How to Plan a Bottle Tour in Long Beach

Long Beach, California, is a vibrant coastal city known for its sunny beaches, historic waterfront, and thriving craft beverage scene. While many visitors flock to the Queen Mary or the Aquarium of the Pacific, a growing number of travelers and locals are discovering the hidden gem of Long Beach’s bottle tour experience. A bottle tour — a curated journey through local breweries, distilleries, and wineries where participants sample and purchase handcrafted beverages in sealed, take-home containers — offers an immersive way to explore the city’s artisanal drink culture. Unlike traditional pub crawls, bottle tours emphasize education, sustainability, and the chance to bring home unique, limited-edition products. Planning a successful bottle tour in Long Beach requires more than just picking a few spots; it demands thoughtful logistics, an understanding of local regulations, and an appreciation for the stories behind each bottle. Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking a unique experience, a group of friends looking for a memorable outing, or a local looking to deepen your connection to the community, this guide will walk you through every step of planning a meaningful and enjoyable bottle tour in Long Beach.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Define Your Tour Goals and Audience

Before you even begin researching venues, clarify the purpose of your bottle tour. Are you planning a solo adventure to discover new flavors? A birthday celebration with friends? A corporate team-building event? The answers will shape every decision that follows. For example, a group of craft beer enthusiasts may prioritize breweries with experimental barrel-aged releases, while a group of wine lovers might focus on coastal vineyards offering small-batch varietals. Consider the physical ability of participants — some venues may require walking up stairs or navigating uneven terrain. Also, determine if minors or non-drinkers will be included, as this affects venue selection and pacing. Setting clear goals helps you create a focused itinerary that delivers value to everyone involved.

Step 2: Research Local Bottle-Only Venues

Long Beach is home to over 30 craft beverage producers, but not all offer bottle sales or tours. Start by identifying venues that sell their products in sealed, take-home containers — typically 750ml bottles, growlers, or cans — and allow visitors to tour their facilities. Key players include:

• Long Beach Beer Lab – Known for innovative sour ales and limited-edition bottle releases.
• Wine Country Long Beach – A boutique wine merchant with tasting flights and curated bottle selections from regional winemakers.
• Long Beach Distilling Co. – Offers small-batch gin, vodka, and bourbon in beautifully designed bottles with seasonal releases.
• Beachwood Blendery – A wild fermentation specialist with bottle-aged sour beers and kombucha in glass carboys.
• St. John’s Brewery – One of the oldest craft breweries in the area, with a dedicated bottle shop and monthly release events.

Use resources like Google Maps, Yelp, and the Long Beach Tourism website to verify which locations offer tours and bottle sales. Look for keywords like “bottle shop,” “take-home bottles,” “tasting room with retail,” or “guided brewery tour.” Contact each venue directly to confirm tour availability, group size limits, and whether reservations are required. Many venues only offer tours on weekends or by appointment, so early outreach is essential.

Step 3: Create a Logical Route

Efficiency is key to a successful bottle tour. Long Beach spans approximately 50 square miles, so map out your venues in a geographically compact loop to minimize travel time. Start in the downtown or Belmont Shore area, where most craft beverage producers are clustered. For example:

1. Begin at Long Beach Distilling Co. (downtown) – a short 15-minute tasting with a guided history of spirits production.
2. Next, head to Long Beach Beer Lab (1.5 miles away) – sample 4–5 unique brews and purchase 1–2 bottles of their rare barrel-aged series.
3. Continue to Beachwood Blendery (2 miles east) – explore wild fermentation and select a bottle of their seasonal sour.
4. End at Wine Country Long Beach (1 mile north) – enjoy a wine tasting paired with local cheeses and pick up a bottle of their exclusive coastal Pinot Noir.

Use Google Maps or Waze to estimate travel times between stops and account for parking. Avoid scheduling back-to-back tastings without buffer time — 45 minutes per stop is ideal to allow for conversation, purchases, and rest. Consider including a mid-tour snack stop at a nearby café or food truck to maintain energy levels.

Step 4: Make Reservations and Confirm Policies

Most bottle tour venues in Long Beach operate on a reservation-only basis for groups larger than four. Call or email each location at least 7–10 days in advance. When booking, ask the following questions:

• Is there a minimum group size or fee?
• Do they offer private or semi-private tours?
• Are bottles included in the tour price, or are they purchased separately?
• What is their policy on outside food or beverages?
• Do they provide bottle carriers or packaging for transport?
• Is there wheelchair accessibility?

Some venues offer bundled tour packages — for example, a $45 per person fee that includes four tastings and one complimentary bottle. Others charge a flat tasting fee and require separate bottle purchases. Clarify this upfront to avoid confusion. Also, confirm their cancellation policy; many places require 48-hour notice for group changes.

