10 Donut Shops In California Everyone Should Visit At Least Once

California has some of the most amazing donut shops you’ll ever find, from quirky family-owned bakeries to trendy spots with wild flavors. Whether you’re craving a classic glazed or something totally unique like maple bacon, the Golden State has it all.

I’ve rounded up the best donut destinations that deserve a spot on your bucket list. Get ready to discover sweet treats that will make your taste buds dance!

1. Randy’s Donuts – Inglewood

You’ve probably seen this place in movies and TV shows without even realizing it. That giant donut on the roof makes it one of the most photographed bakeries in the entire state.

Walking inside feels like stepping back to 1953 when it first opened. The donuts here are made fresh every single day, and the classic glazed ones practically melt in your mouth.

Grab a dozen to share with friends or keep them all for yourself. No one’s judging!

2. Bob’s Donuts – San Francisco

Open 24 hours a day, this spot has saved countless late-night cravings since 1960. Locals swear by the apple fritters, which are bigger than your head and loaded with cinnamon.

The staff here treats everyone like family, remembering regulars and their favorite orders. You’ll find everything from traditional cake donuts to fancy filled varieties that ooze with cream.

Stop by after exploring the city or before catching an early flight. Either way works perfectly!

3. Sidecar Doughnuts – Costa Mesa

Fancy flavors meet old-fashioned baking techniques at this award-winning bakery. Each donut gets handcrafted using ingredients from local farms and producers around Orange County.

Try the huckleberry or butter and salt varieties if you want something different from boring grocery store donuts. They rotate seasonal flavors monthly, so there’s always something new to taste.

Be warned though: lines can get pretty long on weekends. Show up early for the best selection!

4. DK’s Donuts – Santa Monica

Walking distance from the beach, this family-run shop pumps out over 100 different varieties daily. Seriously, the selection is absolutely mind-blowing when you first see the display cases.

From blueberry cake donuts to red velvet cream-filled ones, your hardest decision will be choosing just a few. The owners immigrated from Cambodia and built this business from scratch with pure dedication.

Grab your donuts and head to the pier for the ultimate California experience!

5. Psycho Donuts – San Jose

Forget everything you thought you knew about boring donuts because this place takes creativity to another level entirely. The shop’s theme celebrates all things quirky and unusual with names like Cereal Killer and Massive Head Trauma.

Each creation looks almost too cool to eat, decorated with cereals, candies, and toppings you never imagined on a donut. The staff wears lab coats and the whole vibe feels like a fun science experiment.

Perfect for Instagram photos and adventurous eaters alike!

6. Donut Man – Glendora

During strawberry season, people drive for hours just to try the famous fresh strawberry donuts here. Whole strawberries get placed right on top of fluffy dough, creating something magical and delicious.

The shop has been around since 1972, and the recipes haven’t changed one bit. Besides strawberries, they also make incredible peach donuts when summer rolls around.

Check their social media before visiting because these seasonal specialties sell out lightning fast. You’ve been warned about the crowds!

7. Stan’s Donuts – Westwood

Right near UCLA’s campus, this legendary spot has fueled students through countless all-night study sessions since 1965. The chocolate raised donuts have achieved cult status among alumni who still make pilgrimages back.

Everything gets made on-site using recipes passed down through generations of the same family. You’ll taste the difference between mass-produced junk and real handmade quality immediately.

Open until midnight most nights, making it ideal for satisfying those late-evening sweet tooth attacks!

8. California Donuts – Los Angeles

Located in Koreatown, this shop gained fame after appearing on countless food shows and social media posts. Their donuts look like edible works of art with intricate designs and flavor combinations.

Try the Fruity Pebbles donut or the Homer Simpson-inspired pink frosted creation for maximum fun. The owners experiment constantly, bringing Asian-inspired flavors into traditional American treats.

Open 24/7, so your donut dreams can come true any time of day or night. Sweet!

9. Donut Bar – San Diego

Lines wrap around the block every morning because people know these gourmet creations are worth the wait. Each donut gets loaded with premium ingredients like real maple syrup, fresh fruit, and quality chocolate.

The Creme Brulee donut features a torched sugar top that cracks perfectly when you bite into it. They also offer vegan and gluten-free options so everyone can enjoy something special.

Arrive before 10 AM on weekends or risk missing out on popular flavors completely!

10. Donut Friend – Los Angeles

Who says vegan donuts can’t be absolutely incredible? This punk rock-themed bakery proves plant-based treats can taste just as good as traditional ones.

You get to build your own custom creation by choosing the base donut, glaze, and toppings from their creative menu. All the flavors have punny names inspired by bands and song lyrics, making ordering extra entertaining.

Even hardcore donut lovers who aren’t vegan admit these taste amazing. Give them a chance and you’ll become a believer!