Local Breweries in Santa Monica CA

Santa Monica’s brewery scene continues to evolve, combining West Coast brewing traditions with a relaxed coastal atmosphere. The area’s brewers produce everything from crisp lagers and tropical IPAs to experimental small batches and food-friendly ales. Each taproom reflects the city’s balance of craftsmanship and laid-back living, making it an ideal spot for anyone who enjoys beer culture in a beachside setting.

Below are standout examples of the best breweries in and around Santa Monica CA, each offering its own style, flavor, and experience.

Santa Monica Brew Works is a cornerstone of the city’s craft beer scene. Located on Colorado Avenue, this independent brewery produces beers that embody local character and California freshness. The taproom and beer garden serve an ever-changing rotation of seasonal brews alongside their signature 310 California Blonde Ale, Head in the Clouds Double IPA, and Inclined IPA. The space features indoor and outdoor seating, with a relaxed design that invites visitors to stay for a full pint or sample flights of smaller pours. Partnered food options and frequent collaborations with local chefs make it a reliable place for beer exploration.

The Propagator serves as Firestone Walker’s local brewhouse and restaurant, showcasing innovation in every batch. It functions as both a pilot facility and a full-service taproom, where visitors can sample experimental beers before they reach broader release. Guests enjoy a modern design featuring high ceilings, an open brewhouse, and a spacious patio that fits perfectly with Santa Monica’s coastal lifestyle. The Propagator’s combination of research-driven brewing and casual hospitality has helped make it a consistent stop for craft beer enthusiasts looking for something distinct and forward-thinking.

Sugar Monkey Brewing & Social Club offers a welcoming environment combining creative brewing and social interaction. The venue produces a range of craft beers, from light session ales to bold stouts, often using locally sourced ingredients to shape its lineup. The taproom design features communal tables, ambient lighting, and open brewing spaces that allow visitors to see the process in motion. Events such as release parties and tasting nights add to the experience, allowing patrons to engage with local brewers while enjoying small-batch flavors unique to the Santa Monica area.

Broxton Brewery & Public House balances approachable food with locally brewed beer. Its menu complements a lineup of ales, pilsners, and seasonal releases crafted for balance and drinkability. The brewery’s design includes a large bar area, comfortable booths, and high ceilings that echo Santa Monica’s spacious coastal architecture. Their beer program emphasizes clean fermentation and quality ingredients. It’s a full-service public house built on craftsmanship and comfort, a defining trait among the best breweries in Santa Monica CA.

Tortugo Brewing Company has built a reputation for brewing flavorful, accessible beers with a distinctive SoCal personality. Their lineup includes malty amber ales, bright lagers, and fruit-accented sours. The taproom serves as a gathering point for beer lovers with long communal tables and a rotating food truck presence. The consistent quality of their brewing and the easygoing atmosphere make Tortugo a mainstay for locals looking to enjoy quality beer without pretension.

El Segundo Brewing Company is known for its mastery of hop-forward beers. The taproom features a constantly refreshed draft list of IPAs, pale ales, and experimental hop varieties. Their flagship Broken Skull IPA and Mayberry IPA have become local staples, representing West Coast brewing at its best. Guests often find collaboration brews and limited releases that keep each visit enjoyable.

Three Weavers Brewing Company offers clean, consistent, and creative beers with balanced flavor profiles. Their taps feature flagship brews such as Seafarer Kölsch, Expatriate IPA, and Deep Roots ESB. The brewery focuses on sustainability and local partnerships, making it distinctive in the local craft beer landscape. Its open, minimalist taproom design encourages gatherings and events, including live music and food pairings.

The Stalking Horse Brewery & Freehouse combines traditional British brewing with contemporary California sensibilities. Guests can expect cask ales, porters, and stouts brewed on site, paired with hearty pub food. The decor includes wood beams, brass fixtures, and intimate seating, creating an authentic public-house feel. With a focus on craftsmanship and comfort, The Stalking Horse offers a pub experience that’s both classic and distinctly Californian.

Five Point Five Brewing Company produces approachable, high-quality beers emphasizing balance and freshness. Their beers range from crisp pilsners to hop-accented IPAs, all brewed with attention to detail and a clean finish. The brewery frequently releases small seasonal batches that showcase new hops and techniques. Its friendly service and consistently well-made beers make Five Point Five a dependable stop for casual visitors and dedicated craft beer fans exploring the Santa Monica area.

Living near the heart of Santa Monica’s thriving brewery scene means easy access to local culture, exceptional food, and coastal relaxation. Jonathan Ruiz, a trusted real estate professional in Santa Monica, understands how to match clients with homes that fit this lifestyle, whether it’s a sleek downtown loft within walking distance of a taproom or a quiet residence near the beach.

Interested in Santa Monica real estate? Contact us today and we’ll be happy to help you find your dream Santa Monica home!