16 Best Breweries in San Diego for Quality Beer
Did you know that San Diego is home to over 150 craft breweries? There weren’t many local beer options when I was younger, but I’ve seen the craft brew scene explode over the last couple of decades. This sunny Southern California town is an original trendsetter for the national microbrew scene.
San Diego is a paradise for all kinds of beer lovers, from stouts to funky sours; it’s even home to the original West Coast IPA. Of course, the beer tastes great, but there’s something so serene about sitting in an outdoor beer garden with friends and having a cold one in the famous sunny southern California weather. Don’t miss these San Diego hot spots to enjoy a craft beer!
North Park Beer Co.
3038 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104
www.northparkbeerco.com
I live down the street from the iconic North Park neighborhood and know from experience that you can’t throw a rock here without hitting a brewery. Aside from the Mira Mesa area, it’s one of the neighborhoods with the highest concentration of breweries in San Diego. If you’re a big fan of IPAs and a good, relaxed atmosphere, North Park Beer Co. is a must-visit.
Their Head Brewer, Kelsey McNair’s homebrew recipe, Hop-Fu! IPA became the single most award-winning IPA in history! This brewery started in a garage and grew into a beloved neighborhood hangout. From juicy IPAs like Disciples of ‘Za to a refreshing Guava Blaster fruit sour, they have a wide variety to quench any thirst. Plus, they have a delightful Nitro Chocolate Stout, Molten Phenix, for those who enjoy a dessert-like beer. What’s not to love?
AleSmith Brewing
9990 AleSmith Ct, San Diego, CA 92126
www.alesmith.com
AleSmith is a top brewery in San Diego, consistently ranked in Rate Beer’s top ten and holding 6th position among over 33,000 breweries globally. Known for its meticulously crafted beers, like the award-winning Speedway Stout with its rich chocolate and coffee notes, AleSmith has won multiple gold medals.
They also brew the San Diego Pale Ale .394, a local favorite honoring Padres baseball legend Tony Gwynn, alongside West Coast-style IPA, Nut Brown Ale, and Clásico Mexican Lager. AleSmith has grown from a small operation to one of San Diego’s largest tasting rooms!
Stone Brewing
2816 Historic Decatur Rd UNIT 116, San Diego, CA 92106
www.stonebrewing.com
Even if you’re not into beer, Stone is still a great spot to visit, whether it’s the Liberty Station or Escondido location (but the Escondido location is better, in my opinion). With lush, green outdoor seating amongst plants and water features, this gastropub is an experience serving great food that pairs perfectly with their brews.
The name “Stone” reflects the founders’ commitment to brewing beers that are solid, strong, and full of character. Founded by Greg Koch and Steve Wagner, these West Coast IPA pioneers are known for their flavorful brews. Don’t miss their beer festivals, food pairings, and live music events—check their calendar!
Societe Brewing
8262 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92111
www.societebrewing.com
Founded in 2012 with the motto “Beer Folk Unite!”, Societe Brewery isn’t just about great beer—it’s about community. Whether you’re into West Coast IPAs like Magic Lurks, juicy Hazy IPAs such as Bulbous Flowers, crisp Lagers, or refreshing Sours, they have something for every beer lover.
Located in San Diego’s historic Old Town, their newest taproom offers a full Societe experience with vintage beer hall tables, a welcoming patio, and some of the best bartenders around. Come enjoy a fresh brew and soak in the birthplace of California!
Pizza Port Brewing
1956 Bacon St, San Diego, CA 92107
www.pizzaport.com
Pizza Port is one of the original microbreweries in San Diego and holds a special place in my heart since it started in the area I grew up in. I have so many fond memories of enjoying hot cheesy pizza with friends here in high school. Founded by a fun-loving brother-sister duo in 1987, they started with a simple dream—good food, good beer, and good times. They turned a sleepy pizza joint into a craft beer haven, earning over 91 medals at the Great American Beer Festival.
Known for their laid-back California vibe, they offer approachable, easy-drinking beers perfect for a beach day, with their iconic Swami’s IPA being a local favorite. And let’s not forget the pizza! Their menu is a mix of classic and creative pies, the perfect pairing for their award-winning beers and a fun family outing.
Burgeon Beer Co.
6350 Yarrow Dr STE C, Carlsbad, CA 92011
www.burgeonbeer.com
Their name says it all—Burgeon means to grow and flourish—and that’s exactly what they’re doing in the craft beer scene. They offer a great selection of beers, from juicy Hazy IPAs to crisp Pilsners and refreshing Lagers. Try favorites like Airglow Hazy IPA, Treevana IPA, or Carlsbad Crush Mosaic Pale Ale.
With multiple San Diego taprooms, including their brewery in Carlsbad and The Oasis Beer Garden in Escondido, Burgeon provides unique atmospheres in which to enjoy their brews. Looking for a cool tee or hat? Burgeon uses eco-friendly materials for their merch, so you can rep their brand with a conscience.
Pure Project
9030 Kenamar Dr #308, San Diego, CA 92121
purebrewing.org
Born from a backpacking trip in Costa Rica—Pure Project’s founders dreamt up the idea while surrounded by nature, and this Pura Vida spirit (pure life) is what they bring to their beers. They’re are all about using fresh, local ingredients and a natural brewing process.
