Best 30A Area Microbreweries and Taprooms
For lovers of artisan ales, nothing tastes better than a frosty pint of craft beer during a long-awaited escape to Florida’s sprawling, undeniably picturesque beaches of South Walton. The 30A brewery scene is still in its infancy as many entrepreneurs and head brewers have yet to discover the gold mine that stretches from Inlet Beach to Dune Allen Beach. Each year, millions of thirsty travelers flock to 30A’s sandy beaches in search of pure relaxation, far from the city’s hustle. So pour a tall one, plop on the couch, and let’s take a guided trip down the 30A area brewery trail.
Idyll Hounds Brewing Company
Our first stop is in Santa Rosa Beach, just a stone’s throw from the meandering Intracoastal Waterway. Idyll Hounds is not only the premier brewery in Walton County, but it’s also one of the top-rated taprooms in the Florida Panhandle, according to Untappd.com. The industrious taproom features repurposed bourbon barrels, head-turning (and hand-crafted) flights, and colorful chairs in an open setting. Patrons can choose between a crowd-pleasing array of sours, the ultra-popular Rosemary Saison, and the hazy, balanced BOOSH IPA. In addition to their taproom, you’ll find Idyll Hounds beer at restaurants all along the 30A corridor.
Idyll Hounds Brewing Company is located at:
845 Serenoa Road
Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Grayton Beer Company
A lot of repeat visitors know all about the Grayton Beer Brewpub on scenic 30A. But this Grayton Beach staple also boasts a stellar taproom just down the road from Idyll Hounds in the 30A brewery belt. The dimly-lit space features hanging rope lights, rustic dartboards, and a stockpile of decorative six-packs. With 22 different beers on tap at any given time, your next visit will assuredly be a pleasantly flavorful voyage. This unpretentious Santa Rosa Beach brewery dabbles in just about every beer style, from New England-style IPAs to citrusy witbiers and hibiscus sours. Like Idyll Hounds, you’ll find Grayton Beer Company brews all over South Walton. If you fly into Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (PCB airport) you’ll stroll right past the “Grayton Beer Landing Strip” bar. Yes that’s right, they have their own little taproom at the Panama City Beach Airport!
Grayton Beer Company is located at:
217 Serenoa Road
Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
30A Brewery Alternatives
The growing 30A beer trail is also home to two unique taproom alternatives: Beach and Brew on 30A and Growler Garage. While neither establishment brews their own ales, each distinct taproom features dozens of regional favorites in a subtle, brewery-esque setting. Sleek Beach and Brew rests in the heart of Seacrest Beach, while Growler Garage’s heavenly patio can be found in bustling South Walton near “Absolute Paradise” in Dune Allen Beach / Gulf Place. Both locales typically offer ales from Idyll Hounds and Grayton Beer, as well as countless other Florida favorites from the likes of 3rd Planet, Cigar City, and Funky Buddha.
Seacrest Beach House Rentals
Before we let you go, don’t forget to browse through 30A Escapes’ various luxury rentals. With over 160 properties scattered throughout the region, you’ll unquestionably stumble upon a beach house that suits your group’s size, style, and budget perfectly. Many of our Florida beach house rentals include a private pool, chef’s kitchen, bicycles, and easy access to a seemingly endless stretch of white sand and turquoise Gulf water. Check availability online or give us a call today at 1-888-473-6830.
