6 Best San Diego Beers and Ciders to Try in Every Season This Year
San Diego and good beer go hand in hand. The sunny skies, ocean breeze, and laid-back vibes make it the perfect place to kick back with something cold and refreshing. That’s why beers and ciders that match the season feel so right here.
They bring extra flavor to beach days, backyard BBQs, and quiet nights with friends.
Coronado Brewing Company creates beers and ciders that perfectly match San Diego’s easygoing vibe—cold, flavorful, and made for unforgettable moments. Every sip of beer in San Diego feels like kicking back with friends after a surf session or relaxing at the beach as the sun dips below the horizon. It’s easy, it’s fresh, and it’s unmistakably local.
Key Takeaways
- San Diego offers a dynamic craft beer and cider scene perfect for every season.
- Coronado Brewing Company beers reflect the city’s coastal charm and vibrant flavors.
- Seasonal brews highlight ingredients that align with the time of year, like tropical fruits in summer and rich spices in winter.
- Exploring San Diego's diverse beers introduces you to creative and innovative brews.
- Pairing innovative beers with local dishes makes every bite and sip more satisfying.
- Visit one of Coronado Brewing’s Tasting Rooms or check the Brew Finder to taste these brews firsthand.
What Makes a Beer or Cider Fit for Each Season?
San Diego beers and ciders offer something special that matches the feel of each season.
Spring introduces crisp, citrusy ales that brighten up longer days. Summer leans into light, tropical brews that pair perfectly with the warmth and ocean breeze. Fall brings in richer, spiced beers with earthy tones that feel comforting as the air cools. Winter wraps up the year with bold, full-bodied beers and ciders layered with dark fruits and warming spices, making every sip a cozy escape.
Coronado Brewing Company carefully crafts each seasonal brew to match the mood and flavors of the season. We lean into local ingredients that bring out the best in every sip—bright and citrusy for spring, light and tropical for summer, rich and spiced for fall, and bold and full-bodied for winter.
Why San Diego is a Haven for Seasonal Beers and Ciders
San Diego stands out as a hotspot for seasonal beers and ciders thanks to its vibrant craft beer community and ideal climate. Breweries across the city thrive on creativity, constantly rolling out new seasonal brews that reflect the energy of the coast.
Coronado Brewing Company adds to this scene with beers and ciders that feel as natural as the ocean breeze—refreshing, bold, and full of character. Each seasonal release brings something new to the table, crafted to complement everything San Diego has to offer.
See what’s pouring now with our Brew Finder.
6 Best Beers and Ciders to Try in Every Season
1. Early Spring: Weekend Vibes IPA
Weekend Vibes IPA delivers everything you’d expect from a true San Diego-style IPA.
It bursts with tropical hop flavors and a bold citrus aroma, offering a refreshing, dry finish that keeps you reaching for another sip. This award-winning brew, a Bronze Medalist at the 2019 Great American Beer Festival in the American-Style India Pale Ale category, packs a punch with a 6.8% ABV.
Each sip explodes with tropical hops and bold citrus, delivering that signature San Diego-style IPA punch. Its crisp, dry finish keeps things light, making it easy to kick back and enjoy every drop.
The 6.8% ABV adds just enough kick to keep the energy high. Pair it with spicy Buffalo strips or Cajun shrimp tacos, and you’ve got the perfect combo for laid-back afternoons or lively nights. Grab it in 16oz cans, 12oz 12-packs, 19.2oz singles, or catch it on draft.
Grab a Weekend Vibes IPA and taste the hype
2. Late Spring: Orange Ave Wit
Orange Ave Wit has been a coastal staple since 1996, staying true to its Coronado Island roots. This light-bodied wheat beer stands out with layers of vibrant orange zest, fragrant coriander, and a smooth touch of orange blossom honey.
Every sip is citrusy and finishes with a subtle sweetness, making it as refreshing as a San Diego breeze. At 5.2% ABV and 15 IBU, it’s perfectly balanced and endlessly drinkable.
Pair it with a fresh chicken salad or light seafood dishes for a simple yet flavorful meal.
Available in 16oz cans and on draft, Orange Ave Wit proves that while trends come and go, this California classic remains timeless.
Try Orange Ave Wit for yourself
3. Salty Crew Blonde Ale (Summer)
Salty Crew Blonde Ale is more than just a summer beer—it’s a true adventure companion. Designed to be crisp, light-bodied, and endlessly drinkable, this beer defines versatility.
