About Skybar Los Angeles
Skybar Los Angeles is the Mondrian Los Angeles hotel’s iconic rooftop lounge and pool deck in West Hollywood. This open-air, ivy-covered pavilion perches above the hotel’s pool with dramatic views of the Sunset Strip . By day it feels like a chic poolside oasis – teak lounge chairs and flowering vines make for a sunny cocktail lounge – and when the sun goes down the space transforms with hundreds of hanging lanterns and club lighting into a high-energy dance venue . First introduced in 1996, Skybar was created by nightlife impresario Rande Gerber as one of the first celebrity “see-and-be-seen” hotel lounges . Its mid-century–meets–Hollywood glamour design (original interiors by David Collins) quickly made it a landmark on the Strip . Signature features include an underwater speaker system built into the pool, comfortable teak-and-wicker seating areas, and an intimate exposed “Skybar Hut” cabana for small groups . In its long history Skybar has become known for panoramic city views, creative cocktails, and hosting celebrities – from Leonardo DiCaprio to Madonna – making it a cornerstone of West Hollywood nightlife.
Events and Programming
Skybar hosts a vibrant mix of daytime lounge music and nighttime parties. By day it is often a relaxed pool party or casual bar scene, with light DJs or background tunes. As evening falls the venue comes alive with world-class DJs spinning house, hip-hop, and dance beats . The club publishes a calendar of events including regular weekend pool parties, “Swim Club” DJ sets on Saturdays, and themed nights like all-white parties or cabana cocktail hours . Special events fill the schedule seasonally: for example, the Mondrian has run a pop-up “Holiday Bar” hosted by Mariah Carey each winter , and each New Year’s Eve Skybar throws an upscale countdown party with bottle service and a live DJ . Skybar also serves as an occasional runway venue – recent examples include LA Fashion Week afterparties for designers like Reformation and Staud in 2024 . The pool deck has hosted entertainment-industry milestones too, such as the 1999 wrap party for the TV series Star Trek: Deep Space Nine . Overall, visitors can expect a steady rotation of parties, DJ nights and celebratory events year-round; tickets or reservation details (when required) are typically announced on the Mondrian’s events page or through official outlets.
Tickets and Booking
Skybar largely operates as a lounge rather than a traditional concert venue, so most nights there is no advance “ticket” to enter – guests simply show up at the door. However, popular evenings often carry a cover charge (especially Fri–Sat nights) and can sell out, so early arrival or a reservation is wise. Special events (e.g. New Year’s Eve parties, holiday pop-ups, etc.) do require advance tickets or table bookings. The Mondrian’s website and social media will announce these ticketed events and often link to a reservations platform . For example, Skybar’s New Year’s Eve party typically requires pre-purchased tickets, whereas casual weekend nights may rely on guest lists or first-come entry. Bottle service and private cabana bookings are available for VIPs via the hotel’s event staff. In general, it pays to subscribe to Mondrian/Skybar mailing lists or call the venue for “on-sale” and presale info. Cover charges can range roughly $10–$30 depending on demand and event, and table minimums start at several hundred dollars. For straightforward lounge visits (no special event), walk-in entry is usually allowed after its opening hour.
Seating and Layout
The Skybar layout centers around a long rectangular pool, flanked by teak deck and seating. On the pool deck are cushioned lounge chairs and low tables facing toward the city view, along with standing cocktail tables. The main bar sits at one end of the pool deck with stools. A raised “Outdoor Living Room” seating area is inset with lush vines and wicker couches – a cozy spot to relax off to the side. Toward one corner is the private “Skybar Hut,” an open-air cabana platform with its own seating for smaller groups (ideal for a VIP table or private party). The configuration is mainly general admission – there are no fixed theater seats – so guests spread out across sun-bleached chairs or stand around high tables as they please.
When DJs perform, their booth will usually be on the deck along one side, with the audience gathering by the pool to dance and socialize. The best viewing spots vary by preference: seated guests often claim the teak lounge chairs near the middle for a full view of the skyline, while partygoers grab spots on the dance floor next to the DJ or under the pergola for prime people-watching. Acoustically, it’s an open-air space so sound carries upward – expect plenty of bass but keep in mind there are no enclosed walls (if you stand too far out, the audio will feel thinner). Note that exposed metal and tile surfaces, as well as pool edges, can get slippery – seated and standing areas are generally safe, but use caution near the water. In short: there is no “bad seat” in terms of sightline, but if you want the full party atmosphere, aim for the DJs and dance floor. If you seek conversation or sun, use the cozy lounge alcoves shaded by ivy.
