As the weather warms up, it’s time to swap out heavy winter beers for something lighter, crisper, and more refreshing. Whether you’re heading to the beach, hosting a backyard BBQ, or just relaxing after work, the right summer beer makes all the difference.
If you’re wondering what the best summer beers are, the short answer is this: light lagers, citrusy shandies, fruity ales, and refreshing ciders tend to be the most popular choices when the weather heats up. At our store, we see customers consistently reaching for easy-drinking, crisp options like Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy, fruit-forward beers, and refreshing ready-to-drink beverages as soon as spring rolls in.
Here’s a look at some of the best summer beers and refreshing drinks arriving this season.
Which Beer Is Good in Summer?
The best beers for summer all have one thing in common: they’re refreshing and easy to drink. When temperatures rise, heavier beers like stouts and porters tend to take a backseat, while lighter, brighter styles take over.
From what we see in-store every year, customers gravitate toward:
- Lower ABV beers that you can enjoy over time
- Crisp, clean lagers
- Citrus-forward beers with lemon or orange notes
- Fruited beers and sours
- Light-bodied craft IPAs
One of the most consistent summer staples we carry is Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy, which combines beer with lemonade for a smooth, refreshing finish. It’s one of those beers that shows up every year and disappears just as quickly once the weather peaks.
Other great warm-weather picks we’ve been stocking recently include beers like Dogfish Head Citrus Daydream Lager, which leans into citrus flavors, and Bell’s Flyover Light Lager, a clean and easy option for any occasion.
If you’re spending time outdoors, hosting a BBQ, or heading to the beach, these types of beers are exactly what you want in your cooler.
What Are the Summer Style Beers?
Summer beers aren’t just one category — they cover a range of styles that all deliver a refreshing drinking experience. Here’s a breakdown of the main styles we recommend (and carry in-store):
Shandies & Citrus Beers (Summer Classics)
Nothing says summer like a cold, citrus-forward beer.
Top picks:
- Leinenkugel Summer Shandy
- Leinenkugel Orange Shandy
- Narragansett Del’s Lemon Shandy
- Dogfish Head Citrus Daydream Lager
These are perfect for hot days, offering a light body with a refreshing lemon or orange twist.
Fruity & Tropical Beers
Fruited beers are exploding in popularity — and for good reason.
Try these:
- Goose Island Pineapple Beer Hug
- Sixpoint Pineapple Resin
- Ship Bottom Blueberry
- New Trail Blueberry Crumble Sour
- Yards Philthy Peach
These beers bring bold fruit flavors without being too heavy, making them ideal for summer sipping.
Light Lagers & Easy Drinkers
Sometimes you just want something crisp and crushable.
Great options:
- Bell’s Flyover Light Lager
- Busch Light (now in 16oz cans)
- Blockhouse Poolside
- Notch Salem Lager
- Corona Sunbrew
These are perfect for cookouts, parties, and long afternoons in the sun.
Ciders for a Refreshing Alternative
Looking for something different? Ciders are a great summer option.
Popular choices:
- Downeast Out of Office Variety
- Downeast Black Cherry
- Rekorderlig Blood Orange
Ciders are light, refreshing, and perfect for those who want something beyond beer.
Ready-to-Drink Favorites (Huge This Summer)
RTDs and hard lemonades are taking over summer coolers.
Must-try options:
- Surfside Vodka Lemonade & Half & Half
- Monaco Watermelon Crush
- Happy Dad Lemonade
- Mike’s Lemonade (multiple flavors available)
- Not Pizza Vodka
These are easy, convenient, and perfect for the beach or pool.
For Craft Beer Lovers
If you’re looking for something more hop-forward:
- Lagunitas Hazy IPA
- Bald Birds Cloudy Judgement NEIPA
- Fat Heads Hazy Head Hunter
- Toppling Goliath Pseudo Sue
These bring big flavor while still being enjoyable in warmer weather.
Where to Buy the Best Summer Beers
If you’re searching for where to buy the best summer beers, your best bet is Bound Beverages. We rotate our inventory frequently and bring in seasonal releases early.
At our store, we focus heavily on:
- Bringing in seasonal beers as soon as they’re available
- Keeping a wide variety of styles in stock
- Offering both local craft and well-known national brands
- Rotating inventory so there’s always something new to try
Because availability changes quickly — especially for seasonal and limited releases — we always recommend:
- Checking our new arrivals page
- Calling us directly to confirm what’s in stock
- Or stopping by the store to browse in person
Bound Beverages
308 Easton Rd
Warrington, PA 18976
Phone: (215) 343-4070
We serve customers throughout Bucks County and Montgomery County, and we’re always happy to help you find the right beer for any occasion.