Big Beach Brewing
in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
Known for its bushwackers and coastal cocktails, Alabama's Beaches might not be the first place you’d consider for a microbrewery business, but when a locally loved business offers great brews and an unbeatable atmosphere, the whole thing makes sense.
Big Beach Brewing in Gulf Shores
Inception
Big Beach Brewing Company, located in Gulf Shores in the Waterway Village District, opened in October 2016 and, over a decade later, is still a popular spot for locals and visitors.
For its founder, local dentist Jim Shamburger and his family, the dream began back in July of 2015. Jim and his wife had been home-brewing quite a while, sharing their beer with friends and family. It was so well received that they decided to make a business of it.
A longtime fan of local businesses in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, I knew I had to check it out. It did not disappoint.
The Brewery
Pulling into the parking lot, I could tell a lot of thought was put into creating a family-friendly, low-key beach vibe at the brewery. The building’s pale brick exterior – with a beachy-colored sign, swings hanging from old tree branches, and games in the yard – invites guests to come and stay a while.
Once inside, I was pleasantly surprised to find the beach vibe continues — with a home decor that home-brew fans adore. Loads of windows, pale walls and a wide-open design suit this beachfront town perfectly. Industrial notes, like the one-of-a-kind bar top made from locally sourced wood, the massive fireplace and the tables throughout the space complement the airy feel without overpowering it.
Beer Tasting
It’s true, I toured Big Beach Brewing even though I don’t like beer! But the intrigue of this place was too compelling. The staff never flinched –they were up for the challenge of finding the one brew I’d enjoy.
They asked me to explain what I didn’t care for, and I described the grassy taste. They chuckled and suggested I try a less hoppy beer. They poured a glass of a darker ale, the Small Town Brown. I suggested a small taste, but they poured a full glass.
Small Town Brown has more malt, with hints of chocolate and toffee, and…well…it’s spectacular! A wonderful beer. Ale, really. Smooth with no hoppy taste. Perfect for sipping after a long day at the beach.
Big Beach offers a rotating selection of 12 beers, some seasonal and some year-round, so you can try something new every time you visit! They also serve house wine, appetizers, and incredible flatbreads.
The Atmosphere
Beer in hand, we went to the back where the magic happens. The staff explained how they source their ingredients and the process of brewing. It’s a careful science, maybe well-suited to the detail-oriented dentist.
From there, we headed outside and upstairs to the deck overlooking the neighborhood. I could have stayed for hours, sipping my ale and watching the sunset across the road behind Tacky Jacks. Even though the brewery sits on a busy street, being upstairs looking out over the trees, I felt more like a big kid in a giant treehouse.
Big Beach Brewing nailed it. The design is spot-on for the neighborhood. Go for the beer, but stay for the fun. Watch games on the big-screen TVs, play games out front, listen to live music, hang out on the upper deck, or relax by the fireplace. Take the kids and grab a few flatbreads. Beach meets brew — and the result is fabulous!
Karen Dawkins
Karen Dawkins is a freelance travel writer who has been featured in print and online markets and on radio broadcast. She is a family travel expert with a passion to help families experience the world for less. As she says, “Budget doesn’t mean cheap. It’s smart!”
