Bathed by the waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Pensacola Beach is famous for its stunning white-sand beaches and relaxed coastal atmosphere. But beyond these beloved natural traits, there's another exciting discovery waiting to be made, and one that's appealing especially to the grown-ups: a thriving craft beer and distillery scene.
Pensacola Beach boasts a vibrant selection of breweries offering creative, Florida-inspired brews that have garnered a loyal following among both locals and visitors. These breweries leverage the unique flavors of the region to craft beers that perfectly complement the coastal vibe.
Distilleries are also emerging as noteworthy attractions, offering distinctive sipping experiences as well as educational tours that celebrate the local culture and heritage.
The atmosphere at these establishments is consistently inviting and abuzz with activity, making them ideal gathering places for both locals and visitors to connect and immerse themselves in the lively and diverse beverage culture of Pensacola Beach.
Craving a refreshing post-beach beverage? This blog will be your guide, leading you to the best breweries and distilleries where you can discover your new favorite beachside sip.
From innovative Florida-inspired brews to distinctive, handcrafted spirits, Pensacola Beach offers a world of flavor!
Best Breweries in and around Pensacola Beach, FL
Exploring innovative Florida-inspired libations at local breweries in Pensacola is also a one-of-a-kind experience. From refreshing citrus wheats to tropical IPAs, there's a perfect beachside sip waiting for you. Here are the best local brewers' spots according to locals:
Perfect Plain Brewing Co.
Perfect Plain Brewing Co. is nestled in downtown Pensacola, in a building that dates back 75 years. Designed to bring people together in a spacious, welcoming environment, the taproom offers a fully immersive beer experience with long communal tables and our entire 10-barrel brewhouse exposed within the gathering area.
They offer a variety of beers, including IPAs, which are a favorite among visitors, and a variety of cocktail options.
The bartenders are lovely and very helpful in helping you select the best beers to try, and the music is great. They also host special live music events from time to time. The outdoor area is very nice and relaxing. There's also a bonus: The spot is very pet-friendly so you can bring Fido along!
This is definitely a nice place to hang out for a while. You will surely want to go back!
Alga Beer Company
Located in the East Hill neighborhood of Pensacola, this place is a hidden gem with a nice little neighborhood brewery feel, offering exceptionally flavorful beer. The brews on tap are quite impressive, which makes it a perfect spot for beer enthusiasts. This is another dog-friendly spot with a great outdoor area and indoor space, providing a casual vibe that's perfect for hanging out with friends or family. The tables are gorgeous, adding to the welcoming atmosphere.
Plus, they have one of the best food truck options in Pensacola serving exquisite burgers, which pairs perfectly with their fantastic beer selection. That's really a winning combination that makes this brewery a must-visit destination.
Odd Colony Brewing Company
This farmhouse-inspired brewery located on Palafox Street in downtown Pensacola is renowned for its great beer, friendly service, and inviting neighborhood feel. They offer a variety of craft beers that cater to every taste.
What sets them apart is their super creative approach to naming and describing their beers. Their beer lineup is led by seasonality, with a focus on lagerbier, saison, and IPA, perfect for warmer weather. The atmosphere is fantastic - a large, comfortable, open industrial-style space with plenty of tables and seating options.
As an added bonus, the "Two Birds Street Food" food truck parked outside is a fantastic addition to the amazing beer selection. This one is definitely worth a visit if you're looking for a memorable brewery experience in Pensacola.
Gary's Brewery & Biergarten
Gary's Brewery & Biergarten is a cozy microbrewery that boasts a relaxed atmosphere and a spacious 2.5-acre property, perfect for enjoying a post-beach drink with your friends and family and even your furry friends (yes, they're pet-friendly!).
With 18 taps featuring house-made beers and ciders alongside guest selections from around the globe, you're sure to find something to quench your thirst, whether you prefer a lighter lager or a bolder IPA. Feeling a little competitive? They have cornhole, board games, and giant Jenga to keep you entertained. Just keep in mind they don't have their own kitchen, so plan to grab a bite from a nearby food truck or have dinner beforehand.
