What was once a popular speakeasy for railway workers back in the 1920s is now a favorite among North County locals. The multi-room space has a comfortable, homey feel, owned and run by the Lawrence family for the past 15 years, with loyal bartenders who provide unwavering hospitality. Mother’s is relished for their “Loaded Tecate,” live music nights, dollar bill-covered walls, and a few random undergarments thrown up into the rafters.

Cassidy’s is a traditional dive bar in that staff members are adorned in the same logos as the walls, but unusual in that the barkeep opens its classic canned mimosas with a forgotten Platinum Amex someone never returned for.

A day drinker’s dream known for swimsuit-clad patrons, highly stimulating gallery wall, and a giant beer tap thermometer — not to mention a plethora of horse and carriage dioramas secured to the walls and ceiling. This bar is a dive bar anomaly in that it’s brightly lit, even after nightfall. However the beer is ice cold, and the bartenders are genial — so much so that even seltzers are served with care and a straw.

Blue Beet’s menu, a worn piece of paper taped to the wall, retains a loyal clientele who come in solely for the beef stroganoff and filet. This three-storied bar is subdued on the weekdays, offering bargoers a quiet corner to talk or an open-air rooftop to watch sports. But on the weekends, Blue Beet is packed and lit up by local musicians.

Class of 47 provides reprieve for those in need of a good drink and good company at 9 a.m. on a Tuesday. It’s a favorite watering hole for executives, fishermen, and surfers alike to come together and watch sports, although John Wayne is the only regular former patron honored with a shrine.

Nicknamed by adoring locals as The Dirty Bird, the Sandpiper offers an array of activities including darts, pool, foosball, live music, and a comfortable, musky atmosphere.

Turk’s is an oceanfront dive that encourages imbibers to eat, drink, and be merry at all hours of the day. Originally opened by Turk himself in 1984, the bar is now owned and operated by his daughter, who dedicates this favorite spot as an homage to her beloved father. This is one of the few dives where indulging in the quality food is highly encouraged.

Simply a great neighborhood bar with talented bartenders and a plethora of pool tables. As a bonus, Mulligans recently revamped its menu and now offers a top-tier burger. As an additional bonus, said burger is available late into the night, providing imbibers with the ideal spot to fuel up before turning in. 

The Red Fox is a dark den, with a monochromatic, smoky atmosphere, punctuated by red twinkle lights and red leather booths. It’s also a smoker’s dream, beckoning those who partake in cigarettes and cigars with a cozy back patio, and big screen televisions.

Outrigger Tavern is outfitted with all that’s needed for a good time including old school video games, retro cigarette dispenser, green felt pool tables, and a colorful back patio. Plus, on Sundays, bottomless mimosas and sandwiches set the stage for a full day of drinking.

As the southernmost bar in Orange County, Big Helyn’s boasts the cheapest drinks in town and the best-looking bartenders, who you’ll find clad in lingerie on the weekends. Previously a biker bar, Big Helyn’s may feel intimidating, but patrons of all types are greeted kindly upon entrance.