Best Donuts in San Diego

There’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a fluffy, sinfully sweet donut, am I right?! For donut lovers, the quest for the perfect pastry can be a tasty journey, and San Diego has no shortage of incredible donut shops to explore. However, if you’re on the lookout for the very best, your search ends with THE GOODS.

Nestled in the charming coastal town of Carlsbad in North County San Diego, THE GOODS is a delightful gem that stands out in the crowded donut landscape. This darling little shop is known for its wide and rotating selection of gourmet donuts, each crafted with care and creativity. Whether you’re a traditionalist, an adventurous eater, or someone with dietary restrictions, THE GOODS has something that will satisfy your sweet tooth.

A Bite of Heaven: The Signature Flavors

One of the highlights of THE GOODS is their ability to cater to a diverse range of tastes with their innovative flavors. My boys, being carnivores at heart, always gravitate towards the Vermont Maple Bacon donut. This savory-sweet combination features a fluffy donut topped with rich maple glaze and crispy bacon, a blend that tantalizes the taste buds with each bite.

For those who prefer something classic yet whimsical, the Tahitian Vanilla and Traditional Sprinkle donuts are perennial favorites among little kids. These options offer a nostalgic taste that never goes out of style, with the perfect balance of sweetness and the perfect texturey bite.

Filled Donut Delights

Filled donuts are a winner, and THE GOODS doesn't disappoint with their luscious selections. Indulge in the creamy decadence of the Nutella Butter Cream, a heavenly match for any chocolate lover. The Citrus Cream offers a refreshing burst of tangy flavor, making it a perfect pick-me-up. And who could resist the timeless appeal of a Boston Cream Pie donut? Oh. My. Yummmm!!! Each filled donut at THE GOODS is crafted to provide a satisfying and delicious experience, with rich fillings that ooze out with every bite.

Gluten-Free and Vegan: No One Is Left Out

For those of us with food allergies or specific dietary needs, finding a good donut can be a challenge. Fortunately, THE GOODS offers a fantastic range of gluten-free and vegan (GF/V) options that don’t compromise on flavor or texture.

As a gluten-free aficionado myself, I can vouch for the exceptional quality of THE GOODS’ GF/V donuts. Some of my all-time favorites include the Boston Cream Pie with its rich custard filling and chocolate glaze, the Tahitian Vanilla which is wonderfully fragrant and sweet, the Churro donut that boasts a delightful cinnamon sugar coating, and the Seasonal Berry which provides a burst of fresh, fruity goodness. It’s so hard to choose just one flavor, so I often find myself stocking up on a variety of these delicious GF/V treats.

Donuts and a Beach Stroll: A Perfect Pairing 

One of the most delightful aspects of visiting THE GOODS is its prime location just a short walk from Carlsbad State Beach. After savoring your favorite donut, take a leisurely stroll down to this beautiful beach, where you can enjoy the stunning coastal views, the sound of the waves, and the fresh ocean breeze. Pairing a delicious donut from THE GOODS with a serene beach visit creates an idyllic start to any day, blending the pleasures of gourmet indulgence with the natural beauty of Carlsbad’s coastline.

Time to Eat

If you’re in San Diego and haven’t yet visited THE GOODS, you’re missing out on a truly exceptional donut experience. Whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, or somewhere in between, this charming Carlsbad shop has the perfect donut waiting for you.

Plan Your Visit

Ready to treat yourself to the best donuts in San Diego? Head over to THE GOODS in Carlsbad, and prepare to be amazed by their incredible selection. Trust me, one bite, and you’ll understand why this little shop has such a big reputation.

Location: 2965 State St, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Hours: Mon-Sun: 6:30 AM - 3:00 PM

Embrace the joy of indulgence at THE GOODS, where every donut is crafted with love and served with a smile.

Alison Hatch is an analog film photographer, educator, podcast host, and artist. Alison offers her Albuquerque and San Diego clients a stress-free and memorable experience getting photos taken. She has been featured in Shoot It With Film and published in the Front Steps Project Book. Alison splits her time between New Mexico and Southern California with her husband and three boys.