Getting There and Parking
Skybar is located at 8440 Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood (between La Cienega and Fairfax). This places it in the heart of the Sunset Strip’s nightlife district, just across from the Viper Room and Comedy Store. Because street parking on Sunset is extremely limited and often meters quickly, most visitors arrive by valet or ride-share. The Mondrian offers on-site valet parking (for hotel guests and visitors) at about $70 per night . Valet is usually readily available at the main drop-off. Self-park or public lots are scarce on the Strip; the Hotel Ziggy across the street has a parking garage ($15–$25/day), and on-street metered parking can be found on nearby side streets (Havenhurst, West Knoll) but spots go fast in the evening.
Public transit is an option for avoiding traffic. The Metro B (“Red”) Line’s nearest stop is Hollywood/Highland, from which you must transfer (bus or taxi/Uber) about 2 miles west to Sunset. Several Big Blue Bus and Metro bus lines serve Sunset Boulevard itself: for example, lines #4 (Big Blue) and #704 (Metro Rapid) run east–west on Sunset, and lines #217/#218 cross the Strip on La Cienega/La Brea one block over to the east. Riders can exit at La Cienega or Crescent Heights and walk a few blocks to the hotel. Note that West Hollywood does not have a subway station, so foreign visitors often just rideshare from the Hollywood neighborhood. Rideshare drop-off is easy at the main entrance on Sunset Blvd. If driving, use GPS or a rideshare map – the address 8440 W. Sunset and “Mondrian Hotel” will pinpoint it.
Inside the Venue
On arrival, guests should be prepared for a quick ID check (Skybar is strictly 21+ ). The atmosphere is that of a polished nightclub open to the sky. The dress code is upscale-casual: think club or cocktail attire (no shorts, flip-flops, or baseball cap) . Women often wear nightclub dresses and men might wear nice jeans or slacks; the general tone is “nice after-work outfit” rather than sporty. The staff at the door will enforce these rules and any cover charge if applicable.
Inside, the bar is the center of action. The full bar serves creative cocktails, premium spirits and wine, plus a small menu of bar snacks (tapas, pizza from “Pizza Girl,” charcuterie, etc.). You can place orders at the bar stools or have drinks delivered to your lounge table or cabana. Menu highlights often include a mix of frozen blended drinks (Coladas, margaritas) and signature concoctions. Fair warning: drink prices are typical West Hollywood high-end (craft cocktails $20+, bottled beer $8+, etc.). If you’re on a budget, the cheapest options tend to be well drinks or draught beer.
There is no formal coat check for small bags, but large backpacks or packages may be routed through a security desk (especially on busy nights). Photographs are generally allowed – guests commonly take selfies with the city backdrop – though professional cameras or tripods might be discouraged. Lockers are not provided. Inside the lounge, Wi-Fi is available via the hotel network for guests. Restrooms are located inside the hotel below the pool deck; just ask staff and they’ll direct you downstairs. No touchscreen ticket scanners: simply show your ID and pass by security if space is available. In short: entry is casual but expect standard club security and a leisurely check of your purse or bag if it’s very large.
Nearby Amenities
Visitors often pair a Skybar night with other notable Sunset Strip spots. On-site dining: The Mondrian’s restaurant Casa Madera (one floor below Skybar) offers upscale coastal Mexican fare and is open until late . For a quick bite before (or during a lounge day), you can pop downstairs to order flatbreads or ceviche. Other restaurants: within a 5–10 minute walk are several favorites: Katana (sushi), Laurel Hardware (modern American tavern in an alley), and the iconic Sunset Tower Bar (gorgeously lit, dressier bar scene). Several casual spots on nearby La Cienega or Sunset (oil-cheap burgers, Korean BBQ, etc.) offer pre-show eats. Immediately across the street is the famed Chateau Marmont : it has a bar/restaurant open late in a legendary Hollywood setting.
Evening bars: If you want to continue the night after Skybar closes, many West Hollywood bars stay open until 2:00 a.m. or later. In the same block you’ll find nightlife favorites like the Abbey (celebrity-filled gay bar), and a short cab/Uber ride away are hot spots like The Den at Envoy (speakeasy vibe) and the Rooftop at The Standard (dance rooftop lounge). Hotels: Skybar guests can also consider staying overnight nearby. The Mondrian itself offers modern rooms, and across Sunset are boutique options like the Chamberlain and The Standard. A few blocks south on La Cienega are the Sunset Tower Hotel and Petit Ermitage – both historic, intimate 4-star retreats. This means you could easily arrive by car or even on foot if you’re staying in WeHo. For non-drive travelers, note that taxis and Ubers can be sporadic late at night, so plan rides back ahead of time (there’s often a taxi stand on Sunset or Fairfax).
