Tiki Bar in Downtown Long Beach: Secret Island Below Pine

Built out in 2021 by local Long Beach restaurateur Ron Hodges as part of the historic Shannon's Corner entertainment block, Secret Island hides completely beneath the bustling sidewalks of Pine Avenue in downtown Long Beach, accessed through an unassuming doorway beneath Shannon's on Pine that descends into a subterranean tropical grotto. When searching for a hidden, atmospheric tiki bar near me in urban Los Angeles County, this subterranean hideaway at 209 Pine Ave transports patrons into an immersive Polynesian cavern complete with a flowing rock waterfall, carved totem poles, and glowing fire lanterns. The cool basement air, dim amber lighting, and gentle splash of water create an immediate sense of discovery, isolating guests from the modern street level above.

Conceived as an authentic tribute to Southern California's golden age of tiki, Secret Island was constructed with meticulous museum-grade craftsmanship. The basement walls are lined with volcanic rock formations and hand-woven thatch paneling, while authentic nautical relics, blown-glass fishing floats, and Polynesian woodcarvings decorate every seating booth. A centerpiece waterfall trickles continuously over mossy stone, generating soothing natural acoustics that blend harmoniously with exotica recordings, Martin Denny instrumentals, and vintage lounge tunes.

The underground architecture provides an inherently intimate, speakeasy-like ambience that feels private, mysterious, and sheltered from city life. Cozy upholstered booths with bamboo dividers provide comfortable enclaves for date nights and small groups, while a circular rum bar sits in the center of the room. The space manages to feel spacious yet private, allowing visitors to lose all track of time in a subterranean sanctuary where daytime sunlight and nighttime darkness cease to matter.

The culinary and cocktail programs at Secret Island cater to evening revelers and happy hour seekers with accessible pricing and classic tropical flavors. Appetizers are designed for sharing, featuring crisp French Fries for $7.00, crunchy Spring Veggie Rolls for $8.00, and sweet Coconut Shrimp with sweet chili dipping sauce for $11.00. Heartier bar bites include Kalua BBQ Pork Sliders for $13.00, served on sweet Hawaiian rolls with tangy slaw, crispy Bang Bang Shrimp for $13.00, and fresh Ahi Poke Tostadas for $17.00.

The culinary kitchen continues with craveable savory dishes that pair exceptionally well with high-proof rums. Guests frequently share the Sweet and Spicy Calamari for $14.00, fried until golden and tossed with pickled peppers, alongside the Pork Potstickers for $10.00, served with a savory ginger dipping sauce. For larger appetites, the Teriyaki Chicken Skewers cost $12.00, grilled over an open flame with sesame seeds and scallions.

The cocktail menu celebrates historic rum lore with both individual craft pours and dramatic communal bowls. Happy Hour pricing runs Monday through Thursday from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm and Sunday from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm, during which classic tropical drinks—including the Mai Tai and Navy Grog—cost $8.00, while the Jungle Bird and Zombie cost $10.00. Groups can order the signature Island Fishbowl for $23.00, a festive shared cocktail served with multiple long straws and citrus garnishes. Outside happy hour, individual specialty rums and cocktails are priced at $14.00 each.

Because Secret Island is tucked beneath street level, its sound engineering lends itself exceptionally well to live entertainment. The venue frequently hosts retro surf rock bands, ukulele performers, rockabilly trios, and popular weekly karaoke sessions that draw enthusiastic crowds of locals and downtown workers. The performance stage is positioned close to the tables, creating an engaging, energetic atmosphere where performers and audiences interact naturally.

Seating dynamics shift noticeably across the week. Weekday evenings from Wednesday through Thursday offer quiet, conversational settings where finding an open booth near the waterfall is effortless. By 8:30 pm on Friday and Saturday, the basement fills with couples, birthday parties, and convention attendees visiting from the nearby Long Beach Convention Center. Bartenders are friendly and efficient, preparing complex multi-rum drinks with practiced speed while maintaining the venue's hospitable island persona.

Secret Island's prime location in the core of Downtown Long Beach makes it effortless to integrate into a comprehensive coastal excursion. Stepping back onto street level places you directly on historic Pine Avenue, lined with beautifully preserved Art Deco and Beaux-Arts commercial buildings, independent coffee roasters, and lively outdoor restaurant patios. Walking three blocks north brings you to the historic Edison Building and local art murals that reflect the city's maritime history.

Alternatively, strolling four blocks south down Pine Avenue leads directly to Shoreline Village, Rainbow Harbor, and the Long Beach waterfront. Strolling along the wooden boardwalk past harbor cruises, docked catamarans, and Shoreline Aquatic Park's Lion's Lighthouse provides stunning Pacific Ocean vistas and fresh coastal breezes. Watching the sunset illuminate the harbor before descending down into the underground sanctuary of Secret Island provides an unforgettable downtown Long Beach experience.

Practical Notes: Secret Island is located at 209 Pine Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802, situated on the underground level beneath Shannon's on Pine between Broadway and 3rd Street. Evening operations typically begin at 5:00 pm Wednesday through Sunday, with Happy Hour specials running Monday through Thursday from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm and Sunday from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. Small bites cost $7.00, $8.00, and $11.00, sliders are $13.00, poke tostadas cost $17.00, happy hour drinks are $8.00 and $10.00, standard cocktails are $14.00, and shared fishbowls are $23.00. Credit cards, debit cards, and cash are accepted.

Getting to the venue via public transportation is exceptionally convenient, as the Downtown Long Beach Station on the Metro A Line (Blue Line) sits just one block away on Pacific Avenue, connecting directly to Downtown Los Angeles without highway traffic. Parking is readily accessible in several municipal parking structures along 3rd Street and Promenade North, which offer the first two hours completely free of charge. For an atmospheric subterranean getaway with authentic waterfall charm, Secret Island remains one of Long Beach's best-kept secrets.