How to Visit Long Beach Craft Beer Month

Long Beach Craft Beer Month is more than just a celebration of hops and malt—it’s a dynamic, month-long immersion into Southern California’s most vibrant craft beer culture. Held annually in March, this event transforms the city into a living brewery map, inviting beer enthusiasts, food lovers, and curious travelers to explore over 50 local breweries, taprooms, and participating restaurants. What began as a grassroots initiative by local brewers has evolved into a nationally recognized festival that showcases innovation, community, and the art of small-batch brewing. For visitors, it’s an unparalleled opportunity to taste exclusive releases, meet master brewers, and experience the unique neighborhoods that define Long Beach’s identity. Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer connoisseur or a first-time taster, understanding how to navigate and maximize this event is essential to fully appreciate its depth and diversity.

The importance of visiting Long Beach Craft Beer Month extends beyond the glass. It supports local economies, fosters sustainable business practices, and strengthens community ties. Unlike large-scale beer festivals that prioritize volume over authenticity, this event emphasizes intimate, neighborhood-based experiences. Each participating venue tells a story—of family-owned operations, experimental fermentation techniques, or collaborations with local artists and farmers. By visiting during Craft Beer Month, you’re not just drinking beer; you’re engaging with a cultural movement rooted in creativity, craftsmanship, and regional pride. This guide will walk you through every step of planning, participating, and enjoying the event with confidence and clarity.

Step-by-Step Guide

Research and Plan Your Visit in Advance

Success in navigating Long Beach Craft Beer Month begins long before you pack your bag. Start by visiting the official website, longbeachcraftbeermonth.com, where you’ll find the complete list of participating breweries, event calendars, and special releases. Bookmark this resource—it’s updated regularly as new collaborations and pop-ups are announced. Create a spreadsheet or use a digital note-taking app to track breweries by neighborhood, hours of operation, and any ticketed events. Prioritize venues that align with your taste preferences: if you love sour ales, focus on breweries known for wild fermentation. If you prefer hop-forward IPAs, target those with renowned hop programs.

Consider the logistics of your stay. Long Beach is a sprawling city with distinct districts—Downtown, the Pike Outlets, Naples, and the East Village Arts District each offer unique atmospheres and brewery clusters. Plan your accommodation near a central hub like Downtown or the Beach, where public transit and ride-sharing services make it easy to hop between locations. Book early; hotels fill up quickly during March due to the convergence of beer tourism and spring break travelers.

Understand the Event Structure

Long Beach Craft Beer Month isn’t a single festival with one ticket—it’s a decentralized series of events. There are no centralized gates or wristbands. Instead, each brewery runs its own promotions, taproom events, and limited releases. Some venues host guided tastings, brewery tours, or food pairings, while others simply release a special beer with a commemorative glass. The key is to treat each stop as its own mini-event. Many breweries offer a “passport” program where you collect stamps or digital check-ins at participating locations. Completing the passport often unlocks a final reward, such as a limited-edition pint glass or a discount on merchandise.

Pay attention to the event calendar. While most activities occur throughout March, some of the most popular events are concentrated in the first and last weekends. The Opening Gala at the Long Beach Convention Center features over 30 breweries pouring rare and experimental brews, often with live music and gourmet food trucks. The Closing Celebration at the Shoreline Village offers a sunset beer garden with live acoustic sets and collaborative brews from multiple local brewers. Mark these on your calendar—they’re high-demand events that require early registration.

Download the Official App and Enable Location Services

The Long Beach Craft Beer Month mobile app is your most valuable tool. Available for iOS and Android, it provides real-time updates on beer availability, live wait times at taprooms, and interactive maps showing brewery locations. Enable location services so the app can recommend nearby venues based on your current position. The app also includes a “Beer Finder” feature that lets you search by style (e.g., “pastry stout,” “lager,” “saison”) or ingredient (e.g., “coffee,” “citrus,” “chili”). This is especially useful if you’re seeking a specific flavor profile or want to avoid certain allergens.

Some breweries use the app to offer exclusive digital-only releases. For example, a brewer might announce a 10-gallon batch of a new barrel-aged porter that’s only available for purchase via the app between 4–6 PM on a Wednesday. These drops are often limited to one per customer and sell out within minutes. Set a reminder in your phone’s calendar to check the app daily, especially during peak hours.

