San Diego is known for its sunny beaches, vibrant nightlife, and incredible craft beer scene. With over 150 craft breweries in the region, it can be overwhelming to choose which ones to visit. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top ten craft beer brewers in San Diego, based on their quality, innovation, and popularity.
- Stone Brewing – is one of the most well-known craft beer brewers in San Diego, and for good reason. Their beers, including the iconic Stone IPA, are known for their bold flavors and high quality. They also have a beautiful outdoor beer garden in Escondido and a popular taproom in the heart of downtown San Diego.
- Ballast Point Brewing – is another big name in the San Diego craft beer scene, with award-winning beers like the Sculpin IPA and Victory at Sea Imperial Porter. They have several locations throughout San Diego, including a popular tasting room in Little Italy.
- AleSmith Brewing Company – is a local favorite, with a wide range of beers from their classic Speedway Stout to their tropical IPA. They also have a spacious tasting room in Miramar that’s perfect for a day of beer tasting.
- Karl Strauss Brewing Company – is one of the oldest craft breweries in San Diego, with a history dating back to 1989. Their beers, like the classic Red Trolley Ale, are known for their balance and drinkability. They have several locations throughout San Diego, including a brewpub in downtown San Diego.
- Societe Brewing Company – is a small, family-owned brewery that’s making big waves in the San Diego craft beer scene. Their beers, like The Pupil IPA, are known for their balance and complexity. They also have a beautiful tasting room in Kearny Mesa that’s worth a visit.
- Green Flash Brewing – is another popular craft brewery in San Diego, with a wide range of beers from their classic West Coast IPA to their barrel-aged Silva Stout. They have a spacious tasting room in Mira Mesa that’s perfect for large groups.
- Pure Project Brewing – is a newer addition to the San Diego craft beer scene, but they’ve already made a name for themselves with their creative and delicious beers. They also have a stunning tasting room in Miramar that’s worth visiting just for the ambiance.
- Lost Abbey Brewery Lost – is known for their unique and complex Belgian-style beers, like the famous Duck Duck Gooze. They have a cozy tasting room in San Marcos that’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon of beer tasting.
- Belching Beaver Brewery – This quirky brewery offers a range of creative brews, including their standout peanut butter milk porter.
- Mikkeller Brewing San Diego – Originally from Copenhagen, Mikkeller offers a unique selection of beers, including creative collaborations and limited-edition releases.
These ten craft beer brewers are just a small sampling of the incredible craft beer scene in San Diego. No matter which breweries you choose to visit, you’re sure to be impressed by the quality and creativity of the local beers.
