We were exploring the area and saw this random saloon by a gift shop, decided to stop in since one of our friends is a huge all things pirate person! It was a hit - as you can tell from the photos, not busy at all on a Thursday afternoon. Pool table is first come first serve and free! Restrooms available and the bartender was friendly and welcoming. No one had any cocktails, just a quick unplanned visit because of the theme and a couple beers. read more

The Haunted Head Saloon - Bartenders Near Me - Oceanside, California

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September 10, 2026 and in town for a wedding... Absolutely great happy hour from 2 until 6 PM!!!! This would be a 5/5 for a dive bar BUT, only a curtain separates the women's toilets and if you are in the first stall, it does not close so anybody walkinto use the second stall is looking right at ya! read more

Excellent cocktails, friendly service, great vibe! LOVED the decor and vibe. Had a great time

Yea, I get the whole dive bar vibe but seriously the women's washroom is disgusting!! A curtain between stalls and you have to walk past another person on the toilet to get to the back one. Is this even legal? Build a proper bathroom. read more

I've only been here on Halloween when it has been extremely busy. Therefore it's hard to make a determination on whether or not I like it here. There is only a couple of things I know for sure, they pour strong drinks and it attracts a young crowd. I need to go back there to make up my mind about the place. read more

Kirsten is the best bartender I've ever been around! She did not make us wait at all and she knows her drink drinks! I would highly recommend this bar!!!! read more

If you're ever in the Downtown Oceanside area and you're hanging out past 9PM at night, there's a good chance that you will find yourself at this local hideaway. Welcome to The Haunted Head Saloon. It's one of Oceanside's most famous Dive Bars. Actually, The Haunted Head Saloon is one of the only bars in Downtown that can be considered "Divey". Because they do not have any food for sale here, you MUST BE 21 OR OLDER to enter. NO EXCEPTIONS. What I love the most about The Head is that their security is on-point and it's relatively safe inside (considering that it's a dive bar). The few times I've seen drama, it was quickly addressed and carried outside. One of the BEST aspects of The Haunted Head is its location. You can find it right off of Mission Ave & Tremont St in the heart of the Downtown Area. It's just north of the Regal Movie Theater. Because of its location, you can walk to the movies, to the pier or beach (2 blocks away) or to any of the parking garages nearby (within 8 minutes). In addition, there is Pier Pizza located right next door to them selling pizza by-the-slice, tacos across the way at Sanchos Tacos, Strawberry Shack for cake desserts & Fugu icecream shop just around the corner. So, you can always find something to eat BEFORE you start drinking AND the pizza shop typically stays opened late for the crowds. The bartenders work quickly (especially considering the crowds) and there is a Full Bar at their disposal. I wouldn't come here for a "foo-foo" pretty cocktail, BUT, simple mixed drinks or shots are best. They've got some TVs in there (just for decoration because everyone's drinking), a pretty solid pool table (that they maintain monthly) and a jukebox that patrons can customize their songs too (download the AMI MUSIC APP). PRO-TIP: There are snack bags by the bar to nibble on, ask the bartender for one There's also a 5 gal water dispenser in the back. The interior is dark, pirate themed and decorated in $1 bills. The tradition is to get yours from the bartender, sign it and tape it up! There's booth seating in the corners, 2 long wooden tables for seating, bar seating & multiple high-chair tables too. The only aspect lacking in this bar are the bathrooms. Well, I can only speak for the men's bathroom. It's small. Cramped and no privacy. Pretty much exactly what I would expect from a dive bar! Anyhow, The Haunted Head Saloon has been around for as long as I can remember and I always recommend passing through late at night when in the Downtown Oceanside area; besides, everything else is closed! read more

The Haunted Head Saloon - Never heard of the issue from here, but at least they're prepared... because O'side is Sketchy - Bartenders Near Me - Oceanside, California

Great locals dive bar, and they were very welcoming to us tourists. All bartenders were friendly. They had tallboy PBRs for $6.50 and a digital jukebox that was really backed up, so we only heard a couple of our songs. It was very busy on a Sat night, but were lucky to grab last 2 bar stools available when we arrived. There were many characters of all ages and diversities in this bar which made it quite entertaining. No food is served here though. The bar does smell like barf, but I think its actually all the old dollar bills that take up every inch of the wall that give off that unappealing smell. We did get used to the smell after a while. read more

Best prices drinks in town. Friendly bartenders, great atmosphere. Pool table. Love visiting read more

The Haunted Head Saloon - Bartenders Near Me - Oceanside, California

I would not go her as a female, unsafe. Also the staff her was extremely rude. I am from LA and visiting Oceanside for the first time and makes me never want to come back to this area again. read more

Fun, super divey, loud good music., wild customers. Definitely go after you've had dinner and want to be out late getting your drink on! The girls bathroom is WILD!! What an experience I had funn! read more

The Haunted Head Saloon - You gotta be there to see! - Bartenders Near Me - Oceanside, California

