Tampa-born brewery, lagoon company launch craft beer collaboration

The company behind four of Florida’s biggest artificial lagoons has introduced a new way for guests to cool off this summer, teaming up with a Tampa-based brewery to create its own signature craft beer. 

MetroLagoons, which operates a network of massive, crystal-clear artificial lagoons across Tampa Bay and Southwest Florida, can now offer guests a sip of its own signature craft brew: Lagoon Lager, created by Florida Avenue Brewing Co.

Brewed exclusively for lounging lagoonside at one of MetroLagoon’s four locations, the crisp craft beer features a subtle hint of tangerine and costs $7 per 16-ounce can, according to a release. The two Tampa-based companies introduced the new brew this month — one of more than 30 beer and business collaborations Florida Avenue Brewing Co. has launched since opening in 2010. 

“We’re excited to introduce Lagoon Lager to all MetroLagoons locations,” says Scott Tolmach, vice president of food and beverage at MetroLagoons, in the release. “We’re proud to partner with a fellow Tampa business to create a beer that reflects the MetroLagoons experience. With its light, crisp, and refreshing flavor, Lagoon Lager is the perfect complement to a day at the lagoon, whether you're relaxing on the beach, celebrating with friends and family, or simply enjoying the Florida sunshine.”

Florida Avenue Brewing Co. is one of the largest independent craft breweries in the Tampa Bay region, operating a 30,000-square-foot production facility and taproom in Wesley Chapel along with its original location-turned-innovation hub in Tampa’s Seminole Heights neighborhood.

MetroLagoons also got its start in Tampa and pairs its network of massive, human-made lagoons with residential communities. MetroLagoons locations offer roughly six acres of clear blue water surrounded by white sandy beaches, with such amenities as resort-style swim-up bars, food trucks, live entertainment, floating obstacle courses, water slides and more. 

Guests can purchase a day ticket with “Splash Pass” for about $20 to experience the lagoon and upgrade their ticket with shaded rental spaces and water activities, according to the release. 

MetroLagoons manages four locations: Brightwater Lagoon in North Fort Myers, Epperson Lagoon in Wesley Chapel, Mirada Lagoon in San Antonio and Southshore Bay Lagoon in Wimauma.

“We’re proud to partner with MetroLagoons to create a beer that encompasses everything people love about spending time in the Florida sunshine,” says Anthony Derby, founder and CEO of Florida Avenue Brewing Co., in the release. “Lagoon Lager is brewed to complement days by the water and relaxing with friends and family. As two Florida-based brands, it’s especially rewarding to bring this collaboration to life for our local community.”