California has long been a paradise for craft beer lovers, with its incredible diversity of breweries that range from laid-back beachside spots to trendy urban taprooms. Whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or just enjoy a pint now and then, the Golden State has something special for you. We’ve put together a list of ten of the best craft beer breweries to visit in California that are well worth planning a road trip for.

Russian River Brewing Company – Santa Rosa

Russian River Brewing Company is an absolute must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts. Known worldwide for their iconic Pliny the Elder and its elusive big brother, Pliny the Younger, this brewery has become a mecca for hop heads. The Santa Rosa brewpub is the perfect spot to sample their wide range of beers, from IPAs to barrel-aged sours, all served up with a laid-back vibe and hearty pub fare.

Stone Brewing – Escondido

Stone Brewing is a pioneer of the West Coast IPA movement, and their massive brewery in Escondido is an experience in itself. With lush gardens, a beautiful outdoor patio, and guided tours of their impressive brewing facilities, Stone offers a great mix of delicious beer and an immersive experience. Their hop-forward creations, like Stone IPA, are a staple for lovers of bold, bitter brews.

Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. – Chico

Sierra Nevada is one of the founding fathers of the American craft beer scene, and their Chico brewery is a testament to their legacy. Known for their Pale Ale, Sierra Nevada offers a full range of expertly crafted beers, along with a sprawling beer garden and a restaurant that serves up farm-to-table delights. The brewery tour here is well worth your time to see where craft beer history was made.

Modern Times Beer – San Diego

Modern Times is a brewery that effortlessly combines quirky aesthetics with incredible beers. The Point Loma taproom, known as the “Lomaland Fermentorium,” is a vibrant space that showcases their eclectic range of IPAs, stouts, and sours. Modern Times is also known for their commitment to sustainability and employee ownership, making them a brewery you can feel good about supporting.

The Bruery – Placentia

For those who love experimenting with flavours, The Bruery is a must-visit. Located in Placentia, this brewery is known for its bold and creative beers, particularly their Belgian-style ales and barrel-aged brews. With a rotating selection of unique offerings, The Bruery is the place to go if you’re in the mood for something a little out of the ordinary.

Firestone Walker Brewing Company – Paso Robles

Nestled in California’s wine country, Firestone Walker combines a passion for brewing with a commitment to quality. Their Paso Robles location features an impressive taproom, restaurant, and even a barrel room tour. From their easy-drinking 805 Blonde Ale to the more complex barrel-aged beers, Firestone Walker has something for everyone.

Lagunitas Brewing Company – Petaluma

Lagunitas Brewing Company is all about good vibes and great beer. Their Petaluma brewery is a laid-back spot with live music, an outdoor beer garden, and, of course, plenty of their iconic hoppy brews to enjoy. Lagunitas is a great place to kick back, relax, and enjoy some of California’s most well-loved beers, like the classic Lagunitas IPA.

Almanac Beer Co. – Alameda

Almanac Beer Co. in Alameda is known for their farm-to-barrel approach, using locally sourced ingredients to craft their beers. Their spacious taproom offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay, making it a perfect spot to sip on their seasonal ales and barrel-aged sours. Almanac’s commitment to sustainability and local ingredients shines through in every pint.

Beachwood BBQ & Brewing – Long Beach

If you’re looking for a spot that combines mouthwatering BBQ with award-winning beers, Beachwood BBQ & Brewing is the place to be. Located in Long Beach, this brewery is known for its wide variety of styles, from hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts. Pair their smoked meats with a pint of their Hop Tanker Double IPA, and you’re in for a treat.

Anchor Brewing Company – San Francisco

No list of California breweries would be complete without mentioning Anchor Brewing Company. As one of the oldest craft breweries in America, Anchor has a rich history and is best known for their iconic Anchor Steam Beer. Their San Francisco location offers tours that delve into their storied past, along with tastings of their classic and seasonal brews, all in a historic setting that reflects the roots of American craft beer.

California’s craft beer scene is second to none, and these ten breweries are just the beginning. Whether you’re into hoppy IPAs, barrel-aged wonders, or simply want to enjoy a great beer in a beautiful setting, these breweries capture the spirit of California craft brewing at its finest. So grab your road map, gather some friends, and start planning your ultimate brewery road trip—you won’t be disappointed.