Plan Your Transportation Strategy

Driving and drinking don’t mix—and in Long Beach, parking can be a nightmare during Craft Beer Month. The city has invested heavily in alternative transportation options to support the event. Download the Transit app to view real-time bus schedules along the A Line (light rail) and Long Beach Transit routes. The A Line connects Downtown Long Beach with the University District and the Pike, making it easy to hop between clusters of breweries. Many venues are also within walking distance of each other, especially in the East Village Arts District, where you can visit five or six taprooms in under two hours.

Consider using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, but be aware that surge pricing spikes during weekend evenings. To save money, group with friends and split rides. Some breweries offer complimentary shuttle services between locations on weekends—check their social media pages for announcements. For the most eco-friendly and flexible option, rent a bike through the city’s Lime or Bird programs. Long Beach has over 120 miles of bike lanes, and many breweries have dedicated racks and even beer-friendly bike tours organized during the month.

Build a Daily Itinerary with Balance

Don’t try to visit every brewery in one day. Instead, build a balanced itinerary that mixes tasting with exploration. A typical day might look like this: Start with a light breakfast at a café near your hotel, then head to a brewery known for its crisp pilsners or session IPAs around 11 AM. Spend 45 minutes tasting three beers, chatting with the staff, and learning about their process. Take a 30-minute walk to a nearby art gallery or the Long Beach Museum of Art. Have lunch at a restaurant that collaborates with a local brewery on a beer-paired menu. In the afternoon, visit a smaller, lesser-known taproom that doesn’t have long lines—these are often where the most innovative brews are found. End the day with a sunset beer at a rooftop patio overlooking the harbor.

Include rest days. Even the most enthusiastic beer lover needs to recover. Schedule at least one full day off mid-month to revisit a favorite spot, explore the boardwalk, or take a day trip to the nearby San Gabriel Mountains. Overloading your schedule leads to palate fatigue and diminished enjoyment. Remember: the goal is to savor, not to consume.

Engage with Staff and Ask Questions

One of the greatest benefits of visiting during Craft Beer Month is direct access to brewers and taproom staff. Don’t be shy about asking questions. Inquire about the inspiration behind a particular beer, the source of the hops, or the fermentation timeline. Many brewers take pride in sharing their stories—whether it’s a recipe passed down from a grandparent or a failed batch that led to a breakthrough. This interaction transforms a simple tasting into a meaningful cultural exchange.

Many breweries offer “Brewer’s Table” experiences, where you sit with the head brewer for a 90-minute session featuring five exclusive pours and a detailed breakdown of each beer’s development. These are often reserved via the app or by calling ahead—don’t assume they’re walk-in only. Even if you can’t book one, asking for a “tasting note” or “brewer’s pick” can lead to a personalized recommendation you won’t find on the menu.

Track Your Tastings and Share Your Experience

Keep a journal—digital or physical—of the beers you try. Note the name, ABV, flavor profile, and your impressions. Did the citrus notes remind you of a Meyer lemon? Was the mouthfeel creamy or crisp? Did the finish linger? These details help you remember what you liked and guide future purchases. Many participants use apps like Untappd to log their tastings and earn badges for completing challenges, such as “Tried 10 Sours in 10 Days” or “Visited All 12 East Village Breweries.”

Share your experience on social media using the official hashtag

LBBeerMonth. Tag breweries and use geotags. Many venues monitor these tags and may reach out to feature your post on their page. This not only enhances your experience but also supports the local community by amplifying their work. Just be mindful of responsible posting—avoid oversharing location details during exclusive releases to prevent overcrowding.

Best Practices

Practice Responsible Drinking

Long Beach Craft Beer Month is a celebration, not a competition. The goal is to appreciate the artistry of each brew, not to consume as much as possible. Pace yourself. Most craft beers range from 5% to 9% ABV—some even higher. Sip slowly, hydrate between tastings with water, and eat regularly. Many breweries offer small plates or charcuterie boards designed to complement their beers. Don’t skip meals to save room for beer; you’ll regret it by mid-afternoon.

Be aware of your limits. If you’re feeling lightheaded or overwhelmed, step outside for fresh air. Most taprooms have quiet corners or outdoor seating areas where you can pause. There’s no shame in taking a break. In fact, those who take time to reflect often have the most memorable experiences.

