The only thing that could make having a drink after work or on the weekend with friends is a view. When it comes to the West Coast, views certainly are not in short supply thanks to the expansive Pacific and various mountain ranges. Many vineyards have their own sweeping vistas, but what about breweries? For those who don't necessarily enjoy a glass of grape refreshment, is there such a thing as a brew and a view? In short, the answer is yes.
Up and down the West Coast, there are breweries that offer stunning landscapes views at their tasting rooms. And, luckily, their beers are just as spectacular - some would argue even more so - than the expanses that accompany them.
Ballast Point In Long Beach, CA
Ballast Point is a well-known brewery not just in California but across the entire country. The beers produced by this brewery are top-notch and they also offer seasonal flavors, as well. Located in Long Beach, it's no surprise that the brewery has incredible views of the Pacific Coast, complete with all the beach vibes needed to enjoy an IPA while relaxing to the sound of seagulls overhead. There's nothing that's not to love about taking in the view from the outdoor deck or cozying up inside at the bar, and the beers are fantastic, to boot. On a clear day, guests to the brewery can even see Seal Beach, Catalina Island, and Alamitos Bay.
While Long Beach is the main tasting room, Ballast Point also has tasting rooms in Anaheim and San Diego (home to three separate tasting rooms).
- Must-Try Beer: Sculpin IPA was the brewery's flagship beer and remains a favorite today. This award-winning brew also comes in several different flavors.
- Food: Yes; appetizers, brunch, mains, and desserts
- Hours: Sunday 10 AM- 8 PM, Monday - Friday 11 AM - 11 PM, Saturday 10 AM - 11 PM
The Pelican Pub & Brewery In Pacific City, OR
No trip to the Oregon coast is complete without visiting The Pelican Pub & Brewery. This location is right on the beach which makes it an automatic winner in regard to Oregon's most scenic brewery - plus, a stroll on the sand at sunset never hurt anyone. There's not a bad seat in the house at this pub & brewery considering the Pacific Ocean lies only a short walk out the door, and, of course, the beer that this brewery is pumping out is equally as divine. Speaking of which, many of the beers on tap are inspired by the surrounding landscape, making the experience even more ~West Coast~ than one might realize.
The patio gives way to sand, sun, and oceanside views, and it's a great way to spend a warm evening or a bright summer day. While Pelican Brewing Company has additional locations in Cannon Beach and Tillamook, Pacific City has become a fan favorite thanks to its award-winning vista. The beer lineup includes rotating seasonal favorites, a collection of barrel-aged brews, and 11 diverse beers that are on-tap year-round - along with a vault full of favorite award-winners.
- Must-Try Beer: Beak Breaker Double IPA, Paddleback Organic Pale Ale, Cape Crasher PNW IPA, Kiwanda Pre-Prohibition Cream Ale
- Food: Yes, appetizers, mains, kid's menu, desserts
- Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM -10:00 PM
Birdsview Brewing Company In Concrete, WA
One thing that visitors to Birdsview Brewing Company can be sure of when they walk through the door is that everything created there has been done so with 100% local ingredients. All the beers made on-site are brewed with ingredients that have come from the surrounding Washington area, making it a local favorite and one that's entirely community-supported. Usually, about ten beers are on tap at any point at Birdsview, but this list is not modest by any means. The hops are grown locally and the flavors of each beer are dynamic, setting it apart from many other Washington breweries in a multitude of ways.
The taproom shares the style of a traditional yurt which somehow only serves to enhance the incredible landscape surrounding, with fantastic views of the Skagit County hillside. Those looking to enjoy a bit of Washington's natural beauty with beers that have been carefully curated and created should look no further than Birdsview Brewing Company. If nothing else, its whimsically-named beers will surely win over the hearts of beer fans!
- Must-Try Beer: Fresh Hop Pale Ale, Bill's Pills, Golden Pale Ale, Ditsy Blonde
- Food: Yes, small plates, salads, sandwiches, burgers, kid's menu
- Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 12 PM - 7 PM, Friday & Saturday 12 PM - 8 PM, Sunday 12 PM - 7 PM, closed Mondays