San Diego, a city known for its vibrant music scene and sunny disposition, is a haven for guitarists of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro shredding on stage or a beginner just strumming your first chords, finding the right guitar store is crucial. Luckily, San Diego boasts a fantastic array of guitar shops ready to cater to every need and musical style. From vintage axes to modern instruments and essential accessories, let’s explore some of the best Guitar Stores San Diego Ca has to offer, ensuring you find the perfect gear to fuel your musical journey.
A pink electric guitar displayed at Music Mart guitar store in Solana Beach, San Diego
Music Mart
Forget those intimidating big-box stores. Music Mart in North County offers a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere where trying out instruments is not just allowed, it’s encouraged. Understanding that finding the right guitar is a personal experience, Music Mart invites you to plug in and play, helping you discover your perfect six-string soulmate. They provide a comfortable space to explore their selection and find the instrument that truly resonates with you.
Address: 122 South Solana Hills Drive, Solana Beach
Hours: 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday–Saturday; 12p.m.–5 p.m. Sunday.
A collection of used and vintage guitars at Imperial Vintage Guitars shop in Kearny Mesa, San Diego
Imperial Vintage Guitars
Is there an old guitar gathering dust in your attic? Imperial Vintage Guitars in Kearny Mesa is the perfect place to breathe new life into it. Specializing in pre-owned and vintage instruments, they offer expert repair services, ensuring these cherished guitars are treated with the utmost care. If you’re looking for a guitar with character and history, Imperial Vintage Guitars is a treasure trove of unique finds.
Address: 7878 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, Suite 5, Kearny Mesa
Hours: 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday; Wednesday by appointment only; Closed Sunday.
A vintage steel guitar at Moze Guitars music shop in La Mesa, San Diego
Moze Guitars
For musicians seeking something a little different, Moze Guitars in La Mesa is a must-visit. This niche shop boasts a unique collection of instruments beyond the standard electric and acoustic guitars. Explore lap steels, mandolins, and banjos, perfect for expanding your sonic palette or diving into genres like country, bluegrass, and folk. Moze Guitars offers a specialized selection for players looking to explore less common instruments.
Address: 8415 La Mesa Boulevard, Suite 1, La Mesa
Hours: 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday–Friday; 10:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday; closed Sunday.
The interior of Mark's Guitar Exchange music store in Midway District, San Diego, showcasing a wide selection of guitars
Mark’s Guitar Exchange
If you’re after sheer variety, Mark’s Guitar Exchange is your destination. With a superstore-sized selection at their Midway Drive location, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for. Conveniently located near the SOMA music venue, it’s the perfect spot to upgrade your gear after catching a show. Mark’s Guitar Exchange offers an expansive inventory, ensuring a wide range of choices for every guitarist.
Address: 3233 Midway Drive, Midway | 945 Otay Lakes Road Unit G, Chula Vista
Hours: Midway District – 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday–Friday; 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Saturday; 12p.m.–5 p.m. Sunday. Chula Vista – 12 p.m.–8 p.m. Monday–Friday; 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Saturday; 12p.m.–5 p.m. Sunday.
A red electric guitar on display at Pitbull Audio guitar shop in National City, San Diego
Pitbull Audio
Beyond guitars, Pitbull Audio in National City is a haven for sonic experimentation. While they stock a wide range of guitars, they truly excel in audio accessories, particularly guitar pedals. If you’re looking to sculpt unique soundscapes and delve into effects-heavy genres, Pitbull Audio provides the tools to craft your signature tone. Explore their extensive pedal selection to add depth and character to your music.
Address: 300 West 28th Street, Suite 101, National City
Hours: 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday–Friday; 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday.
The interior of Harper's Music Store in Chula Vista, San Diego, a long-standing South Bay music institution
Harper’s Music Store
A South Bay institution since 1962, Harper’s Music Store in Chula Vista is deeply rooted in the local music scene. Recommended by the grindcore and metalcore communities, they offer a welcoming environment and accessible options, including a rent-to-own program starting at just $19. Harper’s Music Store makes music accessible to everyone, especially aspiring young musicians.
Address: 627 H St. #B, Chula Vista
Hours: 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday–Friday; 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
Guitar repair services being performed at Music Store Live in National City, San Diego
Music Store Live
For ultimate convenience, Music Store Live in National City brings the guitar store experience to your doorstep. Praised for its online service, they offer free shipping and 30-day returns, allowing you to shop from the comfort of your home. While they have a physical location, their online presence makes acquiring guitars, pianos, basses, and drums incredibly easy.
Address: 300 W 28th St Ste #102, National City
Hours: 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Friday; Closed Saturday and Sunday.
The interior of Top 40 Guitars in Santee, San Diego, known for sourcing rare and sought-after guitars
Top 40 Guitars
Hunting for that elusive dream guitar? Top 40 Guitars in Santee specializes in sourcing hard-to-find and wishlist items. With a dedicated team of buyers, they curate a unique inventory and even offer a guitar-finding service. If you have a specific instrument in mind, Top 40 Guitars can help make your dream a reality.
Address: 8774 Cuyamaca St suit b, Santee
Hours: 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday–Friday; 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday; Closed Sunday.
A collection of guitars displayed at Dusty's Guitar music store in Oceanside, San Diego
Dusty’s Guitar
Claiming the title of “North County’s favorite guitar shop,” Dusty’s Guitar in Oceanside has been serving the community since 1979. This family-owned store offers a comprehensive music experience with repairs, lessons, and appraisals alongside their extensive guitar selection. Dusty’s Guitar is a long-standing hub for musicians in North County, providing a wide range of services.
Address: 1609 S Coast Highway, Oceanside
Hours: 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday–Friday; 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Sunday.
The interior of Moonlight Music in Encinitas, San Diego, a local favorite known for guitars and children's rock camps
Moonlight Music
Moonlight Music in Encinitas has been a local fixture since 1991, known for its guitar selection and community engagement. Beyond instruments, they offer music lessons and popular children’s rock camps during the summer. Moonlight Music is a family-friendly store that fosters musical growth in the community.
Address: 467 South Coast Highway, Encinitas
Hours: 12 p.m.–5 p.m. Tuesday–Saturday; Closed Sunday and Monday.
The interior of Music Central in Mira Mesa, San Diego, a family-owned store with a wide range of instruments and lesson books
Music Central
Music Central in Mira Mesa is a beloved small business offering a wide array of instruments, from guitars to ukuleles, along with a comprehensive selection of accessories. This family-owned shop also supports musical education with instructional lessons and books. Music Central is a one-stop shop for all your musical needs and learning resources.
Address: 8139 Mira Mesa Blvd, Mira Mesa
Hours: 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday–Friday; 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Sunday.
From vintage gems to modern marvels, San Diego’s guitar stores offer something for every musician. Whether you’re seeking expert repairs, lessons, or your next dream guitar, explore these local shops to experience the best of San Diego’s musical instrument scene. You’re sure to find the perfect place to plug in and amplify your passion for music in sunny San Diego.