Support Local, Not Just the Hype

It’s tempting to focus only on the most Instagrammed breweries or those with celebrity brewers. But some of the most rewarding discoveries come from small, family-run operations tucked into industrial parks or converted warehouses. These venues often pour limited-edition batches that aren’t distributed elsewhere. They rely on community support to survive. By visiting them, you’re helping preserve the diversity of the local beer scene.

Look for breweries that source ingredients locally—hops from Santa Barbara, honey from Long Beach apiaries, or fruit from nearby orchards. These partnerships reflect a deeper commitment to sustainability and regional identity. Ask if they participate in the “Local Ingredient Initiative,” a program that highlights breweries using California-grown components. Supporting these businesses ensures the craft beer culture remains rooted in place, not just trend.

Respect the Space and the People

Taprooms are not bars—they’re community spaces. Keep noise levels reasonable, especially during weekday afternoons when locals stop by after work. Don’t monopolize seating or linger too long after finishing your pour. Be courteous to staff; they’re often juggling multiple tasks and appreciate kindness. If you’re bringing a group, keep it small (no more than six people) unless you’ve reserved a private area.

Never try to sneak in outside beverages. Most breweries have strict policies against outside alcohol to protect their business model and ensure quality control. If you want to bring a friend who doesn’t drink beer, many venues offer non-alcoholic options like house-made sodas, kombucha, or cold brew coffee. Ask about them—they’re often crafted with the same care as the beer.

Be Open to New Styles and Flavors

Don’t limit yourself to what you know. Craft beer Month is the perfect time to step outside your comfort zone. Try a kettle sour with passionfruit. Sample a barrel-aged stout infused with vanilla and cacao nibs. Taste a saison fermented with wild yeast from local oak trees. These are not just drinks—they’re expressions of terroir, technique, and imagination.

Many breweries offer “Flight of the Unexpected” samplers—four small pours of experimental or unconventional brews. These are ideal for curious tasters. If you’re unsure, ask the server: “What’s something you’ve brewed that surprised even you?” Their answer might lead you to a new favorite.

Plan for Weather and Seasonal Factors

March in Long Beach is typically mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 60–70°F and cool evenings. Dress in layers. Bring a light jacket for outdoor patios and a small umbrella—spring showers are common. Avoid wearing strong perfumes or colognes; they can interfere with the subtle aromas of the beer. Comfortable shoes are essential; you’ll be walking a lot.

Some breweries operate seasonal outdoor spaces that may close during rain or wind. Check their websites or social media for updates before heading out. Also, be aware that some events are held indoors due to capacity limits or weather concerns—always confirm the location before you leave your accommodation.

Learn Basic Beer Etiquette

While there’s no strict dress code, there are unwritten norms. Don’t clink glasses loudly or shout “Cheers!” repeatedly—it’s considered disruptive. When tasting, swirl the beer gently to release aromas, then take a small sip and let it rest on your tongue. Don’t gulp. If you don’t like a beer, it’s fine to politely say so. You don’t need to finish every pour. Many breweries encourage dumping unfinished samples into designated vessels to avoid waste.

When purchasing merchandise, buy what you like—not what you think you should. A $12 pint glass might seem excessive, but if it’s hand-thrown by a local ceramicist and supports the brewery’s nonprofit initiative, it’s a meaningful keepsake. Respect the value behind the product.

Tools and Resources

Official Long Beach Craft Beer Month Website and App

The cornerstone of your planning is the official website: longbeachcraftbeermonth.com. It’s updated weekly with new releases, event confirmations, and partnership announcements. The mobile app, available in both the Apple App Store and Google Play, is indispensable. It includes features like:

• Interactive map with real-time brewery status (open/closed/limited capacity)
• Push notifications for flash releases and last-minute events
• Beer logging with ratings and notes
• Integration with Google Maps and Waze for optimized routing
• Digital passport with badge system

Download both the website and app before you arrive. Offline access is limited, so ensure you have cellular data or Wi-Fi access.

Untappd and BeerAdvocate

Untappd is the most widely used beer logging app among craft beer enthusiasts. It allows you to scan beer labels, rate brews, and connect with other users. During Craft Beer Month, many breweries run Untappd-exclusive challenges—e.g., “Check in to 10 different IPAs and receive a free growler fill.”

