Best 15 Breweries in San Diego CA: A Comprehensive Guide

ByAnthony Smith Last Updated:

San Diego is a beer lover’s paradise. With over 150 breweries, it’s no wonder why San Diego has become a top destination for beer enthusiasts. From small craft breweries to larger establishments, San Diego has something for everyone.

When it comes to breweries, San Diego has some of the best in the country. With so many to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to visit. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, it’s important to know which breweries are worth your time. From award-winning beers to unique tasting rooms, San Diego’s breweries have it all.

Some breweries in San Diego have gained national recognition for their exceptional beers. Stone Brewing Company, for example, has been named the “All-time Top Brewery on Planet Earth” by BeerAdvocate magazine. Other notable breweries include Ballast Point, Karl Strauss Brewing Company, and Modern Times Beer. With so many great options, it’s no surprise that San Diego has become a hub for beer tourism.

The Craft Beer Scene in San Diego

San Diego is renowned for its craft beer scene, with over 150 breweries and microbreweries in the area. The city’s beer culture has been growing since the 1980s and has become a major attraction for locals and tourists alike.

San Diego’s craft beer scene is known for its diverse range of styles, from traditional German lagers to experimental IPAs. The city is home to many award-winning breweries, including Stone Brewing, Ballast Point, and Karl Strauss. These breweries have helped put San Diego on the map as one of the best beer cities in the world.

One of the reasons for San Diego’s success in the craft beer industry is its abundance of local ingredients. The city’s proximity to Mexico has led to a strong influence of Mexican flavors in many of its beers. San Diego is also known for its use of local hops, which are grown in the nearby valleys and mountains.

The craft beer scene in San Diego is not just about the beer itself, but also about the community that surrounds it. Many breweries have become local hangouts, offering a space for people to come together and enjoy a cold beer. The city’s beer festivals, such as the San Diego Beer Week and the San Diego International Beer Festival, bring together local and international breweries for a celebration of all things beer.

Top Breweries in San Diego

San Diego is known for its craft beer scene, and it’s not hard to see why. With over 150 breweries in the county, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the top breweries in San Diego that are worth checking out:

Stone Brewing

Stone Brewing is one of the most well-known breweries in San Diego. Founded in 1996, they have been brewing award-winning beers for over two decades. Their flagship beer, Stone IPA, is a classic West Coast IPA that has become a staple in the craft beer community. They also have a restaurant at their Escondido location that serves up delicious food to pair with their beers.

Website: https://www.stonebrewing.com/

Address: 1999 Citracado Parkway Escondido, CA 92029

Alesmith Brewing Company

Alesmith Brewing Company is another San Diego brewery that has been around for over two decades. They are known for their Speedway Stout, a rich and complex imperial stout that has won numerous awards. They also have a tasting room where you can try their other beers and take a tour of their brewery.

Website: http://www.alesmith.com/

Address: 9990 AleSmith Ct, San Diego, CA 92126, United States

North Park Beer Co

North Park Beer Co is a newer brewery that has quickly gained a following in San Diego. They have a wide variety of beers on tap, including IPAs, stouts, and sours. Their tasting room is located in the heart of North Park and has a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for hanging out with friends.

Website: http://www.northparkbeerco.com/

Address: 3038 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104, United States

Pizza Port

Pizza Port is a San Diego institution that has been around since 1987. They are known for their pizza and beer, and they do both exceptionally well. They have multiple locations throughout San Diego, each with its own unique atmosphere. They also have a wide variety of beers on tap, including their award-winning Swami’s IPA.

Website: https://www.pizzaport.com/

Address: 1956 Bacon St, San Diego, CA 92107, United States

Pure Project

Pure Project is a newer brewery that has quickly made a name for itself in San Diego. They are known for their hazy IPAs and farmhouse ales, as well as their commitment to sustainability. They have a tasting room in Miramar that’s worth checking out.

Website: http://purebrewing.org/

Address: 9030 Kenamar Dr #308, San Diego, CA 92121, United States

Societe Brewing Company

Societe Brewing Company is a brewery that’s known for its Belgian-style beers. They have won numerous awards for their beers, including The Harlot, a Belgian-style pale ale. They also have a tasting room where you can try their other beers and take a tour of their brewery.

