Best Waterfront Bars From Georgetown to Annapolis

A cold beer or frozen drink on a hot afternoon cures all. The only thing better? Enjoying that icy libation while taking in a beautiful waterfront sunset. Whether you're looking to escape the downtown rat race or Capitol Hill hustle, the DMV is home to plenty of waterfront spots that will serve you a cold one while you make the most of beautiful summer days.

Read on for some favorite stops for good food, good drinks and good views (in no particular order):

Cantina Marina (600 Water St. SW)

Giant nachos, frozen margaritas and sweeping views of the Southwest Waterfront have made Cantina Marina a favorite for locals. The Tex-Mex Cajun mashup and friendly staff set Cantina Marina apart from other waterfront bars, but other features include generous portions, Corona-ritas (margaritas with an inverted Corona beer) and drink specials every night of the week. The spot is also dog-friendly, so bring your furry friends and enjoy the summer together.

Sequoia (3000 K St. NW)

Brunch has become a staple meal to cap off any Washington weekend, and Sequoia has long been a favorite spot at the Georgetown Waterfront for its high-end buffet starring unlimited bellinis, mimosas and Bloody Marys. Visitors can sit outside right above the water when weather is nice, but the spot also boasts floor-to-ceiling windows inside for when the temperature drops. Sequoia also offers lunch and dinner, featuring a wide selection of seafood and gourmet desserts. Happy hour runs from 4 to 7 p.m. weekdays and offers $5 beers and $7 cocktails. The price may be a bit higher than some nearby competitors, but the view of the Key Bridge, Roosevelt Bridge and Virginia skyline make the splurge worthwhile.

Osteria Morini (301 Water St. SE)

Whether you're heading over after a Nats game or just out for a stroll along the waterfront, grab a spot indoors or out at Osteria Morini to enjoy happy hour specials from 4 to 7 p.m. weekdays. Score 20 percent off all drinks at the bar (not including bottles of wine) and chow down on a happy hour menu of dressed-up Italian eats that includes crispy ravioli, mozzarella and pomodoro, and meatball sliders. 

Blackwall Hitch (400 Sixth St., Annapolis; 5 Cameron St., Alexandria)

The second location of Blackwall Hitch opened in Alexandria only a few weeks ago, but it's ready to welcome guests with four bars, live music, a coastal tavern vibe and views of the Potomac from historic Alexandria. Its original location in Annapolis is also located close to the water. The menu at both spots features Chesapeake-inspired dishes, creative cocktails and extensive beer and wine lists. Happy hour runs from 3 to 7 p.m. weeknights and features drink specials, reasonably priced small plates for munching and half-price bottles of wine Monday evenings. 

Pusser's Caribbean Grille (80 Compromise St., Annapolis)

Serving up authentic Caribbean and seafood options alongside award-winning rum drinks, Pusser's Caribbean Grille has become a favorite in Annapolis, famous for its boozy "Painkillers." It's located right on Ego Alley, with close-up views of lavish yachts at Annapolis City Dock. Try $5 appetizers and $3.50 beers during happy hour every weeknight from 4 to 7 p.m., or stop by for a local favorite, Maryland crab dip. 

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