BeerAdvocate offers in-depth reviews and ratings from experienced tasters. Use it to research unfamiliar breweries before visiting. Look for beers with high scores (above 4.0) and recent reviews to ensure freshness.

Long Beach Transit and Ride-Share Apps

Long Beach Transit’s website (longbeachtransit.com) provides route maps, schedules, and real-time tracking. The A Line light rail runs from Downtown to the University District and stops near several major breweries. Use the Transit app for live updates.

For ride-sharing, Uber and Lyft are reliable, but consider the “Pool” option to save money. For group travel, Lyft Line or Uber Carpool can reduce costs by 30–50%.

Local Food and Beverage Blogs

Follow these trusted local voices for insider tips:

• Beer in the City – A Long Beach-based blog covering brewery openings, pop-ups, and interviews with brewers.
• LA Weekly Beer Section – Offers regional comparisons and annual “Best of Craft Beer” lists.
• Long Beach Post – Covers community events, including behind-the-scenes features on participating breweries.

Subscribe to their newsletters. Many include exclusive discount codes for event tickets or merchandise.

Google Maps and Local Reviews

Use Google Maps to create custom lists of breweries you want to visit. Pin them and sort by distance or rating. Read recent reviews—look for comments about wait times, crowd levels, and food quality. Avoid venues with consistent complaints about poor service or dirty glassware.

Filter reviews by “Most Recent” and look for posts from the past week. A brewery that was packed last weekend may be quieter mid-week.

Social Media Channels

Follow the official Long Beach Craft Beer Month accounts on Instagram (@longbeachcraftbeermonth), Facebook, and Twitter. These platforms are where last-minute announcements are made—like a surprise collaboration between two breweries or a pop-up food truck joining the event.

Also follow individual breweries. Many post daily updates on what’s on tap, upcoming events, and behind-the-scenes footage. Instagram Stories are especially useful for real-time glimpses into new releases.

Local Libraries and Visitor Centers

Don’t overlook traditional resources. The Long Beach Central Library offers free Wi-Fi, printing, and access to local history archives that include profiles of the city’s brewing heritage. The Long Beach Visitor Center, located at 1300 2nd Street, provides printed maps, event schedules, and free samples of local beverages—including non-alcoholic options for designated drivers.

Real Examples

Example 1: The East Village Artisanal Crawl

On a Saturday in mid-March, a group of four friends began their day at The Artisanal Taproom in the East Village. They started with a 4.8% hoppy wheat ale paired with a house-made pretzel and spicy mustard. The brewer, a former marine biologist, explained how the beer’s citrus notes were derived from locally foraged yuzu peel. After 45 minutes, they walked 10 minutes to The Hop Exchange, where they tried a limited-edition sour with hibiscus and blueberry. The staff offered a free tasting of their experimental “Sourdough Brett” beer, fermented with wild yeast from a local bakery. They then headed to the nearby Black & Blue Brewery, known for its barrel-aged stouts. There, they participated in a “Stout & Chocolate” pairing event, sampling a 10% ABV stout with single-origin Venezuelan chocolate. By 5 PM, they had visited four venues, sampled 12 beers, and earned three stamps on their passport. They ended the day with a sunset view from the rooftop of the Long Beach Museum of Art, sipping a final glass of a collaborative IPA brewed with a local artist. The entire experience was documented in their Untappd logs and shared on Instagram with

LBBeerMonth, earning them a shoutout from three of the breweries.

Example 2: The First-Time Visitor’s Journey

Marisol, a teacher from Phoenix, visited Long Beach for the first time during Craft Beer Month. She had never tried a sour ale and was nervous about the experience. She began her journey at the Visitor Center, where she received a printed guide and a free tasting glass. She started with a session IPA at a quiet downtown taproom, then moved to a neighborhood brewery known for its fruit sours. The bartender noticed her hesitation and poured her a 2-ounce sample of a passionfruit kettle sour. “It’s like drinking a tropical breeze,” he said. She loved it. She returned the next day for another. Over the course of the month, she visited 18 breweries, tried 47 different beers, and kept a handwritten journal. She even attended a brewing workshop where she helped stir a batch of lavender saison. By the end of March, she had not only developed a new appreciation for craft beer but had formed friendships with several brewers. She returned home with six bottles of beer, a custom glass, and a plan to start a local beer club in Phoenix.

