What better way to spend your day in Monterey than to kick back and embrace the views from a sunny rooftop or outdoor patio? Here are the top 10 rooftop bars and outdoor patios to enjoy.
Abalonetti Bar & Grill (Monterey)
Located on Old Fisherman’s Wharf, Abalonetti Bar & Grill serves a variety of salads, sandwiches, pasta and seafood that can be enjoyed on their outdoor patio. This is the perfect spot to take a break from walking and shopping around the wharf. You may even spot some wildlife!
Big Sur River Inn (Big Sur)
The Big Sur River Inn Restaurant has an outdoor patio that overlooks the Big Sur River. They have a full-service bar and serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. After your meal, have dessert from the Ice Cream Bus and relax in one of the chairs in the river!
Dust Bowl Brewing Company (Monterey)
This Tap Depot is on the Monterey Recreation Trail only a few steps from the beach and Old Fisherman’s Wharf. Dust Bowl serves 24 taps and has an outdoor patio equipped with fire pits, heaters, an onsite food truck, Corn Hole and can’t forget, they are dog-friendly!
Estéban Restaurant (Monterey)
Step into a sunny Spanish-inspired courtyard at Estéban, where lush greenery, fire pits and colorful tile create a warm setting for cocktails, wine or sangria. Located at Casa Munras, the patio feels tucked away from the bustle of downtown Monterey—an inviting spot to linger over a drink before or after dinner.
Hotel 1110 (Monterey)
LindaRose Bar & Grill is located on the rooftop of Hotel 1110. Enjoy Mediterranean cuisine with scenic views of Monterey Bay and choose from a variety of craft cocktails and spirits along with locally sourced wine and beer. This is a great place for date night, a quick bite or a night out with friends. This rooftop bar is for adults only (18+).
Mission Ranch (Carmel Valley)
Pull up a seat on the outdoor terrace at Mission Ranch for sweeping views across the historic property’s meadow toward the Pacific. Order a glass of wine or a cocktail and settle in as the sun dips over Carmel—often accompanied by the sight of sheep grazing in the distance.
Nepenthe (Big Sur)
Nepenthe is an iconic restaurant that overlooks the beautiful Big Sur coastline. It has stunning panoramic views, a unique ambiance and a rich history as it has been serving guests since 1949. Take some time to not only embrace the views but indulge in a glass of wine or their Famous Ambrosiaburger.
Pebble Beach Resorts (Pebble Beach)
Pebble Beach Resorts offers a plethora of dining options, each featuring local, sustainable ingredients, great service, and breathtaking views. The Bench, located at The Lodge at Pebble Beach, overlooks the 18th hole of Pebble Beach Golf Links. Their outdoor patio features fire pits and fire tables for enjoying one of their handcrafted cocktails and panoramic views. Another great place to enjoy the views is at The Inn at Spanish Bay. Their Lobby Lounge is a relaxing environment surrounded by fire pits and a unique cocktail menu — even serving dishes from their neighbor, Roy’s at Pebble Beach. Not only are the views amazing, but there is a daily bagpiper who performs every night.
Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette (Marina)
There are three dining environments to choose from when visiting Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette. The full-service dining room, bar and lounge and the al fresco dining patio. The patio is a great place to unwind, enjoy a drink of choice and take in all the views of the Marina dunes.
Schooners (Monterey)
For a drink with a front-row seat to the Pacific, settle into Schooners' outdoor terrace overlooking Monterey Bay. The waterfront setting pairs especially well with a glass of wine or a craft cocktail as you watch the waves roll past Cannery Row.
The Brass Tap (Marina)
Marina’s newest craft beer bar offers over 140+ craft beers and highlights local beers from Alvarado Street Brewery, Dust Bowl and Other Brother. Enjoy a beer and shareable bar food on their heated patio
Vesuvio (Carmel-by-the-Sea)
The Star Bar at Vesuvio is a great place to unwind and enjoy the views of Carmel-by-the-Sea. This rooftop bar has fire pits, comfortable seating and twinkling lights, the perfect combination to indulge in delicious Italian Cuisine.