What Makes This Venue Special
Skybar Los Angeles stands out as a Hollywood institution and a prototype for urban rooftop lounges. It was the first major property to bring intimate boutique-hotel nightlife to the Sunset Strip in the mid-’90s , creating a model later copied by other hotels and nightclubs. The venue’s leafy pergola design and underwater audio system are unique touches – combine that with the hilltop view of the city and you get a setting unlike any typical nightclub. Night after night it has played host to celebrities and cultural moments: its chairs have been seen on magazine covers, its carpet has been velvet-rope to stars, and its poolsides have hosted press events and premieres. Photographers often snap IDs by its glowing lanterns, meaning it became an iconic backdrop for Hollywood style and star portraits .
The cultural resonance of Skybar is also clear in West Hollywood’s lore. It helped anchor the Mondrian as a hub for fashion and entertainment events – from runway shows to album launches – and even played a role in pop music history (UGK rapper Pimp C was famously found at the Mondrian in 2007) . Today, long-time LA locals will tell you Skybar is a throwback to classic Hollywood glamour, yet it continues to reinvent itself (for example, a recent renovation updated the lounge with a modern Alice-in-Wonderland whimsy ). In short, both visitors and DJs love Skybar for its legendary atmosphere: it feels like an old-school Hollywood patio party, but with a cutting-edge crowd and cocktails. Its enduring significance to the Sunset Strip scene makes it more than just another bar – it’s a piece of Los Angeles nightlife history.
Visitor Tips and Information
ID and Age: Visitors must be 21 or older (21+) to enter Skybar. Always carry a valid government ID – bartenders and security check age rigorously .Dress Code: Skybar enforces a smart-casual dress code. No athletic wear, shorts, flip-flops, or torn jeans are permitted . Think “Hollywood lounge” attire – stylish and a bit elevated. If you wouldn’t wear it to a trendy nightclub on Hollywood Blvd, don’t wear it here.Best Time to Arrive: Sunset hour is a great time for photos and views, but it can get crowded by 9–10pm, especially Fri/Sat. Arriving earlier in the evening (after opening at noon/5pm) means easier parking and seating. If you have a specific DJ or event in mind, try to arrive before 10pm to avoid long lines or capacity issues.Reservations: If you want guaranteed entry or a celebration table, book a cabana or a table through the hotel. Reservations usually require a minimum spend (check with the hotel’s events team). For casual lounge-goers, there is no online “ticket” for normal nights; just show up and wait for entry.
Accessibility: The venue is accessible via elevator and lift. An ADA-accessible route connects the hotel lobby to the pool deck (Skybar) by an elevator lift near the restaurant . Staff can assist guests who need the lift. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are available in the hotel lobby by the pool level. (In general, Skybar aims to comply with all accessibility standards.)What to Bring: A small clutch or purse is fine, but large backpacks may be turned away. Bring cash or card for drinks (all major credit cards are accepted). Cell signals are usually strong, so your phone should work for ride-share apps. Sunglasses are handy for daytime; a light jacket for later nights on the open deck.What NOT to Bring: Outside food, drinks, and professional camera equipment are not allowed. Also, avoid bringing large or spiked heels, as the pool deck can be uneven. Do not expect a coat check or storage, so plan accordingly. Smoking is only allowed in designated outdoor areas away from doorways (as per LA law).Mistakes to Avoid: The biggest mistakes are underdressing or showing up too late. Also, be aware that drinks are pricey; budgeting accordingly can avoid surprises. If you plan to stay past midnight on a weekend, arrange transportation in advance since West Hollywood can be very busy at that hour. Finally, double-check event schedules: sometimes Skybar hosts private functions, so on rare occasions it may open late or have a special cover. Ideally, call or check online before heading over.Local Info: You can use popular ride-share apps for the quickest route. If driving, note that Uber/Lyft often drop off on Sunset Blvd in front of the hotel. The on-site valet (enter driveway on Sunset just east of La Cienega) is $70+/night . For late departures, Santa Monica buses (Big Blue Bus #4) run 24 hours nearby and stop at Sunset & Van Ness, about a 5-minute walk east.
