California’s Most Irresistible Donut Shops Worth Waking Up Early For

California has earned its reputation as a donut lover’s paradise, with shops across the state creating everything from classic glazed rings to wild flavor experiments that push the boundaries of what a donut can be.

Whether you’re chasing a traditional buttermilk bar or hunting for something topped with unexpected ingredients, these bakeries deliver fresh-made magic that’s worth setting your alarm clock a little earlier.

Get ready to discover the Golden State’s most talked-about donut destinations that have locals lining up before sunrise.

1. Sidecar Doughnuts – Costa Mesa

Starting in a tiny Costa Mesa location, this place revolutionized how Californians think about donuts by treating them like culinary art. Every morning brings a fresh batch made from scratch using seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients that change with what’s available.

Their huckleberry donut has achieved legendary status among Orange County residents. You’ll find flavors here that sound more like dessert menu items than traditional bakery fare. The butter and salt option proves that sometimes the simplest combinations create the most memorable experiences.

They’ve expanded to multiple locations, but the original Costa Mesa shop still draws the biggest morning crowds.

2. Psycho Donuts – San Jose

With a name like this, you know you’re in for something different from your standard bakery experience. This San Jose institution embraces weird with flavors and decorations that range from playfully odd to downright outrageous.

Their Cereal Killer donut comes loaded with your favorite childhood cereals piled high on top. I appreciate how they balance novelty with actual good taste – these aren’t just Instagram props. The Fluffer Nutter and Bacon Maple Mayhem have developed cult followings among South Bay residents.

Weekend mornings see lines stretching out the door, but the entertaining atmosphere makes the wait fly by surprisingly fast.

3. DK’s Donuts & Bakery – Santa Monica

Operating 24 hours a day means you can satisfy donut cravings at literally any time, which has made this Santa Monica spot a beloved institution since 1978. The family running it has perfected their recipes over decades of early mornings and late nights.

Their cronut – yes, they were making croissant-donut hybrids before they became trendy – remains my top recommendation. Traditional options like glazed twists and apple fritters never disappoint either. I’ve stopped here after late-night beach bonfires and before sunrise surf sessions, and the quality stays consistent.

The prices remain remarkably reasonable despite the premium Santa Monica location.

4. Stan’s Donuts – Westwood

Since 1965, this Westwood fixture has been serving UCLA students, local families, and anyone who appreciates a perfectly executed classic donut. There’s something comforting about a place that hasn’t changed its winning formula in nearly six decades.

The chocolate frosted raised donut here sets the standard that all others get measured against. I find myself craving their old-fashioned buttermilk bars more often than I’d like to admit. Everything tastes like it came from your grandmother’s kitchen—if your grandmother happened to be a donut-making genius.

Early morning visits reward you with donuts still warm from the fryer, an experience worth waking up for.

5. Donut Bar – San Diego

Walking into this downtown San Diego shop feels like entering a donut wonderland where creativity knows no limits. They’ve taken the concept of specialty donuts and pushed it into territory that borders on architectural achievement.

Their donuts stack high with toppings and fillings that would make most bakers nervous. The maple bacon bar here comes loaded with so much bacon it’s practically a breakfast sandwich in donut form. I recommend coming hungry because these aren’t dainty pastries – they’re substantial creations meant to satisfy serious appetites.

Lines form early, especially on weekends, so plan accordingly or use their online ordering system to skip ahead.

6. Bob’s Coffee & Doughnuts – Los Angeles

Tucked away in Los Feliz, this neighborhood gem has been drawing crowds since the early 2000s with its no-frills approach to donut perfection. I love how they keep things simple yet incredibly satisfying with their rotating selection of handmade treats.

The blueberry cake donut here might just change your entire perspective on what a donut should taste like. Each bite delivers actual fruit flavor rather than artificial sweetness. Their buttermilk bars sell out fast, so arriving early isn’t just recommended – it’s essential.

Fun fact: The shop roasts its own coffee beans on-site, creating the perfect pairing for whatever donut you choose. Locals swear by the maple bacon bar.

7. Dynamo Donut + Coffee – San Francisco

This Mission District favorite treats donuts like a chef would approach a tasting menu, with rotating flavors that showcase seasonal ingredients and unexpected combinations. You won’t find boring options here – every choice on the board tells a flavor story.

Their maple glazed bacon apple donut sounds complicated but tastes like autumn perfection. I’m constantly impressed by how they balance sweet, savory, and tart elements in a single pastry. The spiced chocolate donut with star anise delivers warmth and complexity that lingers pleasantly.

Coffee comes from their own roasting program, ensuring your beverage matches the quality of your donut selection.

