Do you love enjoying a cold beer with your friends on vacation? If so, you’ll be glad to know that Mendocino is the perfect place for that. Learn all you need to know about the beer culture in Mendocino, and how this delicious drink continues to win the hearts of locals and tourists alike. Read on to discover our favorite breweries in Mendocino as well as the exciting beer-related events in the area!
If you want to make the most out of your visit, download our free Vacation Guide! It has all the top recommendations for restaurants, shops, museums, events, outdoor activities, and more!
Here Are Some of the Best Breweries in Mendocino
Which Of These Mendocino Breweries Will Be Your Favorite?
Mendocino Brewing Company
Let’s start our list with one of the oldest breweries in Mendocino, Mendocino Brewing Company! This tremendous local spot has been around for more than three decades, and both tourists and locals alike love it. You can choose from eight different collections of beer, each featuring a spectrum of varying flavors that you can enjoy in the Mendocino Brewing Company tasting room. Some of these collections include specialty, 22 oz., and organic beers.
Overtime Brewery
Overtime Brewery is a newer addition to the Mendocino brewery scene. It was created by two beer lovers who started brewing at the age of 17! If a laid–back atmosphere is what you’re looking for, then Overtime is the perfect place. Try their uniquely crafted beer and pair it with an item from their mouthwatering menu. The Shishito pepper poppers, steam whistle burger, and ham and Gruyere panini, are among our favorites, but you’ll also love the seafood options (like the delicious chowder)!
Anderson Valley Brewing Company
Another amazing brewery that has been open for 30 years is the Anderson Valley Brewing Company. It’s a great place to visit if you’re into locally sourced products. They’re right outside of Boonville, CA, and operate on smart and sustainable environmental practices. Try their beer in the taproom and don’t hesitate to bring a bottle home with you to enjoy with your loved ones!
Eel River Brewing Company
The Eel River Brewing Company is known for their delicious Blonde Ale —you can’t miss it while in Mendocino! Created with delicate malt, a subtle touch of citrus, and organic hops, this easy–drinking craft brew is a favorite!
North Coast Brewing Company
You might be wondering which brewery is the best by now, and based on their numerous awards (more than 70 since their opening in 1998) it would have to be North Coast Brewing Company! This Fort Bragg Brewery has a beautiful taproom that’s open seven days a week and serves mouthwatering pub food to go with your drink. We highly recommend trying their seasonal crafts, but don’t worry—some are available year-round (like the Old No. 38 Stout, Red Seal Ale, Blue Star Wheat Beer, Pranqster, Brother Thelonious, and Old Rasputin)!
Attend a Beer Event!
Wouldn’t it be fun to celebrate Mendocino while drinking some of its best beer? We’ve gathered a couple of events where you can do just that. Read on and take notes so you can plan your trip accordingly!
Boonville Beer Festival
The legendary Boonville Beer Festival is a one-of-a-kind event that you must attend at least once! Did you know it’s the biggest beer festival in Northern California? Get ready to hop from one brewer’s tent to the next (there are over 80!) and listen to live music. Boonville, CA, is southwest of Ukiah in Mendocino County and is home to roughly 1,000 residents. During the festival, however, that number becomes 6,000 beer enthusiasts! The best part about that festival is its originality. Attendees even have their own language: “Boontling!” Some Boontling terms include “bahlest” (excellent), “bahl hornin’” (cheers), “frattery” (vineyard), “gorm” (food, to eat), “kimmie” (man), and “mink” (woman).
Feast Mendocino
Feast Mendocino (previously known as the Mendocino Mushroom, Wine, and Beer Festival) attracts hundreds of people every November for nine days of food-related activities. Try locally grown mushrooms, wines, and most importantly, craft beers! You can also take cooking classes and tour the Kelley House Museum for a quick regional history of “Bars, Bordellos, and Mushrooms”!
Sea Rock Inn Awaits Your Arrival!
After you visit these incredible Mendocino breweries, come home to a cozy room near the ocean! Sea Rock Inn is a splendid B&B surrounded by beautiful blooming flowers. It’s one of the best wellness destinations in Northern California and offers a serene environment where you can reconnect with nature and watch a sunset with either a glass of wine or a local beer.
All our rooms and suites are beautiful, but we have a feeling you’ll love the Junior Suite 18! There’s nothing like coming home from happy hour and lounging on the comfy queen bed, as you listen to the soothing sound of the fireplace. When you wake up in the morning, throw a blanket over your shoulders and step outside, where you can see the ocean in the distance. You can even fix yourself a cup of coffee using your coffee maker! Before you head out, join us in the main Inn where a delicious homemade breakfast awaits you!