fun is the easiest way to say it. We showed up Saturday,…read moreAugust 22, around 11:30 a.m. there were a few other patrons inside the bar and maybe two outside on the patio area and it was just Good vibes all around. The bartender that made our drinks, didn't tonic and bloody mary, was super personable and asta's general questions about where we were from and how we were spending our day today. We let her know that we're from the Sacramento area here for a wedding and she was all excited and said that we had a perfect day to come visit for a little bit before having to head to our wedding event. More than anything this place is meant for a good time. Come in with good vibes, big smile, and cash cuz it's a cash bar only, and you will have an amazing time. So happy that we stumbled upon this as we were right next door getting sandwiches for late lunch. Highly recommend swinging by this bar and having a good time.

I had the worst father's day and GRACE AND KAI made it all better, they took care of me, everything…read morewas clean and amazing and they made it feel like home. I've been here before and haven't met them but I did tonight and this was the best. Visit them, tip them, hell yeah

Karen's Bloody Mary double

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Glitter all I can say

The Redroom

3.4(486 reviews)

0.6 mi

Was my fav in college and now a must when I'm in Santa Cruz. The red room is pretty chill, although…read moreit does get busier on weekend nights. Friendly bartenders, ideal red everything vibes, and two rooms for seating options.

There are two floors! Downstairs and upstairs…read more Upstairs lounge is bigger with more tables and sofas for large groups. I like the red lighting throughout the whole place. It's a fun and unique vibe

Front room seating

Back room

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Mission West

4.7(51 reviews)

2.1 mi

Great drinks and ambience. Amy is my favorite bartender. She's an amazing person and part of the…read morecommunity. She lives in SC and is a fixture of our lovely neighborhood. Keep up the awesome work guys. Love your music and extra cold beer!

I've lived in Santa Cruz county for almost 10 years and haven't really visited a lot of bars in…read moretown. My sister came to visit so I looked up a few to check out and she liked their drink menu here so we checked it out. Walking in its divey inside, but I always love a good dive bar. The bartender was super friendly, happy to chat and offered us the drink list to look over. They had a pickle martini on the menu and that's what we opt'd for. I never had one before, but I DUG it. It's savory and a bit sour, love. We sat outside and they had pizza to order back there and line dancing happening. It was fun to watch the environment and people dancing. Good crowd of folks and friendly to conversation.

Cocktail

Pinche Paloma

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They have a pretty solid range of spirits!

Low Tide Bar And Grill

3.6(67 reviews)

1.1 mi

•$$$

We decided to try Low Tide for breakfast, and the experience started off well. The wait staff…read moregreeted us right away and let us choose our own table, which we appreciated, especially since it meant avoiding the nearby family with screaming kids. The restaurant has an open, beachy décor, and everything inside looked clean and well maintained. The food is definitely on the pricey side, but we did enjoy what we ordered. Service was excellent: we were seated quickly, given time to settle in, and then the waiter took our drink order. He even offered a small sparkling wine tasting so we could choose the one we liked best. We ordered the breakfast burrito, which was very flavorful. The chorizo added a great kick, and the avocado we added really rounded everything out. The small cup of salsa was tasty and added some heat. The burrito itself had a nice char on the outside, giving it a well‑done finish. We also tried the Seaside Benedict, which was both beautifully presented and delicious. The potatoes could have been cooked a bit longer, but they were still edible. We liked the fresh greens on the plate, and the English muffin had a sourdough‑like flavor that worked really well. Overall, we enjoyed our experience.

We had the absolute worst experience last night. Highly do not recommend…read more We were intending to go to a delicious taqueria around the corner, but they were unexpectedly slammed at 8:30pm on a Friday. Instead we walked around the corner toward the boardwalk. Since the Bahia hotel is well rated, the menu looked ok, we thought we'd try it. Big mistake. The hostess seated another party - slowly without acknowledging us. Then she told us the kitchen closed in 30 min. Shouldn't be a problem, right? Our waitress came over and seemed very friendly. We ordered fish tacos, the smash burger (on lettuce with grilled onions and an egg) and chicken tenders with fries for my daughter. While sitting we noticed there were extra plates and silverware and bowls stacked on tables, they were just moving them around from table to table, which seemed odd. Another couple was seated right after us. The people before us and after us got food. Our food still hadn't come out by 9:02pm and our waitress was nowhere to be seen. We asked someone to get her - she came out and told us our food was almost ready. Never asks if we want something else before kitchen closes. At 9:15pm, it finally came out. Fries were cold, smash burger came out with egg, barely grilled onions... plus cheese, sauce, and mushrooms (which I don't like). Fish tacos - mid. We called over the waitress. She said our food took so long because there was one kitchen for four places and she couldn't control when the food came out. Then she proceeded to tell me that the Smashburger came with all of that and I could look at the menu. Why hadn't she mentioned that when I just ordered egg and grilled onions??? She offered to replace the cold fries. Then we asked for the manager - I could see my husband starting to boil over. Another 10 min. Manager comes and talks to the people who came in before us, apparently they had something wrong too. Goes to do something and the finally returns to our table. Asks what is wrong. Does not explain why it took so long, asks if she can give us a free dessert or remake the hamburger. Obviously we don't want to wait another 30 min plus kitchen is now closed. I ask her to comp the burger. Should I have had to ask??? Then we wait another 10 min for her to never come back with the bill. I send husband and child out, get up from the table and go looking for HER. Seriously considering walking out without paying- which I've literally never done. She says 'oh, we comped your bill'. Great news! Perhaps you could have walked over the 15 feet to tell us. Just a hard NO all around. Ambiance is ok, could be nicer but this supposed to be there less expensive area. I will say that people seemed to be enjoying the service at the bar.