Tried it again and same person Alex was there and when we came in and she gave me a look. She did gave my partner his drink and asked me then the security came behind us saying that we needed to leave because she said we were drunk and wanted us out. I told the security guy we just got in and that she has had a problem with me after I called her out on my charges. I did ask for the owner or person who is in charge of the bartenders and he said that he's in vacation and not sure when he's coming back or no way to get a hold of him. I asked what days is he usually checking in and he said "I don't know but you got to leave." Security guys always changing and too crowded, sinks and drunks hardly can walk there and spend more than 20 minutes to get a drink. Alex needs to get herself checked out since I'm not the first person she's done this too. If she doesn't like you she'll kick you out and if you don't tip more than 5$ for a drink she will also not serve you again. Always rushing everyone and picks and chooses who she makes the drinks for mostly drunk ones so she gets a big tip. Just wished I had my phone on record when we got in and after the incident happened. Like that I would have my proof and she will not get her way with others and maybe the owner will finally step up. read more

The Haunted Head Saloon - 11$ for a short glass not tall or double. - Bartenders Near Me - Oceanside, California

The bartender told me that they were getting negative reviews on Yelp due to the ladies room, it's got a couple of curtains as the stalls, and frankly when I walked through all the women waved and said hello. lol. The reality is it's a pretty damn good place and I would recommend it to anybody coming into Oceanside California. read more

Am there pretty much once per week, it's a cool spot to hang out and drink some heavily poured beverages lol. It's a fun place to chat with friends and socialize with randos, especially military guys cause they are literally everywhere there. read more

This is just an OK. A very Diveey bar. Don't complaint about the service, Bartenders are nice but they can't afford to retire yet ! #ykyk Atmosphere is cool, pool table and the indictment against Donal trump was on the news. I grab a quicky BPR & small talk with San Diego locals. Interesting place ! read more

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This place is so good!! The service can be tricky when the bars packed (but that's any place). Drinks are cheap and STRONG which is great! The ambiance is impeccable. Such good people watching and people are so friendly here. Lots of locals come to this bar. Pool table is very popular and lots of people enjoy it. read more

Best place definitely a must go if your in Oceanside and just looking for a good vibe and a great drink this is that place first time going last weekend I'll most definitely be back this weekend read more

The Haunted Head Saloon - Bartenders Near Me - Oceanside, California

Great atmosphere, fun thing to do once the sun goes down if you like lively bars. Went 2 nights in our trip and was fun both nights. read more

The Haunted Head Saloon - Inside the car - Bartenders Near Me - Oceanside, California

bathroom gives porto potty, no seat covers. Bar tenders hold it down though. A bit pricy but still a good time. Only one pool table, can get pretty crowded towards the end of the week read more

Such a fun place to go if you're in Oceanside! Sure, there are a lot if options, but recommend this 'saloon' if you're trying to decide. We had a really terrific time! read more

In my opinion this bar is not worth going to. The idiot guy at the door wouldn't let us in one time because my 50 year-old girlfriend didn't have her ID. The drinks are not very good in my opinion they are weak and if you're not a local they treat you like crap. My opinion is to stay away read more

The bartender could not make a Hennessy side car but she tried, the glass was not clean and I was charged $41 and some change and then it was later updated on my card to a solid $46. I did not tip her at all this was a write in after the fact. The bar is nice minus that just needs a knowledgeable bartender with a better attitude read more

This bar has such a cool atmosphere and is unlike anything else in the area. Divey and casual. Strong cocktails! read more

The Haunted Head Saloon - a man hanging from the ceiling - Bartenders Near Me - Oceanside, California

It's always a good time at the Haunted Head Saloon. Great time and great bartenders. I recommend it.

I have lived in Oceanside for 3+ years now and every single time I've visited the haunted head it's never let me down. Fast service and fast drinks. The later the night gets, the better the music is!!! Without a doubt this is the best night life in downtown Oceanside. If you're looking for authentic west coast nightlife; look no further. Everywhere else will be closed after 10-11pm but not haunted head saloon!!! Did I mention they have the best tequila selection?? read more

The Haunted Head Saloon is easily one of my favorite spots in town. From the moment you walk in, the staff makes you feel welcome, and it's clear they go out of their way to create a friendly, enjoyable atmosphere. The management and security are always professional, kind, and dedicated to making sure everyone has a great time. The bar itself is well-kept and maintained, even during busy nights. It's evident that the team is dedicated to making sure everything runs smoothly, no matter how crowded things get Plus, the music always sets the perfect vibe--whether you're in the mood to relax or get a little more wild. Whether you're stopping by for a nightcap or looking for a fun, budget-friendly night out, The Haunted Head Saloon is the place to be. I highly recommend it--great drinks, great music, and a great time every visit! read more

