50 Best Ice Cream Shops near Imperial Beach

“As the author of The Grant Colson Thriller Series and SERA Archives Thriller Series, I’ve spent a lot of time around Cow-A-Bunga Ice Cream & Coffee, and it’s one of those classic local spots that’s hard to miss.

This is a simple walk-in ice cream shop, but that’s part of the appeal. It’s right near the IB Pier Plaza with plenty of seating around, so you can grab a scoop and head outside to enjoy it by the beach.

I’ve had more scoops here over the years than I can count. The flavor selection is excellent, with plenty of fun options, and it’s the kind of place you keep coming back to without thinking twice.

The staff is always super friendly, which adds a lot to the experience. It’s quick, easy, and welcoming every time.

Inside, the artwork on the walls gives the place a fun, laid-back personality that fits perfectly with the beach vibe. It’s also the kind of relaxed setting I’ve thought about while writing The Maui Desire Romance Series, where simple moments like this can carry a scene.

Overall, it’s a great local stop. Simple, reliable, and exactly what you want after spending time near the pier.“

“Had a great experience here at this Cold Stone. The worker Ilenia gave the most amazing customer service! Her interaction with my family absolutely made our day! She is very sweet and kind and has a heart of gold. We live in Chula Vista but my family will make the drive just to come to this Cold Stone to interact with Ilenia!“

“I love stopping by Arandas Café whenever I’m in Imperial Beach. It’s such a cute little spot and it always feels cozy. This time I got a matcha, their freshly squeezed orange juice, the Monte Cristo, and a parfait — everything was so fresh and honestly so yummy. The vibe is calm, the people are sweet, and it’s just one of those places you’re happy you found. Definitely one of my little go-to gems.“

“As we walked in the first thing we noticed is store was extremely clean, we have not been in for a couple of years (due to previous bad experiences) but heard it was under new ownership. The cakes are really nice we had a Dubai bar and it was 1000/10 also grabbed some shakes their ice cream selection is also really good 100% recommend“

“I was nervous about the flavors, mostly because I didn’t know what they were! But was able to taste test and decided on the Quattroberry and stracciatella. Delicious! Great price- $6.50 for two big scoops! Definitely wanted to go back. Try the dragon fruit/lemon one- super tart and so good!“

“Crème brûlée gelato is addictive!“

“Stopped by this gem while visiting San Diego. The line was out the door, but it moved efficiently and did not take long to get through. Great selection of flavors and the ice cream and waffle cones were awesome! Definitely a worthwhile spot to visit for a treat!“

“The best ice cream in San Diego hands down“

“Very good and authentic Mexican food owned and operated by a great family! Viva Cristo Rey!“

“I normally order the Panda Cloud Foam. Today I ordered the White Rabbit and Meis Keso Both good“

“We stopped by Pop Pops Paleta after dinner in Little Italy and really enjoyed it. I had the Mango Paleta, and it was excellent—it tasted just like biting into a perfectly ripe fresh mango. If you love real fruit flavors, I highly recommend it.

We also tried the Mango Nata. It wasn’t our favorite, as it had an unusual flavor that just didn’t suit our tastes, but that could simply come down to personal preference.

The staff was friendly, and it was a fun place to grab a refreshing dessert while walking around Little Italy.“

“Great ice cream! The cookie dough sundae was awesome!“

“With the commercialized takeover of the creamery industry there aren’t too many true creameries left in this world. I stumbled up Handel’s when I was visiting In’n’Out on a work trip. The slogan “Handmade since 1945” caught my eye and it looked like a creamery I remember as a boy. I was stunned at their setup of ice cream freezers behind the counter. It’s cool to watch them scoop cones! I read about Handel’s story and the people who bought Handel’s did it right when they scaled the business. It definitely feels like a small town creamery which is rare these days.

I had the pistachio ice cream with a waffle cone and it was very good! I got the small and they piled the ice cream high! Definitely worth the price!“

“The flavor of the ice cream is worth the $$$ that we paid for it My favorite flavors are great golden pistachio and butter pecan“

“Every time I visit, the cookies are fresh, warm, and packed with flavor. I love that the menu changes weekly—it keeps things fun and gives me something new to look forward to. The store is super clean, the staff is friendly, and the service is always fast. My favorites so far are the classic chocolate chip and any of their seasonal specials. Definitely worth the hype!“

“We strolled over after Fish Guts and enjoyed a cooling treat after a hot day. The mango shaved ice, avocado pistachio ice and coffee almond fudge all had great flavors. We got cookies to take home also (so good). I will definitely try the shaved ice next time around.“

“One of the most unique ice cream shops in a city filled with great ice cream spots. This one has its own style. Mexican style paleta ice cream with a range of customization options that will satisfy any and all age of kids (including the picky adults). Tuxedo style let's you try two types of chocolate dip. Must try if visiting and have a couple of hours before flying out.. right in downtown close to the waterfront park.“

“Fun sweet treats in the area, by the ballpark. Best mom and kids team running the place. Great flavors, lots of toppings to choose from, love to accommodate your taste palates and adventures, LOL. Don't forget to try if you are in the area.