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Jury Room

3.9(78 reviews)

0.1 mi

Jury room- came here because of the history IYKYK.. the serial killer in the 1970's... anyways…read morestopped in with a buncha girls during a bachelorette weekend in Santa Cruz! Your typical dive bar! The cocktail was disgusting, the woman working was pissed 10 beautiful women walked in, not clean bathrooms. Good music. The vibes!

Showed up to this bar on a cold, Friday night. It's the kind of dive bar that you just instantly…read morefall in love with: gregarious bartenders, welcoming regulars, and a space that cultivates a real community for musicians. I overheard just how passionate the bartender was about taking care of the bands who come in to play. And it really showed. I caught a line up with Supernaut, Peace Pipe, and Dead Engine. All of them were amazing live, and the crowd was super supportive, too. So, between the heavy pours, friendly folx, and a great venue for live music...I found a new watering hole in Santa Cruz. It's been around forever, so I'm happy that some live music could put it on my radar. Next time, I'll bring a $1 bill to put on the ceiling.

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Front & Cooper

3.7(117 reviews)

0.5 mi

Have No Beer Beer…read morebar located inside the Abbott Square Market in Downtown Santa Cruz. The Good: * Friendly service * Covered dog-friendly outdoor dining * Great selection of beer and wine on tap that changes seasonally or as availability allows. * Cocktails The Meh: * No food, but that's OK; you're literally surrounded by food at the Abbott Square Market. The Ugly: * Street parking only, which can be hit-or-miss, and be sure to read the signage. Conclusion: Beer good.

This place is rated way too low. 3 out of 3 drinks were amazing and the bartender helped guide me…read moreto the third one and was spot on. And they were friendly. So cool and in a sweet center that was better than the dock I was on the night before. Seats open each time I went. Highly recommend!

Como La Flor and Raspberry Beret

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Makai Island Kitchen & Groggery

Great times, good vibes! I forgot to take a pic of my Mr.Makai drink but it was delicious, strong…read morebut flavorful. The servers were very nice, just a bit busy with all the tables so it did take a little while for service but nothing unreasonable. Loved the loco moco I would say it was a little hot for medium well perhaps the toppings made it cook a little more after plating but it was proper juicy and seasoned. The bbq plate was great, the flavors were pretty much the same but different textures depending on what meat you were trying. The kalbi was really thick! Would definitely stop by again to see what's going on with the food or drink menu.

For appetizers, we ordered the poke nacho and it was delicious, and also the coconut shrimp…read more Nothing great but just regular coconut shrimp. It was my first time coming here and I brought my teenage son with me. My son, who does not venture out of plain foods, ordered a plain cheeseburger, just meat and cheese, in medium rare. Even though the patty wasn't overcooked, the grilled marks were so burnt and tasted like carbon char meat. It was awful, and I felt like he was going to get poisoned. He didn't finish the burger. It was only after that I read reviews in here that this was a common theme with other peoples patties, whether it was from a burger or a loco moco dish. I ordered the barbecue Galbi dish. The waitress explained to me the difference between the $30 and $39 option. She said for $30, you only get one piece of galbi--ONE PIECE! I've never heard of a restaurant only serving one piece of galbi for an entrée dish. So I chose the $36 option to get three pieces. The meat was tendered but OMG!, they put too much sauce on top of the meat. Galbi doesn't need all that sauce when it's been marinated already. It was way too sweet. The mac salad was yummy but the rice was overcooked mush. Throughout the entire time we were there, there were gnats flying around our table and I had to swat at them many times and couldn't enjoy my meal. This was really the worst part and it tells you about the cleanliness of the restaurant. I'm glad I tried this place and of course you can't be being on the wharf with the ocean view but if you are going to come here, I will stick with the appetizers and drinks. I don't think I will be back.