Fun dive bar and theme, but I just can't believe they haven't made changes to the bathrooms, especially the women's restroom. There is no privacy, just an old curtain. You should want your female customers to feel safe and comfortable using your bathroom. It's such a shame and very telling that the managers and owners haven't made that a priority. read more

I miss Oceanside & Haunted Headed! So happy we stop after a great weekend! Nothing beats an amazing bartender - Miss Taylor Great tacos across the street at Sanchez's and Haunted Head. read more

The bar tender Taylor is amazingly sweet, so I'm sorry but she works in a trash bar. The other woman working tonight 10.03.2024 is a recovering alcoholic?! How does that work? She had me thrown out for no apparent reason. The security/bar back they call "boston" decided it was okay to grab me by the neck while I sat by myself at the bar. He yanked me back and threw me on the ground outside the bar. Is this the customer service that is expected? I asked to speak to the owner and also called the police to file a police report. Unfortunately, I have to wait until Monday to press charges. read more

One star because of the the women's bathroom. Not sure what weirdo built it that way, but I walked in there with 3 other girls who were shell shocked as well It's curtains only and connected to each other (??) , which is so beyond weird and unnecessary. read more

Great price for drinks and the bartender knows how to do it right. It's a dive bar and a cool place to hang with the locals. It's our go to spot! read more

The epitome of a dive bar, that's what Haunted Head Saloon is.  It has everything you want in your local dive bar.  Kitschy décor.  At Haunted Head it is in the form of a theme.  Pirates and skeletons.  Ahoy matey!  The walls are covered in money.  Yes, money.  People will scribble anecdotes, often vulgar, sometimes charming, but always alcohol fueled onto dollar bills, or fives, the random ten, then they are haphazardly affixed to the walls.  Or the ceiling fans.  Or wherever there is a blank space remaining.  On our visit our bartender (didn't catch her name) was cool.  She was funny and polite.  We clearly weren't regulars, but we were treated as if we were.  Our fellow dive bar patrons were fun too.  Regulars and walk-ins alike, day drinking as one. Free chips!  Yes!  Help yourself to a little bag of chips from the carousel on the corner of the bar.  On the house!  We enjoyed Cheetos and Doritos! Cheap drinks!  Strong too.  If they ain't cheap, you ain't at a dive bar.  That goes for the beer too!  Cheap, and of course, in a bottle. One thing every self-respecting dive bar needs is a nasty bathroom.  The Haunted Head's head did not disappoint.  It was icky and sticky.  Flush with your foot! Suffice it to say, we very much enjoyed our visit to the Haunted Head Saloon and look for to our next visit.  Aaarrrrghhh! read more

Less than 1 star. Zero service, bartenders walked around eating pizza as we're literally trying to find someone to take our order after being there for 25 min. I work in the industry and have patience for any establishment, but they really know how to make someone feel like a zero priority customer read more

Ah, the Haunted Head Saloon. Also known as the bar that I poke my head in for about 10 minutes and then leave. While I've never had an overtly negative experience here, it's just one of those bars that is divey in a bad way, and I would have no reason to visit if other bars weren't closed in the area. It's always extremely packed so it's hard to find seating and the bartenders there never really give off the vibe like they are there to do anything other than take your order. Its hard to knock it for being dirty/grungey because that's part of the aesthetic. I don't know what else to say. read more

Best place for a fake id they will never check it and always will let you in they are super cool about it and will let you do whatever you want you wanna run the pool table bouncers will help want to kick someone out you dot. Like they will help want to get your underage friends in they will help whatever you want for a price they will help read more

Fun, comfortable, reasonable prices, and great friendly bartenders. Nice downtown location.

Fun bar with a crazy pirate vibe. The Haunted Head Saloon is worth visiting. Have a beer, sit down and take a few minutes to look at all that crazy crap that are on the walls. The service is friendly and It's a perfect place to stop, rest and refresh. read more

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zero stars young lady really needs a reality check , I saw her cuzz out a young guy for not tipping but we all saw him buying beers after beers nd tipping coups bucks after each beer worse place worst vibes ever ruined our night seeing the fella get treated like that I also see that this is not the first time this happens truly hope the owner fires her ... read more

If you are looking for a fun divey bar in Oceanside I highly recommend this place. We were looking for a place to have one last round of drinks before calling it a night and this place seemed busy so we figured we would give it a shot! The music was great, a mixture of classic country to modern day top 40 which was nice. I am always a fan of the over the top decor to go with the pirate theme and all of the dollar bills, they also have a pool table and foosball table as well. Going to a dive bar and being a wine drinker is never easy but to my surprise they actually had decent wine to pick from which was much appreciated. The one thing I will say is that this is the oddest bathroom experience I have ever had anywhere... find out yourself but if you need ample privacy in the bathroom this place is not for you. read more

The service was horrible. Moment friend and I walked in, rude bartender and didn't give me the drink I wanted but argued with me. Both my friend and I didn't even finish our beers. Nice concept but horrible worker. read more