Inspired you to get into home brewing yourself? The folks at Gary's also run a homebrew supply store. This is your one-stop shop for all the ingredients and equipment you need to recreate your favorite Gary's brews or experiment with your own craft beer creations.
Best Distilleries near Pensacola Beach, FL
There aren't many distilleries right on the beach in Pensacola, but no worries! The area has a couple of great spots to explore some local spirits, just a quick drive away. Here are two distilleries that consistently get praise:
Rollins Distillery, Gulf Breeze
Located in Gulf Breeze, just a short drive from Pensacola Beach, you'll find this family-owned craft distillery renowned for its locally inspired and award-winning spirits. Founded by the father and son team of Paul and Patrick Rollins, the distillery takes pride in using 100% Florida molasses and top-notch ingredients in their distilling process. Their small-batch, hand-produced spirits stand as a testament to their craft and commitment to quality.
The environment couldn't be more welcoming, and you can enjoy tours that are both educational and engaging, with the staff, sometimes Mr. Rollins himself, providing detailed explanations.
The distillery boasts a tasting room where you can sample their Esprit de Krewe line of spirits. This is one place that blends passions and attention to detail, offering a unique and enjoyable experience for those looking to explore craft spirits in the Gulf Coast area.
While Timber Creek Distillery, just north of Destin
While Timber Creek Distillery also isn't located directly in Pensacola Beach, it's a popular destination for a day trip, being only about a 45-minute drive northeast. They boast a reputation for producing high-quality, award-winning spirits like rum, vodka, whiskey, and gin.
A visit guarantees a pretty unique experience. They offer a variety of distillery tours, including options with tastings, and even a VIP bourbon blending experience. The atmosphere is always welcoming, with a chance to meet the distiller and learn about the spirits. Afterward, there's nothing like enjoying creative cocktails in the outdoor seating area.
If you feel peckish, they offer a great pizza brunch with various types of pizza - a great option to pair with their drinks. This one certainly makes for a fun day trip, but be sure to plan transportation responsibly, either with a designated driver in your party or by finding an alternative mode of transportation like a ride-sharing service.
Pensacola Beach: Best Breweries & Distilleries
Pensacola Beach is a haven for sun-seekers, with its sugar-white sand and sparkling turquoise waters. But what if you crave a little more than just soaking up the scenery?
You can head to one of the local breweries or distilleries and discover a whole other side of the city. It's not just about enjoying a delicious drink; it's a chance to delve into the world of craft spirits, meet passionate locals, and learn the artistry and dedication behind every bottle.
You'll not only discover the stories behind the drinks but also connect with the community that creates them.
Keeping it Safe and Enjoyable on Your Pensacola Beverage Adventure
Here are some handy tips to ensure your Pensacola beverage adventure is safe and enjoyable:
Know the local laws: Brush up on local alcohol regulations, including the legal drinking age and open container laws.
Plan your ride: Safety first! Designate a driver, use a ride-sharing service, or find out about public transportation options before setting out.
Stay alert: Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. Stick to well-lit areas and keep an eye on your drinks.
Pensacola is known for being safe, but these tips are valuable travel companions anywhere you go. By following them, you can truly relax and savor your Pensacola craft beverage experience.
For more tips on Pensacola Beach, head to our destination blog — we're writing about a variety of topics, from the top pet-friendly spots in the region to a nightlife guide and everything in between.
Where to stay when visiting Pensacola Beach, FL?
While in Pensacola, how about booking a great vacation rental so you can enjoy the city just like a local?
At Pensacola Beach Properties, we always go the extra length to ensure you have a 5-star experience when booking one of our condos and private houses. We have a wide selection of the best short-term rentals in Pensacola Beach and Navarre Beach, including vacation rentals with pools and pet-friendly stays.
There's nothing like experiencing this piece of paradise in Florida with all the privacy and comfort you need. Staying with us, all you have to do is kick back, relax, and soak in the Gulf Coast vibes to the fullest.
