Book Stores in San Diego, CA

30 locations found near San Diego

“I've seen a review before saying that this place is just photo-bait for tourists, to some extent its doing that on one side, but it also incorporates itself to the community really well. I've seen some rare art books usually go for 1/2 to 3/4 of what you would find online or at other secondhand bookstores, from 1st edition Muybridge reference books to stuff by Vanderpoel. The pricing is fair enough for the curation. They also support independent publishing and consigning + local events so it wouldn't be doing as good as it is with the foot traffic that it receives without the local support.”

4.8 Superb268 Reviews

“This was an adorable little spot I stumbled upon thanks to TikTok while I was visiting SD. They have a huge variety and I love how organized and categorized everything was. I bought a book I had been eyeing for a while and the cutest bookmark! The staff were not very friendly, though.”

4.9 Superb83 Reviews

“beautifully crafted store with a welcoming and inclusive presence to all. the cats are the star of the show but there’s something for everyone at this bookstore!”

4.8 Superb83 Reviews

“Nice bookstore with friendly staff. The store has two parts: one side with things like greeting cards and tchotchke type things and another side with books. They have a pretty decent selection of books and the staff will help search their inventory or order books for you if they don’t have it on the shelves.”

4.7 Superb247 Reviews

“My favorite bookstore in San Diego. It’s the perfect spot to find something new for the reader who isn’t quite sure what to read next, because they curate their collection and place bookseller recommendations along the shelves. They aren’t a massive space and therefore will not have the same volume of books as a big-box store, but they will also order anything they don’t have in stock.”

4.8 Superb159 Reviews

“I happened upon this charming store after a doctor appointment. So happy I did because the owners were very welcoming, knowledgeable and delightful to talk to. The store was filled with the wonderful scent of incense. This small space is filled with great reads, candles, crystals, jewelry and so much more. I will be going back for more items and a reading or two. I encourage anyone to seek this store out for their metaphysical items as you will not be disappointed.”

4.6 Superb191 Reviews

“So in love with this place—the booksellers know their inventory, give great recommendations, and just make me appreciate customer service once again!! They were so helpful in giving us recommendations for kids graphic novels and Japanese inspired books for youth. Hoping my son will want to come back time and time again as his love for books grows.”

4.8 Superb153 Reviews

“Trying to support my grandma & sweating at the same time ??.... Thank you BARBARA & SIDNEY FOR YOUR HEEELP! both are KIND and very PLEASANT.... WOW????! Barbara knows about all the books and meditation.... SIDNEY helped and assisted me! #ThankYou??✊??”

4.5 Superb222 Reviews

“Awesome store. Large, lots of choice and friendly staff.

Maybe you could add “local”/touristy postcards (with images of San Diego) to your collection, in addition to the traditional happy birthday/get well/… cards. This would be helpful to tourists (like me)”

4.5 Superb135 Reviews

“I don’t live in San Diego anymore, (☹️) but I just ordered two Ocean Beach tank tops for my husband. I’ll bet very few people in Raleigh, NC have these cool tank tops. I love The Black and stop by anytime I get to visit my beautiful Ocean Beach San Diego.”

4.6 Superb126 Reviews

“One of my favorite bookstores when I lived in San Diego a few years back. Got to revisit this past week and was happy to find it still open for business and thriving. They’ve even reorganized things and I like the new setup. Great to see small business bookstores doing so well. Found some great books to add to my collection of course. And already look forward to my next visit!”

4.7 Superb105 Reviews

“i wasn't having the greatest day today, but Brett the cashier really brightened up my day! on top of that, found exactly what i was looking for, and was able to get a nice $10 discount with their rewards program. i always love coming to this Barnes & Noble”

4.5 Superb132 Reviews

“Been coming here since I moved to the area 4 years ago. First, it’s small. Second, they have new, used and rare books. I used to love browsing the aisles in search of treasure. They’ve recently remodeled to look less like a used bookstore—put all the new, shiny things front and center and moved everything else to the back behind a curtain, which I’m a little bummed about. But they still put on events for their customers like their Readathon, so the heart of the place is still there.”

4.7 Superb82 Reviews

“Just went in here once so far but I was very impressed by the curation of the children's book area as a mom. I will definitely be back with open wallets and hoping I don't go too broke buying all the goodies. Beautiful shop!”

4.6 Superb58 Reviews

“Great book store very helpful on every topic that comes in my head it's very clean and always has a positive effect, I was able to find the perfect book that fits with my reading time for myself really recommended to everyone ?”

