North Carolina’s craft beer and distillery scene is incredible, brimming with innovation and quality. Cities like Asheville, Raleigh, and Charlotte, to name a few, are well-known for their outstanding craft breweries and distilleries. But even in a smaller, quieter place like Emerald Isle, you’ll find some beloved local craft beer and distillery spots that both residents and visitors adore. These venues, situated in town and a short drive away, are perfect for connecting with fellow enthusiasts and wrapping up your day after exploring the beautiful nature and rich history of the area.

Looking for the best places to enjoy craft beer and distilleries on Emerald Isle and around? You’re in the right place! In this blog, we’ll guide you to the top spots for craft beers and distilleries on Emerald Isle, NC, or within a 20-minute ride. At Spinnaker’s Reach, we provide a fantastic selection of rentals in Emerald Isle, North Carolina, including options with pools and pet-friendly accommodations. When you stay with us, all you need to do is relax and soak up the coastal vibes of Emerald Isle. For more insider tips on Emerald Isle, check out our destination blog. We cover everything about the region, including tips for a romantic getaway, a guide to fishing, and the best day trips you can take from Emerald Isle.

Now, let’s dive into some beer and spirits adventures!

TL;DR:

• The Growler Bar: Local hangout with a rotating selection of craft beers and pub favorites. Dog-friendly.
  
• Bogue Sound Distillery (15-minute drive): Handcrafted vodkas, gins, and rums with informative tours. Dog-friendly.
  
• Crystal Coast Brewing Company (20-minute drive): Vibrant taproom with a variety of beers, food trucks, and live music. Dog-friendly.
  
• Tight Lines Pub & Brewing Company (20-minute drive): Great microbrews and Southern-inspired fare. Features live music and is dog-friendly.
  

The Growler Bar

Address: 7801 Emerald Dr, Emerald Isle, NC 28594

The Growler Bar in Emerald Isle is your quintessential local hangout, famous for its extensive selection of craft beers and relaxed vibe. Step inside, and you’ll find a rotating selection of local and regional brews on tap, with plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds. The ambiance here is laid-back and inviting, with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating that’s perfect for any weather.

Locals and visitors alike flock here for the friendly atmosphere and knowledgeable staff who are always ready to recommend a new beer. It’s generally dog-friendly, especially in the outdoor areas, so feel free to bring your furry friend along. Check out their Facebook page for live music nights. Don’t miss out on their beer flights to sample multiple brews, and be sure to check out their special beer selections.

Bogue Sound Distillery (15-minute drive)

Address: 108 Bogue Commercial Dr, Bogue, NC 28570

Just a short drive from Emerald Isle, Bogue Sound Distillery in Bogue is the go-to destination for spirit enthusiasts. This distillery, known for its handcrafted vodkas, gins, and rums made from locally sourced ingredients, offers a unique and high-quality experience. The intimate and welcoming ambiance of the tasting room makes it an ideal spot to learn about and enjoy their spirits. Take advantage of their informative tours, which provide a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the distillation process.

The staff is knowledgeable and passionate, ensuring you have a memorable and educational visit. Bogue Sound Distillery sometimes hosts food trucks during events, adding to the fun. The crowd here includes spirit connoisseurs, curious locals, and visitors looking for a unique experience. It’s generally dog-friendly, particularly in the outdoor areas. Don’t miss out on their signature cocktails and the distillery tours, and be sure to check their website or social media for event schedules and special releases.

Crystal Coast Brewing Company (20-minute drive)

Address: 702 W Fort Macon Rd, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512

Crystal Coast Brewing Company in Atlantic Beach is a hotspot for craft beer lovers, boasting a stellar 4.7-star rating on Google Maps. Walk into their spacious, modern taproom, and you’ll be greeted by a vibrant selection of craft beers ranging from crisp lagers to hoppy IPAs. Their flagship “Atlantic Beach Blonde” is a must-try, but don’t skip out on the seasonal and limited-edition brews that keep locals coming back for more.

While they don’t have an in-house kitchen, food trucks frequently swing by, offering a variety of delicious bites to pair with your drink. The ambiance is welcoming and lively, with plenty of seating both indoors and out. Regular events like trivia nights, live music, and special beer releases keep the crowd entertained. Crystal Coast Brewing is dog-friendly, especially in its outdoor areas, making it a perfect spot for you and your pet. The staff’s expertise ensures you’ll find the perfect brew, so don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations.

