While every brewery has its own unique origin story, no San Diego beermaking operation’s is quite like that of Santee’s Pacific Islander Beer Co. The dream of founder Ku’uipoaloha Lawler to celebrate his heritage through craft beer was realized with the help of many. Not investors, but enthusiastic friends and even strangers who came together on weekends to help build the brewery, tasting room and outdoor patio area. They didn’t do it for money or perks, but simply because, like Lawler, they wanted a place like Pacific Islander to exist.
Over the next nine years, those same enthusiasts—and many more—regularly flocked to the East County brewery to kick back and enjoy the “islander spirit” with beers in hand and smiles on their faces. The brewery became a hot spot for special events, including live music shows and fundraisers, and made it through the height of the pandemic, as well as challenging years that saw other Santee breweries, including Twisted Manzanita Ales and Council Brewing, go out of business. Unfortunately, that is what now lies in store for Pacific Islander as it prepares to close its doors.
Lawler says the rising costs of rent, labor, goods, utilities and insurance are what have led to this point. While he is disappointed Pacific Islander is coming to an end, he is grateful to the public for keeping the business going for as long as it did and happy to have been part of San Diego’s renowned craft-beer industry.
When asked about highlights from the past nine years, Lawler has a lengthy and impressive list. “The customers that became friends, the friends that became family. Making craft beers that people love to drink. All the employees that have worked hard for us and made it happen every day, and every person that helped us build out the brewery. Much aloha!”
Pacific Islander will remain open today through Tuesday, August 8. There will be live music on Friday and Saturday as well as a variety of food deals for those looking to help the business go out in style.
“To our customers, your kindness, hugs and never-ending support got us through COVID,” says Lawler. “I could shout-out thousands of names but each one of you knows we care about all of you and your family. Mahalo nui loa.”
Pacific Islander Beer Co. is located at 8665 Argent Street in Santee