San Diego's coffee scene continues to thrive, offering everything from quick caffeine fixes to cozy study havens. Whether you're a Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU) student looking for a pre-class pick-me-up or simply exploring the city's vibrant cafe culture, this guide will help you navigate San Diego's best coffee destinations.
Not every cafe serves the same purpose—some are perfect for productivity, while others shine as social spaces or Instagram-worthy retreats. We've organized these shops by what matters most: proximity to campus, study-friendly environments, and aesthetic appeal.
Close-to-Loma Classics
These coffee shops combine quality drinks and convenient locations, making them ideal for PLNU students seeking a quick coffee run between classes.
1. Peet's Coffee
A perennial favorite among first-years and upperclassmen alike, Peet's Coffee sits about a 10-minute walk from campus. It's an excellent spot for those who want to stretch their legs while grabbing quality coffee and breakfast before heading to class.
2. Better Buzz
Located just two miles from campus, Better Buzz offers the best of both worlds: enjoy a leisurely 30-minute walk for your coffee (don’t mind the trek back up Talbot on the way back!), or take advantage of the five-minute drive and convenient drive-thru option.
Beyond exceptional coffee, Better Buzz serves delicious acai bowls—perfect when you need something more to fuel your day.
3. Bird Rock Coffee Roasters
The PLNU shuttle route stops at Liberty Station's Trader Joe's, conveniently located next to Bird Rock Coffee Roasters. What was once a Starbucks has been upgraded to this beloved local roaster. Combine your weekly grocery shopping with a quality latte, then catch the shuttle back to campus—coffee in hand and errands complete.
4. Kakawa Coffee
“Where high-quality coffee meets the rich traditions of Syria and Venezuela.” Just 10 minutes from PLNU, Kakawa Coffee serves gourmet coffee and original espresso drinks. It's an ideal stop before tackling a lengthy class or challenging assignment, offering both the fuel and the focus you need.
San Diego Staples
These well-established coffee shops have earned their reputation among San Diego locals for good reason.
1. Dark Horse Coffee Roasters
With eight San Diego locations (and growing!), Dark Horse has become synonymous with quality coffee in the city. Their distinctive logo, iconic environment, and exceptional taste make them a favorite across multiple neighborhoods—chances are, there's a Dark Horse near wherever you find yourself in San Diego.
2. Philz Coffee
Though not exclusive to San Diego, Philz maintains three local locations in Encinitas, La Jolla, and Del Mar. The incredible brews and welcoming community atmosphere make it worth the extra travel time to visit your nearest Philz location.
3. Subterranean Coffee
Hidden in North Park and South Park, Subterranean lives up to its name by being worth the hunt. Once you discover it, you won't want to leave. Beyond great organic coffee, they serve delicious sandwiches, breakfast items, and acai bowls. The South Park location even features a drive-thru cafe for added convenience.
Let's Get Down To Business
When you need to focus and get work done, these study-friendly spots provide the right environment and caffeine to help you succeed.
1. Moniker Coffee Co.
Close to campus and open until 6 or 7 PM, depending on the day, Moniker offers ample time to complete assignments before grabbing dinner at the Liberty Station Market. The relaxed atmosphere and spacious tables provide the perfect setting for spreading out your work and staying productive.
2. The Template
For those who thrive in creative environments, The Template (as regulars call it) delivers funky vibes and an engaged community. More than just a coffee shop, Template hosts exciting events and workshops on Niagara Avenue in Ocean Beach, providing a supportive atmosphere even during intense study sessions.
3. OB Beans
Founded by PLNU alumni, OB Beans inspires productivity from the moment you walk in. The serene environment paired with quality coffee creates the perfect conditions for focused work. Learn more about the cafe's PLNU roots.
Picture Perfect
For those who appreciate aesthetic spaces and Instagram-worthy moments, these cafes deliver visual appeal alongside excellent coffee.
1. Communal Coffee
With five locations (and more likely to come), Communal Coffee doubles your photo opportunities. The cafe's visual appeal perfectly complements its calm, collected atmosphere and loyal community of regulars.
2. Moe Coffee
True to its name, Moe Coffee serves up adorable vibes alongside quality brews. Choose from locations in Little Italy, North Park, or National City—each one offers photoshoot-worthy aesthetics that will elevate your social media feed.
3. Coffee & Tea Collective
This unique spot combines exceptional coffee with rotating art exhibits, surrounding you with creativity and talent. It's the perfect destination for those who appreciate both quality beverages and visual inspiration.
4. Selva Coffee House
“Bringing community together with plants and coffee.” One of San Diego's newer additions, Selva Coffee House, has quickly become a favorite. This newer spot—located inside of Terra Bella Nursery—brings fresh energy to the local coffee scene.
Other PLNU Favorites
These additional gems deserve recognition for their unique offerings and strong connections to the PLNU community.
1. Scrimshaw Coffee
Located near San Diego State University, Scrimshaw Coffee combines great music with exceptional coffee. When visiting SDSU friends, impress them with your coffee knowledge by introducing them to this solo cafe favorite.
2. James Coffee Co.
Hidden at a location simply called "The Space," James Coffee Co. proves worth the search. This eco-friendly establishment uses sustainable production methods and dedicates itself to crafting your perfect cup of coffee.
3. Juno's Point Loma
Ideal for PLNU students with bikes on campus, Juno's Point Loma (previously Coffee Hub and Cafe) offers community bike rides with other regulars. Beyond incredible coffee, it provides a collaborative community that embodies the friendly Point Loma energy students love.
4. Lestat's Coffee House
When late-night study sessions call, Lestat's on Park Boulevard answers. Open 24 hours, this beloved coffee house accommodates night owls and early risers alike, making it perfect for those marathon study sessions or group projects that run past midnight.
On-Campus Convenience
Don't forget about Bobby B's, PLNU's own on-campus coffee shop! When you're pressed for time between classes or need a quick pick-me-up without leaving campus, Bobby B's provides quality coffee and convenient service right at your fingertips.
Honorary Mention: If You Don't Like Coffee
Not a coffee drinker but still seeking a caffeine kick? CoCo Playa on Rosecrans offers a refreshing alternative. This recently opened dirty soda shop serves creative soda combinations alongside delicious cookies—all available through their convenient drive-thru. Fair warning: their cookies sell out fast, so arrive early to snag your favorite flavors!
Start Exploring San Diego's Coffee Scene
These represent just a fraction of San Diego's thriving coffee scene, but they offer an excellent starting point for discovering your new favorite spots. Whether you prioritize proximity to campus, study-friendly environments, or aesthetic appeal, San Diego's coffee shops have something for everyone.