We tried the banana split and it was yummy, we did switch to include one scoop of the dole whip soft serve.“

“Great food and ice cream. Very good service given by a sweet lady.“

“best local burger spot. Fresh, delicious and great prices. 👍 Support local businesses.“

“One of the most delicious ice creams I’ve ever tried!!! Fast serving, Definitely recommend the caramel with salt, and the yogurt strawberry with… something
… order something with yogurt and you won’t regret!“

“la nieve muy deliciosa(Gelato) matcha late no esta muy concentrado como ami me gusta, el pan que venden muy rico, la chicas que atienden muy amables, pero sobre todo una vista maravillosa... P.D. precios accesibles.“

“La atencion al cliente muy buena.“

“Best cannoli of my life. This is an absolute must stop in Little Italy.“

“Came in with my kids today — first time trying it, after living here for 4 years! The ice cream was delicious and the kids loved their flavors. We tried Gansito, birthday cake and double
Chocolate chip. I loved their gansito, brings back memories of eating them at my grandmas house. Gerardo helped us at the counter. We’ll definitely be back! 😊🍦“

“The place is very clean. Variety of flavors and toppings and the staff is very friendly. Price is about $0.49 per Oz. Filled up with kiwi strawberry, watermelon, and cookie n cream. Comparable with NuYo, but pricier.“

“Stopped here after the beach for a refreshing paleta. The limón is always my go to and it did not disappoint. Perfect texture to bite into with a delicious citrus taste. You can pay extra to get toppings on them. There is a small parking lot here which was a bonus. Not busy at all when we went on a Saturday evening. Would definitely stop again.“

“Best Ice cream in San Diego“

“This place is A+!!! You can buy posicles for 50 cents each or a dozen for only six bucks and you can pick any flavors you want and make your own custom box! I don't know why it's not as popular but it's my favorite store now. Definitely check it out if you can, you won't be disappointed“

“I came here for lunch, the picture of the tacos looked bomb. Unfortunately the taco lady wasn’t there. Dillon who took my order was super helpful in recommending the torta he let me sample Panela cheese to see if I would like it, I got the vegetarian torta and was not disappointed. Dillon was nice enough to offfer me a sample of the strawberries con crema says his mom makes the cream fresh every morning. They were delicious but I opted for the fruit salad instead. It came with papaya, cantaloupe, honeydew melon,mango strawberries apples cottage cheese granola and honey. Everything was fresh and crisp the friendly service got me to stay, even though there is no restroom for customers, something g to consider if you’re a person who is looking for a lunch break and need a bathroom to relive yourself and wash your hands.“

“Love it and delicious... I will be back definitly... Very cheap prices...“

“I Don’t Go Often But When I Do I’m Never Disappointed!! Yum“

“The best ice cream with super unique flavors. Highly recommend!“

“tenders are great ❤️ milkshake too“

“My boys ❤️ the coconut yogurt!!“

“I’ll start off my review with saying great customer service . It shows the owner has put in a lot much of his/her time to train their employees properly . Every time I walk in I am always greeted and never rushed when ordering . I personally love there fruit waters and making my own chip bowl. All prices are decent and affordable so they fit everyones budget . It can get busy from time to time but totally worth the wait . I definitely recommend visiting this location to grab something for your sweet tooth or salty craving:) . Most importantly this location is always clean and sanitized ! You will never see a mess.“

“I have been coming here for a long time and they have everything I have been craving from ice cream I haven’t had in a while to candy and new ice cream I have been seeing all over TikTok and Instagram. The prices are super good and it is a family business with the best service, they take their time and get you what you ordered so quickly. I definitely recommend coming here if you want some to the best snacks!“

“friendly staff and everything we ordered was delicious“

“Malibu Farm on the Pier is one of my favorite spots in town — fresh food, gorgeous views, and that quintessential Malibu coastal atmosphere. I often bring clients and friends here because the setting really captures the lifestyle people fall in love with when they think of Malibu. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or a late afternoon stop, Malibu Farm is always consistent, relaxed, and such a beautiful place to unwind.“

“Omg! I just started working in the area, and I stop by to try it out. The staff was so nice. I got the pineapple sorbet with chamoy and tajin, I was so delicious. I gonna come back and bring my kids, they would live to see them make and roll the ice cream. Super cool experience.“

“Lo que pruebes esta delicioso! 🤤🤤“

“The best place to eat, recommend it by me.“

“recommendation from a friend. tried some Gelato, delicious.“

“Lo que pruebes esta delicioso! 🤤🤤“

“Went for the first time today after passing by after my fitness class several times, my friend and I got several samples of different flavors and the guy working there was very friendly the ice cream was very good and they had a large selection of flavors and the portions were very generous, I ended up going back in to get some for my family.“

“Located near the Taco Bell. The raspado was actually good I thought it would take fake but it was quite good. My kid got the lime one.
I picked up some tostilocos not my favorite honestly. The lacked more toppings. But would go back to try more of the raspados since the syrups looked so tasty and fresh. They also have a nice sitting area to enjoy your treats. Very clean.“

“My Caffee & Pistachio combination was awesome 👍😍“

“I would like to share our wonderful experience with this place. From the moment we arrived, we were treated with professionalism, respect, and genuine care.

The owner, Joe, and the manager, Maik, are outstanding individuals who truly take pride in their business. Maik is an excellent manager—professional, attentive, respectful, and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure customers have a great experience. Joe’s leadership is evident in the welcoming atmosphere and high standards they maintain.

Both Joe and Maik are responsible, fair, and reasonable, making every interaction pleasant and enjoyable. It’s clear that customer satisfaction is their top priority.

I highly recommend this place to anyone looking for exceptional service and a positive experience. Thank you, Joe and Maik, for your dedication and outstanding hospitality!“

“😁❤️ always excellent service“

“Cold Stone Creamery Located in the charming Ferry Landing shops, Cold Stone Creamery in Coronado offers a sweet escape with a wide variety of ice cream creations, cakes, shakes, and smoothies.

We ordered the Cotton Candy and Peanut Butter flavors, both were delicious and definitely hit the spot! Each was $8.95, totaling about $17.90 for two small scoops, which felt a bit pricey for the portion size in my opinion .

There are some chairs and umbrellas just outside the shop, so you can sit and enjoy your treat while taking in the view.

There was a long line when we visited, and we waited around 15 minutes to order. Staff was friendly!“