Top 5 Vinyl Record Shops in San Diego for Music Lovers
San Diego’s vibrant music scene isn’t just about live concerts — it’s also home to some of the best vinyl record stores in Southern California. Whether you’re hunting for rare pressings, vintage classics, or the latest indie releases, these shops have something for every music lover. From cozy neighborhood spots to buzzing downtown locations, here are the Top 5 Vinyl Record Shops in San Diego you need to visit.
Here is list of BEST Vinyl Record Stores in San Diego, CA
Lets explore each Vinyl Stores of san diego in more details.
1. Vinyl Junkies Record Shack – South Park
A favorite in San Diego’s South Park neighborhood, Vinyl Junkies Record Shack is more than just a record store — it’s a community hub for music lovers. Their carefully curated selection includes rare vinyl, CDs, cassettes, and even local band releases.
- Specialties: Rare finds, local music, vintage gear
- Vibe: Mid-century-inspired interior with a relaxed, welcoming feel
- Extra: Live performances on their back patio
📍 Location: 2235 Fern Street, South Park, San Diego, CA
- Pro Tip: Visit during one of their weekend live sessions for a unique shopping experience.
2. FeeLIT – Downtown
Located in the heart of Downtown San Diego, FeeLIT is known for its eclectic collection of new and used vinyl, imports, cassettes, and music merchandise. The staff here are true music enthusiasts and can help you track down even the most obscure record.
- Specialties: Imports, rare vinyl, event hosting
- Vibe: Urban, artsy, and music-focused
- Extra: Special-order service for hard-to-find albums
📍 Location: 909 E Street, Downtown San Diego, CA
- Pro Tip: Keep an eye on their event calendar for in-store DJ nights and record release parties.
3. Cow Records – Ocean Beach
If you’re into classic rock and the vintage SoCal vibe, Cow Records is a must-visit. This cozy shop features vintage wood-paneled walls and a massive selection of records that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
- Specialties: Classic rock, vintage records
- Vibe: Retro, laid-back, beach-town feel
- Extra: Listening area to try before you buy
📍 Location: 5040 Newport Avenue, Ocean Beach, San Diego, CA
- Pro Tip: Pair your visit with a stroll to the nearby Ocean Beach Pier for the perfect vinyl-hunting day.
4. Beat Box Records – Barrio Logan
Tucked into the artsy Barrio Logan district, Beat Box Records is a paradise for serious vinyl collectors. The shop is filled with rare, vintage records, mixtapes, and hard-to-find gems.
- Specialties: Rare vinyl, mixtapes, Latin music collections
- Vibe: Artistic, underground, music-community feel
- Extra: Right next to The San Diego Vintage Company for more treasure hunting
📍 Location: 2148 Logan Avenue, Barrio Logan, San Diego, CA
- Pro Tip: Visit during Barrio Logan art walks for a day full of music, art, and culture.
5. Nickelodeon Records – Normal Heights
Serving San Diego since 1984, Nickelodeon Records is one of the city’s true vinyl institutions. Their collection includes folk, rock, and some wonderfully eccentric categories like the “Smoking Section” and “Music for Dining.”
- Specialties: Folk, rock, eclectic genres
- Vibe: Nostalgic, quirky, and welcoming
- Extra: Deep selection of budget-friendly records for new collectors
📍 Location: 3335 Adams Avenue, Normal Heights, San Diego, CA
- Pro Tip: Ask the staff about their most unusual records — you might discover a new favorite.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a lifelong collector or just starting your vinyl journey, these Top 5 Vinyl Record Shops in San Diego offer something special. From the rare finds at Vinyl Junkies Record Shack to the quirky charm of Nickelodeon Records, each store has its own unique vibe and community.
