Here's a local guide to some of the best Victoria craft beer breweries.
I’ve lived in this beautiful city my whole life, and when I’m not wrenching on one of my vintage VW cars or selling real estate, I’m probably checking out what’s on tap at one of our many incredible local craft breweries in Victoria and surrounding neighbourhoods on the island. If you're new to Victoria, or even if you've lived here for a while, this guide will help you discover some of the best breweries to enjoy a great pint and perhaps even find a new favourite Victoria brewery to enjoy!
Trust me, I've been sipping my way through the scene for years, and it just keeps getting better, and almost impossible to pick my favourite craft brewery in Victoria because they're all so darn good! Send us your photos of having a pint at your go-to craft brewery and we'll feature them here!
Category 12 Brewing
This spot is a bit of a science lab for beer lovers. They play with some pretty cool experimental styles, and it always feels like you’re discovering something new. Their Juicy Data is beyond amazing! I love popping in on the weekend with buddies to see what’s fresh on tap.
📍 View Category 12 Brewing on Google Maps
Driftwood Brewing Company
Driftwood has been cranking out incredible beers since 2008.
Their Fat Tug IPA is a must-try! Strong, hoppy, and smooth. It’s one of those beers that really helped put Victoria on the craft beer map. Bring your furballs after an exciting day at one of Victoria's dog parks, since Driftwood proudly invites dogs on their outside patio.
📍 View Driftwood Brewing Company on Google Maps
Herald Street Brew Works
Right downtown, this place has a super stylish taproom and some really creative beer styles. Herald Street Brew Works focuses on small-batch, experimental beers, offering a fresh experience with each visit. If I’m meeting friends after work, this is often the first stop.
📍 View Herald Street Brew Works on Google Maps
Hoyne Brewing Company
I’ve always loved the vibe at Hoyne. You can tell they put their heart into their brews. The Dark Matter is a solid option, rich and full of flavour, perfect after a cool evening drive in the VW Buggy. Their Hoyne Pilsner is also a local favourite I enjoy.
📍 View Hoyne Brewing Company on Google Maps
Île Sauvage Brewing Co.
If you’re into funky, sour, or barrel-aged brews, this is your jam. I’ll admit, I wasn’t a big sour guy at first, but Île Sauvage changed my mind. Their taproom is sleek, modern, and full of surprises.
📍 View Île Sauvage Brewing Co. on Google Maps
Lighthouse Brewing Company
Located just a bit out of the downtown core, Lighthouse has been a staple for a while with over 25 years of brewing experience.
Check out their Peninsula Pale, one of the newest additions to their core lineup. It’s brewed with malt from Field Five Farm on the Saanich Peninsula, so when you crack one, you're not just supporting local beer, you're supporting local farmers, too. Makes me want to go there right now!
📍 View Lighthouse Brewing on Google Maps
Moon Under Water Brewpub and Distillery
This place has a relaxed, artsy vibe that’s perfect for a low-key night out.
Their Creepy Uncle Dunkel is quirky in name but seriously smooth, and one of my favourites.
A great spot for trying something different. Moon Under Water welcomes dogs on their patio, so bring your four legged friends after a fun day playing at one of Victoria's dog parks.
📍 View Moon Under Water Brewpub and Distillery on Google Maps
Phillips Brewing & Malting Co.
Phillips is a bit of a legend around here, established back in 2001. I remember grabbing a growler from their tiny original spot before they blew up into the powerhouse they are today. Their Electric Unicorn is a fun go-to, and the tasting room is always buzzing with good vibes.
📍 View Phillips Brewing & Malting Co. on Google Maps
Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub
Spinnakers was the first brewpub I ever visited. Back in the day, it was pretty wild to think they brewed right on site. It’s still one of my favourite spots to grab a window seat, watch the harbour, and enjoy a pint with a burger.
📍 View Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub on Google Maps
Swift Brewing & The Good Time Tasting Room
Great atmosphere and even better beer.
This one is relatively new but fits right into Victoria’s beer culture.
It’s got a good mix of staples and rotating taps, perfect for anyone wanting to explore the scene.
📍 View Swift Brewing & The Good Time Tasting Room on Google Maps
Twa Dogs Brewery
Attached to the Victoria Caledonian Distillery, Twa Dogs brews up Scottish-inspired ales with a local twist. The setting is cool, especially if you're into whisky and beer, like me!
📍 View Twa Dogs Brewery on Google Maps
Vancouver Island Brewing
This brewery has deep roots in the local scene and is Vancouver Island’s first craft brewery, starting in 1984. It’s been around for decades, and while the original brewery is no longer there (it's now brewed by Phillips Brewing) I still pop in for a pint of the Island Lager at a local craft beer house. They’ve stayed relevant with new styles while keeping that classic feel.
Whistle Buoy Brewing Company
Tucked into Market Square, this one is a bit of a hidden gem.
I like grabbing a pint and chilling on their patio in the summer. They rotate through small batches, so there’s always something new to try.
📍 View Whistle Buoy Brewing Company on Google Maps
Craft Beer Events and Community
Victoria doesn’t just have a strong brewery presence, it also hosts several events and festivals that showcase local beer culture:
- Great Canadian Beer Festival: Held in September, this is one of the longest-running beer festivals in Canada and draws breweries and beer lovers from across the country. Info at gcbf.com
Craft Beer Tours
If you'd like to try several breweries in one afternoon without having to drive, consider joining a local brewery tour. Some popular options include:
I’ve been lucky to watch Victoria’s craft beer scene grow from a few small spots to a full-on cultural movement. Whether you're new to town or a fellow longtime local, there’s always another amazing pint just around the corner and lots of other hidden gems in Victoria to discover. Grab your friends, hop in your ride with a designated driver (old VW or otherwise), and make a day of it. You won’t be disappointed. Cheers!