How Craft Beer Began in Whistler
Skiing and beer often go hand in hand, so it’s no surprise that Whistler has a long history of brewing beer, years before craft breweries really hit their stride.
In 1974, Whistler locals started a popular homebrewing contest that ran annually for 20 years. Things became more serious in 1982, when nearby Horseshoe Bay Brewery began producing Bay Ale for the Troller Pub, becoming a pioneer of Canada’s modern craft beer movement. Shortly after, in 1989, Whistler could boast its own craft brewery, Whistler Brewing Company, which is still going strong today!
Today, Whistler has three breweries — Coast Mountain Brewing, Whistler Brewing and Brewhouse — plus plenty of pubs and restaurants showcasing craft beer from across British Columbia. Whether you want a beer brewed right here in Whistler or a tasting tour of BC’s craft beer scene, there’s a pint for every preference. Here are six places I’d start.
Whistler Craft Beer Spots at a Glance
| Craft Beer Spot | Area | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Coast Mountain Brewing | Function Junction | Local brewery atmosphere and IPAs |
| Whistler Brewing | Function Junction | Groups, patios and local beer |
| The Brewhouse | Whistler Village | Whistler-brewed beer in the Village |
| Hunter Gather | Whistler Village | BC beer and locally sourced food |
| The Beacon Pub & Eatery | Whistler Village | BC beer, après and people-watching |
| Fitzsimmons Pub | Upper Village | Rotating BC beers and cozy pub vibes |
Must-Try Whistler Breweries
If you’re serious about truly local beer, make the trip south of Whistler Village to Function Junction and visit two of Whistler’s homegrown breweries in one outing. And if you’re up for making it even more of an adventure, take the Peak Pedal Brews guided e-bike brewery tour or head out with Whistler Valley Tours.
1. Coast Mountain Brewing – As Local as it Gets
Coast Mountain Brewing is the home of the best IPA in the world (in my humble opinion). When I was stuck out of the country during the 2020 pandemic, this IPA was my craving that simply could not be satisfied by any other brew. If you’re on the hunt for a true locals’ hangout, with an authentic craft brewery vibe, where the focus is 100% on the beer, this is the spot.
2. Whistler Brewing Company – The Oldest Kid on the Block
Less than a five-minute walk down the road, Whistler Brewing offers a completely different experience. With long tables, big patios and plenty of room for groups, it’s an easy choice when your crew is large, or when your stomach is calling for more than just beer.
Bringing your non-beer-drinking friends? They have a very special ginger beer on tap, Denville Ginger Beer, brewed just down the road in Squamish.
3. High Mountain Brewing Company Brewhouse – Brewed in the Heart of the Village
If your schedule doesn’t allow you to venture out of the Village, but you’re still desperate to try a local brew, Brewhouse boasts the only beer brewed right in the heart of Whistler Village.
With one of Whistler’s best patios, Brewhouse is the perfect spot for a sunny afternoon of beer tasting. Featuring a very full menu from seafood to pizza to steak, there is something yummy for the whole family.
Where to Try BC Craft Beer in Whistler
While we will always be a little biased toward our incredible beers brewed here in Whistler, British Columbia is home to countless world-class breweries that also deserve a spot on your palate. So why not get a taste of our regional beer scene while you’re here in Whistler?
4. Hunter Gather Eatery & Taphouse – Taste the Sea to Sky
If your ideal meal is calling for locally sourced eats to go with your local brews, Hunter Gather not only pours exclusively BC beers but also sources its ingredients locally.
Order one of their delicious handhelds (the chicken shawarma is my personal favourite) with Pemberton Potatoes, pair it with their most popular beer, the Trailbreaker Pale Ale from Backcountry Brewing in Squamish, and you have the whole Sea to Sky covered in one meal!
5. The Beacon Pub & Eatery – Right in the Thick of It
Offering another extensive selection of BC beers, along with the ultimate people-watching spot from their sprawling patio, stop by The Beacon to pair your brew with the bustle of the heart of the Village. The perfect spot for year-round après, located just a short walk from the gondola, this is a favourite locals’ hangout.
6. Fitzsimmons Pub – Small Pub, Big BC Beer Selection
With its small, cozy setting, the Fitzsimmons Pub is a step out of the hustle and bustle and the spot to go for a good conversation over delicious BC beers. And if the conversation alone isn’t enough, they have your entertainment sorted with an epic stack of board games.
Sporting an ever-rotating selection of BC beers, they also have something special for the non-drinkers: one of the best non-alcoholic beers I’ve ever tried, Dry Side of the Moon Hefeweizen by Brass Monkey Brewing Co.
Whatever your flavour and whichever your vibe, Whistler’s craft beer scene has a spot for you. Whether you’re sipping a beer brewed right here in the valley or discovering a new favourite from elsewhere in BC, there are plenty of reasons to raise a glass while you’re here. Cheers!
