San Diego’s Speakeasies & Hidden Watering Holes
From a tiki-inspired hideaway in Little Italy to a swanky secret bar concealed behind a liquor store in La Jolla, there are endless San Diego speakeasies worth exploring. Whether you’re looking to indulge in out-of-this-world libations or tropical-inspired cocktails, plan the perfect Valentine’s Day date, or enjoy a night out with the whole squad, our hush-hush hideaways offer something for everyone. Here’s how to enjoy some of the best hidden watering holes in town!
Oculto 477 (4.4 miles away)
(Photo: @oculto477)
Oculto 477 is the only cemetery-adjacent speakeasy in the country. It pays its respects to mixologists of the past, as well as to the 477 “inhabitants” buried next door. With politely enforced etiquette and dress codes, this San Diego speakeasy boasts a dedicated mezcal tasting room and an unrivaled whiskey selection. Feeling adventurous? You’re invited to roll the dice (literally) for their “Risk It All” dealer’s choice cocktail. Secret Tip: The entrance is hidden inside Tahona. We won’t tell you exactly where, of course — in this case, finding it is half the fun. But we will warn you: be prepared to confess one of the 7 deadly sins…the choice is up to you!
2414 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110
False Idol (4.6 miles away)
(Photo: @falseidoltiki)
A grotto, wood carvings, a waterfall, and a volcano that can “erupt” at any moment are part of what makes False Idol one of our favorite San Diego speakeasies. Home to more than 200 varieties of rum and known for its Alkala the Fierce cocktail, this hush-hush hideaway is a can’t-miss spot. Secret Tip: A walk-in refrigerator in the back of Little Italy’s Craft & Commerce restaurant may be more than just a place to keep food cold.
675 W Beech St, San Diego, CA 92101
Noble Experiment (6.3 miles away)
(Photo: @nobleexperiment)
An intimate and exclusive spot, Noble Experiment serves up lively libations among a wall of skulls inside one of the city’s longest-running speakeasies. Make a reservation (at the text-only special phone number you can hunt down on their website) well in advance to guarantee your admission to this uniquely fun bar. Secret Tip: The entrance of the speakeasy is through a wall of empty kegs stacked along the wall near the restrooms.
777 G St, San Diego, CA 92101
Youngblood (6.3 miles away)
(Photo: @youngbloodcocktails)
A hidden bar inside another hidden bar?! That is exactly what Youngblood is! Tucked away in Noble Experiment, this glamorous space only has 30 seats and is impeccably decorated with attention paid to even the smallest of details. Secret Tip: Enter through a faux-refrigerator door just beyond the tiled vestibule.
777 G St, San Diego, CA 92101
ReBru Spirits (7.3 miles away)
(Photo: @rebruspirits)
It doesn’t get more authentic than ReBru Spirits, which used to be a real speakeasy! The space is home to a distillery, indoor and outdoor event spaces, a restaurant, butchery, and, of course, a tavern. Once you enter the hidden watering hole, you’ll be transported to a psychedelic wonderland. Enjoy delicious food and drinks from every aspect of this great space! Secret Tip: Enter through the shelf located in the main distillery.
1735 National Ave, San Diego, CA 92113
MOTHERSHIP (8.1 miles away)
(Photo: @sdarchitecture)
MOTHERSHIP is an out-of-this-world, space-inspired San Diego speakeasy. It explores bold, tropical flavors and promises permanent vacation vibes. A sci-fi-lovers paradise, MOTHERSHIP provides creative design and a unique backstory, making it one of the most talked-about spots among locals in 2022. Secret Tip: Open the door at the corner of Juniper and 30th Street. Once through the door, you’ll find yourself in the crash-landing site that is MOTHERSHIP.
2310 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104
Raised by Wolves (13.2 miles away)
(Photo: @raisedbywolvesspirits)
Don’t let Raised by Wolves’ mall location fool you. The San Diego speakeasy is all nostalgia on the inside with frescoes, polished cabinets, marble-tiled floors, and an all-around dazzling atmosphere. You’re sure to be blown away by the rotating bar complete with seasoned bartenders whipping up unique cocktails. Secret Tip: Fittingly tucked in a liquor store, the entrance is behind a revolving wall attached to a hidden fireplace.
4301 La Jolla Village Dr #2030, San Diego, CA 92122
Plan Your Speakeasy Tour
(Photo: @visitsandiego)
Ready to experience these hidden watering holes for yourself? Book your Humphreys Half Moon Inn stay at our Special Offers page, and start planning your San Diego getaway today!