Tight Lines Pub & Brewing Company (20-minute drive)

Address: 709 Arendell St, Morehead City, NC 28557

If you’re in Morehead City, Tight Lines Pub & Brewing Company is a must-visit for both beer and food lovers. This local favorite, with a 4.5-star rating on Google Maps, combines great microbrews with Southern-inspired fare. Inside, you’ll find a cool, laid-back atmosphere complete with big-screen TVs and an outdoor beer garden, perfect for any occasion. The house-brewed beers are top-notch, and their menu features comfort food classics like shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and BBQ.

The crowd is a friendly mix of locals and tourists, sports fans, and families. Regular live music and events add to the lively ambiance, making it a great place to hang out. Tight Lines is generally dog-friendly, particularly in the outdoor beer garden, so feel free to bring your pup along. Be sure to try their house specials and ask the friendly staff for beer pairings with your meal.

Pair Craft Beer with a Delicious Burrito: Dank Burrito

Want to enhance your overall experience? Pairing craft beer or distillery visits with a food truck offers a unique and dynamic dining experience.

Dank Burrito, located in Morehead City, just a 20-minute drive from Emerald Isle, is known for its bold and creative flavor combinations, making it an excellent match for craft beers and spirits. The fusion of Asian, Latin, and Southern influences in their gourmet burritos, tacos, and bowls provides a rich and diverse tasting experience that pairs beautifully with a wide range of drinks.

Pro tip: Try the Spicy Sriracha Shrimp Burrito with a crisp IPA. The heat from the shrimp pairs perfectly with the hoppy bitterness of an IPA, enhancing both the food and the drink.

Where to Stay in Emerald Isle?

At Spinnaker’s Reach, we provide a variety of rental options and guarantee you a five-star experience whether you’re looking for pet-friendly homes, oceanfront properties, or homes with golf carts you’ll find it in our inventory. Discover what’s waiting for you and your family in Emerald Isle and book now!

Emerald Isle invites visitors to experience its unique blend of natural beauty and coastal charm. This idyllic destination boasts pristine beaches, serene parks, and vibrant local attractions. It promises unforgettable experiences that capture the essence of coastal living. Here are the top things no visitor to Emerald Isle should miss.

Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier

Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier offers an iconic fishing experience in Emerald Isle, NC. This beloved pier stretches out into the Atlantic Ocean, providing anglers with ample space to cast their lines and enjoy a day of fishing. Known for its variety of fish species, the pier attracts both novice and seasoned fishermen. You can expect to catch anything from Spanish mackerel to king mackerel, flounder, and sea mullet, depending on the season. 

The pier is equipped with a bait and tackle shop, ensuring you have all the necessary supplies for a successful fishing trip. Friendly staff are always on hand to offer tips and advice, making it an excellent spot for those new to the sport. Additionally, the pier features a cleaning station, making it convenient for anglers to clean their catch on-site.

Beyond fishing, Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier offers stunning views of the coastline. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, with the gentle ocean breeze and the sound of waves creating a relaxing atmosphere. Photographers and nature enthusiasts will appreciate the scenic beauty and the opportunity to capture picturesque sunrises and sunsets.

For those looking to take a break from fishing, the pier’s adjacent restaurant serves up delicious seafood dishes, allowing visitors to enjoy a meal with a view. Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier provides a comprehensive coastal experience, blending the thrill of fishing with the serene beauty of Emerald Isle.

Emerald Isle Beach

Emerald Isle Beach, known for its pristine sands and clear waters, offers a perfect getaway for beach lovers. The expansive shoreline provides ample space for sunbathing, building sandcastles, and enjoying the serene coastal environment. Visitors can take leisurely strolls along the beach, collecting seashells and watching the waves gently lap the shore. The beach is also a popular spot for various water activities, including swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, giving adventure seekers plenty of options to stay active.

Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to cast a line from Bogue Inlet Pier, where they can catch a variety of fish species while enjoying the stunning ocean views. For those who enjoy underwater exploration, snorkeling is a great way to discover the vibrant marine life that inhabits the waters around Emerald Isle Beach.

Wildlife sightings are common on the beach, with frequent appearances by dolphins playing in the surf and sea turtles nesting on the shores during the nesting season. Birdwatchers can also spot a variety of coastal birds, making it a delightful experience for nature enthusiasts.

