Vancouver Island is known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, and deep-rooted food culture. But it has also gained a well-earned reputation for craft beer.
From small, family-run operations to well-established breweries that have been perfecting their craft for decades, Vancouver Island is a paradise for craft beer enthusiasts.
For those who appreciate a well-brewed pint, the island’s brewery scene is fabulously diverse. Whether you prefer a crisp European-style lager, a rich and malty porter or an innovative small-batch sour, there is something to suit every taste. Many breweries prioritize local ingredients, incorporating everything from island-grown hops to kelp harvested from the Pacific Ocean.
Beyond the beer itself, visiting Vancouver Island’s breweries is a true experience! It’s a chance to meet passionate brewmasters, enjoy thoughtfully designed taprooms and take in the relaxed island atmosphere.
Here’s your go-to guide to some of Vancouver Island’s finest breweries.
Phillips Brewing & Malting Co. (Victoria)
One of the most recognizable names in BC’s craft beer industry and beyond, Phillips Brewing & Malting Co. has been a pioneer in the field since 2001. Known for their creativity and commitment to sustainability, Phillips produces a broad range of beers, from bold IPAs to smooth stouts. Their in-house malting process ensures quality and control over every ingredient.
Must-Try: Blue Buck Ale—a well-balanced pale ale with caramel undertones and a hint of citrus. phillipsbeer.com
Driftwood Brewery (Victoria)
A staple in the BC beer community, Driftwood Brewery is best known for its hop-forward West Coast IPAs and well-crafted Belgian-style ales. Their beers often lean toward strong, bold flavours, making them a favourite among craft beer enthusiasts.
Must-Try: Fat Tug IPA—a full-bodied, citrusy IPA that has become one of Canada’s most celebrated craft beers. driftwoodbeer.ca
Vancouver Island Brewing (Victoria)
Founded in 1984, Vancouver Island Brewing is one of BC’s longest-running independent breweries. Their beers are smooth, approachable and highly drinkable, making them a great choice for those who appreciate classic, well-crafted brews.
Must-Try: Dominion Dark Lager—a Bavarian lager with notes of cocoa and coffee. vibrewing.com
Whistle Buoy Brewing Company (Victoria)
Whistle Buoy Brewing has made a name for itself with its thoughtfully crafted seasonal releases and small-batch experiments. Located in Market Square, its welcoming patio is a fantastic place to enjoy an afternoon pint.
Must-Try: Ice Cold Lager—fermented cold, transferred cold, conditioned cold, canned cold and stored cold—it’s the coolest beer in town. whistlebuoybrewing.com
Wolf Brewing Company (Nanaimo)
Wolf Brewing Company is a hidden gem, producing small-batch, handcrafted beers with a focus on rich, full-bodied flavours. Their warm, inviting taproom is a great place to enjoy a pint or two.
Must-Try: Golden Honey Ale—a light tasting ale flavoured with local honey. wolfbrewingcompany.com
Longwood Brewery (Nanaimo)
Longwood Brewery takes great pride in sourcing local BC ingredients, including island-grown barley and hops. Their beer selection is designed to be both flavourful and highly drinkable.
Must-Try: Telegraph Project—a pale ale with proceeds from the purchase going towards rebuilding Telegraph Cove on the North Island. longwoodbeer.com
Gladstone Brewing Co. (Courtenay)
Gladstone Brewing has established itself as a go-to spot in Courtenay. Their garage-style taproom and classic beer styles make them a favourite among locals and visitors.
Must-Try: Czech Dark Lager—a satisfyingly smooth, toasty lager with a rich finish. gladstonebrewing.ca
Land & Sea Brewing Co. (Comox)
A newer addition to the island’s brewery scene, Land & Sea Brewing in Comox focuses on balanced, thoughtful beer recipes that highlight both local and traditional brewing techniques.
Must-Try: Supernova Sour—a dry-hopped sour that is sure to hit the spot. landandseabrewing.ca
Beach Fire Brewing & Nosh House (Campbell River)
Beach Fire Brewing in Campbell River combines great beer with a welcoming, community-driven atmosphere. Their focus is on classic styles with a local twist.
Must-Try: Wheel Bender Stout—a rich, smooth stout with deep roasted malt flavours. beachfirebrewing.ca
Tofino Brewing Company
Located on the wild West Coast, Tofino Brewing Company produces beers inspired by its natural surroundings. Sustainability and local ingredients are a big part of their ethos.
Must-Try: Kelp Stout—a dark, full-bodied stout brewed with locally harvested kelp for a distinctive maritime character. tofinobrewingco.com
Ucluelet Brewing Co.
A small, community-oriented brewery with a warm and inviting atmosphere, Ucluelet Brewing specializes in well-crafted, easy-drinking beers that reflect the rugged beauty of its surroundings.
Must-Try: King Tide—an elegant and well-balanced pilsner with an eight-week brewing period. uclueletbrewing.ca
Whether you’re enjoying a tasting flight in a cozy taproom, taking a growler home to enjoy on your patio or exploring new flavours at a local beer festival, Vancouver Island’s breweries provide countless ways to appreciate the art of brewing.
For beer lovers, a brewery tour of the island is more than just an opportunity to try new drinks—it’s a way to experience the passion and creativity that defines the island’s craft beer culture.
So, raise a glass, explore the local scene and savour the crisp refreshing flavours of Vancouver Island.
