Where Ocean Views, Golden Hour and Cocktails Collide

Orange County knows how to do a sunset. Add a rooftop, a chilled glass of something sparkling and a breeze off the Pacific, and suddenly your evening feels like a scene straight out of a movie. From Newport’s yacht-dotted harbors to Laguna’s cliffside drama, these rooftops deliver more than just a place to sip, setting a mood for the night ahead. Whether you’re dressing up for date night or sliding in after hitting the beach with salt in your hair, here are 21 rooftops worth planning your outfit around.

 

1. Sipping Just Offshore

At this Huntington Beach hot spot, the view is all about harbor lights and endless boats drifting below. Offshore 9 Rooftop Lounge’s vibe leans upscale but not uptight, with plush seating and a DJ soundtrack that kicks in as the sun dips down. Expect savory small plates, from spicy tuna rolls and wagyu sliders to a spiced chicken flatbread, and polished cocktails that feel just right for a celebratory night out at the kind of place where one drink turns into three, and suddenly you don’t realize how much time has passed.

Offshore 9 Rooftop Lounge
21100 Pacific Coast Highway
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
714.845.8000
M-Th, 4-9 p.m.; F, 4-10 p.m.; Sa, 2-10 p.m.; Su, 2-9 p.m.

 

2. Wishing on The Penny

Those looking for a more low-key experience can turn to Bay Shores Peninsula Hotel, where the appeal lies in the laid-back vibe. The Newport Beach hotel rooftop, The Penny, offers a breezy, intimate perch just steps from the sand, perfect for catching soft pastel sunsets. Bring a bottle of your own or keep it simple with casual bites nearby, because this one is all about the relaxed beach-house energy. It feels like a secret that few in OC have heard of, and that secret continues into the night with on-site fire pits that cast a magical glow.

Bay Shores Peninsula Hotel
1800 W. Balboa Blvd.
Newport Beach, CA 92663
949.675.3463
Daily, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

 

3. LA Vibes in OC

Blending sleek design with a surprising skyline moment in the heart of OC, Parkestry Rooftop Bar offers a vibe that is equal parts polished and a little buzzy. Amid fire pits and curated playlists that consistently set the tone, enjoy cocktails that lean creative and small plates built for sharing. This is where you go when you want Anaheim to feel a little more like LA and dine on sky-high eats like brie and prosciutto flatbreads or chicken caprese paninis.

Parkestry Rooftop Bar
1775 S. Clementine St., 11th Floor
Anaheim, CA 92802
657.657.8034
T-Th, 5-11 p.m.; F-Sa, 5 p.m. – Midnight; closed Su-M

 

4. The Happiest Bar on Earth

While it’s not associated with Disney in any way, The FIFTH Rooftop Restaurant & Bar feels like an extension of the mouse’s house, and once you feel it, you can’t go back. Each night, you get a front-row seat to city lights and the Disneyland fireworks if you time it right. The atmosphere is lively and social, with a mix of locals and visitors mingling over cocktails. Expect elevated bar food with bold flavors and drinks that don’t skimp on presentation for a full night out in one stop.

The FIFTH Rooftop Restaurant & Bar
1650 S. Harbor Blvd.
Anaheim, CA 92802
714.772.0899
T-Su, 5 p.m. – Close; closed M

 

5. Easygoing Yet Always Reliable

For beachy vibes without the fuss, head to Longboard Rooftop Bar. This Dana Point spot within the Hilton Garden Inn Dana Point Doheny Beach keeps it casual with ocean views, cozy fire pits and that unmistakable surf-town energy. The crowd is laid-back, the drinks are easygoing and the sunsets are reliably stunning. Think tropical cocktails, shareable snacks like flatbreads or tacos and zero pressure to dress up, as flip-flops are practically encouraged and there’s no rush to head home. 

Longboard Rooftop Bar
34402 Pacific Coast Highway
Dana Point, CA 92629
949.661.1100
Daily, 4-9 p.m. 

 

6. Live Music with Dive Bar Charm

Retro cool with a local following, The Blue Beet in Newport Beach mixes rooftop views with live music and a slightly divey charm. It’s more about the energy than the polish, and that’s exactly why people love it here. Grab a beer or a strong cocktail and settle in as the band takes over, showcasing a more playful side to the Newport coast with live local and touring acts, gourmet food and a sunset patio.

The Blue Beet
107 21st Place
Newport Beach, CA 92663
949.675.2338
M-F, 4:30 p.m. – Midnight; Sa-Su, 12:30 p.m. – 2 a.m.

 

7. Laguna Drama, Front and Center

Found at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, few views rival that of 180blu, where the Pacific stretches endlessly in front of you. The vibe is refined but relaxed, perfect for a sunset date that turns into dinner downstairs or a romantic evening watching the sky change colors. Cocktails are crisp, seafood is the star of the show (try the Peruvian Bay scallop crudo) and the golden hour here is almost cinematic. It’s a must for first impressions.