Example 3: The Brewery Collaboration That Went Viral

One of the most talked-about events of the year was a collaboration between two rival breweries: Iron Horse Brewing and Sea Level Ales. They teamed up to create “Tides & Trails,” a 7.2% IPA brewed with coastal sea salt and wild blackberries foraged from the Palos Verdes cliffs. The beer was released on March 15 at both locations simultaneously. Within two hours, both taps sold out. The story was picked up by the LA Times and featured on national beer podcasts. The collaboration raised $12,000 for a local marine conservation nonprofit. Visitors who tried the beer and shared their experience on social media helped the campaign reach over 2 million impressions. This example illustrates how Craft Beer Month isn’t just about drinking—it’s about community impact, creativity, and shared purpose.

FAQs

Do I need a ticket to attend Long Beach Craft Beer Month?

No, there is no single ticket for the entire month. Most taproom visits are free, and you pay only for the beer you consume. However, certain events like the Opening Gala or Brewer’s Table sessions require advance registration and a fee. These are clearly marked on the official website and app.

Can I bring my children to breweries during Craft Beer Month?

Yes, many breweries are family-friendly and welcome children during daytime hours. However, most taprooms become adults-only after 6 PM. Always check the brewery’s policy before visiting. Some offer kid-friendly menus and non-alcoholic beverages.

Are there non-alcoholic options available?

Absolutely. Nearly every participating brewery offers at least one non-alcoholic option—ranging from house-made sodas and kombucha to craft ginger beer and cold brew coffee. Some even produce non-alcoholic versions of their popular beers using advanced brewing techniques.

How do I know if a beer is still available?

Use the official app’s “Live Tap List” feature, which updates in real time. You can also call the brewery directly or check their Instagram Stories. Many post daily updates about what’s on tap and what’s sold out.

What if I want to buy beer to take home?

Most breweries sell growlers, crowlers, and cans for off-site consumption. Some offer pre-orders for pickup. Look for signs indicating “To-Go Sales Available” or ask the staff. California law allows you to purchase up to 192 fluid ounces per person per day.

Are there guided tours available?

Yes. Several companies offer guided beer tours by bike, bus, or walking. These are led by certified beer educators and include stops at 4–6 breweries with commentary on brewing techniques and history. Book in advance—tours fill up quickly.

Can I bring my own glassware?

Some breweries allow it, especially if it’s a custom or collectible glass. Always ask first. Many venues have branded glassware for sale that doubles as a souvenir. Bringing your own glass doesn’t usually get you a discount, but it’s appreciated as an eco-friendly gesture.

Is parking difficult?

Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends near popular venues. Use public transit, ride-sharing, or bike services. Many breweries offer validation for nearby parking lots—ask at the counter.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

Most breweries are transparent about ingredients. Ask about gluten-free, vegan, or nut-free options. Many now label their beers with allergen information. Some even offer gluten-reduced or gluten-free brews using alternative grains like millet or sorghum.

Can I volunteer or work during Craft Beer Month?

Yes. Many breweries hire temporary staff for the event. Visit the official website’s “Get Involved” page to apply. Volunteers often receive free access to events, merchandise, and exclusive tastings.

Conclusion

Long Beach Craft Beer Month is not merely a calendar event—it’s a living, breathing celebration of community, creativity, and craftsmanship. To visit it properly is to engage with the soul of the city: its people, its history, its innovation. By following the steps outlined in this guide—planning ahead, respecting the culture, using the right tools, and staying open to discovery—you transform from a tourist into a participant. You don’t just taste beer; you taste stories. You don’t just visit a taproom; you join a conversation.

The true value of this experience lies not in the number of beers you try, but in the connections you make—with brewers, with fellow enthusiasts, and with the place itself. Whether you’re sipping a crisp lager on a sun-drenched patio or learning how wild yeast from a nearby orchard shaped a unique saison, you’re part of something bigger than yourself.

As you plan your visit, remember: this is not a race. It’s a journey. Slow down. Ask questions. Share your discoveries. Support the small, the local, the unexpected. And above all, drink with intention. Long Beach Craft Beer Month rewards curiosity, not consumption. Go with an open mind, a full heart, and a clean glass—and let the beer lead you where it will.