Step 5: Plan for Transportation and Logistics

Driving after tasting alcohol is illegal and unsafe. Plan your transportation ahead of time. Options include:

• Designating a sober driver with a vehicle large enough to carry bottles.
• Hiring a private car service or rideshare (Uber/Lyft) for the entire group — ensure the vehicle can accommodate bottle carriers.
• Using the Long Beach Transit system with a bike trailer or reusable bottle tote to carry purchases.
• Booking a local tour bus service that specializes in beverage tours — some companies offer curated bottle tour itineraries with licensed drivers.

If you’re carrying multiple bottles, invest in a sturdy, insulated bottle carrier or cooler bag. Many venues sell branded tote bags designed for safe transport. Label your bottles with names or preferences to avoid mix-ups. Also, check California’s alcohol transport laws: open containers are prohibited in vehicles, but sealed bottles are legal as long as they’re stored in the trunk or behind the last row of seats.

Step 6: Prepare a Tour Itinerary and Schedule

Create a simple, printable itinerary with the following details for each stop:

• Venue name and address
• Reservation time
• Duration of visit
• What’s included (tastings, tour, bottle selection)
• Estimated cost per person
• Phone number to call if running late

Share this document with all participants at least 24 hours before the tour. Include a map screenshot and parking tips. Set a group meeting time at the first location and establish a “check-in” system — for example, everyone texts “ARRIVED” when they reach each stop. This keeps the group on schedule and reduces stress.

Step 7: Budget and Payment Planning

Bottle tours can range from $25 to $150 per person depending on the number of stops and bottle purchases. Break down your budget into categories:

• Tasting fees: $10–$25 per venue
• Bottle purchases: $15–$50 per bottle (average)
• Transportation: $20–$60 total (depending on method)
• Snacks/food: $10–$20
• Gratuities: 15–20% for guides or staff

Consider collecting funds in advance via Venmo, PayPal, or Cash App to simplify payments. Some venues accept credit cards, but many small producers operate cash-only or use Square terminals — always have cash on hand. If you’re planning a group gift, pool funds to buy one special bottle to share or take home as a memento.

Step 8: Pack the Right Gear

Bring these essentials for a smooth experience:

• Reusable bottle carrier or insulated tote – Keeps bottles secure and at optimal temperature.
• Water and snacks – Stay hydrated and eat before tasting to avoid overconsumption.
• Photo ID – Required for all alcohol tastings in California.
• Notepad or phone for notes – Record flavors, names, and impressions for future reference.
• Portable phone charger – For navigation and communication.
• Light jacket or sweater – Indoor tasting rooms can be cool, even in summer.
• Small trash bag – For empty bottles or packaging you may accumulate.

Step 9: Engage with Staff and Learn the Stories

The most memorable bottle tours aren’t just about the drinks — they’re about the people behind them. Ask questions: How was this recipe developed? What’s the inspiration behind the label? Are these bottles aged in oak barrels? Many producers in Long Beach are passionate about sustainability — ask if they use recycled glass, solar power, or local ingredients. Take photos (with permission) and share their stories on social media. This not only supports local businesses but deepens your appreciation for the craft.

Step 10: Reflect and Document Your Experience

After your tour, take time to reflect. Did you discover a new favorite flavor? Did a particular venue exceed your expectations? Create a digital or physical journal entry with:

• Names and notes on each bottle you purchased
• Flavor profiles (e.g., “citrus-forward sour with oak finish”)
• Photos of the venue, labels, and tasting notes
• Recommendations for next time

Use this journal to plan future tours or gift bottles to friends with personalized notes. Sharing your experience helps build a community around Long Beach’s craft beverage culture.

Best Practices

Planning a bottle tour isn’t just about logistics — it’s about cultivating a respectful, enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Follow these best practices to ensure your tour is not only successful but also sustainable and ethical.

Respect the Craft and the Craftspersons

Each bottle represents hours of labor, experimentation, and passion. Avoid rushing through tastings or treating them like a competition to “get the most free samples.” Take your time. Sip slowly. Ask thoughtful questions. Appreciate the artistry behind the label. Many small producers in Long Beach are family-run or first-generation entrepreneurs — your curiosity and respect mean more than you know.

Pace Yourself

Even if you’re not drinking alcohol, tasting multiple beverages in a short window can overwhelm your palate. Use the provided spittoons if available. Drink water between samples. Eat food — even a simple cracker or cheese can balance flavors. Never feel pressured to finish a tasting. Your safety and enjoyment come first.

Buy What You Love, Not What’s Trendy

Just because a bottle is labeled “limited edition” or “collaboration” doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Taste first. If you don’t enjoy a flavor, don’t buy it. Focus on quality over quantity. A single bottle you truly love is more valuable than five you’ll never open.

