San Diego isn’t just a beach lover’s dream—it’s also a world-class craft beer destination. With more than 150 breweries across the county, the city has earned its nickname as the Craft Beer Capital of America. Whether you’re chasing crisp West Coast IPAs, smooth stouts, or unique experimental brews, San Diego’s brewery scene delivers. And if you’ve got a Bomber in hand, your beer will stay cold no matter how long you linger.
1. Ballast Point Brewing Co.
A pioneer in San Diego’s craft beer boom, Ballast Point is famous for its Sculpin IPA—a hoppy classic with bright citrus notes. With a spacious tasting room and creative small-batch experiments always on tap, it’s a must-visit for anyone serious about West Coast brewing.
2. Stone Brewing
One of the most recognizable craft beer brands in the world, Stone Brewing’s massive Escondido location is part brewery, part beer garden oasis. Their bold IPAs, like Stone Delicious and Stone IPA, pair perfectly with the laid-back Southern California vibe.
3. Modern Times Beer
Known for funky, flavorful, and often visually stunning beers, Modern Times blends a retro-cool aesthetic with cutting-edge brewing. From hazy IPAs to dessert stouts, their lineup is as creative as their psychedelic tasting rooms.
4. AleSmith Brewing Company
This award-winning brewery is a heavyweight in the beer world, especially known for its Speedway Stout. Their facility includes a museum dedicated to baseball legend Tony Gwynn, making it a cultural stop as much as a beer destination.
5. Coronado Brewing Company
Brewed with a salty breeze in the air, Coronado Brewing brings the island lifestyle straight into your pint glass. Their Islander IPA and Orange Avenue Wit are staples that taste even better after a day by the ocean.
6. Pizza Port
Part brewpub, part surf hangout, Pizza Port is a San Diego icon. With several locations across the county, they keep locals and tourists coming back for their killer combination of hop-forward beers and fresh pizza.
Pro Tip for Beer Lovers
San Diego’s sunshine can make a pint warm up quick, so bring a Bomber—our premium neoprene beverage insulator—to keep your beer ice-cold while you brewery hop. Whether you’re sipping a hazy IPA in North Park or a lager by the coast, a Bomber is the ultimate sidekick.
Bottom line: San Diego’s brewery scene is as diverse and flavorful as the city itself. Just make sure you’ve got a plan to pace yourself, because with this many world-class beers in one city, you’ll want to try them all.