Sausalito, California, is known for its stunning waterfront views, boating community and a few great bars, including local dive, waterfront view with craft cocktails, live music options, Sausalito sports bar options and more. Here’s a brief overview of some notable bars in and around town.
Local band, the Hot Clams, playing at the Seashore, February 2024
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No Name Bar
The No Name Bar is a Sausalito institution, known for its eclectic mix of patrons, live music nights, and a history that spans decades. This spot maintains a discreet charm with its unmarked entrance, offering a cozy interior filled with art and a warm, welcoming vibe. It’s perfect for those seeking good music, drinks with friends, sports on TV (during the day), and a wide selection of beers and wines. Located in downtown Sausalito, near Poggio. No Name Bar has live music pretty much every night so check the calendar here: https://thenonamebar.com/calendar/
Barrel House Tavern
With its stunning panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline and a cozy, inviting interior, Barrel House Tavern is a favorite for both dining and drinks. This waterfront gem specializes in creative, handcrafted cocktails and a seasonal menu that highlights local ingredients, making it an ideal spot for a sophisticated night out or a relaxing sunset drink. Located in downtown Sausalito, next to Yee Tock Chee Park.
Smitty’s Bar
Smitty’s Bar, on Caldonia Street, is a beloved dive that offers a no-frills, authentic experience with a strong sense of community among locals. Known for its friendly bartenders, pool table, shuffleboard, darts, TVs and jukebox, it’s the go-to spot for a laid-back night out where you can enjoy a cold beer and good company. A sports bar in Sausalito option for those who want to catch a game.
Sausalito Seahorse
The Sausalito Seahorse is celebrated for its vibrant music scene, featuring live bands that play a variety of genres, from jazz to salsa. This lively bar and restaurant offer a unique Italian-Mediterranean menu, alongside a selection of wines and cocktails, making it a favorite for those looking to dine and dance. Located a bit north in the Clipper Yacht Harbor area, near the start of Gate 5 Road. See here for their live music calendar: https://www.sausalitoseahorse.com/calendar/
Travis Marina Bar (at The Presidio Yacht Club)
Tucked away beneath the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Travis Marina Bar offers a rustic and unpretentious atmosphere that’s rich in character and history. This hidden gem is favored for its spectacular views of the bay and San Francisco skyline, providing a truly unparalleled backdrop for enjoying a drink. The bar occasionally hosts live bands covering a wide range of genres, from rock to blues to jazz. It’s the perfect spot for those looking to escape the more touristy areas of Sausalito and enjoy a laid-back evening in a location that feels like a well-kept secret. With its friendly staff, affordable drinks, and casual vibe, Travis Marina Bar captures the essence of maritime charm and is great escape for locals and visitors alike. Located south, near the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge on Cavallo Point. See here for their live music schedule: https://www.travismarina.com/event-calendar
Farley Bar
Located in Cavallo Point, Farley Bar exudes a rustic elegance with its leather chairs, dark wood, and fireplace, making it a cozy spot to unwind. The bar offers a sophisticated menu of craft cocktails, fine wines, and light meals, complemented by stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, ideal for a luxurious, relaxing evening.
FloodWater
For a multi-TV sports bar near Sausalito with plenty of space, Floodwater, just north of Sausalito offers craft cocktails, beer on tap, California cuisine and bar food favorites. It has a 30-seat bar and five large TV screens for sports, making it an ideal spot to catch a game with room to spread out. The bar also has pool, darts and shuffleboard. Located just north of Sausalito (and technically in Mill Valley), it’s a good sports bar option very close to Sausalito.
Sausalito Cruising Club / The Barge
The Sausalito Cruising Club, with its historic clubhouse moored along Dunphy Park for over 55 years. Founded by servicemen returning from World War II, the clubhouse is a repurposed World War II munitions barge, transformed into a vibrant spot featuring dining, a full bar and and spectacular views of Richardson Bay, Belvedere, Angel Island, and San Francisco. It’s a members only club, but if you can secure an invite, it has live music and is a great spot for a drink by the waterside in Sausalito.
Bars of Sausalito
This picturesque town has a lot to offer. On the bar scene, you can find cozy nooks offering a quiet evening with a view to lively spots where the music keeps the place hopping to sports bars to catch the game with friends. Whether you’re winding down from a day of sightseeing or gearing up for a night on the town, each bar has its own character and charm. So grab a drink, enjoy the local scene, and let Sausalito’s unique blend of bars enrich your experience of this coastal gem.
See next: Sausalito Restaurant Guide
