The best bars & nightlife in Brunswick County

“Relaxed spot for pizzas, sandwiches & salads in a quaint cafe setting with local art on the walls.”

“Cape Side Brewing pours a coastal-minded lineup brewed on site, then sets you up with a sandy backyard beer garden, a proper stage for live music and regular food trucks. It feels lowkey and local, the kind of hangout you’ll happily cross NC 211 traffic for.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Whether you’re sneaking in breakfast before the beach or winding down with a pint and live tunes, Salty Dogs Cafe and Bark Bar nails the local vibe. Think lobster rolls, deli subs, bisque and pies, TVs for the game, and a fenced dog park where pups can run.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Loco Jo's Bar & Grill keeps things fun with an Asian twist on daily chalkboard specials, plus tacos and a legit 1/2 pound cheeseburger. Pair it with a signature craft cocktail and call it a weeknight win, or swing by to see what Chuck and Nikki are cooking.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Casual bar with an outdoor setting serving pizza and sushi, plus beer and wine.”

“Winery featuring an art-decorated tasting room for glasses & flights, plus daily tours.”

“Whether you want a crisp pour or a no-commitment can, Southport Tap and Cellar keeps it easy with beer and wine on tap and by the can, plus eats from visiting food trucks. Laid-back enough for a quick drop-in, friendly enough to become your midweek ritual.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Whether you're craving mahi-mahi tacos, crispy fried flounder, or just a well-made cocktail with an ocean view, Lazy Turtle Bar & Grill nails the beach-town vibe. Tables in the sand, friendly service, and gluten-free options make it an easy pick for a low-key Oak Island hang.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Lowcountry seafood, raw-bar offerings, full bar & live music in a laid-back, beachfront setting.”

“With house favorites like Shotgun Betty, Sweet Josie, and IPA for Outlaws on tap, Lonerider at Oak Island matches an amazing view with a legit burger-and-fried-seafood game, plus wings when you want to call it dinner. A laid-back hideout locals can claim as their own.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Southport’s neighborhood wine bar, Water Tower Wine, pours 150 American wines plus 100 global favorites, with daily tastings and beer on tap. Build-your-own charcuterie, catch live jazz, or hop into Chef David Scott’s Tuesday classes, then let their new Wine Club curate bottles you’ll actually want to open this week.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Downtown Southport’s Silver Coast's Tap & Tasting Room pours Silver Coast Winery’s award-winning wines alongside an ever evolving craft beer lineup, with live music on the patio Sunday afternoons. It’s a low-key spot to catch up with neighbors, try something new, and remember why staying local tastes pretty great.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Whether you're restocking the fridge or settling in for a glass, The Grape & Ale keeps things interesting with 12 rotating taps (kolsch to stouts), a creative by-the-glass wine lineup, take-home singles and packs, plus custom gift baskets. Ask Joe to hunt down that bottle you've been craving.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, September 19, 2026

“American Fish Company turns a onetime fish shack into Southport’s go-to waterfront hangout, with cold beer, craft cocktails, and a lively live music lineup timed perfectly for those Yacht Basin sunsets. It’s members-only with a quick sign up, then it’s you, friends, and that killer view.”

“An upscale-casual beachfront stop for high-end steaks & seafood.”

“Colorful, relaxed American seafood eatery with upstairs bar & 2 waterfront decks.”

“An array of classic American seafood fare & drinks in a modern dining room with ample patio seating.”

“Festive Irish tavern with a patio & selection of bar food, including burgers, wings & sandwiches.”

“Pier featuring a fishing house with a food and drinks vendor, and a gender-neutral restroom.”

“Backspin Social - Leland is the local hang for indoor golf, sports viewing, leagues, and private celebrations. Tee it up on simulators with more than 1,800 courses, get instant swing data with slow-mo replays, then stick around for craft cocktails, local beer, and trivia or game day vibes...”

From the Leland newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Craving a low-key night that still feels like an outing, The Scapegoat Taproom lines up a varied tap list, regular trivia and karaoke, plus visits from local food trucks, making it the kind of Leland hang where plans come together without trying too hard.”

From the Leland newsletter, August 20, 2026

“18·21 is a members-only speakeasy where prohibition-era elegance meets modern mixology, with cocktails built from premium spirits and house-made ingredients.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Leland Brewing Company keeps 20+ handcrafted beers flowing, with rotating guest taps, wines, and N/A options, all built around a taproom vibe that’s about bringing people together. There’s always something on the calendar, so grab a friend and make a casual weeknight feel like a little celebration.”

From the Leland newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Brunswick Beer and Cider keeps the taps interesting with house brews alongside crisp ciders, and the kitchen turns out beer-infused-crust pizzas, smash burgers, and solid salads. Swing by this week, try the Lavender Lemonade Cider, then tell your group you’ve heroically handled dinner.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 29, 2026