Ocean Bar - furthest from the ocean, best view of them all

When I was younger and frolicked the streets of Downtown Hermosa Beach, I stuck to the bars on Pier Avenue. Back then, Sangria, Sharkeez, and Waterman's were my staples. Sangria is now America Junkie. Sharkeez and Waterman's still exist.

But, if you walk up the Pier Avenue hill, just a block up from the nearer-ocean venues, you will find Ocean Bar & Lounge. It used to be Union Cattle, and locals (myself included) usually did not walk "up the hill". It just wasn't worth it when there was an array of bars within feet of one another.

Ocean Bar, however, I will walk for. 

What makes this venue awesome is its three floors, all which give off a different vibe. Going there with a group of people whose tastes vary, this worked perfectly for us. My friend who's on the wild side when straight to the second floor, where girls clad in stilettos and men in button downs dance to the DJs dance-party music in the indoor/outdoor space. He had a blast dancing the night away. 

My preference is outdoor patios, which Ocean Bar has on their top floor. I hung out by one of their fire pits,  sipping drinks for a few hours. People danced, and I dug the lounge-like vibe. 

A couple we hung out with ate downstairs at Abigaile's, which is owned by the same guy as Ocean Bar. There is a brewery there, and the beers are pretty stellar. 

Whether you live in Los Angeles or closer to the South Bay, make the trek to Ocean Bar. It is diverse, fun, great for a group or date, and reasonably priced. You will totally get the Hollywood vibe, but will be able to see the ocean and feel the beautiful beach breeze while you dance the night away.