Its 4.5% ABV makes it easy to enjoy all day, whether you're out on the water, lounging at the beach, or grilling in the backyard. The clean, refreshing taste works as a perfect base for customization—squeeze in a lime, spice the rim, or even turn it into a michelada. It pairs effortlessly with coastal dishes like grilled fish tacos, wild-caught salmon, and zesty ceviche.
Available in 12oz cans, 19.2oz singles, 12-packs, and on draft, Salty Crew Blonde Ale brings the spirit of the sea straight to your hands.
Set sail with Salty Crew Blonde Ale
4. Fall: Palm Sway IPA
Palm Sway IPA brings bold tropical hops and bright citrus flavors together in a smooth, hazy brew.
Its 6.5% ABV delivers full flavor with a crisp finish, perfect for relaxing on cool fall evenings. This beer was crowned Gold Medalist at the 2021 Great American Beer Festival and pairs perfectly with a salty brewpub pretzel or spicy buffalo tenders. It’s available in 16oz cans and on draft.
5. Super Fruit with Blueberry (Winter)
At 5.5% ABV, Super Fruit with Blueberry delivers a bold, semi-sweet flavor with every sip. Made with fresh blueberries, this deep maroon cider balances sweet, jammy notes with bright, punchy acidity.
It’s gluten-free, vegan, and contains no added sugars. Pair it with rich chocolate desserts or roasted veggies for a perfect winter treat. Available in 16 oz 4-packs.
Check out the Super Fruit with Blueberry
6. Nice & Dry Purely Apple (Year-Round)
Nice & Dry Purely Apple is the ultimate go-to cider for any occasion. It pours a bright straw color and greets you with a fresh aroma of melon, pear, and green apple.
Each sip delivers a crisp, dry apple flavor balanced by a subtle sweetness and lingering acidity, creating a clean, refreshing finish. At 6.0% ABV, this cider is gluten-free, vegan, and contains zero added sugars.
Enjoy it alongside aged cheddar, crisp apple slices, or delicate pastries for a refreshing and flavorful pairing. Crafted with care in California, this cider comes conveniently in 4-packs.
Sip on Nice & Dry Purely Apple
Seasonal Tips for Enjoying Beers and Ciders in San Diego
Stop by Coronado Brewing Company and enjoy fresh beers in a relaxed, coastal setting. Pair your beverage with local favorites like fresh fish tacos or a juicy burger for a satisfying bite. Over here, it’s all about good drinks, good food, and fun times.
Explore More at Coronado Brewing Company
Come check out our full lineup of San Diego craft beer and ciders. We’ve got everything from our classic favorites to small-batch brews, all crafted with care and packed with flavor. Swing by our Beer Series and Cider Collection online, or visit one of our locations to taste what makes Coronado Brewing Company beers something special.
What Will Your Next Favorite Brew Be?
San Diego's seasonal beers and ciders are as vibrant and diverse as the city itself. Coronado Brewing Company takes pride in creating brews that capture the heart of coastal living, blending bold flavors with laid-back vibes.
Ready to taste something new? Find your next favorite with our Brew Finder and dive into the best beer San Diego has to offer.
FAQs
1. What makes San Diego a hotspot for craft beer?
San Diego is home to a vibrant brewing community with some of the best breweries in San Diego, like Coronado Brewing Company, that focus on creativity, quality, and bold flavors. The city's year-round sunshine and laid-back vibe create the perfect environment for enjoying San Diego craft beer.
2. Where can I find Coronado Brewing Company beers in San Diego?
You can visit any of our brewery locations or check out our Brew Finder to find Coronado Brewing Company beers at local bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout the city.
3. What are the best food pairings for seasonal beers?
Pair San Diego seasonal beers with local favorites like fresh fish tacos, grilled seafood, or even spicy dishes. The refreshing flavors of our brews complement San Diego's coastal cuisine perfectly.
4. Are there beer events in San Diego where I can try new seasonal releases?
Absolutely! San Diego hosts numerous annual beer events where you can sample the latest seasonal releases and experimental brews. Popular recurring festivals include the San Diego Beer Fest, the SD Beer Fest, and the North Park Beer Fest.
Keep an eye on local event calendars for exact dates and new additions.
5. What’s the difference between seasonal beers and year-round beers?
Seasonal beers are brewed to highlight flavors that fit the time of year, like citrusy notes in spring or bold spices in winter. San Diego seasonal beers bring bold, new flavors throughout the year, while year-round brews keep the classics alive.