Surf Side isn’t just about the surf and sand—our guests love that a few pints (or sips!) of craft goodness are just a short drive away. Here are our favorite nearby breweries and a standout local distillery, perfect for a laid-back evening or a fun afternoon stop:
Kill Devil Rum Distillery
– 3.5 miles north in Manteo, at 510 Budleigh St.
Home to the award-winning Kill Devil Rum, Outer Banks Distilling offers a spirited take on OBX craftsmanship. From small-batch silver and spiced rums to unique seasonal releases, this distillery delivers smooth sips with coastal character. Tours and tastings are offered throughout the week, and their nautical-inspired tasting room is a hidden gem for spirit lovers. Check their website here for more…
Outer Banks Brewing Station
– 4 miles north (Kill Devil Hills) at 600 S. Croatan Hwy
This iconic brewpub in Kill Devil Hills is the region’s first wind-powered brewery—and it shows in their mission to pair craft brewing with great food. The spacious “backyard” patio hosts live music most evenings from 5:30–8:30 p.m., giving you the chance to enjoy pints like London Gold or PePaw’s Lemondrop Pilsner alongside chef-driven bites. With family-friendly style by day and a chill adult vibe after dark, it’s a go-to destination for beer lovers of all stripes. See more here…
Swells’a Brewing
– 4.5 miles north in Kill Devil Hills, 1802 S. Virginia Dare Trail
With sun-bleached wood accents, beach-bar energy, and rotating taps, Swells’a Brewing is built for coastal fun. Expect local craft beers—including the crisp Tombstoned Soul Lager or refreshing Bill’s Banana Hammock Hefeweizen—along with occasional pizza nights, live tunes, and even yoga-and-beer sessions. It’s a true OBX original, perfect for unwinding after a day in the surf. Check their website here…
Why You’ll Love These Stops
- Close & convenient: All three breweries are less than 5 miles from Surf Side—ideal for an easy afternoon stroll or short drive.
- Local-first selection: Whether beer or rum, you’ll find OBX-made flavor in every pour.
- Great atmosphere: Relaxed patios, live music, and welcoming tasting rooms await.
Plan Your Craft Crawl
Start your journey at Kill Devil Rum Distillery for a flavorful twist on local spirits, then head north to Outer Banks Brewing Station for craft beer and live music. End your evening at Swells’a Brewing, where beach-town energy and creative pours offer the perfect nightcap. Cheers to a day well spent in the OBX! Grab a growler, bottle, or pint to enjoy back at Surf Side—or simply toast to a perfect OBX day. Cheers!
photo credits: Each photo from each destinations website.
