Bathed by the waters of the Gulf of Mexico, and nestled along the fantastic Gulf Coast, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Perdido Key & Pensacola are famous for their stunning white-sand beaches and relaxed coastal vibes.
But besides these beloved features, there’s another awesome draw, especially for the grown-ups: the craft beer and distillery scene in this coastal region is something special.
The craft beer options boast creative, Alabama and Florida-inspired brews that have built up a dedicated following among locals and tourists alike. Breweries in the area take full advantage of the unique flavors to create beers that perfectly match the vibe of the coast.
And it’s not just about the brews – the distillery scene is also getting some well-deserved attention, offering unique sipping experiences that celebrate the local culture and heritage in both states.
The atmosphere at these craft breweries and distilleries is always buzzing and welcoming, making them the perfect spots for both locals and visitors to come together and soak up the lively and diverse beverage culture of the region.
If you’re someone who loves to explore local craft breweries and distilleries while you’re on vacation, then you’ve landed in the right spot. This blog is your guide to discovering the best craft beer and local distilleries along the Gulf Coast, focusing on Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Perdido Key & Pensacola.
Get ready for some chilled-out fun and amazing drinks!
Breweries and Distilleries in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, AL
Big Beach Brewing Company, Gulf Shores
Located in the heart of Gulf Shores, Big Beach Brewing Company is Alabama’s southernmost microbrewery, locally owned by the same family for over 20 years. The place boasts a taproom and a 10-barrel brewhouse. Their beers are all crafted in-house, offering a diverse range including IPAs, stouts, cream ales, and Belgian-style beers, each creatively named like “Mr. Tallymon” Hefeweizen and “Midnight Cruise” Porter.
Visitors can enjoy the brewery’s beautiful open-air taproom adorned with a fireplace and comfortable seating. The space features four garage doors that are often wide open for you to feel the coastal breeze, creating a relaxed ambiance.
While the brewery doesn’t serve food, food trucks are available on weekends, and you are welcome to bring your own picnic during weekdays.
The ambiance is always lively, known for its live music with artists performing Thursday through Sunday, making it a popular destination for both beer enthusiasts and music lovers alike.
The Gulf, Orange Beach
In Orange Beach, The Gulf is a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. It’s not really a brewery, but they do have a full bar stocked with great craft beers and liquor. The setting is a laid-back waterfront joint with chill vibes and great sea views. Lanterns light up the place, adding to the cozy feel everyone loves.
The staff at The Gulf are super friendly, and the place is all about sustainability. They use local produce and seafood, which earns them some extra points. Overall, it’s a perfect spot to kick back with your friends and family, try some fresh seafood, grab a craft beer or nice drink, and soak in the Gulf front views.
Kentucky Mist Distillery, Orange Beach
With its deep heritage of distilling spirits and renowned moonshine, whiskeys, and vodkas, this place is a must-visit spot for spirits enthusiasts in Orange Beach.
You can enjoy a diverse selection of award-winning spirits, all crafted with care and expertise. The atmosphere at Kentucky Mist Distillery is laid-back and welcoming, making it the perfect place for you to unwind and enjoy a memorable evening out in town.
Plus, being located right at The Wharf, you’ll have easy access to a vibrant entertainment district with plenty of fun events to explore.
Breweries and Distilleries in Perdido Key and Pensacola, FL
Perfect Plain Brewing Co., Pensacola
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, Pensacola
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, Pensacola
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.
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.
Breweries and Distilleries in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Perdido Key & Pensacola
Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Perdido Key & Pensacola are definitely some chill beachside spots, but as you can see, there’s more to do than just soaking in the scenery!
Heading to one of the local breweries and distilleries is not just a way to enjoy a good drink, but also to learn about the craft behind liquor and get to know some passionate locals.
It’s a unique opportunity to experience the artistry and dedication that goes into producing fine spirits, while also connecting with the community and discovering the stories behind the drinks.
When you’re vacationing in this area, it’s always good to keep a few things in mind when you’re heading out for a drink. After all, you’re in a new place, right? So, here are some tips:
- Respect Local Laws: Make sure you’re updated on the local alcohol rules, like knowing the legal drinking ages and what’s up with open containers.
- Plan Transportation: It’s all about staying safe, so get a designated driver lined up, or check out rideshare services or public transportation to get you back to your place without any worries.
- Watch Your Surroundings: Keep an eye out and trust your gut. Stick to well-lit areas and don’t leave your drinks hanging out alone.
In general, the region is pretty safe, but hey, these tips are valuable anywhere in the world. By following them, your drink experience will be even better, and you can relax without any stress!
Want more tips on the Gulf Coast of Alabama and Florida? Then head to our destination blog! We’ve written about a variety of topics, including the top kid-friendly spots, the best places to grab breakfast, and even tips for a perfect beach day. It’s all there, and more content is coming, so stay tuned.
Where to stay during your visit to the Gulf Coast?
Looking for an extra idea to make the most of your weekend on the Gulf Coast? Booking your stay with Luxury Coastal Vacations. We offer the finest selection of luxury rentals on the Gulf Coast, spanning Alabama and Florida.
When you choose to stay in one of our homes or condos, you can anticipate a 5-star experience that you’ll cherish forever. Browse through our options and discover what awaits you on the beautiful Gulf Coast.
