Stop by and discover the best brews the Golden State has to offer! From meticulously curated selections to hidden gems featuring hard-to-find brews, these retailers offer much more than just a beer-buying experience—they are hubs of community, knowledge, and passion for craft brewing. Here’s our roundup of the top craft beer retailers in California.

Bottlecraft

Since 2011, Bottlecraft—founded by Brian Jensen—has been a staple of the California craft beer scene. Located across several spots in San Diego, this award-winning retailer features a wide selection of rare local, domestic, and international craft beers. Friendly and knowledgeable staff curate offerings, including cider, kombucha, and wine, ensuring every visit is a personalized experience. Their on-site tasting room is perfect for sampling, and beers are available to enjoy on-site or take home.

Blackbeard’s Crafts

Blackbeard’s Crafts brings a unique, whimsical twist to beer shopping. With over 800 beers, wines, and sakes, this store offers a well-curated selection in a pirate-themed setting. Located in West LA’s Sawtelle neighborhood, Blackbeard’s is known for its dedication to sourcing rare brews and creating an adventurous atmosphere for its customers.

Image Credits: Blackbeard's Craft

Select Beer Store

Nestled in the charming Riviera Village of South Redondo Beach, Select Beer Store is a taproom and bottle shop offering over 500 varieties of craft beer and 18 rotating taps. Customers can enjoy drafts on-site or build their own six-pack for a discount. This retailer's mix of relaxed ambiance, vast selection, and regular rotation of offerings make it a go-to spot for craft beer enthusiasts.

Image Credits: Select Beer Store

The Bottle Shoppe

The Bottle Shoppe in Torrance combines a boutique feel with an impressive selection of craft beers, spirits, and fine wines. Their tasting events bring local breweries and wineries together with customers for interactive experiences. This retailer sets itself apart by balancing an upscale vibe with competitive pricing and top-notch customer service.

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Ales Unlimited

Boasting over 850 craft beers, Ales Unlimited in San Francisco takes beer seriously. Known for its diligent storage standards, the retailer ensures every ale remains as fresh as possible. Their inventory features local, domestic, and international brews, as well as a standout selection of Haribo candy for pairing.

Image Credits: Ales Unlimited

Ale Tales

Ale Tales in Oakland offers over 500 craft beers, emphasizing freshness and style-based organization. With everything from IPAs to barrel-aged stouts, their diverse selection caters to all preferences. In addition to beer, they offer snacks and grocery items, making this a convenient one-stop shop. Their cellar-aged bottles are particularly popular for those seeking rare finds.

Image Credits: Ales Tales

Craft Beer Kings

With locations in LA and Orange County, Craft Beer Kings is a must-visit for craft beer lovers in Southern California. Known for its extensive and ever-evolving selection, the shop stocks everything from local brews to global favorites. Their staff offers expert guidance, making this more than just a store—it’s a gathering spot for the craft beer community.

Image Credits: Craft Beer Kings

The Good Hop

The Good Hop perfectly blends the vibe of a neighborhood bar with the variety of a world-class bottle shop. Located in Oakland, this retailer offers 400+ craft beers and 16 rotating California-focused drafts. Monthly events and a strong emphasis on independent breweries make The Good Hop a beloved spot for beer lovers in the Bay Area.

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Bine & Vine Bottle Shop

Bine & Vine prides itself on carrying only independent craft breweries, ensuring ethical sourcing and unparalleled quality. With over 35 years of collective industry experience, the team taste-tests every beer and wine on the shelf. Based in San Diego, this retailer is a cornerstone of the local craft beer community, offering a wide range of innovative brews.

Image Credits: Bine and Vine Shop

California’s craft beer scene thrives thanks to these exceptional retailers. Whether you’re searching for rare international ales, local favorites, or simply a warm space to enjoy a drink, these shops offer unparalleled experiences. 

Header image sourced from Craft Beer Kings.

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