Cold tap beer and live music flow freely at this beachside hotel. Live Aussie rock gets the place moving on Sundays.
Utes brandishing big headlights, 'No Fat Chicks' bumper stickers and souped-up V8 engines can often be found taking up most of the car park on a busy Sunday session at the 'Obi'.
Ever since the Ocean Beach Hotel opened for business in 1934, country folk and city slickers alike have come from far and wide to drink and tip their hats to fellow cowboys in the Saloon Bar. With hotel and backpacking accommodation available, weary travellers can also be found drinking among the roustabouts and local barflies.
Out the back, punters can congregate around the burning barbecues and worn pool tables. Meanwhile, those who drift through to the adjoining front bar will find high ceilings and large wooden balustrades, which are evocative of a bygone era. Large windows open up onto the beachfront, offering a prime view of the bustling main drag. Perch here and order up a cold schooner of Asahi, Becks, Swan or Heineken.
Live music tunes are a big attraction at the Obi. DJs offer slick house sounds on Fridays and Saturdays, while on Sundays a band gets the place moving to Aussie rock tunes.
Anjela Bignell
