Raise a glass to the Gulf Coast's craft scene. From Pensacola's buzzing breweries to Gulf Breeze's award-winning distillery, these spots mix local flavor with good company, live music, and waterfront views.
Beyond the beach allure of Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Perdido Key, and Pensacola, there's another big draw for adults: a craft beer and distillery scene that's truly 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.
Curious? A quick taste of what's brewing:
- Big Beach Brewing Company (Gulf Shores): Southernmost Alabama brewery with IPAs, stouts, and live music.
- The Gulf (Orange Beach): Waterfront hangout with shipping container design, local menu, and a full bar.
- Kentucky Mist Distillery (Orange Beach): Award-winning moonshine, whiskeys, and vodkas at The Wharf.
- Perfect Plain Brewing Co. (Pensacola): Taproom with communal tables, beer, cocktails, and live music.
- Alga Beer Company (Pensacola): Rotating brews, gourmet food trucks, and dog-friendly vibes.
- Odd Colony Brewing Company (Pensacola): Farmhouse-inspired brewery with seasonal beers.
- Rollins Distillery (Gulf Breeze): Father-and-son craft distillers producing small-batch Florida molasses-based spirits.
At Luxury Coastal Vacations, we offer a wide range of rental options along the Gulf Coast, paired with exceptional customer service and meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of your vacation. As experts in Perdido Key, Pensacola, Orange Beach, and Gulf Shores, our destination blog covers everything from top pet-friendly spots and kid-friendly activities to must-try restaurants and tips for the perfect beach day.
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. In this blog post, I'll be your guide through the best breweries 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!
1. 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.
Highlights
- In-house brews: From hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, plus fun names like "Mr. Tallymon" Hefeweizen and "Midnight Cruise" Porter.
- Open-air vibe: Garage doors rolled up, comfy seating, and a fireplace for cooler nights.
- Food on the side: Food trucks park on weekends, and you can BYO picnic during the week.
- Live tunes: Local musicians play Thursday through Sunday, setting the scene for a lively night out.
2. The Gulf, Orange Beach
Perched right on the water, The Gulf blends Gulf-front views, fresh flavors, and a lively yet welcoming atmosphere. Built from repurposed shipping containers, the venue itself is a nod to creativity and sustainability. 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.
Highlights
- Gulf-front setting: sweeping views of the water from a relaxed outdoor space
- Creative design: built with shipping containers and accented with lantern lighting
- Full bar: excellent craft beers, cocktails, and liquor choices
- Fresh, local menu: seafood and produce sourced from nearby farms and waters
- Sustainability focus: eco-conscious practices at the heart of the operation
- Friendly staff: warm service that makes you feel right at home
- Perfect for groups: ideal for families or friends to gather over food and drinks
3. Kentucky Mist Distillery, Orange Beach
With its deep heritage of distilling spirits and renowned moonshine, whiskeys, and vodkas, Kentucky Mist Distillery is a must-visit spot for spirits enthusiasts in Orange Beach. Here, 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.
Highlights
- Handcrafted spirits with roots in Kentucky's moonshining heritage.
- Award-winning moonshine, flavored vodkas, and small-batch whiskeys.
- Friendly tasting room staff are happy to share recommendations and stories.
- Convenient location at The Wharf, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and concerts.
- Great spot to pick up a bottle as a gift or to enjoy back at your vacation rental.
4. 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.
Highlights
- Wide range of beers, and creative cocktail options for non-beer drinkers.
- Outdoor patio with a laid-back garden feel, perfect for groups.
- Occasional live music nights that add extra energy.
- Pet-friendly environment so your dog can join the fun.
- Helpful bartenders who guide you toward the right pour.
- Central downtown location, close to shops, dining, and nightlife.
5. 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.
Highlights
- A rotating selection of flavorful beers, from hop-forward IPAs to smooth, malty pours.
- Spacious outdoor seating perfect for relaxing with friends and four-legged companions.
- A top local food truck serves gourmet burgers that pair perfectly with the beer list.
- Located in East Hill, a historic area filled with tree-lined streets and a strong community feel.
- Beautiful wood tables and thoughtful design details create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
6. 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.
Highlights
- Creative beer lineup. Each pour comes with its own bit of personality.
- High ceilings, big tables, and a warm neighborhood vibe.
- "Two Birds Street Food" brings hearty bites to pair with your pint.
- Right in the heart of downtown Pensacola, a short stroll from shops and historic spots.
7. Rollins Distillery, Gulf Breeze
In Gulf Breeze, just minutes from Pensacola Beach, a father-and-son team has turned their passion for craft spirits into an award-winning distillery. Paul and Patrick Rollins distill with 100% Florida molasses and carefully sourced ingredients, producing small-batch creations that carry a true sense of place. The atmosphere is warm, the tours are lively, and the tasting room pours spirits that reflect the Gulf Coast's flair for flavor and storytelling.
Highlights
- Every bottle starts with pure Florida molasses and premium inputs.
- The Esprit de Krewe line showcases their signature style.
- Tours where you can learn directly from the distillers, often guided by Mr. Rollins himself.
- Sample a range of spirits in a relaxed, friendly setting.
- A short trip from Pensacola Beach, combining local flavor with a memorable experience.
Cheers to Gulf Coast Craft — Enjoy Responsibly
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!
Stay Your Way on the Gulf Coast
Looking for an extra idea to make the most of your vacation on the Gulf Coast? Book 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 expect a 5-star experience that you'll cherish forever. Browse through our options and discover what awaits you on the beautiful Gulf Coast.