Support Local and Sustainable Practices

Look for venues that prioritize eco-friendly packaging, local sourcing, and low-waste production. Many Long Beach producers use recycled glass, compostable labels, and solar-powered facilities. Choosing these businesses helps reinforce a culture of sustainability in the beverage industry.

Be Mindful of Group Dynamics

If you’re planning a group tour, consider different preferences. Some may prefer wine, others beer or spirits. Mix venues to accommodate everyone. Avoid pressuring anyone to drink. Offer non-alcoholic tasting options — many places now offer house-made kombucha, craft sodas, or tea infusions.

Leave No Trace

Dispose of packaging responsibly. Many venues have recycling bins, but if not, take your waste with you. Never leave bottles, napkins, or empty glasses behind. Your behavior reflects on the entire community of craft beverage lovers.

Follow Local Laws and Etiquette

California law prohibits consuming alcohol on public streets or in vehicles. Always consume tastings on-site. Never bring outside alcohol into a venue unless explicitly permitted. Respect quiet hours and noise levels — especially in residential neighborhoods near tasting rooms.

Tip Generously

Tasters, guides, and staff often earn low wages. A 15–20% tip for a guided tour or exceptional service goes a long way. Even $5 per person makes a difference. Consider leaving a positive review online — it’s free and highly valued by small businesses.

Plan for Weather and Seasonality

Long Beach enjoys mild weather year-round, but summer heat can make outdoor seating uncomfortable. Check the forecast and dress appropriately. Also, note seasonal releases — many breweries release special bottles in fall (pumpkin ales) or winter (barrel-aged stouts). Plan your tour around these events for a unique experience.

Document and Share Responsibly

While social media helps promote local businesses, always ask permission before photographing staff, labels, or interiors. Tag venues in your posts and use their official hashtags. This helps them reach new customers and builds community goodwill.

Tools and Resources

Planning a bottle tour is easier with the right tools. Here are the most effective resources for Long Beach residents and visitors.

Online Directories

• Long Beach Craft Beverage Trail – A free, interactive map on the Long Beach Tourism website listing all licensed breweries, distilleries, and wineries with bottle sales and tour availability.
• BreweryMap.com – A crowd-sourced database with user reviews, hours, and bottle availability filters.
• Untappd – The go-to app for beer lovers. Search for venues in Long Beach, see what’s on tap, and check which bottles have been released recently.
• Wine Folly’s Local Wine Guide – Offers curated lists of small wineries in Southern California with tasting room info.

Mobile Apps

• Google Maps – Use the “Directions” feature to plot your route and estimate travel time between stops.
• Uber/Lyft – Book rides in advance and save your group’s pickup/drop-off locations.
• PayPal/Venmo – For collecting group payments securely and instantly.
• Notion or Google Keep – Create a digital itinerary with links, notes, and reminders.

Printed Resources

• Long Beach Beer & Spirits Guide – A free quarterly booklet available at visitor centers and participating venues.
• California Craft Beverage Association Newsletter – Subscribe for updates on new releases, events, and closures.

Local Events and Festivals

Timing your tour around a local event enhances the experience:

• Long Beach Beer Week (June) – A citywide celebration with exclusive bottle releases, live music, and brewery collaborations.
• Wine & Dine Long Beach (September) – Features tastings from coastal wineries with bottle purchase discounts.
• Distillers’ Night Out (October) – A rare chance to meet master distillers and sample limited-edition spirits.

Check event calendars on each venue’s website or follow them on Instagram for real-time updates.

Recommended Gear

• Thermos Bottle Carrier – Keeps bottles chilled and prevents breakage.
• Wine Saver Pump – If you buy a half-bottle, use this to preserve the rest.
• Portable Bottle Opener with Corkscrew – Compact and useful for unexpected openers.
• Reusable Tasting Glasses – Eco-friendly and often accepted at venues.

Real Examples

Here are three real-world examples of successful bottle tours planned in Long Beach — each with a different focus.

Example 1: The Craft Beer Enthusiast’s Weekend

John, a 32-year-old homebrewer from Orange County, planned a two-day bottle tour with three friends. He focused exclusively on breweries with bottle releases.

• Day 1: Visited Long Beach Beer Lab (bottle release of “Tropical Sour

  7”), then Beachwood Blendery (tasted three wild ales, bought one 750ml bottle).

• Day 2: Stopped at St. John’s Brewery (sampled their barrel-aged porter), then headed to The Hoppy Monk (a hidden gem with a 10-bottle minimum purchase).

John booked all tours two weeks in advance and used a rented SUV with a roof rack for bottle transport. He kept a tasting journal and later shared his findings on Reddit’s r/LongBeach, which led to a feature in the local paper. His group spent $220 total and brought home 11 bottles — all now part of his personal collection.