Website: http://www.societebrewing.com/

Address: 8262 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92111, United States

Modern Times

Modern Times is a fast-growing brewery that has gained a following for its unique beers and branding. They are known for their hazy IPAs and coffee stouts, as well as their commitment to sustainability. They have multiple locations throughout San Diego, including a tasting room in North Park.

Website: http://www.moderntimesbeer.com/

Address: 3725 Greenwood St, San Diego, CA 92110, United States

Ballast Point

Ballast Point is a San Diego brewery that has gained national attention in recent years. They are known for their Sculpin IPA, which has won numerous awards. They also have a tasting room in Little Italy that’s worth checking out.

Website: https://ballastpoint.com/

Address: 5401 Linda Vista Rd #406, San Diego, CA 92110, United States

Burgeon Beer Co

Burgeon Beer Co is a newer brewery that has quickly gained a following in San Diego. They are known for their hazy IPAs and their commitment to sustainability. They have a tasting room in Carlsbad that’s worth checking out.

Website: https://burgeonbeer.com/

Address: 1326 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

Border X Brewing

Border X Brewing is a brewery that’s known for its Mexican-style beers. They have a tasting room in Barrio Logan that’s worth checking out. They also have a commitment to community involvement and often host events and fundraisers.

Website: https://borderxbrewing.com/

Address: 2181 Logan Ave, San Diego, CA 92113, USA

Viewpoint Brewing Co

Viewpoint Brewing Co is a newer brewery that has quickly gained a following in San Diego. They are known for their Belgian-style beers and their commitment to sustainability. They have a tasting room in Del Mar that’s worth checking out.

Website: https://viewpointbrewing.com/

Address: 2201 San Dieguito Dr Suite D, Del Mar, CA 92014, USA

Belching Beaver Brewery

Belching Beaver Brewery is a San Diego brewery that’s known for its creative beers and branding. They are known for their peanut butter milk stout, which has gained a cult following. They have multiple locations throughout San Diego, including a tasting room in North Park.

Website: https://tavern.belchingbeaver.com/

Address: 302 E Broadway Vista, CA 92084

These are just a few of the top breweries in San Diego. With so many to choose from, it’s worth exploring the different neighborhoods and trying out different beers.

Diverse Beer Styles in San Diego

San Diego is known for its diverse beer styles, with over 150 breweries offering unique and flavorful options for beer lovers. Here are some of the popular beer styles in San Diego breweries:

  • IPA: San Diego is famous for its West Coast IPA, which is characterized by its hoppy bitterness and citrusy flavor. Some of the best IPAs in San Diego include Stone Brewing, Ballast Point Brewing, and Modern Times.
  • Stouts: San Diego breweries offer a variety of stouts, including imperial stouts, milk stouts, and oatmeal stouts. Some of the best stouts in San Diego include Alesmith Brewing Company, Pizza Port Brewing Company, and Belching Beaver Brewery.
  • Lagers: While San Diego is known for its hoppy IPAs, there are also many breweries that offer delicious lagers. Some of the best lagers in San Diego include Societe Brewing Company, Karl Strauss Brewing Company, and Thorn Brewing Company.
  • Pale Ales: San Diego has a long history of brewing pale ales, which are characterized by their light color and crisp, hoppy flavor. Some of the best pale ales in San Diego include Green Flash Brewing Company, Alpine Beer Company, and Coronado Brewing Company.
  • Sour Beers: San Diego breweries also offer a variety of sour beers, which are characterized by their tart and acidic flavor. Some of the best sour beers in San Diego include Lost Abbey, Toolbox Brewing Company, and Council Brewing Company.

San Diego’s diverse beer scene offers something for every beer lover, whether you prefer hoppy IPAs or tart sour beers. With so many options to choose from, it’s no wonder that San Diego has become one of the top beer destinations in the world.

