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Breweries and Beer Gardens in Santa Cruz, CA

15 of the 44 wineries, breweries, distilleries and wine bars we list in Santa Cruz are breweries or beer gardens.

Choosing a beer spot depends on whether you want an active production taproom with limited food or a spacious outdoor garden with full kitchen service. Family and pet policies vary widely between urban industrial spaces and suburban beer lawns. Map pins show location, but they rarely indicate seating capacity, food truck schedules, or whether minors are permitted after dark.

  1. Woodhouse Blending & Brewing

    119 Madrone St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    Food servedOutdoor seating
  2. Balefire Brewing Company

    21517 E Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

    Food servedPrivate events
  3. Gilman Brewing Santa Cruz Taproom Brewpub Gastropub Restaurant

    817 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062-2132

    Outdoor seatingPrivate events
  4. Humble Sea Brewing Co.

    820 Swift St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    Private events
  5. Humble Sea Beer Garden on the Wharf

    45 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

  6. Shanty Shack Brewing

    138 Fern St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060-2118

  7. Buena Vista Brewing Co

    256 Potrero St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

  8. Hillside Brewing Co.

    256 Potrero St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

  9. Private Press Brewing

    332 Ingalls St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060-5849

  10. New Bohemia Brewing Co.

    1030 41st Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062-4447

  11. Sante Adairius

    1315 Water St, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

  12. East Cliff Brewing Company

    21517 E Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

  13. Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing

    402 Ingalls St #27, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

  14. Greater Purpose Brewing Company

    21517 E Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95062-4844

  15. Golden Coast Brewing

    1117 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060-4431

Check tap rotation and food options. Many craft breweries do not operate full kitchens and rely on rotating food trucks or allow outside food, while beer gardens typically serve a set food menu.

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Good to know

Do breweries and beer gardens allow children and dogs?

Policies differ by venue and time of day. Outdoor beer gardens and family-oriented taprooms often welcome kids and leashed dogs, but some urban spots restrict entry to ages 21 and over in the evening. Always check a venue's specific rules before visiting with minors or pets.

What is the difference between a brewery taproom and a beer garden?

A brewery taproom focuses primarily on beer brewed on-site, often with indoor seating and a view of the brewing equipment. A beer garden is typically an outdoor or semi-outdoor space that serves beers from multiple producers alongside full food service.

How much do flights or pints typically cost?

Pints of core craft beers generally range from $6 to $10, while specialty, barrel-aged, or high-ABV releases may cost more. Tasting flights usually run between $10 and $16 for four small pours.