🍺 Costa Mesa’s Beer Trail – Extended Guide
Costa Mesa has earned its spot as one of Orange County’s emerging craft beer hubs. With breweries all clustered near the Randolph Avenue corridor, it’s easy to walk, bike, or ride-share between tasting rooms. Whether you’re chasing hazy IPAs, bold stouts, or crisp lagers, the Beer Trail is the perfect way to spend an afternoon.
🍻 Brewery Spotlights
🍺Brewing Reserve of California
A warm, family-run brewery offering creatively named brews like OC Tropical Blonde and Big Boscoe DIPA. Known for its “Cheers”-like vibe, nightly events (trivia, paint-and-pints), frequent food trucks, and friendly staff. Pet-friendly and community-driven.🐾. 📍 2930 College Ave Ste D, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
🥥 Barley Forge Brewing Co.
One of Costa Mesa’s pioneers, loved for The Patsy (coconut rye stout). The Belgian-inspired lineup and food truck partnerships make it a great stop for groups 👨👩👧👦. 📍 2957 Randolph Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
🌿 Green Cheek Beer Co. (Costa Mesa Taproom)
A must for IPA lovers 🍺. Bright, modern, and always buzzing ✨. Known across SoCal for hazy IPAs and small-batch lagers. 📍 2957 Randolph Ave Ste C, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
🍂 Bootlegger’s Brewery – Costa Mesa
A cozy outpost of this OC staple. Famous for Knuckle Sandwich DIPA and amber ales. No food 🍔🚫, but perfect for relaxed pints. 📍 696 Randolph Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
🎶 Salty Bear Brewing Co.
One of the newest additions. Expect lagers, pale ales, and experimental small-batch brews 🍺. Laid-back hangout with live music 🎸 and rotating pop-up food vendors. 📍 2948 Randolph Ave Ste A, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I combine Costa Mesa and Newport in one day?
A: Yes — start in Costa Mesa for a brewery cluster crawl, then finish by the harbor in Newport Beach. check out Newport Beach Craft Beer – FAQ Guide
Q: Do Newport breweries allow dogs like Costa Mesa?
A: Yes, most welcome pups 🐾 on patios, especially Back Bay and NB Brewing Co.
Q: Do I need reservations?
A: Rarely, unless dining at Helmsman Ale House during peak hours.
Q: How far is Costa Mesa from Newport?
A: Just 3–5 miles — about 10 minutes by car or a quick Pedego Electric Bike Rental ride down the river trail.
📍 What is the best way to visit Costa Mesa breweries?
Tour options: Leave the driving to someone else—join a guided brewery tour or let the Orange County Concierge arrange private transport. 🚲Pedego e-bikes make your Newport Beach craft beer adventure effortless and scenic. 🌊 Cruise from pub to pub or island to harbor
✅ Concierge Tips
📅 Check brewery calendars—limited releases sell fast.
🐕 Many patios are dog-friendly (Helmsman Ale House, Chihuahua Cerveza).
🚐 Upgrade your experience: Orange County Concierge can book private transport so your group enjoys safely.
🏨 Extend your stay: We’ll secure local hotel reservations for easy access to breweries, games, and nightlife. You can always self-book your stay in Anaheim and extend your craft beer adventure over more than one day—perfect for turning a simple tasting into a full weekend getaway.