8 craft breweries you have to visit

Are you a craft beer lover on the hunt for more ales?
Look no further than Northern New South Wales! From light and crisp lagers to fruity ales, sample some of Australia’s best and meet the passionate makers who love beer as much as you.
Thirsty? Check out these top craft breweries – they’re sure to satisfy even the pickiest of beer connoisseurs!
Common People Brewing Co Bangalow
Close up of bartender pouring draft beer in glass
Common People Brewing Co is a craft brewery located in the heart of Bangalow. They brew small-batch ales using locally sourced ingredients and traditional methods, which means that their beers have an exquisite flavour profile.
These Kyogle-born friends like to refer to themselves as common people with diverse backgrounds in chemical engineering, marketing and the music industry and a love of beer.
The team at Common People are passionate about creating innovative and interesting recipes – from smooth lagers to robust porters and IPAs.
If you’re looking for something different and individual, you can sample up to 23 varieties of beer.
The venue also has a kitchen serving up delicious pizzas – what better combination? Live music is returning on weekends and the fireplace will keep you warm in winter.
This is the place to go!
Earth Beer Company is a family-run brewery located in the picturesque town of Cudgen. They create handcrafted ales utilising specialty malts, hops and yeast to ensure their beers are full of flavour.
Their range includes pale ales, lagers, IPAs and porters – all made using traditional methods and quality ingredients.
Fancy an afternoon in the sun with friends? Come here. The brewery has a fab beer garden, live music events and food trucks to keep your stomachs lined.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try one of their experimental brews?
Stone and Wood Brewery Byron Bay
Stone and Wood Brewery in Byron Bay has been creating exceptional craft beers since 2008. Their team is made up of passionate brewers who are dedicated to creating unique and flavourful beers that are as delicious as they are sustainable.
At Stone and Wood, you can sample their award-winning range which includes lagers, ales, stouts and porters.
Stone and Wood Brewery also hosts regular events such as live music days and beer festivals – so there’s always something exciting going on!
Wandana Brewing Co Mullumbimby
Wandana Brewing Co is a craft brewery located in Mullumbimby. They create small-batch ales and lagers using interesting methods.
Like playing non-stop music to every beer while it’s brewing in the tank. Yep, you read correct!
Researchers have studied the effect of sound vibrations on yeast cells – and found they improve efficiency. Who knew?
Wandana has custom-made fermenters that each have its own speaker.
Seven Mile Brewing Co is a family-run brewery located in Ballina.
The brewery offers regular events such as beer tastings and music nights – so you can sample some of the beers and enjoy some entertainment at the same time!
Food trucks visit every weekend with mouth-watering options available.
And if you love your hops to pack a punch, try the 7.5% ABV West Coast IPA
The team at Ventura Brewing take great pride in creating special beers that capture the essence of the Northern Rivers region.
Their range of ales and lagers are made with locally sourced malts, hops and yeast to pack a flavour punch.
Ventura Brewing is also Australia’s first artisanal alcoholic kombucha brewery so you can drink and be healthy!
Live music events and food trucks are a regular feature – so you’ll never be stuck for something to do.
Little Dragon Ginger Beer Byron Bay
Little Dragon Ginger Beer in Byron Bay makes handcrafted ginger beer that is the perfect balance of sweetness and spiciness.
Their range includes classic ginger beers as well as fruit-infused varieties such as raspberry and passionfruit.
If you’re looking for something different, why not try their limited-edition seasonal flavours?
And did we mention this drop is gluten free and comes with a 4% bite?
There’s plenty of entertainment options here, also including open mic nights.
Two Mates Brewing – Lismore
As the name suggests, this brewery was started by two mates you share an appreciation for craft beer.
And crafty they are – with brew names like ‘Lager than Life’ and ‘The Gangster IPA’. The ‘Kiwi Hazee Lager’ is a masterful fusion of traditional lager craftsmanship and the vibrant, fruity notes of New Zealand hops.
There’s also a gluten-free ginger beer and kombucha.
Open from Thursday to Sunday it’s a great atmosphere for a quiet drink or bring the family – there’s plenty of space. Located on the rail trail in South Lismore, it’s a handy place to grab a refresher while enjoying a ride.
Ditch the car
Behind the Barrel Byron Bay offers numerous tours so you won’t need a dedicated driver. Whether you want a full-day experience, or only have the arvo off, they’ve got you covered.
On all of their tours, you’ll get the chance to meet the local artisan brewers and distillers that craft the delicious beverages you will get to try.
The tours have a minimum of two and a maximum of 13 guests. Touring solo? No worries, your booking will be confirmed once they have filled two seats on the tour. Get in touch for more information on larger group sizes.
Interested in learning what other eat and drink options are in the area?
While you’re here please check out the local business directory