Hennessey's Tavern
Order a beer or a margarita and claim a spot on the patio. The crowd here is locals and people on vacation who found the right place. Hennessey's doesn't try too hard. Watch the sunset from La Plaza if the timing works.
Cold beer. Skip the cocktails unless the bartender knows your name. The patio is why you came.
- Address
- 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point, CA 92629, USA
- Find it
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