Book Your Stay
By Brigitte Najarian-Mier on May 20, 2026
Now’s the perfect time to taste some of the best beers from the California coast. What’s better than a hazy IPA or a fruity sour with some rays by the beach? Craft beer has surged in the U.S. over the past several years, especially around Ventura County Coast. It’s one of the things we’re most known for. From events to tours to classes, there’s something for every enthusiast to enjoy so make an entire weekend getaway trying some of the best beer in the west.
Coastal Breweries
The Ventura County craft beer culture is beloved for a reason. Our laidback approach to brewing creates a fun environment people genuinely enjoy. There’s always a new brewery popping up around town and it’s fun to see which ones become our new favorites.
Camarillo
Institution Ale Co.
One of my favorites for the pretzels alone. They use the yeast from their hopps and incorporate it into a lot of their food. Try some of their traditional and modern American ales, you wont be disappointed.
Flat Fish Brewing Company
If you know a wine lover, bring them along! This spot is located at Camarillo Barrelworks where they offer both beer and wine under one roof. Plus, they’ve got live music on the weekends with tribute bands and more.
Topa Topa Brewing Co.
A close second favorite, Topa Topa has a really nice patio space for families and pets. Their sangria-style sour is really delicious and a portion of the sales from their series of hazy IPAs goes to local non-profits.
Oxnard
Casa Agria Specialty Ales
This little boutique brewery specializes in adventurous and specialty ales. Their Space Craze hazy IPA features U.S. and Southern Hemisphere hops for amazing depth of flavor. It’s just a ten minute drive to Channel Islands Harbor where you can do some paddleboardin, too.
Red Tandem Brewery
This “nanobrewery” is located in Oxnard Shores and is famous for its award-winning “Game Day” Light Lager you can enjoy. Kick back and play some board games while you’re there.
Wagon Wheel Brewing Company
Located in the historic downtown area, this taproom can’t be missed. The head brewer Kolaan Busbice is a gold medal winner. Check out their behind-the-scenes tour if you have the time. They do one monthly and it’s really cool to see the process!
Ventura
MadeWest Brewing Co.
Right on Ventura Pier, this is a staple in the neighborhood for the Pacific Ocean views alone. My husband and I usually bring our food over from Eric Ericsson’s Fish Co. nearby and enjoy the vibes. MadeWest won four medals at the World Beer Cup so you know they’re doing something right.
Ventura Coast Brewing Company
This is one of the more popular spots. It’s located in downtown Ventura where you can walk around the locally-owned shops or grab a bite to eat. They’ve got trivia nights, paint parties, and more so check out their calendar and plan your visit.
Poseidon Brewing Company
A nautical hidden treasure, this brewery is known for its quality IPAs and live music. Their trivia nights are every Wednesday, just make sure you bring your A-game. People play to win around here.
Beer Tasting Events
Some upcoming events you don’t want to miss.
- June: The Casa Pacifica Angels Wine, Food & Brew Festival, Camarillo
- June: Boots & Brews Country Music Festival
- October: Oktoberfest
Brewery Tours
Brew Bus 101 is great for travelers who want fun, safe, and educational craft beer tasting tours. You’ll cruise up and down the California coast stopping by some of the finest craft breweries along the way. Sip Trip Tours is also another great option for making new friends, enjoying all-inclusive spirits, and learning about local breweries.
Whether you want to explore at your own pace or are looking forward to fun group activities, experience the premier beer destination on the Ventura County Coast. Summer is the best time to visit since you can kick back and enjoy the craft beers while soaking up some sun. Make it a weekend getaway and start planning your next adventure.
