Del Mar isn’t just a picturesque coastal town in San Diego County, it’s also a premier destination for beer enthusiasts seeking unique and flavorful drafts. The quaint yet vibrant scene is anchored by two exceptional breweries: Viewpoint Brewing Co. and WestBrew. Viewpoint Brewing Co., known as the first of its kind in Del Mar, offers an amazing selection of beers brewed on-site, with the bonus of stunning views over San Dieguito Lagoon. WestBrew, positioned right in the heart of the action on 15th Street and Camino Del Mar, brings its distinctive tasting room experience to locals and visitors alike. Both breweries boast offerings that can be found in various restaurants throughout Del Mar, enhancing your dining experience with locally crafted beers.
The charm of Del Mar doesn’t stop at its scenic views and beach town vibe; it extends into the craft beer selections that reflect the innovation and passion of local brewers. The integration of Viewpoint Brewing Co. and WestBrew beers into the menus of local restaurants provides a seamless way to enjoy the best of Del Mar’s brewery scene without needing to visit each brewery directly. Whether you’re dining along the coast or in the village, you’re never far from a pint of meticulously crafted local beer, making every meal in Del Mar an opportunity to savor the unique tastes of this beloved Southern California destination.
- Enjoying fine brews at the scenic L’Auberge Del Mar, a highlight of Del Mar’s beer scene. Source: visitdelmarvillage.com
For those keen on diving into the specifics, Del Mar offers a selection of must-try beers that encapsulate the flavors and creativity of its breweries. Starting with “Dias Largos” from Viewpoint Brewing Co. served at L’Auberge Del Mar, this beer is a light-bodied lager with a subtle corn finish and a crisp, refreshing taste, thanks to the use of pilsner malt, flaked corn, and Mexican lager yeast. It’s perfect for sipping on a sunny Southern California day. On the amber side, “Del Martian Amber Ale” at Monarch Ocean Pub offers a balanced blend of sweetness and bitterness, creating a flavor profile that’s as intriguing as its name suggests.
Not to be outdone, WestBrew brings its exceptional offerings to the table with the “WestBrew Pils” and “Hazy By the Sea.” The former is a German-style pilsner that boasts a bright, lime zest flavor, tailor-made for enjoyment on WestBrew’s sunny patio. The latter, a tropical hazy IPA, entices with its juicy notes of stone fruit, honeydew, peach, and pineapple, promising a taste experience akin to “drinking a glass of clouds.” Finally, Viewpoint Brewing Co.’s “San Dieguito Saison” adds a uniquely French touch to the mix, with spicy esters and a dry finish that beer lovers won’t want to miss. Taken together, these beers exemplify the best of Del Mar’s craft beer scene and are sure to satisfy the palates of locals and visitors alike.