But it’s never boring! With a menu that changes with the seasons, you can always find something new and exciting, like their Murky Double IPA, called Endless Vista, or the refreshing Rain Lager, perfect for summer! Pure Project has taprooms across San Diego, from Balboa Park to Carlsbad, bringing their passion for great beer.
The Lost Abbey
1313 J St, San Diego, CA 92101
www.lostabbey.com
The Lost Abbey calls their main location “The Church,” which might have you picturing pews and sermons, but it’s actually delicious craft beers with a heavenly (or maybe slightly rebellious) twist. Head to their Church location in the heart of San Diego’s East Village for a lively atmosphere and a whopping 32 beers on tap!
Known for their Belgian-inspired styles and complex flavors, Lost Abbey brews like Judgement Day and Devotion offers something for every palate all year round. Don’t miss their seasonal and barrel-aged releases!
Mcilhenney Brewing
2363 Alpine Blvd, Alpine, CA 91901
www.mcilhenneybrewing.com
This isn’t just a brewery; it’s a family affair! Founded by the Mcilhenneys in Alpine, they’re reviving the original Alpine Beer Company with familiar favorites and exciting new brews. There’s something for everyone, with up to 25 beers on tap, including classic IPAs, stouts, fruited beers, and seasonal specialties.
Forget fancy brewpubs—Mcilhenney’s is all about comfort. Bring the whole family, relax on the patio, and enjoy great beer and conversation.
Epigg Brewing
2817 Dickens St, San Diego, CA 92106
www.eppigbrewing.com
Epigg Brewing has a rich family legacy dating back to the early 1900s that even Prohibition couldn’t stop! Their Natural Bridge Lager Series includes styles like the light and beachy Beach Beer and the Maltier Festbier, a San Diego favorite.
Eppig offers a solid selection of ales for hopheads, including the gold medal-winning 10:45 to Denver IPA and the tropical citrus blast of Wake Up & Slay IPA. Catching a concert or game at Petco Park? Their Bierhaus at the Park pop-up is the perfect spot for pre- and post-event brews.
Kaul Strauss Brewing
1157 Columbia St, San Diego, CA 92101
www.karlstrauss.com
Established in 1989, they’re one of San Diego’s OG craft breweries and still killing it. They won Mid-Size Brewery and Brewer of the Year in 2016, and with over 121 medals, their beers are award-winning-delicious.
Try the Red Trolley Ale or the legendary Aurora Hoppyalis IPA. If you’re a fan of fruity flavors, go for the Queen of Tarts Dark Sour. The Boat Shoes Hazy IPA is a delicious choice if you’re into the hazy craze. Kaul Strauss is always innovating, with over 140 beers brewed annually!
Blind Lady Ale House
3416 Adams Ave, San Diego, CA 92116
www.blindladyalehouse.com
Blind Lady Ale House (BLAH for short, but their beers are anything but!) is a San Diego legend. They were one of the city’s first “nano breweries,” crafting small batches focused on quality and unique flavors. BLAH loves fresh, local ingredients. Must-try beers include the crisp Saazall Pilsner, the adventurous Darksland Dark IPA, and the limited-edition Summer of 66 Collaboration with Burgeon Beer, perfect for summer.
Their pizzas are legendary; rumor has it, they’re the perfect match for their brews. There’s even live jazz every Thursday, and vinyl records spin all Fridays and Saturdays for a cool vibe.
Mission Brewery
131 14th St, San Diego, CA 92101
missionbrewery.com
With over 50 awards and a rich history, Mission Brewery has a strong case. Known for their classic and sessionable styles, they brew everything from crisp lagers to smooth ambers. Their epic tasting room, a 2,500 sq ft playground in a historic building, is a must-visit.
Insider tip: They offer large group tours for a customized brewery experience, complete with take-home glasses.
Belching Beaver Brewery
4223 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104
northpark.belchingbeaver.com
Belching Beaver Brewery is a name you won’t forget, and their beers live up to the hype! Their Peanut Butter Milk Stout is a star, winning awards like Gold – Best of Show at the Canadian International Beer Awards. They even get inspiration from bands like Deftones for unique brews like the Phantom Bride IPA.
Check out their Dam Good IPA 12-pack for a taste of their best IPAs, including the Fall of Troy Double IPA. With multiple locations in California, find the one nearest you or visit their North Park Tasting Room!
Kilowatt Brewing
1869 Cable St b, San Diego, CA 92107
kilowatt.beer
Kilowatt Brewing is celebrated for its eclectic and creative approach to brewing, offering over 20 beers on tap, ranging from IPAs and traditional styles to barrel-aged, fruit, and sour beers. But that’s not all—they’ve got a hidden tiki bar called Forbidden Cove and a speakeasy named The Space Pad at their Oceanside spot.
Their tasting rooms, with creative lighting, interactive art installations, and giant classic games, are a sight to behold. It’s an Instagrammer’s dream come true!
White Labs Brewing
9495 Candida St, San Diego, CA 92126
whitelabsbrewingco.com
Ever wondered how beer goes from bland to magic? You should visit White Labs to find out! It’s a wonderland for beer lovers where they research and develop crazy cool yeast strains, pushing the boundaries of flavor.
You can try side-by-side tastings of the same beer brewed with different yeasts, showcasing how yeast transforms flavor. They offer tours of their San Diego facility every Friday and Saturday (2 pm and 3:30 pm) with no reservation required.
Which beer from these breweries do you want to try the most?
Share with us in the comments!