Unique Beer Flavors

San Diego is known for its craft beer culture and unique beer flavors. Many breweries in San Diego experiment with different ingredients to create unique and delicious brews. Here are some of the unique beer flavors you can find in San Diego:

  • Hibiscus: Some breweries in San Diego use hibiscus to add a floral and slightly tart flavor to their beers. For example, Pure Project’s “La Vie en Rose” is a saison brewed with hibiscus and rose petals.
  • Coffee: Coffee is a popular ingredient in stouts and porters, and many San Diego breweries have their own coffee-infused brews. For example, Modern Times’ “Black House” is a coffee stout brewed with beans from local roasters.
  • Guava: Guava is a tropical fruit that adds a sweet and tangy flavor to beers. For example, Belching Beaver’s “Great Lei” is a wheat ale brewed with guava puree.
  • Agave: Agave is a sweetener that is often used in tequila, but some San Diego breweries use it to add sweetness to their beers. For example, Stone Brewing’s “Xocoveza” is a stout brewed with cocoa, coffee, peppers, vanilla, cinnamon, and agave.
  • Vanilla bean: Vanilla bean is a common ingredient in stouts and porters, and adds a sweet and creamy flavor to beers. For example, Karl Strauss’ “Wreck Alley” is a stout brewed with vanilla beans.
  • Horchata golden stout: Horchata is a traditional Mexican drink made with rice, cinnamon, and vanilla. Some San Diego breweries have created a horchata-inspired golden stout, which combines the flavors of a light beer with the creaminess of horchata.
  • Peanut butter stout: Peanut butter is a popular ingredient in stouts, and some San Diego breweries have created their own peanut butter-infused brews. For example, Belching Beaver’s “Peanut Butter Milk Stout” is a sweet and creamy stout brewed with peanut butter.
  • Maple syrup: Maple syrup is a sweetener that is often used in breakfast foods, but some San Diego breweries use it to add sweetness to their beers. For example, Ballast Point’s “Victory at Sea” is a porter brewed with coffee and maple syrup.
  • Mango: Mango is a tropical fruit that adds a sweet and tangy flavor to beers. For example, Coronado Brewing’s “Mango Sprinkles” is a sour ale brewed with mango puree.
  • Bourbon barrel-aged Mexican chocolate cake stout: This unique brew combines the flavors of chocolate, cinnamon, and vanilla with the smokiness of bourbon. For example, AleSmith’s “Mexican Speedway Stout” is a bourbon barrel-aged stout brewed with cocoa nibs, vanilla beans, cinnamon sticks, and chilies.
  • Cinnamon sticks: Cinnamon is a popular spice in stouts and porters, and adds a warm and spicy flavor to beers. For example, Green Flash’s “Cinnamon Stout” is a sweet and spicy stout brewed with cinnamon sticks.
  • Abuelita’s chocolate stout: Abuelita’s is a brand of Mexican chocolate that is often used in stouts and porters. For example, Border X Brewing’s “Abuelita’s Chocolate Stout” is a sweet and creamy stout brewed with Abuelita’s chocolate.

San Diego’s craft beer scene is constantly evolving, and new and unique beer flavors are always being created. Whether you’re a fan of traditional brews or experimental flavors, San Diego has something for everyone.

Food and Breweries

San Diego is known for its thriving brewery scene and many of these breweries also offer delicious food options. Whether you’re in the mood for a burger or some pastrami, there’s a brewery in San Diego that has you covered.

Bagby Beer Co.

One popular spot for brewery eats is Bagby Beer Co. in Oceanside. Their menu features a wide range of options, from classic pub fare like burgers and sandwiches to more elevated dishes like grilled octopus and pork belly. They also offer a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Another must-visit brewery for foodies is Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens – Liberty Station. Their menu features a mix of classic pub fare and more elevated dishes, all made with locally sourced, organic ingredients. Some standout dishes include their pastrami sandwich and their seasonal flatbreads.

If you’re looking for a brewery with a unique food concept, check out Amplified Ale Works Kitchen + Beer Garden. Their menu features a variety of “beer food” options, like beer-battered fish and chips and beer cheese fondue. They also offer a range of vegan and gluten-free options.

For those looking for a burger and beer combo, head over to North Park Beer Company. Their menu features a variety of burgers, including a classic cheeseburger and a veggie burger, as well as other pub fare like wings and nachos.

Brewery Tours

San Diego is known for its craft beer scene, and what better way to experience it than through a brewery tour? There are several tour companies that offer guided tours of San Diego’s breweries, making it easy for visitors to sample some of the best beer the city has to offer.

