Best Beach Towns in America for Beer Lovers

Some beach towns have great waves. Some have great breweries. The best ones have both. These are the American beach towns where you can surf, swim, or just soak up the sun — then walk to a world-class taproom without changing out of your flip-flops. Once you pick your destination, check out America's best beach bars for waterfront spots worth the trip.

San Diego, CA

The undisputed champion of beach-meets-beer. San Diego has over 150 craft breweries and some of the best beaches in the country. You can surf in the morning, hit a tasting room by lunch, and watch the sunset from a beach bar — all without getting in a car.

Don't miss: Stone Brewing, Societe Brewing, Modern Times. Then hit Pacific Beach for sunset beers on the sand.

Portland, ME

Portland packs more breweries per capita than almost anywhere in America, and it's right on the Atlantic coast. The Old Port district is walkable, the seafood is incredible, and the brewery scene rivals cities five times its size.

Don't miss: Allagash, Bissell Brothers, Foundation Brewing. Grab a lobster roll and a beer on the Eastern Promenade.

Charleston, SC

Charleston's brewery scene has exploded in the last few years, and the nearby beaches (Folly, Sullivan's Island, Isle of Palms) are some of the best on the East Coast. The combination of Southern hospitality, historic charm, and great beer is hard to beat.

Don't miss: Edmund's Oast, Westbrook, Revelry Brewing. Day at Folly Beach, evening on King Street.

Outer Banks, NC

The OBX has a small but mighty brewery scene that's growing every year. The beaches are wide, uncrowded, and wild — and the local breweries embrace the laid-back coastal vibe with beach-inspired brews and outdoor taprooms.

Don't miss: Outer Banks Brewing Station (the first wind-powered brewery in America), Lost Colony Brewery. Grab a six-pack and hit the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

Santa Cruz, CA

Surf culture and craft beer culture collide in Santa Cruz. The boardwalk is iconic, the waves are legendary, and the brewery scene delivers serious quality in a funky, unpretentious package.

Don't miss: Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing, Humble Sea, Discretion Brewing. Surf Steamer Lane, then drink local.

Pensacola, FL

The Emerald Coast's white sand beaches are among the most beautiful in the country, and Pensacola's downtown brewery district gives you a half-dozen walkable taprooms. The military town grit mixes with beach town relaxation in the best way.

Don't miss: Perfect Plain, Pensacola Bay Brewery, Odd Colony. Beach day at Pensacola Beach, then downtown for brewery hopping.

Honolulu, HI

Hawaii's beer scene has come a long way. Waikiki Beach needs no introduction, and the local breweries are producing tropical-inspired beers that taste like they were made for drinking in the sand.

Don't miss: Maui Brewing, Lanikai Brewing, Waikiki Brewing. Beach at Lanikai, beers at sunset.

FAQ

Which beach town has the most breweries?

San Diego wins by a wide margin with over 150 craft breweries. Portland, Maine is second on a per-capita basis — it's smaller but incredibly dense with quality breweries.

Can you bring craft beer to the beach?

It depends on local laws. Many beaches allow alcohol in cans (no glass). Some, like San Diego's beaches, have alcohol bans. Check local regulations before you pack the cooler — our best beach coolers roundup has great options for keeping cans cold. Nearby beach bars are always an option.

What's the best time to visit a beer beach town?

Late spring through early fall (May–September) gives you the best weather and the fullest taproom calendars. Shoulder seasons (May and September) often have the best balance of good weather and smaller crowds.

Are beach town breweries expensive?

Prices are comparable to craft beer anywhere — typically $6-9 per pint. Tasting flights are usually $12-18 and give you the most variety. Many beach town breweries offer happy hour specials during off-peak afternoon hours. Want to try great craft beer at home? See our best beer subscription boxes.