Nightlife

DANCE AROUND THE DOCKS

San Diego’s tradition of entertaining its visitors is a colorful one that lives on in the present day—or night.

Like most deep-water ports in this country, San Diego’s contemporary glass skyscrapers are built upon a foundation of more plebeian beginnings. An ideal point from which to launch its warships, the Navy picked San Diego as its base of operations for all excursions into the South Pacific. And wherever one finds sailors, one finds a bustling port full of entertainment. Two-thirds of the city’s 1.31 million people are under 35, and these residents honor the tradition of living it up in late-night dance clubs and rooftop lounges, famous for their relaxed beach attitude. —Jeremy Dillahunt

Thin • 852 5th Ave • 619-235-6699 www.onyxroom.com

Thin, a spin-off from the highly lauded jazz venue Onyx Room, is thick with West Coast DJ talent. Donald Glaude, DJ Sachamo, and Scooter and Lavelle are just a few of the venue’s highly regarded residents. Music genres run the gamut from electro house and hip-hop to acid jazz influences, depending on who’s spinning. The diversity of sound is reflected on the chic dance floor, with all walks sharing in the enjoyment of the music. Though the clientele is relaxed, it does look the part, so it’s advisable to show up dressed to impress.

Beauty Bar • 4746 El Cajon Blvd • 619-516-4746 • www.beautybar.com

The Beauty Bar chain—where one can get a Martini and a manicure simultaneously—opened a location in San Diego last New Year’s Eve. True to its name, the space features a 1960s aesthetic, complete with hive hairdo dryers, Formica and velour tiling, and cocktails the size of flying saucers. On any given night the scene encompasses rockabilly, Rat Pack classics and electro hits. The diminutive stage and dance floor enable hot and sweaty dance parties, but you can cool down, chat and enjoy the bay breezes on the 1,000-square-foot outdoor patio.

Altitude Sky Bar and Garden Lounge • 660 K St • 619-446-6086 • www.altitudeskybar.com

Housed on the roof of the Marriott Gaslamp Quarter hotel, Altitude Sky Bar and Garden Lounge offers spectacular views of the city from 20 stories up. The club itself manages an intimate feel with cozy couches, overhanging palm trees and fabric screens. Music selections focus on Latin, funk, soul, hip-hop and house. It’s a see and be seen club, so dress up. It’s also advisable to order bottle service to guarantee entry, since the club is popular.