One of the most popular tour companies is Brewery Tours of San Diego, which offers a variety of tours to suit different tastes and preferences. Visitors can join a public tour and be paired up with other beer enthusiasts, or book a private tour for a more personalized experience. The tours typically last around 4-5 hours and include stops at 3-4 breweries, with tastings and behind-the-scenes tours at each one.

Another popular option is Scavengers Beer & Adventure Tours, which offers a more adventurous take on brewery tours. In addition to brewery visits and tastings, their tours also include activities such as kayaking, hiking, or even a ride on a vintage trolley.

For those who prefer to explore on their own, there are plenty of breweries in San Diego that offer self-guided tours. Stone Brewing Company is a must-visit for any beer lover, with its impressive facility and extensive beer selection. AleSmith Brewing Company is another top pick, known for its award-winning beers and sleek tasting room. Societe Brewing Company is a smaller brewery with a cozy atmosphere and excellent Belgian-style beers. And for those looking for something a bit more offbeat, Fall Brewing offers a quirky vibe and unique beer flavors.

Sustainable Breweries

San Diego is home to several breweries that are committed to sustainable brewing practices. These breweries prioritize environmental responsibility, social equity, and economic viability. Here are some of the most notable sustainable breweries in San Diego:

Modern Times

This employee-owned brewery is fiercely independent and committed to sustainability. They use 100% renewable energy, have a robust composting and recycling program, and prioritize sourcing ingredients from local, organic farms. They also donate 1% of their annual sales to environmental nonprofits.

Stone Brewing

Stone Brewing is committed to environmental stewardship and has implemented a number of sustainable practices. They use 100% renewable energy, recycle all of their wastewater, and have a comprehensive composting program. They also prioritize sourcing ingredients from local, organic farms and donate a portion of their profits to environmental causes.

Ballast Point Brewing Company

Ballast Point Brewing Company is committed to sustainability and has implemented a number of environmentally-friendly practices. They use 100% renewable energy, recycle all of their wastewater, and have a comprehensive composting program. They also prioritize sourcing ingredients from local, organic farms and donate a portion of their profits to environmental causes.

Karl Strauss Brewing Company

Karl Strauss Brewing Company is committed to sustainability and has implemented a number of environmentally-friendly practices. They use 100% renewable energy, recycle all of their wastewater, and have a comprehensive composting program. They also prioritize sourcing ingredients from local, organic farms and donate a portion of their profits to environmental causes.

Website: https://www.karlstrauss.com/

Address: 9675 Scranton Rd, San Diego, CA 92121, United States

These breweries are leading the way in sustainable brewing practices and are setting an example for others to follow. By prioritizing environmental responsibility, social equity, and economic viability, they are helping to create a more sustainable future for San Diego and beyond.

Dog-Friendly Breweries

San Diego is a great place to grab a beer with your furry friend. Many breweries in the area welcome dogs and even offer special amenities for them. Here are some of the best dog-friendly breweries in San Diego:

  • Bagby Beer Company (601 S Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054) is a spacious brewery with a large outdoor patio that welcomes dogs. They even have a special dog menu with treats and water bowls.
  • Ballast Point Little Italy Brewpubs (2215 India St, San Diego, CA 92101) is a popular brewery with a dedicated dog-friendly patio. They offer an extensive beer selection and a full menu of food.
  • Ketch Brewing (7889 Ostrow St, San Diego, CA 92111) is a local brewery that welcomes dogs on its outdoor patio. They offer a variety of beers and a rotating food truck schedule.
  • Pure Project – Balboa Park (2865 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103) is a unique brewery located in Balboa Park that is dog-friendly. They offer a variety of beers and a small food menu.
  • Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens – Liberty Station (2816 Historic Decatur Rd #116, San Diego, CA 92106) is a large brewery and restaurant with a dog-friendly outdoor patio. They offer an extensive beer and food menu.

These dog-friendly breweries offer a great atmosphere for enjoying a beer with your furry friend. Just remember to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them.

Breweries with a View

San Diego is home to some of the best breweries in the country, and many of them offer stunning views to go along with their delicious beers. Here are a few breweries with a view that visitors to San Diego won’t want to miss:

Viewpoint Brewing Co. 