What kind of venue is Skybar Los Angeles?
Skybar Los Angeles is the rooftop poolside lounge of the Mondrian Los Angeles hotel . It’s an outdoor bar and club perched above Sunset Boulevard, known for its decked pool, panoramic city views, and trendy cocktail lounge vibe .
How can I buy tickets or reserve a spot at Skybar?
Skybar typically operates without formal admission tickets on most nights – you pay at the door if there’s a cover. Special events (like holiday parties or New Year’s Eve) do require advance tickets or table reservations, which are usually posted on Mondrian’s events page . For regular visits, simply arriving early is a good strategy; for popular nights consider booking a cabana or bottle service through the hotel.
What is the capacity of Skybar Los Angeles?
For events and parties, Skybar can host up to about 600 guests in total (around 250 seated and up to 600 standing) . The poolside lounge layout means it’s flexible – seats and tables can accommodate roughly 250 people at a time, and the standing room fills up for larger crowds.
What are Skybar’s hours and cover charges?
Skybar is open daily from afternoon through late night . Generally it opens around noon or early afternoon and closes by 11pm on weekdays and around 2am on weekends . Entry is free on most weeknights unless a special event is happening, but on busy weekend nights there may be a $10–$30 cover charge at the door. Call ahead or check the Mondrian’s website for any special cover on party nights.
Where is Skybar located and how do I get there by car or transit?
Skybar is at 8440 Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood, on the Sunset Strip. If driving, the Mondrian’s valet is the most convenient (around $70/night as of 2024 ). Street parking on Sunset is very limited. Nearby paid lots (e.g. Hotel Ziggy on Sunset) and meters on side streets are alternatives. Public transit: Metro’s B (Red) Line stops at Hollywood/Highland – from there take a short bus (Big Blue Bus #4 or Metro 704 on Sunset) or rideshare to Sunset & La Cienega. Local buses (Big Blue #4, #704 Rapid, #217) run along Sunset with stops near the Mondrian . Uber/Lyft can drop you off at the hotel’s front entrance.
Is there seating or table service at Skybar?
Yes – Skybar features lounge seating and tables around the pool. There are cushioned lounge chairs and sofas near the pool, as well as high-top cocktail tables around the deck. You can also book private cabanas (“Skybar Huts”) for bottle service. Table service is available: hosts can bring drinks to your table if you've reserved a table or cabana with a minimum spend.
What is the dress code at Skybar Los Angeles?
Skybar enforces an upscale-casual dress code . Dress to impress – typically nice jeans or trousers and a collared shirt for men, and cocktail attire or stylish dresses for women. Athletic wear, T-shirts, shorts, flip-flops, and sports jerseys are not allowed. Security will turn away guests in beachwear or overly casual clothes.
Can I bring my own food, drinks, or large bags?
No. Outside food and beverages are prohibited at Skybar. Only items purchased on-site are allowed, and anything in your bag may be inspected. If you bring a large bag, staff may ask you to store it elsewhere. It’s best to carry a small purse or wallet. Also, no professional cameras or recording equipment are allowed (smartphone photos are fine). In short, only bring what you can stow easily and comfortably.
Is Skybar wheelchair accessible?
Yes – the Mondrian provides accessible routes to Skybar. From the hotel lobby, an ADA-compliant lift can take guests up to the pool deck level . Once on the deck, all seating areas are reachable without additional steps. Accessible restrooms are available near the pool. If you need assistance, staff can help navigate the accessible entrance and lift.
What food and drinks are available?
Skybar offers a full bar menu with craft cocktails, beer, wine, and shots. The drink list features signature frozen cocktails, margaritas, mojitos, and premium spirits. There is also a small food menu (available most of the day) serving shareable plates – think charcuterie boards, tacos, flatbreads and wood-fired pizzas (the “Pizza Girl” menu) – plus appetizers like wings or ceviche. Food service ends around 10pm, but the bar remains open until closing time.
What time should I arrive for a good spot?
For prime sunset views, arrive around 6–7pm, when the lounge is open and the sun is still up. If you want to snag a lounge chair or cabana, it’s wise to get there at opening time (noon or early evening, depending on the day). For busy party nights (Fri/Sat), plan on arriving by 8–9pm to avoid long waits. Late arrivals risk hitting capacity limits after 10pm, so on popular nights early entry is best.