180blu
1 Ritz-Carlton Drive
Dana Point, CA 92629
949.240.2000
Su-Th, 11:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.; F-Sa, 11:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. 

 

8. Endless Ocean Views

The Rooftop Lounge at Laguna Beach’s La Casa del Camino hotel gets cliffside cocktails exactly right. Sweeping ocean views and a breezy Mediterranean feel set the scene from the moment you arrive. The space stays intimate, making every table feel like the best seat in the house. Classic cocktails and light bites round out the experience, from its famous mojitos to baked Brie, wonton tacos, smoky chipotle wings and guava meatballs. Add a steady ocean breeze, and the result is effortlessly romantic. It’s one of Orange County’s most beloved rooftop destinations, and the views prove why.

The Rooftop Lounge
1289 S. Coast Highway
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
949.497.2446
M-Th, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.; F, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Sa, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Su, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.

 

9. Oh So Sweet

Chic moments meet playfulness at Hive & Honey in Irvine, where the aesthetic is as strong as the drinks. Think floral accents, stylish crowds and skyline views that glow at sunset. You’ll find a cocktail menu that is creative and colorful, with drinks like the H&H Bee’s Knees and the Apple-ily Ever After, along with flavorful bites, such as the corn dip, seabass ceviche, fried ravioli and Gouda Vibes sliders, that are absolutely perfect for grazing as the sun sinks down. This is a rooftop that doesn’t take itself too seriously and encourages nothing but fun.

Hive & Honey
7905 Irvine Center Drive
Irvine, CA 92618
949.378.3926
T-Th, 4-10 p.m.; F-Sa, 4 p.m. – Midnight; closed Su-M

 

10. Africa Meets California

Enjoy a buzzy island escape in the heart of coastal Orange County at Mozambique. This African-inspired destination brings tropical flair with its lush rooftop setting, making visitors feel as if they’re anywhere but in California. The vibe feels like a mini getaway, complete with glimpses of the ocean and vibrant decor. Cocktails are obviously Tiki-inspired, while the culinary menu pulls from bold South African flavors with other global touches in dishes like peri-peri prawns and lamb curry. It’s festive, fun and just a little transportive.

Mozambique
1740 S. Coast Highway
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
949.715.7777
W-Th, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.; F, 11 a.m. – Midnight; Sa, 10 a.m. – Midnight; Su, 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.; closed M-T

 

11. Perched Above It All

As the name implies, Orange Hill Restaurant sits high on a hill, offering panoramic views that stretch across the county. It’s worth the drive for an atmosphere that leans classic and a bit romantic, ideal for date nights and special celebrations. Amid sprawling city lights that stretch out for miles, strong martinis, steakhouse staples and unique options like a filet mignon sandwich and surf & turf devilled eggs dominate the menu. Come for sunset, but stay for the atmosphere.

Orange Hill Restaurant
6410 E. Chapman Ave.
Orange, CA 92869
714.997.1109
M-T, 4-9 p.m.; W-Th, 11:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.; F, 11:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Sa, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Su, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.

 

12. Tapas Above the City

Perched on the 12th floor of The Viv Hotel, Top of the V holds the distinction of being Anaheim’s highest rooftop restaurant, and following a grand reopening this past February, it has a bold new reason to be talked about. Executive Chef Jayro Martinez helms a Spanish-inspired steakhouse menu that balances refined technique with communal, approachable flavors. Standouts include a picanha steak, 21-day dry-aged ribeye, arroz negra paella and a Basque-style cod with yuzu emulsion, all alongside shareable tapas and handcrafted cocktails like a tableside-smoked Old Fashioned. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame sweeping skyline views, and on clear nights, Disneyland Resort fireworks light up the horizon, a spectacle few Orange County venues can match. It’s a hidden standout that will leave you wanting a return trip. 

Top of the V
1601 S. Anaheim Blvd.
Anaheim, CA 92805
714.408.2787
T-Th, 5-10 p.m.; F-Sa, 5-11 p.m.; closed Su-M

 

13. Peninsula Magic

Perched atop Lido House hotel in Newport Beach, Topside captures effortless beach-town elegance. Ocean breezes drift through the rooftop as views of the peninsula unfold in the distance. The crowd is relaxed, the margarita comes with a seasonal popsicle and the food stays fresh, whether you’re enjoying steak skewers or a deliciously citrusy crudo. A new sushi restaurant is also expected to open soon in the rooftop lighthouse. Together, those elements make lingering feel like the obvious choice. Whether you visit at midday or settle in around a fire pit after sunset, Topside delivers every time.

Topside Roof Deck
3300 Newport Blvd.
Newport Beach, CA 92663
949.524.8500
M-Th, 4-10 p.m.; F, 4-11 p.m.; Sa, 2-11 p.m.; Su, Noon – 8 p.m.