Located in Del Mar, Viewpoint Brewing Co. boasts a stunning view of the San Dieguito Lagoon. Visitors can enjoy a cold beer on the spacious outdoor patio while taking in the beautiful scenery. The brewery also offers a menu of locally sourced, seasonal food to pair with their beers.

Eppig Brewing Waterfront Biergarten 

Situated on the waterfront in Point Loma, Eppig Brewing’s Waterfront Biergarten offers visitors a chance to enjoy a beer while taking in views of San Diego Bay. The spacious outdoor patio features fire pits and comfortable seating, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a cold beer.

Website: http://www.eppigbrewing.com/

Address: 2817 Dickens St, San Diego, CA 92106, United States

Ballast Point Miramar 

The Miramar location of Ballast Point offers visitors a chance to enjoy a beer while taking in views of the surrounding hills. The brewery also features a large outdoor patio with plenty of seating, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a cold beer on a sunny day.

Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens 

Located in Escondido, Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens offers visitors a chance to enjoy a beer while taking in views of the brewery’s beautiful gardens. The brewery also features a large outdoor patio with fire pits and comfortable seating, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a cold beer.

Overall, San Diego’s breweries with a view offer visitors a chance to enjoy a delicious beer while taking in some of the city’s most beautiful scenery. Whether you’re looking for ocean views or a view of the San Dieguito Lagoon, there’s a brewery in San Diego that’s sure to offer the perfect combination of great beer and stunning views.

Latino-Owned Breweries

San Diego’s craft beer scene is diverse and inclusive, with a growing number of Latino-owned breweries that are making a name for themselves. These breweries showcase the rich cultural heritage of Latin America through their beers, ingredients, and traditions.

One of the most well-known Latino-owned breweries in San Diego is Border X Brewing. Founded in 2013, this brewery has earned the distinction of being San Diego’s first Latino-owned brewery. Border X Brewing produces beers inspired by Latin American flavors, ingredients, and traditions. Some of their popular beers include Horchata Golden Stout, Blood Saison, and Abuelita’s Chocolate Stout.

Another notable Latino-owned brewery in San Diego is Mujeres Brew House. This brewery is owned and operated by a group of women who are passionate about craft beer. Mujeres Brew House offers a variety of beers that showcase the diversity of Latin American culture. Some of their popular beers include La Morena, a Mexican-style lager, and El Chingón, a double IPA.

Fiesta Antes de Morir is another Latino-owned brewery that is making waves in San Diego’s craft beer scene. This brewery was founded by a group of friends who share a love of craft beer and Latin American culture. Fiesta Antes de Morir offers a range of beers that are inspired by traditional Latin American flavors and ingredients. Some of their popular beers include La Vida Buena, a Mexican-style lager, and El Diablo, a spiced ale.

San Diego Beer Events

San Diego is a city that takes its beer seriously, and as such, there are plenty of beer-related events that take place throughout the year. Whether you’re a fan of craft beer, homebrewing, or just enjoying a good pint, there’s something for everyone.

One of the biggest events in the beer calendar is Homebrew Con, which is held in a different city each year. In 2023, this event is being held in San Diego, and it’s a must-visit for anyone interested in homebrewing. The event features seminars, workshops, and plenty of opportunities to taste and learn about different types of beer. It’s a great way to meet other homebrewers and get inspired to try new things.

Another event that’s worth checking out is the San Diego Beer Week, which takes place in November. This week-long celebration of all things beer includes events such as beer tastings, brewery tours, and food pairings. It’s a great way to explore the local beer scene and discover new breweries and beers.

BeerAdvocate also hosts events in San Diego, such as their Extreme Beer Fest. This festival features beers that push the boundaries of what’s possible, with unique flavors and ingredients. It’s a great way to experience the cutting-edge craft beer world and taste some truly unique brews.

Other events that take place throughout the year include beer festivals, tap takeovers, and beer dinners. These events are a great way to try new beers and meet other beer enthusiasts. Keep an eye on local breweries and beer bars for upcoming events.

Overall, San Diego is a great city for beer lovers, with plenty of events and opportunities to explore the local beer scene. Whether you’re a homebrewer or just enjoy a good pint, there’s something for everyone.