Morehead City is well-loved for its picturesque waterfront, maritime culture, and laid-back charm. But if you dig a little deeper, you’ll find that the town and its neighboring communities are home to a vibrant and growing craft beer scene. While Morehead City itself offers a few standout breweries, the surrounding areas host a collection of taprooms and brewpubs that reflect the creative and coastal spirit of the Crystal Coast. Whether you enjoy bold IPAs, crisp lagers, or innovative stouts, the breweries around Morehead City serve up something for everyone.
Tight Lines Pub & Brewing Company – Downtown Morehead City
Tight Lines Pub & Brewing Company sits right in the heart of Morehead City’s historic downtown and is one of the town’s most well-established spots for both food and craft beer. Housed in a charming building with exposed brick, large windows, and a lively outdoor beer garden, it offers an inviting setting that blends a warm pub feel with modern touches.
Their rotating tap list includes both house-brewed and regional craft beers. One of their local standouts is the Oyster Stout, a nod to the region’s deep connection to the sea. It has a silky mouthfeel and subtle brininess that pairs wonderfully with the brewery’s fresh seafood dishes.
Tight Lines also serves a full Southern-style menu, with local favorites like shrimp and grits, pulled pork sliders, and a creamy, indulgent mac and cheese that locals rave about.
The brewery frequently hosts live music, trivia nights, and seasonal events, making it not just a place to drink but a central gathering space for locals and visitors alike. It is family-friendly, pet-friendly, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a night out in the heart of Morehead City.
Nacho Brewery – Morehead Plaza
Tucked away in Morehead Plaza, Nacho Brewery is a small but mighty addition to the town’s brewing culture. What it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in personality. This brewery is a true community favorite, built on the principles of inclusivity, creativity, and good fun. With its cozy taproom, mismatched seating, and walls covered in colorful local art, it feels like your favorite neighborhood hangout from the moment you walk in.
Nacho Brewery is known for a wide selection of beers made in-house. Their rotating lineup often includes refreshing wheat beers, hop-forward IPAs, smooth stouts, and even a few hard seltzers for guests who prefer a lighter option. Popular beers include their Belgian-style blonde ale with hints of citrus and their seasonal rye IPA with warming spice notes.
The brewery is especially loved for its social atmosphere. You’re likely to find locals playing board games, enjoying food from nearby vendors, or participating in themed events like karaoke and trivia. They welcome dogs and encourage patrons to bring their own food, which adds to the relaxed, come-as-you-are vibe.
Shortway Brewing Co. – Newport
Located just about 15 minutes inland from Morehead City, Shortway Brewing Co. in Newport is a family-owned, veteran-run operation that has cultivated a loyal following. The brewery is housed in a renovated building that reflects its small-town roots, with a cozy indoor space and a large outdoor area that’s perfect for sunny days and cool evenings.
Shortway is best known for approachable and well-balanced beers. Their Fire Tower Red Ale is a local favorite, offering a rich malt backbone with subtle caramel sweetness and a smooth finish. The Down East IPA delivers a bright hop punch without overwhelming bitterness, making it a crowd-pleaser for both IPA fans and newcomers alike.
The brewery is designed with the community in mind. It regularly hosts food trucks, charity events, and live acoustic sets. Mason jars are used instead of traditional pint glasses, adding to the rustic charm. It’s common to see kids playing in the grass while parents relax with a pint, and leashed dogs are welcome throughout the outdoor patio. Shortway Brewing offers a great destination for a casual afternoon out, and its location makes it an easy stop on a Carteret County craft beer tour.
Fishtowne Brew House – Beaufort
Just across the bridge from Morehead City lies Beaufort, a town known for its historic charm and maritime character. Nestled within its walkable downtown is Fishtowne Brew House, a boutique brewery that prides itself on quality small-batch beers and community connection.
Fishtowne Brew House offers a carefully curated menu of brews that often rotate based on the season and availability of ingredients. Guests might find a crisp golden ale one week and a complex porter the next. Their beers are brewed on-site in small quantities, so there is always something new to try. One of their signature offerings is a well-balanced brown ale that offers nutty richness with a clean finish.
The taproom itself is intimate and inviting, with reclaimed wood accents and nautical decor that perfectly complements Beaufort’s harbor atmosphere. Visitors can sip their beer on the small front patio while watching people stroll along the sidewalk or relax indoors at one of the high-top tables with friends. Fishtowne frequently participates in local events and charity drives, adding to its role as a community hub.
A Flavorful Life on the Coast
The breweries in and around Morehead City offer more than just good beer. They bring people together. They reflect the personality and charm of the communities they serve. Whether you enjoy a handcrafted ale while listening to local music, or sipping a seasonal sour while chatting with the brewer, the experience is authentic and rooted in coastal culture.
For beer lovers thinking about making Morehead City their home, the craft beer scene is just one of many reasons to take the leap. From downtown breweries to neighboring taprooms, you’ll always have a welcoming place to unwind and celebrate local flavor.
If you’re considering making this vibrant area your home, Linda Rike Real Estate is ready to help. With decades of experience and deep roots in the Morehead City community, Linda knows exactly how to match your lifestyle with the perfect property. Whether you dream of a home within walking distance of your favorite brewery or a cozy retreat with room for backyard barbecues and beer tastings, Linda and her team can make it happen.
Let Linda Rike help you tap into the best coastal living offers—starting with great neighbors, sunsets, and beer.
