San Juan Island Brewing

Our Story

San Juan Island Brewing Company came to life when a shared vision and a love for the island home ignited a spark in a group of dedicated individuals. Sean and Tim Aylward, brothers who had ventured away from San Juan Island but always cherished its beauty and charm, discovered a thriving craft beer scene on the mainland. These experiences planted a seed, eventually blossoming into a dream of bringing their own brewery back to their roots in Friday Harbor.

As fate would have it, Nick Gislason, a schoolmate of the Aylward boys and a seasoned brewery consultant, was unknowingly nurturing the same passion. Driven by a belief in the island's potential, he independently penned a comprehensive business plan for a San Juan Island Brewery, presenting it to Verne Howard, the local grocery store owner. Drawing from his own aspirations as a home brewer, Jesse Visciglia, a respected science teacher at the high school, joined the team, eager to transform his hobby into a locally-loved enterprise.

Over the course of three years, this dynamic group, fueled by their shared commitment to the island and the craft of brewing, painstakingly brought their vision to fruition. When the doors finally opened on July 27, 2017, San Juan Island Brewing Company greeted a wave of eager patrons, ready to sample the first brews emanating from their meticulously crafted space. Every step of the process, from construction to sourcing materials and labor, prioritized the island community. Local contractors played a vital role in building the brewery, and many now frequent the location, taking pride in their contribution to the unfolding story of San Juan Island's first craft brewery.

Our Beer

At San Juan Island Brewing Company, we are unwavering in our commitment to crafting exceptional beer using only the finest raw materials sourced from England, Germany, and the United States. We believe that quality ingredients are the foundation of delicious beer, and we carefully select each element to ensure we consistently deliver a truly satisfying experience. Our brewing process is guided by a meticulous and scientific approach, allowing us to fine-tune every variable and achieve the perfect balance in each beer. This dedication to detail has earned us numerous awards and recognition, solidifying our reputation as a leader in the craft brewing scene.

Our Atmosphere

Our brewery is designed to be a welcoming and inviting space for the community to connect and enjoy. The open layout allows visitors to experience the brewing process firsthand, while the spacious patio provides a relaxing atmosphere for gatherings. Family-friendly features, such as a dedicated green space for children, make our brewery a perfect destination for families and friends seeking a fun and vibrant experience.

Our Team

Our team is comprised of passionate individuals who are dedicated to crafting exceptional beer and providing a memorable experience for every visitor. From our experienced head brewer to our friendly staff, we are committed to creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels like they belong. We take pride in our close-knit community and strive to cultivate a positive and supportive work environment.