Churning up some of the best ice cream spots in San Diego is harder work than it seems. California has over 80,000 self-proclaimed ice cream shops. And San Diego is a hub for cold, tasty treats after a beach day. Here’s our guide on the ‘you can’t miss it’s of soft serve!
Top Shops for SD’s Best Ice Cream
Several of our honorable mentions are just around the corner from campus and are sure to impress! Whether you have a time gap between classes or need a pick-me-up during another day in America’s finest city — we’ve got you covered.
#10. Scoops La Jolla
Beachside for your convenience, Scoops La Jolla has been scooping ice cream since 2018. They pride themselves on creating an environment for SD families and serving the community quality flavors on a sunny day.
Loma’s Must Try: Cold Brew Shake
#9. Salt & Straw
While it may have started in Oregon, Salt & Straw has migrated over to Little Italy to give San Diego a wide variety of flavors. Working with local partners, Salt & Straw has successfully created unique flavors that are sure to intrigue (because where else can you find the flavor Cinnamon & Honey Fried Chicken?). So after a night of dining in Little Italy, it’s only right to end your night with a sweet treat before making your journey back to campus.
Loma’s Must Try: Panther Coffee Chocolate Tres Leches
#8. North Park Creamery
Locally owned, organic, and family-run — North Park Creamery earned a place on our list for its unique and rotating flavors. Since opening its doors in June 2021, this ice cream parlor has dedicated itself to serving organic soft serve to all locals. Not in the mood for a sundae? North Park Creamery also serves exceptional coffee that can offer a different kind of ‘pick-me-up.’
Loma’s Must Try: Coconut Ube & Dole Whip Twist
(Image Via North Park Creamery)
#7. MooTime Creamery
On Island time? Then you have to pay a visit to this Coronado local creamery. Whether you’re testing out their “mootacos” — a delicious taco-shaped waffle cone, or their “moopies” — your choice of ice cream sandwiched between two cookies, you’re sure to leave with a satisfactory sigh. And don’t forget to grab a pic with Elvis on your way out!
Loma’s Must Try: Peach Crumble
#6. Mariposa Ice Cream
Normal Heights’ local ice cream shop, Mariposa Ice Cream is another option to satisfy all chilled cravings. Whether it be soft serve, coffee, or sorbet, Mariposa has all bases covered.
Loma’s Must Try: Strawberry Sorbet
#5. The Craft Creamery
Just five minutes down the road, the Craft is known for being a hub for Loma students — and for good reason. Also the home to Moniker on Rosecrans, this is your one pit stop for creamy ice cream and coffee.
Loma’s Must Try: Scout Mint Brownie
#4. Stella Jean's Ice Cream Point Loma
You can enjoy Stella Jean’s ice cream in four different San Diego locations! Started on the value of building a strong local community, this ice cream parlor expanded all throughout California to ensure this mission. Whether it be Pacific Beach or Point Loma (depending on where the day takes you), Stella Jean’s offers timeless flavors that show you why this San Diego ice cream shop needs more than one location.
Loma’s Must Try: Strawberry Oat Crumble
(Image via StellaJeans.com)
#3. The Baked Bear
What started as a homemade bakery project turned into one of San Diego’s most iconic creameries. This ice cream cookie shop opened its first store in Pacific Beach and since then has earned nationwide recognition for its from-scratch cookie recipes and seasonal ice cream flavors. Visit the PB location of Baked Bear to try customized, ice cream sandwiches that are made for your personal tastes.
Loma’s Must Try: Snickerdoodle Cookie + Churro Ice Cream
#2. Hammond’s Gourmet Ice Cream
Dubbed as “home of the ice cream flights” Hammond’s Gourmet Ice Cream never disappoints when it comes to unique flavors! Whether you’re into classic vanilla or a “Yippee Skippee” (taken straight from their menu), Hammond’s will always have something for you. Visit this North Park Creamery to see it for yourself.
Loma’s Must Try: Door Country Cherry
#1. An’s Dry Cleaning
Confused as to why a dry cleaner is our top pick? An’s gelato shop opened in a historic dry cleaning building built in 1934. To pay homage to the building’s roots, the name stuck but the profession didn’t! The USA Today award-winning creamery, An’s Dry Cleaning is a San Diego favorite for a reason. If you haven’t been to the San Diego favorite yet, every visit to An’s begins with a flavor tour of their menu, helping visitors sample their selection (which changes every two weeks!).
Loma’s Must Try (as of this week): Carbon Fiber
(Image Via An's Gelato)
We All Scream for Ice Cream
From fan favorites to hidden gems, San Diego has a lot to offer for anyone looking for a sweet treat. Make sure to follow along on our social media for more locally-owned shops we highlight in our community. Not in the mood for something sweet? Check out our guide to the best burrito shops in San Diego for a more savory treat!