Makai Poke Bowl

Makai's Outdoor Patio

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Makai Burger with Seismic Fries

Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge

3.8(466 reviews)

1.3 mi

•$$$

What a fantastic stop during our West Coast road trip! The food here was (surprisingly) delicious;…read moreevery dish was flavorful and completely exceeded our expectations. Besides the fantastic food, the service was absolutely top-notch. The staff was prompt, friendly, and made sure we had everything we needed. What really made this experience complete was the location. The view over the Santa Cruz coastline is simply impressive. Great food with a beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean--what more could you ask for? Highly recommended if you are in the area and looking for a great dining experience with an unforgettable view!

We finally ate here and it's definitely our favorite restaurant now. From the welcome going in to…read morethe food was very nice. We had a window seat which made the experience even better. For the appetizer we ordered the grilled octopus ...best ever. Then I had the short ribs which melted in my mouth and my husband ordered the Ribeye cooked just right. Summer is an amazing waitress. Professional and attentive. We will be going back very soon!

Social Area to relax and converse

Tostada

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Strawberry Fields

After Hours

4.3(9 reviews)

0.6 mi

Really nice spot to chill with friends. Enjoy live music entertainment and the patio fire pit…read moretables. The drinks were really good! Had a nice time.

We had a really nice date night at After Hours! It's a neat place, part coffee shop/cocktail…read morebar/dumpling house/chicken joint. Their official names are: 11th Hour, After Hours, Full Steam Dumpling, and Chubbs Chicken Sandwiches. I definitely want to come back and try the dumplings (they weren't there that night)--and more cocktails! The cocktails were solid. Better than I've had in awhile. The vibe was chill and Allen, the bar manager, was really friendly, passionate about what he does, and gave us some good, local recs for food and drink. I got two cocktails: - Chanel Vintage: Sencha Vodka, Matcha Venus Aquavit, Lemon, Blackberry, Blueberry, Housemade Mochi (not too sweet at all and the housemade mochi was fun) - Limerence: Citadelle Gin, Kina L'Aero D'or, Passion fruit, Lemon Vanilla Sherbert, Side of Prosecco (I've been wanting to try a Porn Star for awhile and this is their version of it. I'm a fan. I also automatically love anything with a side of prosecco.) Allen also gave us housemade lemon shortbread and chocolate to try. Fun stuff. I am all for this baked goods + cocktails combo. Super inventive. Will definitely be back for more cocktail talent!

Pomegranate Cider!

Chanel Vintage

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Espresso martini

Humble Sea Brewery

4.3(457 reviews)

2.1 mi

The beer's good, they serve it cold, there was a good crowd, and the bartenders are cool. I can't…read morecomplain. I stopped in and ordered a flight of beer for $13.50. it included a Humble Sea Helles lager, a Wave Czech pilsner, a Liquid Horizon pale ale, and a Tide and Seek West Coast IPA. All were good, but I liked the smoothness and crisp finish of the lager the best. Running a close second was the easy drinking pale ale with its hints of citrus. Both were refreshing and satisfying. It was busy when I visited, but that didn't stop the bartenders from being friendly and taking the time to explain the different beers. It was busy that day, but I managed to find a seat. Good beers were drunk and relaxation was achieved. Cheers!

Our experience here was wonderful. First time at the Humble Sea location in Santa Cruz and I'm so…read moreglad we had a chance to visit. We came close to closing, about an hour before. This location has food trucks for bite options, outdoor seating if you have pets, and a few seats inside if it's too windy out. The service was impeccable. Bryan had close down the growler station but reopened it because he saw my devastation when the QIPA was not for sale. Can't thank Bryan enough for ensuring I got a chance to take home their best beer on tap. Come for the service, the ambiance, and the best beers.

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Outside patio

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6 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

John G.

0

2

0

15 years ago

Pretty fair bar for a Biker bar; If ya don't like being around bikers though STAY AWAY! Lete is by far the BEST bartender anywhere; smart, savy, sexy and gives a good pour. Unfortunately, the owner is a real dick and NO ONE likes or respects him...if he's there drink somewhere else....he's a total asshole! read more

Tonya R.

0

9

0

8 years ago

I could tell this was a local's bar. But the staff and everyone was very nice. I went here with a friend and by the time we left, we felt like we were one of the regulars. Drinks were great, bartenders very friendly. They also played a good variety of music, which we liked. read more

Deanna P.