Example 2: The Corporate Team-Building Tour

A marketing team of 12 from a downtown Long Beach startup wanted to celebrate their quarterly wins. They hired a private tour guide who arranged a customized bottle tour with a food pairing.

• Started at Long Beach Distilling Co. – Tasted gin with citrus and lavender, paired with artisanal crackers.
• Then to Wine Country Long Beach – Sampled three coastal wines with local cheeses and charcuterie.
• Ended at Long Beach Beer Lab – Enjoyed a flight of IPAs and purchased one bottle per person as a keepsake.

The guide provided branded tote bags, a printed tasting card, and a photo booth with custom props. The team spent $1,400 total, and each member received a personalized thank-you note from the venues. The event boosted team morale and led to an annual tradition.

Example 3: The Solo Explorer’s Journey

Maria, a 45-year-old retiree from New York, moved to Long Beach and wanted to connect with the community. She planned a solo bottle tour over four Sundays, visiting one venue per week.

• Week 1: Long Beach Distilling Co. – Learned about small-batch distillation and bought a bottle of lavender gin.
• Week 2: Beachwood Blendery – Discovered her love for sour beers and bought a bottle of raspberry lambic.
• Week 3: St. John’s Brewery – Met the head brewer and joined their tasting club.
• Week 4: Wine Country Long Beach – Found a Pinot Noir she now considers her “signature sip.”

Maria started a blog, “Bottles & Beaches,” documenting her journey. She now hosts monthly meetups for other solo explorers. Her story inspired the city to launch a “Bottle Tour Passport” program, where visitors collect stamps from participating venues and earn a free bottle after five visits.

FAQs

Can I bring my own alcohol to a bottle tour venue?

No. California law prohibits bringing outside alcohol into licensed establishments. All tastings and purchases must come from the venue. Some locations may allow you to bring food, but always confirm in advance.

Do I need to be 21 to join a bottle tour?

Yes. All tasting rooms in California require valid photo ID for entry, even if you’re not drinking. Non-drinkers are welcome, but they may not be able to participate in tastings. Many venues offer non-alcoholic alternatives like craft sodas or kombucha.

How many bottles can I buy in one visit?

There is no legal limit on the number of bottles you can purchase in one visit, but venues may restrict purchases during special releases or high-demand events. Most allow 1–3 bottles per person per tasting, but you can often buy more at their retail shop.

Are bottle tours wheelchair accessible?

Many venues in Long Beach are ADA-compliant, but not all. Always call ahead to ask about ramps, restrooms, and tasting counter heights. Beachwood Blendery and Long Beach Distilling Co. are known for excellent accessibility.

Can I plan a bottle tour for kids or teens?

Yes — but not for tasting. Many venues have outdoor patios, gift shops, and non-alcoholic options perfect for families. Long Beach Beer Lab has a family-friendly patio with games and mocktails. Always check age policies before booking.

How long should a bottle tour last?

Plan for 3–5 hours total, including travel time. Allow 45–60 minutes per stop. Rushing reduces enjoyment and increases the risk of overconsumption.

What if I don’t like any of the bottles I tasted?

That’s okay! Not every flavor will suit your palate. Focus on the experience — learning, meeting people, and exploring. You can always return later with a different group or try a different venue.

Can I ship bottles home from Long Beach?

California law prohibits direct shipping of alcohol to consumers in most states. Some venues offer shipping within California, but international or out-of-state shipping is rare. It’s best to transport bottles yourself or purchase them locally after your visit.

Are bottle tours expensive?

They can be as affordable or luxurious as you choose. A basic tour with two tastings and one bottle can cost under $50. A premium tour with multiple stops, food pairings, and special releases may reach $150+. Budget according to your goals.

What’s the best time of year to plan a bottle tour?

Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the most pleasant weather and the widest variety of seasonal releases. Summer is busy but great for outdoor patios. Winter features rich, dark beers and holiday-themed spirits.

Conclusion

Planning a bottle tour in Long Beach is more than a day out — it’s an invitation to connect with the heart of the city’s creative community. Each bottle tells a story: of local ingredients, of artisanal skill, of resilience and innovation. By thoughtfully selecting venues, respecting traditions, and prioritizing safety and sustainability, you transform a simple outing into a meaningful cultural experience. Whether you’re sipping a tart sour beer on a sun-drenched patio or uncorking a rare wine under soft indoor lighting, the moments you create on a bottle tour become memories that linger far longer than the last sip. Use this guide as your compass, but don’t be afraid to wander off the map. Some of the best discoveries — a hidden distillery tucked behind a laundromat, a bartender who remembers your name, a label that speaks to your soul — come when you least expect them. Long Beach’s bottle scene is alive, evolving, and waiting for you to explore it. So gather your group, pack your carrier, and raise a glass to the journey ahead.