4.3 Superb224 Reviews

“This is honestly the cutest bookstore ever. Although it is pricy, I do enjoy everything they have in there. Specifically had my eye on a hoodie that I had planned to purchase on payday, and I couldn’t believe how fabulous the customer service was from the ladies that work there. Specifically Raquel. I’m not sure if I’m spelling her name right, but she went above and beyond to make sure I got everything I needed and gave me an awesome shopping experience.”

4.3 Superb102 Reviews

“They have the cheapest used books I have seen in San Diego so far! I bought a novel that was pretty much new for 2$, and one that was signed by the author for 4$. Otherwise, most books are between 1-2$.”

4.5 Superb62 Reviews

“The place is great. Dianna is friendly, knowledgeable, and very helpful even to new practitioners. She was so patient with stupid questions I asked her. Her store is practical and charming, full of great handmade products, and has a great vibe.”

4.5 Superb82 Reviews

“This is a must go place among many other attractions in San Diego. In fact, it got to be in the top 10 list for being such a splendid and magnificent architecture in the heart of San Diego, offering a place for book lovers, knowledge seekers etc. There are multiple levels with a huge collection of books, computers, secluded areas to focus on one's work and beautiful views of the beautiful city. There is also an auditorium for various types of events adjacent to a small open area. Parking is nothing to worry about. Come, park and enjoy this luxury.”

4.2 Good203 Reviews

“I had such a fun time here! I work nearby and I’d seen this bookstore multiple times and decided to go in and look around. I was not disappointed. They have a huge selection of books. They also have a hefty selection on legos and little Knick knacks. I loved roaming around and just seeing all the different things. If ever in the area I recommend going in and just looking around for fun or if you’re looking for a book I think they’ll have it available (:The kids selection is pretty big. The biggest selection I’ve seen so far!”

4.3 Superb34 Reviews

“I am taking EMGM 105 and 106 and the bookstore staff was very helpful in helping me find everything I needed for class. The bookstore is a little hard to find, there aren't really any signs. At least that I could find. Its kinda in the middle, back. Its building K1. If you see the child development building in front of you, before you get to the building go around the building on your left and its the next big building.”

4.5 Superb17 Reviews

“Great place to get used but generally in excellent condition books. I noticed that a number of people here complain that their books don't fetch a high enough price for by back. But that's what keeps the prices low. So many books I pay a small fortune for at my fav books store in La Jolla charges the publisher price. An Ann Cleeves book even an older published date but new book is well over $25. The same used book at Pennywise is just a few dollars. And if he buys back one of your books it's even cheaper. People always think their old books are worth more. When that is the case I donate them to Goodwill and take a tax write off!!”

4.2 Good96 Reviews

“Geppetto's is a great toy store located in Fashion Valley plaza. It is a vintage looking boutique toy store. They have such an amazing collection of toys, puzzles and board games, craft and dolls. I always enjoy shopping there. They have a unique collection of merchandises.The service is always exceptional.”

4.5 Superb53 Reviews

“Ann Kinner is the best. If you have a complex cruise coming up, work with her to find a time when she is usually less busy, and you will get an incredible education and she will do her best to keep costs to a minimum!!! No matter where you are starting from- get your advice from her and ship the charts and guides to your launching point!!”

5 Superb32 Reviews

“Book Tree has books that can't be found in other book stores. Book Tree is always getting in old books some that are two or three hundred years old. I love reading about days gone by and how the people coped with having much less than we have access to in today's world.”

4.5 Superb46 Reviews

“Great scented shea butters, oils, jewelry. The Rihanna and Kush butters smelled amazing. The owner was very kind and knowledgeable while showing me around the store. They have a great book and clothing selection that sends great messages. I bought some stickers with quotes from the store. Very easy going atmosphere.”

4.9 Superb61 Reviews

“I went to DG Wills the other week and in ringing up my purchases, I got several nods of approval for my selections. Those subtle blessings were the highlights of my trip to San Diego. I felt like my reading had attained a new level of refinement that day.”

4 Good126 Reviews

“We had a large group, the restaurant was full. We were seated without a long wait, orders were taken in good time and food served without a long wait. Then we were forgotten. Food was excellent and prices reasonable but we had to hunt for service after we received our meal. Too bad.”

4.3 Superb47 Reviews

“Great book store. They're also selling frozen dumplings that's so good. Great selection of tea and dry snack. We need to support the store and help out local businesses.”

4.8 Superb18 Reviews