 

14. An Enchanted Treehouse Above PCH

Embrace your Boho dreams at Paséa Hotel & Spa’s Treehouse on PCH. This chic rooftop leans into its name with a whimsical, layered space anchored by a circular bar, hanging lamps and a statue that stops visitors in their tracks. Relax in plush sofas or cozy cabanas while DJs set the tone and panoramic ocean views stretch out in every direction. Expect playful seasonal cocktails and shareable bites that keep the mood light and the evening going. The vibe is eclectic and stylish, perfect for a girls’ night out or happy hour, and with a 21-and-older door policy, the energy stays exactly right. 

Treehouse on PCH
21080 Pacific Coast Highway
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
714.698.6130
M-F, 4-10 p.m.; Sa, Noon – Midnight; Su, Noon – 10 p.m.

 

15. Creating Some Buzz

Nostalgia is reimagined at AhbA in Costa Mesa, where Buzz’s rooftop speakeasy blends old-school charm with a fresh rooftop twist. The setting feels warm and familiar, but the energy is updated and lively. Try cocktails like the mezcal-forward Te Culpo, combining passion fruit and Korean chile, or the refreshing AhbA Spritz with sparkling wine, amaro and orange. Beyond the drinks, the modern Mediterranean-inspired food is always delicious and comforting, and the crowd is effortlessly cool. It’s tradition with a contemporary coastal glow-up.

Buzz’s at AhbA
2937 Bristol St.
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
949.549.4556
M-F, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Sa, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Su, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.

 

16. The Definition of Luxury

Enjoy sky-high luxury dining at Fashion Island’s RH Ocean Grill. This rooftop restaurant is perched above the RH furniture store, which is as much about the design as the dining. Think chandeliers, greenery, a trickling fountain and a serene rooftop garden in the heart of the city. The menu here is refined yet approachable, with standouts like caviar carpaccio, crispy artichokes, honey-glazed salmon and petite lamb chops, and the atmosphere feels effortlessly indulgent. It’s where you go to linger in style.

RH Ocean Grill
1101 Newport Center Drive
Newport Beach, CA 92660
949.760.9232
M-F, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Sa-Su, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

 

17. Big-City Energy

Perched atop The Westin Anaheim Resort, RISE Rooftop Lounge trades ocean views for pure skyline energy, including standout sightlines of Disney California Adventure Park and the nightly Disneyland fireworks spectacular. The space is sleek, social and built for a night out, with a seasonally inspired menu that keeps things fresh from visit to visit. Craft cocktails, local beers and curated wines pair naturally with chef-driven small plates, while Social Hour brings special pricing that makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. From golden hour to fireworks, this rooftop delivers one of the most sought-after vantage points in Orange County, lively, polished and just a little electric. 

RISE Rooftop Lounge
1030 W. Katella Ave.
Anaheim, CA 92802
657.279.9786
M-F, 5:30-11 p.m.; Sa-Su, 10:30 a.m. – 11 p.m.

 

18. Sipping in Style

A new kid on the block with big energy, The Belle Rooftop Lounge at Jolie feels fresh, flirty and a little bit glamorous. The rooftop leans into design-forward details and a lively Huntington Beach atmosphere. Sip cocktails that are stylish while enjoying a menu of curated dishes, such as spicy tuna crispy rice stacks, black mussels and green bean salad, amid a vibe that is undeniably fun. It’s definitely one to watch.

The Belle Rooftop
300 Pacific Coast Highway, Ste. 220
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
714.740.2524
F, 4-10 p.m.; Sa, Noon – 10 p.m.; Su, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.

 

19. Edge Bar

A vibrant sunset scene abounds at Edge Bar, a rooftop at Vea Newport Beach, where the energy ramps up as the day goes on, culminating in stunning views and scintillating sips. The views stretch across town to the coast, while the music and crowd keep things buzzing. Bold drinks with fun names like Melon Dramatic and Hole in Rum and an electric energy pair perfectly with casual bar bites and dessert, so come ready to stay awhile.

Edge Bar
900 Newport Center Drive
Newport Beach, CA 92660
949.640.4000
M-Th, Noon – Sunset; F-Su, 11 a.m. – Sunset

 

20. On a Mission

Perched atop the historic Franciscan Plaza in downtown San Juan Capistrano, Rosewood Social earns its spot on every best-of list in OC for one simple reason: the view. The rooftop terrace looks out over the red dome of the iconic Mission San Juan Capistrano with green hills rolling into the distance and the kind of sunset that stops conversation mid-sentence. The food matches the setting, with prime steaks and fresh seafood dressed up with Southeast Asian flair, from wagyu dumplings and miso cod to a Chilean seabass that guests won’t stop talking about. Craft cocktails like the Electric Avenue and Blue Indigo lean creative without trying too hard, while heaters and a fireplace keep the patio going well past sunset.

Rosewood Social
31781 Camino Capistrano, Ste. 301
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
949.503.2693
T-Th, 4:30-9 p.m.; F, 11:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Sa, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Su, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.; closed M