The North Orange County Craft Brewery Tour

Experience the North Orange County Craft Brewery Tour—a flavorful journey through some of Southern California’s most exciting microbreweries. This 4.5-hour excursion, offered by Best Coast OC Brewery Tours, takes you from Costa Mesa to Huntington Beach and Long Beach, where you’ll sample a variety of inventive beers while enjoying stunning coastal views. With convenient pickup and drop-off, it’s a relaxed way to explore the area’s vibrant craft beer scene without the hassle of driving.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its focus on authentic local breweries—not just big-name labels, but smaller, passionate producers. You’ll get to taste flights at three different locations, each with its own unique vibe and brewing style. Plus, the included snacks, bottled water, and air-conditioned vehicle ensure that your experience is comfortable and enjoyable from start to finish.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is strictly for travelers aged 21+, so it’s best suited for friends, couples, or small groups looking for a fun, relaxed evening out. The one potential downside? The breweries are subject to change based on availability, so if you’re hoping to visit specific spots, it’s good to check in advance. Still, with a solid lineup of well-rated breweries and scenic views, this tour offers great value for those wanting to sample the local craft scene in a hassle-free setting.

Key Points

• Convenient Transportation: Hassle-free pickup and drop-off make the experience stress-free.
• Authentic Tastings: Sample flights from three top local breweries, each offering their unique styles.
• Stunning Views: Enjoy scenic coastal vistas, particularly at Ballast Point in Long Beach.
• All-Inclusive Features: Snacks, bottled water, and air-conditioned transportation add comfort.
• Small Group Vibe: Limited to 13 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.
• Ideal For: Friends, couples, and small parties of 21+ exploring Orange County’s craft beer scene.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

First Stop: Four Sons Brewing

Your journey begins at Four Sons Brewing, a popular local spot known for its approachable yet innovative beers. While the exact flight options aren’t detailed, you can expect to enjoy a variety of top brews in a relaxed environment. The 45-minute visit allows ample time to get a feel for the brewing style and chat with staff about their process. Reviewers mention a knowledgeable guide (Joseph) who was very accommodating, picking guests up at their hotels and sharing insights about the local brews.

This stop is ideal for those wanting an authentic taste of North Orange County’s brewing culture. Expect a casual, friendly atmosphere, where your group can unwind and compare notes on your favorite beers.

Second Stop: Ballast Point Brewing in Long Beach

Known for its stunning water views and diverse beer selection, Ballast Point is a highlight of this tour. With a flight of beers on tap, you’ll enjoy tasting a mix of their flagship and seasonal options while soaking in the coastal scenery. Reviewer comments mention the “great knowledge of the brew process,” which enhances the tasting experience, and the views add an extra layer of enjoyment.

This brewery’s setting makes it an especially memorable spot, perfect for those who appreciate a scenic backdrop while sampling well-crafted beers. The 50-minute stay provides enough time to savor your flight and take in the waterfront ambiance.

Third Stop: Riip Beer Co in Huntington Beach

Concluding your tour at Riip Beer Co, a nano brewery renowned for its award-winning brews and family-friendly vibe. Here, you’ll find a lively, welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for small groups. The 50-minute visit allows you to sample more flights, possibly tasting some experimental or seasonal brews that the brewery is known for.

Reviewers highlight the “extremely tasty beers” and the brewery’s friendly environment, making it a great spot to unwind after two other stops. It’s an authentic experience that showcases the passion and creativity of California’s craft brewers.

What You Get and Why It Matters

The tour includes visits to three breweries, with a flight of beers at each stop, allowing you to sample a wide range of flavors. The hotel pickup and dropoff remove any stress about transportation, especially in an area where driving can be complicated or inconvenient. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, regardless of the weather, which is especially important if you’re visiting during warmer months.

Snacks and bottled water are included, meaning you can pace yourself without worrying about dehydration or hunger. The small group size (maximum 13 travelers) means you’ll likely enjoy a more personalized experience, with ample opportunity to ask questions and learn about each brewery’s story.

The cost of $91.29 per person offers good value considering the inclusions—transportation, tastings, snacks, and a fun, guided experience. Compared to visiting breweries independently, the tour provides a structured yet relaxed way to explore, especially if you’re new to the craft beer scene or unfamiliar with the area.

The Value of This Tour

This experience isn’t just about drinking beer; it’s about connecting with the local craft culture and enjoying scenic coastal views along the way. The inclusion of scenic vistas—particularly at Ballast Point—adds a memorable backdrop to your tasting experience, elevating what might otherwise be a simple pub crawl into a more immersive outing.

On top of that, the knowledgeable guides—who are praised for their familiarity with the brewing process—enhance the learning aspect, making it a fun and educational experience. The flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand means you can book with confidence, knowing you can change plans if needed.

On the downside, the breweries visited are subject to change based on availability, which might affect your specific preferences. But given the tour’s focus on quality and local reputation, you’re likely to visit excellent spots no matter what.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adventurous drinkers eager to explore North Orange County’s craft brewing scene without the hassle of navigating between locations. It’s perfect for small groups of friends, couples, or even a dad’s night out. The age restriction (must be 21+) means it’s geared toward adult travelers looking for relaxed, social fun.

If you love scenic views, enjoy sampling different beers, and prefer a guided experience to handle transportation logistics, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially good if you want to combine local culture, scenic vistas, and craft beer into a manageable, fun outing.

Final Thoughts

The North Orange County Craft Brewery Tour offers a well-rounded experience for beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. From the approachable atmosphere at Four Sons Brewing, through the scenic waterfront at Ballast Point, to the friendly, award-winning brews at Riip Beer Co, it captures the essence of what makes Orange County a craft beer hub.

Priced at just over ninety dollars, this tour delivers both value and a chance to relax and enjoy authentic local flavors. The included transportation, snacks, and intimate group size make it a smart choice for those who want a hassle-free, fun evening out. Plus, with scenic views woven into the experience, it’s more than just a tasting—it’s a mini adventure.

Whether you’re a craft beer novice or a seasoned connoisseur, this tour provides a perfect balance of education, scenery, and social fun. Ideal for small groups looking to explore, sip, and soak in the coastal vibe in one relaxed outing.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it easy and stress-free to enjoy your evening without worrying about driving.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, giving enough time to visit three breweries, sample beers, and enjoy the scenery.

What breweries will I visit?
You’ll visit three breweries: Four Sons Brewing, Ballast Point (in Long Beach), and Riip Beer Co in Huntington Beach. Brewery selection is subject to availability.

Are drinks included?
Yes, a flight of beers is included at each brewery, so you can sample multiple styles during your visit.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
No, the minimum drinking age is 21, and the tour involves alcohol tasting, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy craft beer.

How many people are in a group?
The maximum group size is 13 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience compared to larger tours.

What should I wear?
Comfortable casual attire is recommended. You may be walking around the breweries, but the vehicle is air-conditioned for comfort.

Are snacks and water provided?
Yes, snacks and bottled water are included to keep you refreshed throughout the tour.

To sum it up, the North Orange County Craft Brewery Tour is a fantastic way to discover local breweries with minimal hassle. It offers scenic views, authentic tasting experiences, and a relaxed atmosphere—perfect for small groups eager to enjoy a flavorful evening in Southern California.