Capital of craft.

Discover some of the best craft breweries in Costa Mesa, where rotating taps, experimental small-batch brews, and welcoming taprooms set the tone. Whether you’re planning a brewery hop or settling in for an afternoon with friends, these Orange County favorites make every round worth it.

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Green Cheek Salty Bear Karl Strauss Synth Beer Co.

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Green Cheek Salty Bear Karl Strauss Synth Beer Co.

People are sitting at wooden picnic tables under sun shades in the outdoor seating area of a Costa Mesa brewery, with string lights and patio heaters adding warmth. A sign on the fence reads Green Cheek Beer Co.

Green Cheek

Green Cheek has that perfect buzzy energy with crisp lagers, juicy IPAs, and a patio that always feels like summer.

A large, retro-style sign reading SALTY BEAR is mounted above the entrance of a modern concrete building beneath a clear blue sky, marking this spot as a standout Costa Mesa brewery.

Salty Bear

Salty Bear Brewing serves small-batch brews in such a relaxed vibe you’ll find yourself staying for just one more drink.

Street view of Karl Strauss Brewing Company, a popular Costa Mesa brewery, surrounded by tall palm trees, with several parked cars in the foreground and a clear blue sky above.

Karl Strauss

Karl Strauss is all about gastropub delights and award-winning craft beer in a welcoming space.

A modern two-story building with a Smith sign, colorful striped fencing, string lights, and an inviting outdoor seating area is landscaped with red plants and a fire hydrant—perfect for relaxing under clear blue skies at this Costa Mesa brewery.

Synth Beer Co.

Synth Beer Co. mixes up modern drinks and music vibes with inventive rotating taps.

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