Emerald Isle Beach is family-friendly, with lifeguards on duty during the summer months, ensuring a safe environment for children to play and swim. Picnic areas and nearby eateries make it convenient to spend an entire day soaking up the sun and enjoying the natural beauty of this coastal gem.

Jean Preston Memorial Park

Jean Preston Memorial Park offers a serene and picturesque setting perfect for families and nature enthusiasts. This park features a charming boardwalk that winds through lush greenery, providing a peaceful environment for leisurely strolls. Visitors can enjoy the well-maintained walking trails, which offer an excellent opportunity to immerse in the natural beauty of Emerald Isle.

The park is known for its vibrant playground, where children can enjoy a variety of play structures, swings, and slides. The playground area is thoughtfully designed with safety in mind, ensuring a fun and secure experience for kids of all ages. Picnic tables and benches are strategically placed throughout the park, making it an ideal spot for family picnics and gatherings.

For those who enjoy sports, the park includes a basketball court where visitors can engage in friendly matches or practice their shooting skills. The open grassy areas provide ample space for various recreational activities such as frisbee, soccer, or simply relaxing under the shade of the trees.

The park is also equipped with convenient amenities, including clean restrooms and ample parking, making it easy for visitors to spend a full day enjoying the facilities. Additionally, the park’s location near the water allows for breathtaking views and the chance to spot local wildlife.

Emerald Isle Woods Park

Emerald Isle Woods Park offers an ideal escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Spread over 41 acres, the park boasts a diverse range of recreational activities. The scenic hiking trails wind through lush maritime forests, providing visitors with a tranquil environment for a leisurely walk or an invigorating hike. Bird watchers will be delighted by the variety of avian species that inhabit the area, making it a perfect spot for nature photography.

The park also features a disc golf course, which has become a popular activity among visitors. The course’s layout takes advantage of the natural terrain, providing both a challenging and enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels. For those who enjoy water-based activities, the park includes a kayak and canoe launch that offers easy access to Bogue Sound. Paddling through the calm waters provides a unique perspective of the park’s stunning coastal ecosystem.

Picnic areas equipped with tables and grills make it easy to plan a family outing or a relaxing day with friends. The scenic waterfront views add to the appeal, offering a serene backdrop for meals. Additionally, the park is home to a fishing pier, where anglers can try their luck catching various fish species. Emerald Isle Woods Park truly caters to a wide range of interests, making it a must-visit destination.

Emerald Isle Boat Ramp

The Emerald Isle Boat Ramp is a fantastic spot for water enthusiasts looking to explore the pristine waters of Emerald Isle, NC. This well-maintained facility offers easy access to Bogue Sound, providing an excellent starting point for boating, fishing, and other aquatic adventures. The ramp is designed to accommodate a variety of watercraft, including motorboats, kayaks, and paddleboards, making it suitable for both novice and experienced boaters.

The boat ramp area features ample parking for vehicles and trailers, ensuring a hassle-free experience when launching and retrieving boats. Additionally, the site includes convenient amenities such as restrooms, picnic areas, and a fishing pier, allowing visitors to make the most of their day on the water. The fishing pier is particularly popular, offering anglers the chance to catch a variety of fish species in the rich waters of Bogue Sound.

Surrounding the Emerald Isle Boat Ramp, the scenic views of the sound and nearby marshlands create a picturesque setting for a day on the water. The calm, clear waters of the sound are ideal for leisurely cruises and wildlife observation, with opportunities to spot dolphins, seabirds, and other marine life. The boat ramp’s location also provides easy access to nearby islands and sandbars, perfect for a secluded picnic or a swim in the crystal-clear waters.

Cedar Street Park

Cedar Street Park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational facilities. This park is a favorite among locals and visitors for its serene environment and well-maintained amenities. The playground is a major draw for families, featuring modern equipment that caters to children of various ages. Shaded picnic areas provide an ideal spot for enjoying a meal while taking in the scenic surroundings.

For sports enthusiasts, Cedar Street Park boasts basketball and tennis courts, inviting friendly competition and active recreation. The open green spaces are perfect for casual games of frisbee, soccer, or simply relaxing under the Carolina blue sky. Walking paths meander through the park, encouraging leisurely strolls and opportunities to appreciate the area’s flora and fauna.

