When most travelers picture South Florida, beautiful beaches, tropical waterways and sunny pool days probably come to mind before wineries. But wine lovers—and anyone interested in trying something new—will find several unique tasting experiences within reach of Oakland Park.
The standout is right here in our neighborhood: Brewlihan Mead Company, an innovative local producer creating mead from honey, fruit and other unexpected ingredients. From this Oakland Park favorite to boutique tastings and a tropical winery surrounded by waterfalls, here are some of the best wine and mead experiences to explore during your stay at the Oakland Park Pool & Spa Retreat.
Our Local Favorite: Brewlihan Mead Company—Just Over Two Miles Away
Located just over two miles from the Oakland Park Pool & Spa Retreat, Brewlihan Mead Company is the experience we recommend starting with. Brewlihan is a federally licensed winery specializing in mead—an alcoholic beverage made by fermenting honey rather than the grapes traditionally used for wine.
If your only picture of mead involves medieval feasts or Renaissance festivals, Brewlihan may completely change your mind. Its modern approach ranges from dry and sparkling selections to bold, fruit-forward and dessert-style meads. Depending on the current tap list, you may also find spicy creations, lighter options, cider and frozen slushies perfect for a warm Florida afternoon.
Experimentation is at the heart of Brewlihan’s process. The producers work with high-quality fruit, honey, spices and other ingredients to create flavors that can be playful, surprising and wonderfully complex. Selections rotate, so every visit can offer something different.
The intimate taproom also makes Brewlihan feel like a true Oakland Park discovery rather than a large tourist attraction. It is approachable for first-time mead drinkers while still offering plenty to interest serious craft-beverage enthusiasts.
Why Visit Brewlihan?
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It is just over two miles from the retreat.
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The rotating menu offers flavors ranging from mild to adventurous.
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Flights make it easy to sample several varieties.
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It provides a distinctly local experience you may not find in other destinations.
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The relaxed taproom works well for couples, friends and small groups.
Location: 3472 NE 5th Avenue, Unit 1, Oakland Park, FL 33334
Brewlihan’s taproom is generally open Friday through Sunday, but hours and available selections can change. Check the Brewlihan website or its social media before visiting.
English-Brown Winery: A Boutique Hollywood Experience
For a more traditional wine-tasting atmosphere, visit The English-Brown Winery in Hollywood.
This family-operated micro-winery offers handcrafted wine by the glass, bottle or case, along with private and semi-private tasting experiences. Its boutique setting is welcoming to both experienced wine drinkers and guests who simply want to explore something new without feeling intimidated.
English-Brown also hosts special events and food-and-wine experiences, so it is worth checking the winery’s calendar when planning your visit. Reservations may be required for structured tastings.
Why Visit English-Brown Winery?
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Boutique, family-operated atmosphere
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Guided tasting experiences at several levels
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Handcrafted wines available by the glass or bottle
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Frequent culinary, cultural and social events
Location: 928 N Federal Highway, Hollywood, FL 33020
Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant: Wine Tasting Plus Dinner
If your ideal wine experience includes a full meal, Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant in Coconut Creek is a convenient choice.
The experience begins in a dedicated tasting room where guests can sample a guided selection of Cooper’s Hawk wines. Afterward, you can continue to the restaurant, where the menu is designed with wine pairing in mind.
Unlike Oakland Park’s independent Brewlihan and English-Brown’s micro-winery setting, Cooper’s Hawk offers a larger, polished winery-and-restaurant experience. This makes it especially convenient for a date night, birthday dinner or group outing where some guests may want a tasting while others prefer cocktails or a complete meal.
Wine tastings are generally available on a walk-in basis, while dining reservations are recommended.
Why Visit Cooper’s Hawk?
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Guided wine tastings
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Full-service restaurant with wine-pairing suggestions
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Large wine selection and on-site wine shop
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Easy option for combining a tasting with brunch, lunch or dinner
Location: Coconut Creek, Florida
Schnebly Redland’s Winery: A Tropical Day Trip
For the most immersive winery experience in South Florida, plan a day trip to Schnebly Redland’s Winery in Homestead.
Surrounded by lush landscaping, tiki huts and waterfalls, Schnebly feels more like a tropical escape than a traditional vineyard. Its wines are made from fruits associated with South Florida, including mango, lychee, guava, passion fruit and carambola.
Guests can book a wine tasting, tour the winery or combine both experiences. The property also offers food, live entertainment on select days and an adjoining craft brewery, making it a good option when members of your group have different tastes.
Schnebly is much farther from Oakland Park than the other destinations in this guide, so consider it a full or half-day South Florida excursion rather than a quick tasting-room stop.
Why Visit Schnebly Redland’s Winery?
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Tropical fruit wines unique to South Florida
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Beautiful outdoor setting with waterfalls and lush gardens
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Winery tours and curated tastings
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On-site dining and craft beer options
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A memorable addition to a Miami or Homestead day trip
Location: 30205 SW 217th Avenue, Homestead, FL 33030
Which Wine Experience Should You Choose?
Choose Brewlihan Mead Company for the most local, creative and uniquely Oakland Park experience.
Choose English-Brown Winery for an intimate boutique tasting and handcrafted wine.
Choose Cooper’s Hawk when you want to combine wine tasting with a full brunch, lunch or dinner.
Choose Schnebly Redland’s Winery for a scenic tropical day trip and the most immersive winery-style outing.
Plan a Relaxing South Florida Getaway
One of the best parts of staying in Oakland Park is being able to balance local exploration with plenty of time to relax. Spend the afternoon sampling creative meads or South Florida wines, then return to the Oakland Park Pool & Spa Retreat to unwind beside the canal or enjoy a quiet evening on the terrace.
Please enjoy responsibly and consider using a rideshare service when visiting tasting rooms.
Ready to plan your stay? Book the Oakland Park Pool & Spa Retreat and discover a side of South Florida that goes well beyond the beach.