Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina, isn’t just about sun, surf, and stunning views—it’s increasingly becoming a small but delightful craft beer destination. Whether you're winding down after a beach day or looking for a local hangout, these breweries and taprooms offer friendly service, creative brews, and a true sense of place on the Brunswick County coast.
Makai Brewing Company – Crafted Toward the Sea
Located at 5850 Ocean Highway West, Makai Brewing Company is the crown jewel of Ocean Isle Beach’s beer scene. Inspired by island hopping and laid-back coastal living, Makai pours tropical‑themed, small‑batch beers brewed on site. Popular offerings include the Carolina Tropical IPA, brewed with pineapple and mango, and the Nightingale Coffee Porter made using real Kona coffee beans. With a tropical taproom decorated with surfboards and a spirit of aloha, it delivers an atmosphere as refreshing as its brews.
Makai’s commitment to experimenting shines through seasonally rotating beers like Glass Beach Amber Ale and Island Falls Cream Ale, each reflecting coastal themes and locally inspired ingredients. The brewery is award‑winning, frequently receiving high ratings from local visitors and rave reviews on ambiance and beer quality.
Makai’s commitment to experimenting shines through seasonally rotating beers like Glass Beach Amber Ale and Island Falls Cream Ale, each reflecting coastal themes and locally inspired ingredients. The brewery is award‑winning, frequently receiving high ratings from local visitors and rave reviews on ambiance and beer quality.
Tap Time Tap Room – Casual, Friendly, and Social
Just a short drive—or walk if you're staying nearby—you'll find Tap Time Tap Room at 1560 Market Place Blvd, Unit 9. More of a neighborhood taproom than a brewery, Tap Time stocks a rotating selection of local and national craft beers, often numbering 40–50 options at once. You’ll find games like shuffleboard, TVs, Wi‑Fi, and a space that easily feels like home.
Tap Time is ideal for trying several beers, from regional favorites to unexpected surprises. Their growler‑to‑go option makes it easy to take your favorite brew back to your beach rental. It’s a spacious, well‑lit venue perfect for a laid‑back evening drink with friends or family.
Tap Time is ideal for trying several beers, from regional favorites to unexpected surprises. Their growler‑to‑go option makes it easy to take your favorite brew back to your beach rental. It’s a spacious, well‑lit venue perfect for a laid‑back evening drink with friends or family.
Coastal Wine & Tap – Beer Alongside Wine and Small Plates
Located near the Museum of Coastal Carolina, Coastal Wine & Tap offers an eclectic mix of craft beer, wine by the glass, and light eats. Founded and operated by full‑time Ocean Isle Beach residents Carol and Mike Yaquinto, it’s a cozy spot with both indoor and outdoor seating, and well‑priced drinks.
The curated beer list changes regularly and pairs well with cheese boards or small plates—a great choice if you’re in a group with mixed beverage preferences.
It's not a full brewery, but a valued member of the Ocean Isle Beach beverage scene. Known for elevated hospitality and a relaxing vibe, it’s ideal for combining a glass of wine with tastes from local breweries or a flight of craft beers served in their taproom setting.
The curated beer list changes regularly and pairs well with cheese boards or small plates—a great choice if you’re in a group with mixed beverage preferences.
It's not a full brewery, but a valued member of the Ocean Isle Beach beverage scene. Known for elevated hospitality and a relaxing vibe, it’s ideal for combining a glass of wine with tastes from local breweries or a flight of craft beers served in their taproom setting.
Why These Spots Still Matter
Ocean Isle Beach sits within the scenic Brunswick Islands, which offer a surprising breadth of locally inspired beverages—from specialty breweries like Makai to relaxed taprooms like Tap Time and wine–beer hybrids like Coastal Wine & Tap. These venues give visitors options whether they crave experimental beers, a lively atmosphere, or a quieter night with wine and local bites.
While nearby in Shallotte, you’ll also find creative offshoots like Red Hare Brewing’s 34° North Experiment Station, not far from OIB, showcasing small‑batch experimental beers worth a side trip. But the heart of OIB’s own drinking culture resides in these three local staples.
While nearby in Shallotte, you’ll also find creative offshoots like Red Hare Brewing’s 34° North Experiment Station, not far from OIB, showcasing small‑batch experimental beers worth a side trip. But the heart of OIB’s own drinking culture resides in these three local staples.
What to Expect When You Visit
- Makai Brewing Company delivers beach‑themed ambiance with surfboards, outdoor seating, and rotating beers reflecting the sea and tropics.
- Tap Time Tap Room is a social gathering spot with taps from near and far, plus games and growler fills for take‑home enjoyment.
- Coastal Wine & Tap blends craft beers and boutique wines with curated small plates in a more intimate setting steps from the Museum of Coastal Carolina.
Tips for a Perfect Brewery Day in OIB
Start your afternoon at Makai with a flight of island‑flavored beers, then explore Tap Time in the evening for a wider selection and friendly local chatter. If you’d like to pair beers with snacks or wine, Coastal Wine & Tap is an excellent midway stop or a spot to wind down your night with ambiance and conversation.
Thinking About Relocating or Investing in the Brunswick Coastal Lifestyle?
The scenic charm and welcoming community of Ocean Isle Beach make it a wonderful place to live—not just vacation. If you're considering buying or investing in property here, The Cheek Team is Southeastern North Carolina's real estate experts who know the ins and outs of the local market.
Whether you're looking for a coastal rental property, a permanent beachside home, or a luxury investment, their team offers personalized guidance and deep local insights.
Ready to explore living near these breweries and the beautiful Brunswick Islands lifestyle? Visit cheekteamluxury.com or contact The Cheek Team today for expert help finding your next home or investment in Southeastern NC.
Whether you're looking for a coastal rental property, a permanent beachside home, or a luxury investment, their team offers personalized guidance and deep local insights.
Ready to explore living near these breweries and the beautiful Brunswick Islands lifestyle? Visit cheekteamluxury.com or contact The Cheek Team today for expert help finding your next home or investment in Southeastern NC.
