54 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® 2026-2027 Big Sur BARS Big Sur River Inn Dip your feet in the river from one of the Adirondack chairs, post up on the outdoor deck or at the cozy bar inside. A tradition of Sunday music brings bands down to the river all summer long to serenade the crowd. 46800 Highway 1, Big Sur. (831) 667-2700, bigsurriverinn.com Big Sur Taphouse Part sports bar, with its game-friendly big screens, part neighborhood pub, part resting spot along the PCH, Big Sur Taphouse is just a good spot to hang out for a while—indoors or on the big back patio. 47520 Highway 1, Big Sur. (831) 667-2197, bigsurtaphouse.com Fernwood Tavern Fernwood draws an eclectic crowd. Locals, campers, travelers and artists all comfortably come together. There aren’t many places better for live music in the area. Or just grab a local draft beer and sip on the peaceful deck in the redwoods. 47200 Highway 1, Big Sur. (831) 667-2422, fernwoodbigsur.com Carmel BARS Bar Napoli There’s a solid wine list and classic cocktails, along with a selection of beers. It’s part Old World corner bar, part American sports bar— and you can shop for wines or bottled craft cocktails. Dolores and 7th, Carmel. (831) 626-7373 Barmel Craft cocktails and fine spirits in a lively atmosphere that features live music and a late party crowd and—earlier in the evening— a cool lounge vibe. Always a popular place. San Carlos and 7th, Carmel. (831) 626-3400, barmel.com Brophy’s Tavern There’s a lot more to recommend this place than just a beer and burger: an expansive “upscale tavern” menu, cool service crew, a lively atmosphere and a bunch of TVs. 4th and San Carlos, Carmel. (831) 586-5566, brophystavern.com It’s not enough to say, “Let’s get a drink.” In Monterey County, that invitation needs to be narrowed down. Do you want to watch waves crashing onto a beach? Sit under redwood trees? Order a cocktail where the bartenders grow their own herbs? Or maybe you just want to cut to the chaser at some longtime dive. There is a variety of options, including a brewpub lineup that has been growing slowly but steadily—with award-winning beers. Estéban DRINKS DANIEL DREIFUSS
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