Sip, savor, share: Inlet Vibes and Southern Pride: A Spotlight on Southern Hops Brewing Company
At Pint Perspective, our mission is to "Sip, Savor, and Share" the very best of craft beer culture. On a recent trip down to Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, we found a spot that embodies that ethos perfectly: Southern Hops Brewing Company. Located just about a mile south of the famous MarshWalk on Business 17, this locally owned brewery has quickly become a favorite "watering hole" for those seeking authentic Southern hospitality and high-quality house brews.
The Pour: Brewed in the South
The motto at Southern Hops is simple: "Brewed in the South. Poured with Pride". Their tap list is extensive, offering everything from crisp lagers to bold IPAs.
The undisputed heavyweight on the menu is the Leeroy Brown Ale, an award-winning brew famously described as "the baddest beer in the whole damn town". If you're looking for something lighter to match the coastal heat, the 843 Lite or Pop’s Pilsner are local favorites that pair perfectly with a sunny afternoon. For the hop-heads, the 5 Points IPA provides that essential craft kick.
The Plate: Handcrafted Southern Flavor
What sets Southern Hops apart from your average taproom is a food menu that treats beer as a primary ingredient. Their Specialty Pizzas feature a signature dough made with local honey and house ale, resulting in a thin, crispy crust that reviewers have called some of the best around.
The Vibe: "Inlet Vibes Included"
The atmosphere at Southern Hops is designed to make you feel right at home. Whether you choose to sit inside near the tanks or out in their dog-friendly beer garden, the experience is defined by what they call "Inlet Sessions". Every Saturday, the beer garden transforms into a stage for local bands, creating a high-energy yet relaxed environment.
If you visit during the week, you can catch Music Bingo on Mondays or Trivia on Tuesdays, both of which are free to play with chances to win gift cards. It’s the kind of place where the server might bring you more samples than you even asked for, truly delivering on that promise of Southern hospitality.
The Final Perspective
Southern Hops isn't just a brewery; it’s a community hub where local SC ingredients and handcrafted beer take center stage. Whether you’re a local or just passing through the Grand Strand, this is a "must-visit" for anyone who values a great pint and a better story.
Plan Your Visit:
Location: 5148 US 17 Business, Murrells Inlet, SC.
Happy Hour: Weekdays from 4 PM to 7 PM.
Pro Tip: Bring a comfy chair for the Saturday Inlet Sessions and prepare to stay a while.