8. Donut Man – Glendora

Legendary doesn’t even begin to describe this Glendora institution that’s been operating since 1972 with a focus on fresh fruit donuts that defy expectations. When strawberry season arrives, people drive from across Southern California just to get their hands on these creations.

The fresh strawberry donut comes packed – and I mean absolutely stuffed – with whole, fresh strawberries that overflow from every angle. It’s messy, it’s enormous, and it’s absolutely worth any inconvenience required to get one. Their peach donuts during summer achieve similar cult status.

Arrive early during peak fruit season because they sell out fast and don’t reopen until the next morning.

9. Donut Friend – Los Angeles

Imagine a donut shop meets punk rock record store, and you’ll get the vibe of this Highland Park favorite. Everything here is 100% vegan, which might sound limiting until you taste what they’re creating with plant-based ingredients.

I’m consistently amazed by how they nail the texture and flavor without using any animal products. You can customize your donut by choosing the base, glaze, and toppings, creating combinations that match your exact cravings. The shop names its creations after punk songs, adding an extra layer of fun to your order.

Their late hours make them a lifesaver for evening donut emergencies too.

10. California Donuts – Los Angeles

Open 24/7 in the heart of Koreatown, this place has become famous for donuts that look almost too beautiful to eat. Social media has helped spread the word about their artistic creations, but the taste backs up the visual appeal.

Their Fruity Pebbles donut and Oreo-topped varieties photograph like dreams and taste even better. I appreciate that they don’t sacrifice flavor for appearance – every pretty donut delivers on its promise. The selection changes regularly, giving you reasons to return and try something new.

Late-night visits after concerts or clubs have become a Los Angeles tradition for many locals and visitors alike.

11. Johnny Doughnuts – San Francisco

Quality over quantity defines the philosophy at this small San Francisco operation where everything gets made by hand in tiny batches throughout the day. You’ll find a carefully curated selection rather than overwhelming variety, which actually makes choosing easier.

Each donut here receives individual attention during preparation, resulting in consistent excellence across their entire menu. The salted caramel donut achieves perfect balance between sweet and salty without tipping too far in either direction. Their coffee program takes the pairing seriously, with beans selected specifically to complement their pastries.

Limited daily production means they often sell out, making early arrival or calling ahead the smart move.

12. Fonuts – Los Angeles

Breaking tradition entirely, this Los Angeles shop bakes their donuts instead of frying them, creating a lighter texture that lets flavors shine through more clearly. Skeptics often become converts after their first bite.

The strawberry buttermilk fonut delivers bright fruit flavor without the heavy oil coating of traditional fried donuts. I find myself able to eat more of these without feeling weighed down afterward. Their seasonal offerings incorporate ingredients like blood orange, passion fruit, and other unexpected elements that keep the menu interesting.

Gluten-free options mean more people can enjoy their creations without compromise. The west side location makes them popular with health-conscious Angelenos.

13. Donut Savant – Oakland

What started as a pop-up operation has grown into one of the East Bay’s most sought-after donut destinations, with flavors that push boundaries while respecting tradition. The name promises expertise, and they deliver on that promise consistently.

Their balsamic fig donut sounds fancy because it is, but the flavors work together in surprising harmony. I love how they incorporate savory elements without making donuts taste like dinner. The lemon-thyme donut refreshes your palate while still satisfying your sweet tooth.

Limited operating hours and small production runs mean planning ahead is essential. Check their social media for daily flavor announcements and availability updates.

14. Randy’s Donuts – Inglewood

That giant donut on the roof has been an Los Angeles landmark since 1953, making this possibly California’s most photographed donut shop. But beyond the Instagram opportunities, they’re still cranking out quality traditional donuts daily.

Their classic glazed donut tastes exactly like childhood memories, with a simple sweetness that doesn’t need fancy toppings or trendy flavors. The apple fritters here are massive, crispy on the outside, and packed with cinnamon-spiced apple chunks. I recommend getting the traditional favorites here rather than experimental options – they’ve perfected the basics over seven decades.

The location near LAX makes it a perfect first or last stop for travelers craving authentic LA donut culture.

15. Devil’s Teeth Baking Company – San Francisco

Located in the foggy Outer Sunset neighborhood, this bakery serves donuts that feel more substantial and satisfying than your typical morning pastry. Their approach leans toward hearty rather than delicate, which suits the beach neighborhood vibe perfectly.

The cinnamon sugar donut here tastes like someone took a classic recipe and amplified everything that makes it good. You’ll find generous portions that actually fill you up rather than leaving you wanting more twenty minutes later. Their breakfast sandwiches have earned equal fame, making this a true morning destination.

Surfers and beach-goers pack the small space on weekend mornings, creating a lively community atmosphere worth experiencing.