Nestled along the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Mexico in Florida, both St. Pete Beach and the Tampa Bay area 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, 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.
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 in and around St. Pete Beach & Tampa Bay.
Get ready for some chilled-out fun and amazing drinks!
Top Breweries by the Beach
Sea Dog Brewing Company, Treasure Island
Situated on Gulf Boulevard in Treasure Island, Sea Dog Brewing Co. is a fantastic spot for beer enthusiasts. They are most renowned for their pale ale, but they also offer a wide variety of local brews.
It can be hard to pick just one. Luckily, their bartenders are very accommodating, allowing you to sample options before making a choice. The food menu is equally diverse and delicious, and you’ll find great happy hour specials for both food and drinks.
Whether you go solo, as a couple, or with a group, you will surely have a great time! Also, as the name suggests, the place is dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along.
Local tip: They have recently introduced new seltzers in flavors like Wild Blueberry, Juicy Raspberry, and Black Cherry — all of which are worth giving a try!
Mastry’s Brewing Co., St Pete Beach
Mastry’s Brewing Co. is definitely worth a visit! Located on the north end of St. Pete Beach, this cozy microbrewery offers a diverse selection of about a dozen beers.
You’ll find the main area equipped with taps, seating, and super friendly bar staff. The place is also popular for its outdoor setting, and to top it off, there’s a tasty food truck called The Kitchen at Mastry’s serving up some delicious offerings.
Locals usually suggest you try their Pilsner or opt for a flight to sample different brews. And hey, if beer isn’t your thing, no worries; they also have wine available.
And there’s fun too! You can have a blast playing nostalgic games like Mario Kart on the Nintendo while enjoying your drinks. Overall, it’s a must-visit and the perfect spot to kick back and unwind!
Category 36 Taphouse & Kitchen, St Pete Beach
If you’re looking for a spot right on the beach with great brews and more, Category 36 Taphouse & Kitchen is the place to be! Despite its unassuming exterior, once you step inside, you’ll find yourself in a fantastic tap house. True to its name, there are 36 beers on tap, ranging from mainstream to local and unique, all served ice-cold.
Whether you’re a beer aficionado or just looking to enjoy a cold one, they’ve got something for everyone. And the experience doesn’t stop there – their tasty food is a must-try. Favorites include the Youngstown Salad, Gyro sandwich, homemade stromboli, chicken wings, salads, and more. Plus, their pizza receives lots of praise.
With excellent food, fantastic and friendly service, unique beers on tap, and outdoor seating available, this one really ticks all the boxes.
Mad Beach Craft Brewing Company, Madeira Beach
If you’re in the Madeira Beach area and craving a cold beer and some good eats, Mad Beach Craft Brewing Company is definitely worth checking out. They offer pretty good beer, and we highly recommend trying a flight – a selection of small samples of different beers. A local favorite is the Wet Centennial.
The brewery has a large seating area with plenty of televisions, as well as indoor cornhole and basketball games for entertainment. The decor is pretty unique and Instagrammable, with some wall art reflecting the local scenery. The tables are spacious enough to accommodate large groups, and the food portions are generous. Their menu is eclectic, featuring low-country choices as well as vegan and gluten-free selections. It’s a great place to sit back, relax, and enjoy a drink. The bartenders are friendly and provide excellent customer service, making your experience even more enjoyable.
The Best Distilleries in St. Petersburg, FL
In St. Petersburg, most distilleries are located a short distance away from the beach, nestled within the vibrant cityscape. Let’s explore some of the most acclaimed ones.
For spirit enthusiasts, St. Petersburg Distillery is an essential stop. Located in the heart of downtown St. Pete, this locally-owned gem perfectly represents the artisanal spirit-making essence of Florida. With a commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, their range of spirits – from whiskey to vodka to spice rum – stands out as a winner in flavor and character, often considered the best in town.
The exceptional quality of their spirits speaks volumes, effortlessly persuading even the most loyal brand enthusiasts to make the switch. The tasting experience, a favorite among visitors, offers an immersive journey into their craft. Led by a team of passionate professionals, the tasting room provides the perfect ambiance to savor their products while gaining insights directly from the experts themselves.
Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned connoisseur, a visit to St. Petersburg Distillery promises an unforgettable experience – one that combines education with enjoyment in Florida’s spirit-making culture.
Kozuba and Sons Distillery is a gem nestled in South St. Pete. Established in Poland in 2005, this family-operated distillery has since made its home in St. Petersburg, bringing over a decade of expertise to the American market. Crafting premium craft spirits, their hand-crafted, small-batch creations are meticulously made from the finest ingredients.
During the distillery tour, you’re in for a treat. Led by knowledgeable tasting experts, you not only get to sample their exceptional spirits but also learn about the fascinating journey of the Kozuba family from Europe to the US. Plus, witnessing the distillery equipment in action adds an extra layer of excitement to the experience.
For both locals and travelers alike, a visit to Kozuba and Sons Distillery is a must when in St. Petersburg, Florida. You’ll sure leave with a deeper appreciation for craft spirits and a newfound admiration for the artistry behind them.
Best Craft Beer and Local Distilleries in St. Pete Beach & Tampa Bay
St. Pete Beach and the Tampa Bay area are definitely some chill beachside spots, but as you can see, there’s more to do than just soaking in the scenery!
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!
For additional insights on what to explore in St. Pete Beach and the Tampa Bay area, visit our destination blog. We cover a multitude of topics, including fishing in the area, nightlife tips, and highlights of the best annual events and celebrations. Stay tuned for future blogs and tips awaiting your discovery!
Where to stay when visiting St. Pete Beach & Tampa Bay Area
While visiting St. Pete Beach and the Tampa Bay Area, why not stay like a local? With over 250 vacation rental choices, mostly on the beach or on the bay, Resort Rentals is your best bet for booking a great stay.
With us, your family will enjoy top-notch vacation rentals with all the quality and comfort you can expect. All you have to do is pick a fantastic family getaway spot on the Gulf of Mexico: St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island, Madeira Beach, Redington Beach, Redington Shores, Indian Shores, and Indian Rocks Beach.
Let us take care of the rest. Browse through our waterfront properties and see what awaits you in this beautiful coastal paradise.
