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The 10 Best Ice Cream Shops in San Diego (2026)
San Diego’s ice cream scene blends beachside counters, neighborhood parlors and seasonal paleta stands, so we assembled a list that reflects both ratings and real-world popularity. This ranking is built from Google review data and uses a weighting method that favors high ratings backed by robust review counts; it was updated for 2026. Whether you’re chasing gelato, classic scoops or handheld frozen treats, the city’s varied micro-neighborhoods offer options across price and style. Below you’ll find the ten highest-ranked shops on Google in San Diego, ordered by that weighted score.
This ranking is computed from Google reviews (our method). Listings marked Partner are paid advertising spots: they sit alongside the ranking without changing its order.
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MILKISSIMO GELATO
MILKISSIMO GELATO tops our list because it pairs an almost-perfect Google rating (4.9) with a substantial review base (602 reviews), which gives it a strong weighted score under our methodology. The business is listed in Google as an Ice Cream provider and the name indicates a focus on gelato. In short, its combination of near-perfect feedback and high review volume pushes it ahead in this ranking.
The full ranking
Pacific Beach Ice Cream Co.
Pacific Beach Ice Cream Co. holds a 4.9 Google rating based on 505 reviews and is categorized as Ice Cream. The name indicates it operates in the Pacific Beach neighborhood.
505 reviews
Silver Hoof Creamery
Silver Hoof Creamery appears as an Ice Cream listing on Google with a 4.9 rating from 61 reviews. The business is shown at a Congress Street address in San Diego.
61 reviews
Stella Jean’s Ice Cream
Stella Jean’s Ice Cream is categorized as Ice Cream and carries a 4.8 rating across 1,193 Google reviews. Its Google entry lists a Park Boulevard address in the city.
1193 reviews
Mr. Frostie
Mr. Frostie is listed as Ice Cream with a 4.8 rating from 1,019 reviews on Google. The listing shows a Garnet Avenue address.
1019 reviews
Mariposa Ice Cream
Mariposa Ice Cream appears on Google as an Ice Cream spot with a 4.8 rating based on 639 reviews. Its recorded location is on Adams Avenue.
639 reviews
Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream
Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream has a 4.8 Google rating from 450 reviews and is categorized as Ice Cream. The Google listing includes a Mission Boulevard address.
450 reviews
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream is listed as Ice Cream with a 4.8 rating from 374 reviews. Its Google address on La Jolla Village Drive identifies it in La Jolla Village.
374 reviews
Pop Pops Paleta
Pop Pops Paleta shows a 4.8 rating from 330 reviews on Google and is categorized under Ice Cream. The business is listed at an India Street address.
330 reviews
Stella Jean’s Ice Cream Pacific Beach
Stella Jean’s Ice Cream Pacific Beach is an Ice Cream listing with a 4.8 rating from 171 Google reviews. As the name states, this location operates in Pacific Beach.
171 reviews
Frequently asked questions
How should I choose an ice cream shop in San Diego?
Look at recent reviews to gauge consistency, check the number of reviews to see how many people have weighed in, and consider the type of treat you want (gelato, classic scoops, paletas). Also factor in location and hours so it fits your plans.
What does an average visit to an ice cream shop typically cost?
Prices vary by format, portion size and add-ons, but most visits are affordable for an individual treat. Check the shop’s menu online or call ahead for current pricing if you need to budget precisely.
How was this ranking created?
The list is based on Google review data and uses a weighting approach that favors high average ratings supported by substantial review counts, updated for 2026. That means shops with both excellent scores and many reviews rank higher than those with similar ratings but fewer reviews.
When should I contact a shop for a large order or event?
Contact the shop well in advance—especially on weekends and during warm-season weekends—so they can confirm availability and any minimums. Ask about lead time, deposit requirements and whether they can handle on-site service or delivery.