What goes better with a day at the beach than a tall glass of beer? So, while visiting the beach at Cape May, stop by and try some of the brews that originated at craft breweries near Cape May, NJ. Local beer is almost always better, and it is vital to support budding entrepreneurs. Here is our take on the local craft brewing scene:
7 Mile Brewery
3156 Rte 9 South, Rio Grande NJ
Just north of Cape May proper, 7 Mile Brewery has been around since 2016. They aim to craft beer “as interesting as the people who drink it.” They have an indoor taproom with space to sit outside if you want.
There are usually about a dozen brews on tap, ranging from Easy Drinking (think pale ales), hoppy IPAs, dark and roasted, fruity and sometimes sour, and barrel-aged stuff. Our favorite is “Walter,” a NEIPA with a complex taste named after the Breaking Bad character.
Cape May Brewing Company
1250 Hornet Rd, Rio Grande, NJ
Located at the Cape May Airport, just six miles from downtown Cape May, Cape May Brewing Company is one of the original craft brewers in the area. The facility includes an exclusive sours brewery and occupies over 20,000 square feet. Tour the production facility and sit either inside or out.
There are up to two dozen brews available to buy or taste. These may include Snag and Drop (a triple IPA described as dank and resinous), Cape May Gold (an easy-drinking ale), and Honey Porter (an award-winning smooth porter).
Coho Brewing
28 Indian Trail Rd, Cape May Courthouse, NJ
Named Coho after its location in Courthouse, NJ, Coho Brewing has both indoor and outdoor seating. They have more than a dozen brews available onsite, with growlers to go if wanted. The owners were high school sweethearts who started the brewery after retiring.
There are pale ales, English strong bitter ales, stouts, and pilsners, and you will find something to your taste.
Cold Spring Brewery
733 Seashore Rd, Lower Township, NJ
Cold Spring Brewery is the creation of the Historic Village of Cold Spring. A historic barn was disassembled and put back together just outside the fence of the Historic Village. The craft of beer-making is consistent with the landmark depictions inside the village. Cold Spring Brewery became the first non-profit micro-brewery.
They have about a dozen beers on tap, including a homemade nonalcoholic Sasaparilla. The most popular brew is an Irish Red Ale called Cold Spring Red. In addition, there are seasonal ales (like pumpkin flavored) and lagers, porters, and ales.
Gusto Brewing
3860 Bayshore Rd, Cape May, NJ
Gusto Brewing Company is the newest brewer on the scene in Cape May. Their motto is, “Keep it small. Keep it weird.” They are working on updating to an oversized outdoor patio, which should be open this spring.
They usually keep around eight beers on tap. Although they are known for inventive beers, their core offerings are traditional English-style beers. The names are fun, like, “Swashbuckling Interstellar Quests” (an Imperial Stout) and “Waiting in the Sky” (a dark Lager).
Ludlam Island Brewery
9 Stoney Court, Ocean View, NJ
Ludlam Island Brewery is open 365 days a year (yes, that includes Christmas). They claim to make beer for beer lovers and carry a mix of styles to cater to multiple tastes. The location is about 20 minutes north of Cape May.
The most popular brew is Fish Alley IPA, but you will find a Stout and a Pilsner on tap. In addition, there is usually a “secret tap beer” not listed, which is a working test batch. You will look like a regular if you ask for it.
Slack Tide Brewing Company
1072 Rte 83, Cape May Courthouse, NJ
Slack Tide Brewing Company was founded in 2015 by two brothers. They seek to produce beers with all-natural ingredients obtained locally, when possible. Their new location (the address above) is expected to be open by the summer of 2023 and is a move from Rt 9 in Clermont, NJ.
Indeed you will find something you like! Slack’s flagship beers include an American IPA, a Belgian Blonde, a Lager, a Stout, and a Pale Ale. On tap are also Seasonal Beers and some other heavier choices.
With all these choices of craft breweries near Cape May, NJ, you will want to take your time! Spend a couple of days enjoying all that Cape May has to offer. You will love our unique seaside resort as much as we do!
