Visitors and locals mingle in Schooners courtyard.

Celebrating 30 years in Cayucos

—The laid-back vibes of Cayucos blend perfectly with the relaxed atmosphere of Schooners. Just steps away from the beach, you can drop your beach blanket in the car and walk directly into the restaurant. It’s all about the views and the seafood for this Cayucos institution.

It’s been a favorite of both locals and visitors since 1994 when founder Bill Larkin purchased the 1930s building and transformed it into the restaurant and bar it is today. The famous upstairs bar was once an apartment, and many locals still remember the woman who lived there for many years.

Schooners has a space for everyone. Diners can sit downstairs in a covered patio and watch the waves and beachgoers, or in the dog-friendly outdoor patio complete with a water wheel. There’s an indoor dining room for anyone who wants to be out of the sun for a while. Upstairs is the outdoor deck overlooking the water and the Cayucos pier. It’s absolutely stunning. Diners can dig into a side of calamari while watching the sunset. If the ocean breeze is too much, the overhead heaters keep the chill at bay. Adjacent to the deck is the famous bar. It’s small and cozy and feels like you’ve stepped into a beach town bar of old movies.

The current owner, Brendan Fritzsche, bought Schooners in 2010. He had opened a restaurant in Hawaii, but the lure of the Central Coast brought him and his family back. However, his Hawaii days are evident in the welcoming and charming atmosphere at Schooners, where he brought his love of music. Locals and visitors can belt out their favorite tunes at the Wednesday, 7 p.m. open-mic nights.

Free live music plays on Saturday and Sunday from May to October. “There’s a lot of great talent,” says Fritzsche. He loves supporting talented local and traveling musicians. From Labor Day to Memorial Day, guests can enjoy happy hour specials. Schooner’s is famous for its bloody marys and margaritas. They also have craft cocktails, local wines, and many draft beers.

The only trouble is deciding what to eat. The menu is dialed in with local favorites such as fish tacos at lunch. Dinner favorites include pan-seared halibut, Harris Ranch steak, and lobster. Fritzsche, says the cioppino topped with crab legs is a must-try. During the winter months, does anything sound better than watching the sunset over the ocean with a seafood stew?

Schooners is decorated for Christmas with lights and trees to add to the ambiance. Holiday parties can be booked, and wedding receptions and rehearsal dinners are booked year-round.

Schooners is open late so there’s no excuse to miss this Cayucos gem!

Schooner’s is located at 171 N Ocean Ave., Cayucos, across from the beach. Open Sunday-Thursday 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday 11 a.m.-10 p.m. For the menu, reservations, or more information, visit schoonerscayucos.com, or call (805) 995-3883.

—Karen Lycan