Craig W.
Yelp
I can't believe I've never reviewed this place. I've only been coming here for, well, in dog years it would be about 5 years. You do the math.
It's simply one of San Diego's best concert venues. It's smallish and cozy and there isn't a bad seat in the house.
Yes, the seats are packed ridiculously close together. It has been that way for years. It's not great but it's also not going to change.
The setting itself is awesome. It's open-air and you're right next to the water. Make sure you peek over at the "boat people" who watch the shows for free.
They offer snacks and beer and cocktails. The alcohol prices are insanely high but, I have to say, the cocktails are strong and excellent. I'm a sucker for a good mai tai and the one they make here has been great forever.
You don't necessarily get many current A-listers here (although you do get some) but there are a lot of acts that were A-listers at one time and are still great. I've seen a zillion great shows here and very, very few clunkers. The sound system is great, too. Also, a lot of the artists will sell/sign souvenirs after the show and I've spoken to and shaken the hands of many top performers. Just bring your hand sanitizer, I guess, if you don't want cooties.
Believe it or not, while it can get a little cold here, and you're right on the water, it's warmer inside the venue than out.
Parking: I've never, ever paid for parking here, never, in over 5 dog years. The lot directly across the street is massive and stretches the length of the island and it's freeeeeee. You may have to walk a little bit but really, it's better than paying $20 or whatever. I've also never gotten a ticket and never had my car messed with in the free beach/bay lot.
Make sure you hit up Fathom (the restaurant) on the pier before the show. Really. Look it up.
You cannot call yourself a San Diegan if you've never been here and I'm not sure you can call yourself an American, either. I'm not one to make bold statements but I'll stand behind this one.