Craft Brewery Tour

South Orange County has quietly built one of California's liveliest craft beer scenes, and this guided tour is the easiest way to sample it. A host collects the group, drives between several breweries and taprooms and arranges tastings at each stop, so you can focus on the beer and the company rather than directions and designated drivers. The line-up of stops varies, but you can expect a mix of pale ales, IPAs, lagers, stouts and seasonal specialties, with brewers or taproom staff explaining how the beers are made and what makes the local style distinctive. Between stops, the guide offers commentary on the area, its history and its surf and beach culture, so the tour doubles as a casual sightseeing trip. Food may be included or available at the venues, which often have kitchens or food trucks. Group sizes are usually small, giving the day a convivial, friendly feel. It is a good plan for friends traveling together, for birthdays and bachelor or bachelorette parties and for couples who enjoy craft beer. It is a poor fit for anyone who does not drink alcohol, though a non-drinking guest can often ride along for the scenery, and children are normally not part of the experience.

The beer scene in this part of the county has roots in the surf and skate culture of the coast. Brewers who grew up chasing waves opened small taprooms in business parks and light industrial areas, and the result is a collection of casual venues with outdoor seating, dogs, games and fresh beer on tap.

Styles lean toward hazy IPAs, West Coast IPAs and crisp lagers that match the weather, but many breweries also produce barrel-aged beers, sours and stouts for cooler days. A guided tour helps you cut through the choices, since the host knows which beers are standouts and which breweries are worth a longer stop.

Responsible drinking is the main rule. Guests must meet the legal age, show ID where asked and agree to follow the host's instructions. The benefit of a tour is that nobody drives, so you can enjoy the tastings without worrying about the road. If you are staying nearby, ask about pickup options, and avoid scheduling anything demanding for the evening afterward.

Combine the tour with other activities. A morning at the beach or on a hike makes a good prelude, and the harbor's restaurants are good for dinner once the tour ends. Because tastings vary, check the details when you book and note any dietary needs. If you are curious about wine instead of beer, the harbor wine cruise offers a more scenic option.