Top Craft Breweries in Nova Scotia (pt. II)
11. Big Spruce Brewing (Nyanza, Cape Breton)
Why go: Nova Scotia’s first organic on-farm brewery, Big Spruce is beloved for bold, hop-forward beers and strong community roots. Located on a hillside farm with beautiful views.
Must-try: "Kitchen Party Pale Ale" and "Cereal Killer Oatmeal Stout."
12. Tatamagouche Brewing Co. (Tatamagouche)
Why go: Family-owned and community-focused, “Tata Brew” is known for its small-batch creativity and fun, funky labels.
Must-try: "Hippie Dippie Pale Ale" and "North Shore Lagered Ale."
13. Tusket Falls Brewing Company (Tusket & Halifax)
Why go: A growing name in Nova Scotia beer with a flagship taproom in Tusket and a newer Halifax location, they brew everything from hazy IPAs to crisp lagers.
Must-try: "YIPA" (Yet Another IPA) and "Kitchen Party Pilsner."
14. Serpent Brewing (Halifax)
Why go: A smaller operation with big Belgian influence, Serpent specializes in Belgian-style ales with bold, complex flavors.
Must-try: "The Serpent’s Kiss" saison and any seasonal Belgian tripel.
15. Spindrift Brewing Co. (Dartmouth)
Why go: Known for clean, crisp German-inspired lagers and balanced ales. Their branding and quality are on point.
Must-try: "Coastal Lager" and "Tidal Bore Pale Ale."
16. Sober Island Brewing Co. (Sheet Harbour)
Why go: A small but mighty brewery on the Eastern Shore, named after a nearby island, with brews perfect for coastal sipping.
Must-try: "Sober Island Oyster Stout" and "English Ale."
17. Rare Bird Craft Beer (Guysborough)
Why go: Nestled in a restored 1800s building, Rare Bird offers old-world charm and beers that reflect Nova Scotia’s rugged coast.
Must-try: "Rare Bird Pale Ale" and their "IPA" with its local hop bite.
18. Roof Hound Brewing Co. (Digby & Kingston)
Why go: A newer addition to the scene with a fun, creative vibe and excellent BBQ at some locations.
Must-try: "Big Brown Roof" and "Sweet Caroline Cream Ale."
19. Sea Level Brewing (Port Williams & Halifax)
Why go: A staple in the Valley's beer scene, Sea Level offers fresh, small-batch beer brewed right by the Cornwallis River.
Must-try: "Blue Heron Extra Special Bitter" and "Planters Pale Ale."
20. Boxing Rock Brewing Co. (Shelburne)
Why go: A South Shore gem with a reputation for crafting great beers that blend tradition and innovation.
Must-try: "Hunky Dory Pale Ale" and "Temptation Red Ale."
Cheers to Exploring!
With over 50 craft breweries across Nova Scotia, there's always something new to sip and discover. These ten additions round out a truly impressive lineup of East Coast brews. Whether you’re after a hazy IPA, a crisp lager, or a dark, malty stout, Nova Scotia’s brewers have you covered.