One of the highlights of Cedar Street Park is its access to Bogue Sound. A small pier allows for fishing and crabbing, making it a popular spot for those looking to try their hand at catching some local seafood. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular activities, with the calm waters of the sound providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all skill levels.

Blue Heron Park

Blue Heron Park offers a serene escape with diverse activities for visitors of all ages. The park features a large playground with equipment that encourages children to climb, swing, and slide, providing hours of entertainment. For those who enjoy a bit of friendly competition, the basketball and tennis courts are perfect spots to engage in a game or two.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the walking trails that meander through the park, allowing for peaceful strolls and opportunities to spot local wildlife. Bird watchers, in particular, will find Blue Heron Park a delightful location to observe various bird species in their natural habitat. The park’s picnic areas are ideal for family gatherings or a leisurely lunch outdoors, with tables and grills available for use.

Fitness lovers can take advantage of the exercise stations scattered along the trails, adding a workout element to their visit. The open green spaces provide ample room for playing catch, flying kites, or simply relaxing on a blanket under the shade of mature trees. Additionally, the park’s gazebo serves as a charming venue for small events and gatherings.

Isle Cycle

Isle Cycle on Emerald Isle  offers an exceptional experience for exploring the island on two wheels. Their wide selection of bicycles ensures that every rider, from beginners to seasoned cyclists, finds the perfect fit. Choose from comfortable beach cruisers, sleek road bikes, and sturdy mountain bikes, all maintained to the highest standards for a smooth ride. For families, Isle Cycle provides child seats and trailers, making it easy to bring little ones along for the adventure.

The knowledgeable staff at Isle Cycle are always ready to help with recommendations for scenic routes and hidden gems around the island. They can suggest leisurely rides along the coast or more challenging trails through the island’s lush landscapes. With their local expertise, you can discover breathtaking views, quiet beaches, and charming neighborhoods that might otherwise go unnoticed.

In addition to rentals, Isle Cycle offers guided tours that showcase the best of Emerald Isle. These tours are perfect for visitors who want to learn more about the island’s history and natural beauty while enjoying a fun and active outing. Safety is a top priority at Isle Cycle, and all rentals include helmets and locks to ensure a worry-free experience. For a unique and enjoyable way to explore Emerald Isle, Isle Cycle provides the perfect opportunity to see the island at your own pace.

Wellness Massage & Yoga

Wellness Massage & Yoga offers a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. This serene spot provides a variety of massage therapies designed to alleviate stress and tension. Skilled therapists offer Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, and aromatherapy massages, ensuring a personalized experience tailored to individual needs. The tranquil atmosphere, combined with the soothing scents of essential oils, creates an environment where the body and mind can truly unwind.

In addition to massage services, Wellness Massage & Yoga features a range of yoga classes suitable for all skill levels. From beginner-friendly sessions to more advanced practices, each class is guided by experienced instructors who emphasize mindfulness and proper technique. The yoga studio, bathed in natural light, offers a peaceful setting for practicing poses and improving flexibility.

Specialized workshops and retreats are regularly hosted, providing opportunities for deeper immersion into wellness practices. These events often focus on themes such as stress relief, mindfulness, and holistic health, offering valuable insights and techniques to enhance overall well-being. 

For those seeking a comprehensive wellness experience, Wellness Massage & Yoga also offers combination packages. These packages often include a massage session followed by a yoga class, allowing clients to experience the full benefits of relaxation and physical rejuvenation. Visitors leave feeling refreshed, balanced, and more connected to their bodies.

Vacation with us at Spinnaker’s Reach Realty

Emerald Isle, nestled along the Crystal Coast in the Southern Outer Banks of North Carolina, offers an unparalleled coastal vacation experience. At Spinnaker’s Reach Realty, we provide vacation rentals that combine privacy with amazing amenities, all just minutes from the shoreline.

Our properties are situated at the southernmost tip of the island, treating guests to breathtaking sunsets and calm ocean waters. Spinnaker’s Reach Realty ensures a family-friendly atmosphere that caters to all your vacation needs. We have various homes to choose from with swimming pools, golf carts, and hot tubs.

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled vacation, our prime location provides easy access to unspoiled beaches, inviting parks, and diverse attractions that make Emerald Isle a truly memorable destination. By vacationing with Spinnaker’s Reach Realty, you’re not just renting a property; you’re investing in the vacation of a lifetime, where luxury, comfort, and the natural beauty of the Carolina coast converge.