0

1

0

9 years ago

i was liberated of my money in the bar to the tune of $5000. ( i was paying for car repairs in the area return to po box 59788 san jose ca 95159 for the next step is the legal system hahahah another joke in this community of theives and thugs read more

Aaron M.

3

105

4

5 years ago

This place was cool the decor had a really good vibe as well did the people and was conveniently located across from my hotel a good place to relax after a long day read more

Troy P.

0

6

11

3 years ago

LOL! My wife and I will be in Santa Cruz for a weekend in December. Cannot wait to visit this place and give it a review!! Love Dive Bars! read more

Pat P.

0

1

0

11 years ago

Save your money and Time. there's a lot of better places near by. super trashy and bad vibe.

Callahan's - bars - Updated September 2026

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So what's so special about Castaways?... Well. This is the dive bar that you want to come in for a…read morecool, friendly and relaxed time. Alone or with friends, this is a cool bar. Excellent and friendly service, amazing drinks and the chill effect you want in a local bar. This is my place to unwind after a baby day at work. The place to come in for a few drinks and enjoy the ambience and the friendly, and very professional bartenders. There are a few bars around. But this is really the place to come.

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Walking around pleasure point I heard this great band plane and they were playing an upbeat rock…read more'n' roll sound! It sounded like a quartet, but they had a good beat and rhythm so I've literally followed the amusement!! To my surprise, it was this little bar on the corner and it seemed like everybody was friends from their old heyday!! A handful of people were dancing and they all seem to know the musicians playing. I wanted something easy so I just got a beer on tap and the surface was quick and the beer was regular. It was mainly the music in the life band!! I stayed for 30 minutes and listened to their whole set!! I will definitely go back and check out this bar again!! Such a vibe!!

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The Mediterranean Bar

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Ahhhh The Mediterranean is the local bar of Aptos! Tom is the man! And the lavender lemon drop is…read moremy new favorite drink. This bar is a no frills bar that has pool, lots of seating, and just a chill atmosphere where regulars go for a drink... or four. Haha. I don't come here often, but when I do, I usually see familiar faces. The location is sweet too: it's next to the best Mexican restaurant, across from one of the best ice cream stores, and by the beach! What more can you ask for? Oh, and because it's a no frills bar, you don't have to pay for the fancy schmancy extras! Thus, the prices are decent here! The only slightly small downside is you have to have patience because it may take a few minutes to get your drinks because most likely there is only 1 bartender for the entire place.

First time here!!…read more Atmosphere is chill, super casual and from the looks of it there is no dress code lol Bar is well stocked and organized, signage is easy to read. Inside has several tables and a pool table. Bartender was friendly and drinks were made well, also reasonably priced. We were lucky enough to find parking in front. Parking is kinda limited Would I come back here again......yeah sure why not

Oak & Ale

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First place we've experienced after a disappointing full day in Santa Cruz, finally found a place…read morethat was dog friendly. The Oak & Ale was worth the stop. The bartender was chill, the beer was delicious, the music was very psychedelic and our dog was welcome. Our vibe totally! And the beer was a reasonable price!!

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Really nice spot to chill with friends. Enjoy live music entertainment and the patio fire pit…read moretables. The drinks were really good! Had a nice time.

We had a really nice date night at After Hours! It's a neat place, part coffee shop/cocktail…read morebar/dumpling house/chicken joint. Their official names are: 11th Hour, After Hours, Full Steam Dumpling, and Chubbs Chicken Sandwiches. I definitely want to come back and try the dumplings (they weren't there that night)--and more cocktails! The cocktails were solid. Better than I've had in awhile. The vibe was chill and Allen, the bar manager, was really friendly, passionate about what he does, and gave us some good, local recs for food and drink. I got two cocktails: - Chanel Vintage: Sencha Vodka, Matcha Venus Aquavit, Lemon, Blackberry, Blueberry, Housemade Mochi (not too sweet at all and the housemade mochi was fun) - Limerence: Citadelle Gin, Kina L'Aero D'or, Passion fruit, Lemon Vanilla Sherbert, Side of Prosecco (I've been wanting to try a Porn Star for awhile and this is their version of it. I'm a fan. I also automatically love anything with a side of prosecco.) Allen also gave us housemade lemon shortbread and chocolate to try. Fun stuff. I am all for this baked goods + cocktails combo. Super inventive. Will definitely be back for more cocktail talent!

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This spot has had a few incarnations since the old Night Owl days and Hold Fast is by far the best…read more Friendly bartenders with mellow afternoon vibes and an awesome mural that runs the length of the bar and gives an under-the-sea feel. Two pool tables, upright piano, atm and a couple arcade games. Dog and human friendly with three pizza options on the same block.

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