Lowdown: Hudson Water Club in West Haverstraw

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If you don't live in Rockland, West Haverstraw might seem like it's in the middle of nowhere compared to Nyack, Newburgh, White Plains or other Hudson Valley nightlife destinations. And while the Hudson Water Club is part of the Haverstraw Marina — not exactly a barhopping haven — its tucked-away nature is one of its few downsides. The HWC is a really solid place to party, especially during summer months when the waterfront hot spot scorches most.

Metromix Hudson Valley gives you the Lowdown of one of the area's best summer nightlife hot spots.

Vibe: As you pull into the sprawling parking lot that's divided by walls of hedges, take a few moments to remember where you parked your car. Seriously. Even if you're that night's designated driver, it'll be hard enough for you to remember, so don't bother asking your drinking buddies at 2 a.m., when they can barely remember their names.

When you finally make your way to the front entrance, check out the cool, angular design of the building and the winding paths that lead not only to the bar but also to the docks. By day, there's some fancy dining indoors and out on the patio, but by night, most of the restaurant is closed off to encourage partying outdoors, where you'll often find live music and/or a DJ.

On Friday and Saturday nights, you'll find bustling crowds of 20- and 30-somethings, rockin' out on a packed patio. Other nights during the week, you're likely to find smaller crowds that skew older.

Attire: While the high-class atmosphere of the Hudson Water Club itself suggests a fancy, schmancy dress code, the feel of the place is more come-as-you-are in the best way possible. You'll find more people hanging out in T-shirts and shorts than fashionistas, but no one looks out of place.

Pick me up: The Hudson Water Club's setting next to the river has built-in romance. Couples, swarms of single ladies and groups of guys all seem to head here to unwind, holding everything from the typical bottled beers to specialty drinks, like the blackberry mojito.

Entertainment: Live music and DJs are about as prevalent as the water on Friday and Saturday nights during the summer. Outstanding cover band Amish Outlaws and reggae rockers No Discipline are regulars at the HWC.

If you're looking for a mellower way to unwind, happy hour could do the trick. On weeknights from 4 to 6 p.m., kick back with half-price cosmos and margaritas, $4 well drinks, $2 domestic drafts and 40 percent off food on the bar menu while live music or a DJ sets the soundtrack.

Want a look inside? Check out All Access: Hudson Water Club in West Haverstraw

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