Dana Point's Craft Beer Scene: Where to Drink Like a Local
Dana Point, though small in size, is not just a haven for surfers and beach lovers, but also an up-and-coming destination for craft beer enthusiasts. The craft beer scene here is vibrant, with several spots offering unique brews, lively atmospheres, and a genuine taste of home-grown culture. Whether you're a longtime local or just visiting, here are some of the best places to grab a craft beer in Dana Point.
RŌM Beer Co | 34091 La Plaza, Dana Point, CA 92629
Located in the heart of Dana Point in La Plaza, RŌM Beer appreciates the art of brewing and embraces the philosophy of “the joy of doing what fills your glass and dedicating time on this earth to loving life to the fullest.” This local spot specializes in high quality beers ranging from clean and crisp lagers to hoppy IPAs and dark, malty beers, depending on your preferences. RŌM loves to experiment with new styles to keep things fresh and exciting, so you never know what may be on tap in addition to their core RŌM beers, which go by names such as “Unknown Territory,” “De La Playa” and more. Pair your glass with a taco while you’re at it – the “Surf & Turf,” a mix of shrimp, carne asada, shaved cabbage, Cali-cream and pico de gallo makes for the perfect pairing. The rustic, laid-back ambiance lends itself to unwinding after a long day with a cold brew, whether indoors or at one of their many outdoor shaded tables.
Station Craft | 34150 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, CA 92629
Station Craft, situated overlooking PCH, offers a culinary and craft beer experience that effortlessly embodies the coastal lifestyle. The ambiance is inviting, with a modern yet relaxed vibe and open layout that encourages socializing whether indoors, or on their large outdoor deck – the perfect spot to hang on those beautiful DP days. Station Craft offers a range of unique and flavorful beers depending on your taste preference. Their focus is on quality and craftsmanship using carefully sourced malts, hops and even the water; to achieve a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you opt for one of their beers on tap such as their “Winning Harmonies” IPA or a specialty craft beer or cider like the “Peach Sour,” a tart ale incorporating over 200 pounds of peach puree, you won’t be disappointed! Don’t forget their “Beers to Go,” available in cans for an at-home Station Craft experience.
Dana Point Alehouse | 24471 Del Prado Ave Unit A, Dana Point, CA 92629
Located on Del Prado, and owned by a Dana Point native Chris Goodman, Dana Point Alehouse (with its 20+ taps), serves California craft beers all the way from Humboldt to San Diego. Their logo, a nod to the historic ship the Pilgrim, which Richard Henry Dana Jr. sailed on and whom our town was named after, brings back that “old school Dana Point vibe” in a convivial and community setting. Their beer menu has something for everything whether you prefer IPA’s such as North Park Beer Company’s “Hop-Fu!”, Imperials, Stouts or Sours such as Burgeon Beer’s “Steal My Sunshine.” For the non-beer drinkers, try one of their hard seltzers or ciders. “The Huckleberry” is a refreshing berry blast for those warm early fall days. Speaking of sunny days, Dana Point Alehouse’s outdoor area is the perfect spot to laze the afternoon away with picnic tables, umbrellas and often a rotating selection of food trucks. Somewhat newer on the scene, Dana Point Alehouse is making a name for itself and has become a go-to staple on Del Prado for craft beer aficionados.
Project Social | 24040 Camino Del Avion Suite J, Dana Point, CA 92629
A local Dana Point favorite established in 2019, Project Social offers a unique variety of craft beer in a vibrant social scene that has been fostered by its founders. Located in the Monarch Beach Promenade, Project Social is known for its lively atmosphere and diverse beer selection with a flowing indoor/outdoor vibe that lends itself perfectly to our California lifestyle. Project Social’s selection of local beers on tap changes frequently, ensuring there's always something new and interesting to try. Featuring beers from Rad Beer Company, Laguna Beach Beer Company, Stone Brewing and more, P.S. has something guaranteed to keep your thirst at bay with a full menu to imbibe and compliment your beer, or two, of choice!
