Pepperdine University
- Nightlife

Whisky a Go-Go

The Whisky is a legendary dive on Sunset Strip, famous for launching big-name rock-n’-roll acts back in the glorious ‘60s. It still hosts a jam-packed schedule of up-and-coming rock bands; and it is generally crowded, sweaty, casual, and loud. Well, drinks are pretty cheap, so what’s not to like?

Joya

As the address suggests, this place is a little ritzy. Nonetheless, many Pepperdine students are willing to spend a little dough to have a good time, or to be seen having what appears to be a good time at a place where a bottle of beer will set you back $12. Once you’ve gotten on the list and paid your cover charge, you’re free to sit down in the bar and take in the swanky décor, or you can bolt directly upstairs to dance the night away. They play a good mix of all the music you might expect to hear in a place like this.

Century Club

Century Club has three floors with dancing on every one of them, and it is usually packed. If it’s especially busy, you’ll have to wait in line, which is annoying, as is the $20 cover. This is definitely a place for people who really want to dance; those looking to just stand around and shoot the breeze or have a few beers could probably find a better scene somewhere else.

Roxy Theatre

This is a great place to catch a show from rock music to pop. There is a two drink mininum, and tickets can be purchased at the box office or through www.ticketmaster.com. Roxy offers really good food (not cheap), a cool ambiance with a glowing bar, and a cool crowd.

Saddle Ranch

This is a country-western chophouse with open-fire pits, fake horses, and hay bales. Feels like Texas in here! This is also a place where you can chill and watch the many TVs, and hangout on the outdoor patio where you can roast marshmallows by the fire pit.

Sunset Room

Sunset Room is exactly what you think about when you think Hollywood. Celebrities have parties here. This place is extremely posh, with good-looking people, great music, and an especially nice ambiance. Don’t forget to bring your wallet, though. DInner reservations are recommended, also.

Maloney’s

This bar brings in young professionals, Pepperdine students, and of course, UCLA students. This is your typical college hangout, with an oak bar and cozy enclaves. Lines can get a little crazy after 11 p.m. Thursday–Saturday, so try to arrive early if you can.

Duke’s Barefoot Bar

The Barefoot Bar at Duke’s is a bit of a drive down Pacific Coast Highway, but it’s worth it. During happy hour they have several half-price food options in addition to the cheap beers and Mai Tais. All the while, you can take in the sight of the waves crashing up against the rocks right outside the window; for an even better view of this activity, snag one of the outdoor tables. Valet parking can be annoying for collegiate penny-pinchers, but if you tell the guy you’re not there to eat dinner, but rather to kill a little time in the bar, he’ll usually let you bypass the whole valet thing.

La Paz

La Paz is a great little Mexican restaurant in Calabasas, 15 minutes from campus and very near where a lot of commuter students live. It also has a fun bar, and Friday afternoons you can count on seeing at least a few Pepperdine kids easing their way into the weekend there. On Sunday mornings you can partake of all the buffet-style Mexican food, margaritas, and champagne you want for $20. Olé!

Malibu Inn

The Inn is the old standby for Pepperdine students. It offers live music and a great location right next to campus. On Tuesday nights and weekends, the place is generally packed. Expect a cover charge, and, like anywhere else in the area, fairly pricey drinks. All in all, it’s a laid-back environment and the place to go if there’s nothing else to do.

The Malibu Inn is the only local option. Travel to Hollywood or Santa Barbara for other under-21 clubs, but expect hefty cover charges.