San Diego

Though San Diego may be known for its beaches, taco shops, and cotton candy sunsets during the day, after hours, the SoCal beach city turns into a bar-hopping hotspot for tourists and locals alike. It may not have Los Angeles or New York City’s status for late night shenanigans, but its Gaslamp Quarter and beachfront bars offer plenty to keep you occupied until the 2 a.m. closing hour.

Check out our indepth guides to SD nightlife – clubbing & pool parties in San Diego:

• Best Nightclubs in San Diego
• Best Hip Hop Clubs & Pool Parties in San Diego
• Best Pool Parties in San Diego
• Best EDM Clubs & Pool Parties in San Diego
• Best San Diego Club Crawl
• Upcoming nightlife events in San Diego

Looking for more information on each club? Check out our club guides below.

Don’t forget – we also have a free mobile app that you can download here. Use the app to see who’s spinning, sign up for guestlists, buy tickets, and book bottle service at clubs in San Diego!

San Diego Nightlife FAQ

What are the hottest clubs in San Diego?

The hottest clubs in San Diego include Omnia SD, Parq, Sidebar, Mavericks Beach Club, Bang Bang, and Fluxx.

What are the best music festivals in San Diego?

The best music festivals around and in San Diego are Kaaboo Del Mar, San Diego Music Thing, and CRSSD Festival which happens twice a year!

What part of SD has the best nightlife?

Gaslamp Quarter in downtown SD hands down has the best nightlife in San Diego.

What are the best gay clubs/bars in San Diego?

The best gay bars in San Diego are – Gossip Grill, The Rail, The Loft, PECS, San Diego Eagle, Rich’s, and Martinis Above Fourth.

Is the Gaslamp Quarter safe at night?

Gaslamp for the most part is pretty safe at night. There are a ton of people out and about on the streets, and a decent police presence.

What time is last call in San Diego?

Last call in San Diego is 2 AM.

What time do clubs close in San Diego?

Most clubs close around 2. Even the EDM clubs tend to close at 2 – San Diego is definitely not a city where you can party all night.

Is weed legal in San Diego?

Yes recreational weed is legal in San Diego for anyone 21+.

Can you drink on the beach in San Diego?

Alcohol is no longer allowed on any San Diego beaches, including Coronado and State Beaches.

What are the best day parties / day drinking spots in San Diego?

The best day parties in San Diego include Sunburn, Sundais at El Chingnon, and Pool House. Other spots for day drinking include: Burnside, Mavericks, Malahat Spirits, Cafe 21, Blind Burro, Puesto, Counterpoint, Catalina Coastal Italian, and Firehouse Pacific Beach.

Is Pacific beach or Gaslamp Quarter better for nightlife?

It depends what you’re looking for. Gaslamp has more nightclubs and has a high energy vibe. Pacific Beach has a more laid back vibe, with many bars and breweries.

What are the best EDM clubs in San Diego?

The best EDM clubs in San Diego are Omnia SD, Bang Bang, Spin Nightclub, and Bassmnt.

What are the best hip hop clubs in San Diego?

The best hip hop clubs in SD are Parq, Sidebar, and Fluxx.

What are the best after hours spots in San Diego?

Honestly SD doesn’t run that late. Spin Nightclub is sometimes open past 2, but other than that your after hours options are pretty slim pickings.