You’ve hiked the misty trails of Yosemite. You’ve gazed into the granite soul of El Capitan. You’ve possibly even attempted to “find yourself” in Mariposa Grove. But now it’s time for a different kind of spiritual experience — one that comes in a pint glass and pairs perfectly with a mountain sunset.
Welcome to Oakhurst, the laid-back gateway to Yosemite’s south entrance — and an under-the-radar haven for craft beer lovers.
1. South Gate Brewing Company 🍺
Location: 40233 Enterprise Dr, Oakhurst
Vibe: Industrial-chic meets Sierra casual
Must-try: Badger Brown Ale or Gold Digger IPA
South Gate Brewing is the kind of place you imagine when someone says, “let’s grab a local beer.” House-brewed beers? Check. Solid burgers? Absolutely. Outdoor seating with views of rolling foothills? You bet. It’s family-friendly, dog-friendly, and dangerously easy to overstay your welcome.
Pro tip: Grab a 4-pack to go and stash it in your cooler for post-hike glory.
2. Yosemite Wine Tails (Wait for it…) 🍷🐶
Location: 40409 Highway 41, Oakhurst
Vibe: Upscale but unpretentious
Beer angle: Surprisingly strong craft beer selection
Yes, it has “wine” in the name, and yes, it’s technically a wine bar. But don’t let that fool you — the rotating tap handles and curated beer fridge make this a hidden gem for craft brew fans. Plus, it’s dog-friendly and right in the heart of town.
Pro tip: If your partner is Team Merlot and you’re Team IPA, this is your Switzerland.
3. Oakhurst Spirits 🍸🍻
Location: 40300 Greenwood Way, Oakhurst
Vibe: Rustic distillery with a “come sip and stay a while” attitude
Beer angle: House-made beer now flows alongside their famous vodka and gin
Known for small-batch spirits, Oakhurst Spirits recently started brewing beer — and it’s a welcome development. The owners are passionate, the pours are generous, and the stories behind each drink might be even better than the drinks themselves.
Pro tip: Try a beer tasting flight and a spirits tasting if you have a designated driver. If not, settle in and call a local shuttle.
4. Forks Resort (Bass Lake Bonus) 🍔🍻
Location: 39150 Rd 222, Bass Lake (15 min drive)
Vibe: Summer-lodge-meets-diner
Must-try: Burger + cold domestic on draft
Okay, okay — it’s not a craft brewery. But if you’re lakeside at Bass Lake, sitting on the deck at Forks Resort with a burger in one hand and a frosty beer in the other, you’ll understand why it makes the list. Sometimes it’s not about hop profiles — it’s about the moment.
Pro tip: Grab a table just before sunset and thank us later.
Bonus: Beer for the Cabin 🏡
If you’re staying nearby (perhaps at the Nordic-inspired and very cozy Boom Chalet), hit Raley’s or Vons in Oakhurst for a surprisingly solid craft beer selection. Local labels from Firestone Walker, Dust Bowl, and Tioga-Sequoia often show up. Or pick up something ice-cold and anonymous to keep you company while chilling in the creek.
Hoppy Ending
Whether you’re a full-blown beer aficionado or just someone who enjoys a cold one after a long hike, Oakhurst punches way above its weight when it comes to sipping satisfaction. So go chase waterfalls, summit peaks, and snap that perfect Yosemite selfie — then reward yourself with the finest ales the Sierra Foothills have to offer.
After all, it’s not just about the trails you hike. It’s about the hops you take along the way.