Santa Monica is known for more than just its beach lifestyle, scenic ocean views, and dining scene. In recent years, the craft beer movement has taken hold, bringing a wave of local breweries to the area. Whether you're a beer enthusiast or just curious to try something new, Santa Monica's breweries are a must-visit. If you're considering moving to Santa Monica or just visiting, these local breweries are the perfect excuse to explore the city while sipping on some top-notch craft beer.
Santa Monica Brew Works: Local Beer with a Beach Vibe
The flagship brewery in the area is Santa Monica Brew Works, the first and only independent brewery in Santa Monica. Established in 2014, this brewery is deeply connected to the city’s coastal culture. Santa Monica Brew Works offers a variety of beers brewed on-site, and its tasting room is a great spot for locals and visitors to gather, relax, and enjoy the Santa Monica vibe.
The brewery's core lineup includes favorites like the 1903 California Blonde Ale, named after the year Santa Monica was officially incorporated, and Witbier, a Belgian-style wheat beer with citrus and spice notes. If you prefer something bolder, their Inclined IPA brings hoppy goodness with hints of tropical fruit, making it a popular choice for IPA lovers.
Santa Monica Brew Works is committed to sustainability, using eco-friendly brewing practices that align with the city’s values. Plus, its proximity to the beach means you can enjoy a cold beer and then take a quick walk on the sand to catch the sunset.
The brewery's core lineup includes favorites like the 1903 California Blonde Ale, named after the year Santa Monica was officially incorporated, and Witbier, a Belgian-style wheat beer with citrus and spice notes. If you prefer something bolder, their Inclined IPA brings hoppy goodness with hints of tropical fruit, making it a popular choice for IPA lovers.
Santa Monica Brew Works is committed to sustainability, using eco-friendly brewing practices that align with the city’s values. Plus, its proximity to the beach means you can enjoy a cold beer and then take a quick walk on the sand to catch the sunset.
Ashland Hill: Beer, Wine, and Coastal Vibes
If you're looking for a spot that offers not only craft beer but also an inviting outdoor space, Ashland Hill is a local favorite. The local gastropub has earned its place on the list thanks to its stellar selection of craft beers and coastal-inspired atmosphere.
Ashland Hill’s rotating beer list features a mix of local and national craft beers, with an emphasis on lighter, refreshing styles perfect for enjoying on their expansive patio. Their Session IPA and Hefeweizen are popular choices, offering easy-drinking options that pair well with their food menu, which features items like gourmet burgers, salads, and small plates.
Now: While Ashland Hill doesn’t brew their own beer, their carefully curated list of taps makes it a must-visit for beer enthusiasts looking to sample a variety of craft brews in a beachy, laid-back setting. Plus, their wine and cocktail options make it an ideal spot for groups with diverse tastes.
Ashland Hill’s rotating beer list features a mix of local and national craft beers, with an emphasis on lighter, refreshing styles perfect for enjoying on their expansive patio. Their Session IPA and Hefeweizen are popular choices, offering easy-drinking options that pair well with their food menu, which features items like gourmet burgers, salads, and small plates.
Now: While Ashland Hill doesn’t brew their own beer, their carefully curated list of taps makes it a must-visit for beer enthusiasts looking to sample a variety of craft brews in a beachy, laid-back setting. Plus, their wine and cocktail options make it an ideal spot for groups with diverse tastes.
Firestone Walker Brewing Company – The Propagator
Just a 15-minute drive from Santa Monica, you’ll find Firestone Walker Brewing Company’s Propagator. This outpost of the well-known Central California brewery serves as a pilot brewery, where experimental small-batch brews are crafted. In addition to fan favorites like Union Jack IPA and 805 Blonde Ale, you’ll get the chance to try exclusive, limited-edition beers that are only available at this location.
If you’re a fan of trying new and unique beers, this is a must-visit. The Propagator also has a full restaurant, so you can enjoy your beer alongside delicious pub fare like burgers and tacos.
If you’re a fan of trying new and unique beers, this is a must-visit. The Propagator also has a full restaurant, so you can enjoy your beer alongside delicious pub fare like burgers and tacos.
Angel City Brewery
Located in the Downtown Los Angeles Arts District, Angel City Brewery is about a 30-minute drive from Santa Monica and offers an exciting brewery experience. Known for its creative, artistic vibe, Angel City Brewery brews a variety of beers, including the popular Avocado Ale and their refreshing Sunbather Sour Ale.
With its large, open brewery space, food trucks, and frequent events like brewery tours and live music, Angel City is a lively destination for those looking to venture a little farther for great beer and a vibrant atmosphere.
With its large, open brewery space, food trucks, and frequent events like brewery tours and live music, Angel City is a lively destination for those looking to venture a little farther for great beer and a vibrant atmosphere.
Highland Park Brewery
Highland Park Brewery, located just northeast of downtown L.A., is about a 40-minute drive from Santa Monica. This brewery is beloved by craft beer aficionados for its small-batch, carefully crafted beers. Known for their creative approach, Highland Park Brewery offers a variety of unique and innovative brews, from hazy IPAs to barrel-aged sours.
Their Timbo Pils, a hoppy lager, is particularly popular, and they’re constantly experimenting with new styles and flavors. The brewery’s relaxed, community-focused atmosphere makes it a great place to spend an afternoon, especially if you enjoy trying new, adventurous beers.
Their Timbo Pils, a hoppy lager, is particularly popular, and they’re constantly experimenting with new styles and flavors. The brewery’s relaxed, community-focused atmosphere makes it a great place to spend an afternoon, especially if you enjoy trying new, adventurous beers.
Reach Out to O'Connor Estates
Thinking about buying or selling a home in Santa Monica? Reach out to O'Connor Estates to discover your perfect property in this coastal paradise. Whether you're looking for a home near the city’s top breweries or a place with ocean views, O'Connor Estates can help you navigate the local real estate market. Contact O'Connor Estates today to get started on your real estate journey.
