We recently returned to Avila Beach, California, for a quick getaway for my birthday. We were there once before in 2015 and remembered the picturesque views and easy feeling to it all. Just dipping our toes back into leisure travel after the pandemic break, we decided to return to Avila Beach and see how the town had changed. Happily, on our first night in town, we stumbled upon a French wine bar and bistro called Blue Moon Over Avila. It was magic.
Avila Beach Views
Let’s start with the fact that Blue Moon has a spacious patio shielded from the sun but open to incredible views of Avila Beach, the ocean, and the pier. Even better – the drinks were a delight, and the light bites were delicious – not always a given when a restaurant has a great location. This restaurant and wine bar exceeded our expectations.
Excellent Service
Did I mention the service was terrific? As places come back, particularly in towns that hurt for tourism over the last couple of years, there has been a noticeable problem with staffing. People have moved on to other jobs, and until the season starts, many of the college kids who flock to the town for summer jobs aren’t there yet to help fill the openings. Blue Moon Over Avila seemed to have an experienced staff, who was attentive enough to keep the Cremant de Alsace flowing but not intrusive (Hannah Rocks!). They know that when you are sitting up at the marble bar overlooking the ocean, some quiet moments of appreciation are worth the price of admission.
Fab Food at Happy Hour Prices
Speaking of prices, happy hour prices were pretty reasonable. We were celebrating my birthday, so we went with a sparkling wine we enjoyed (the aforementioned Allimant Laugner, Cremant de Alsace). We paired that with a tasty hummus plate with three different options that kept us smiling.
Finding Some Bliss in Avila Beach
But best of all, happy hour let us slowly relax for the first time in ages. The late afternoon sunshine and the libations had us lowering our shoulders (usually held somewhere near my ears), taking deep breaths, and rejoicing that we could safely visit Avila Beach. I think all of our Sunday nights should be spent leisurely chatting, sipping, and noshing while gentle ocean waves provide a soothing soundtrack.
So, if you are looking for a delightful happy hour that is both tantalizingly good and accented with ocean views, Blue Moon Over Avila in Avila Beach, California, is well worth a visit. Or two.
If you are curious about our experiences in Avila Beach the first time we visited, check out our travel experiences here.
