L.A.'s hottest spots for outdoor drinking

There are a lot of places to party outdoors in a city where the weather is nice year-round. But the very best -- and the trendiest -- spots have more to offer than booze and sunshine: A happening pool or a view of the beach is a must. Below, check out the list of L.A.'s top top poolside and beachside parties.


The Standard, Downtown helped start the hotel pool party trend, and its rooftop pool scene is still one of the city's best: Trendy locals and visitors alike swim, drink, and tan while top D.J's spin. Things get shaking at about 2 p.m., but you should still get there early if you want to get in. Once inside, you'll find the hip and beautiful dressed to kill in their best bikinis and shorts, fancy cocktails a-plenty, and stunning views.


Moonshadows doesn't have a pool, but it has the Pacific Ocean. Guests can lounge on the patio daybeds over the sand (gimlet in hand), groove to great D.J. mixes, and gawk at the local celebrities (like Mel Gibson) that sometimes drop by.


Famous for being famous, The Hollywood Roosevelt has a happening weekend bar scene, daytime and nighttime. The poolside Tropicana bar serves $15 cocktails (and less expensive beers) to guests and locals, but you must be a guest, or be with a guest, to hang out poolside in a chaise.


Other great outdoor parties: The Beverly Hilton's poolside bar, Trader Vic's (try the famed mai tai), and Hotel Erwin's rooftop bar, which overlooks Venice Beach.


-Lesley Bracker