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Hey Books!: clear, inviting shop interior view Hey Books!: clear storefront photo of shop Hey Books!: clear, inviting shop interior photo Hey Books!: clear, inviting display of books Hey Books!: clear display of shop products Hey Books!: clear shot of shop branding Hey Books!: welcoming shop interior and staff Hey Books!: clear shop interior and branding Hey Books!: professional photo showing shop atmosphere Hey Books!: clear, professional shop display photo
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Hey Books!

★ 5.0 · 131 reviews San Diego Opened April 2025

East Village's first real bookstore, run by two veteran booksellers

Hey Books! skips the bestseller tables. The two owners spent years selling other people's books before opening their own, and they lean hard on personal recommendations over what's trending.

It landed at 921 E Street in April 2025, East Village's first proper bookstore. New releases sit next to used stock, and weekends bring author readings and signings.

Good to know

  • Street parking on E Street is free on Sundays.
  • The shop is a stop on the annual San Diego Book Crawl in late April.

What guests say

Reviews by Google
  • megan williams 8 reviews 5 July 2026

    We stumbled upon this bookstore when we moved to San Diego a year ago. My partner fell in love with it! Anika and Mathew are so kind and welcoming! The next year they opened on a holiday specifically to let me propose to my fiancé in her favorite book store! They went above and beyond to accommodate us on our special day! It would not have been such a success without their help and their adorable store! They will forever be a part of our journey! Their bookstore is so adorable and such a wonderful collection of books!

  • Miry Song 62 reviews · Local Guide 2 July 2026

    This place is truly magical—it's the best bookstore in San Diego! There were so many interesting books that the whole family could enjoy. Plus, the used books were in excellent condition. Matthew was really amazing and made us feel so welcome. I will definitely come back the next time I visit San Diego. Wishing HEY BOOKS all the best! ♡

  • Juanny Romero 14 reviews · Local Guide 28 June 2026

    This is the best bookstore in the world. The owner is one of a kind character who wants everyone to enjoy themselves in his happy kingdom of curated books. I feel so welcomed and loved when I’m there. There is always a new and interesting book for everyone in our family to buy for so we make it a commitment to go to this store every time we visit San Diego. It’s truly these one of a kind businesses that make our communities better. I’d recommend going, buy with abandon and be richer for it in spirit.

  • Aimee P 4 reviews 17 June 2026

    I was in San Diego for only a short amount of time, but I made sure to still look for places near me so that I could explore the area. In my search, I happened to come across the ultimate gem of a place. I’m a sucker for independent bookstores and this one is so awesome. Not only for its selection and detailed descriptions for handpicked books, but for the people behind the scenes. I had the absolute pleasure of crossing paths with the wonderful Matthew today. His hospitality made me feel right at home for a place I’ve just stepped foot in for the first time. He was so kind in every part of conversation and even provided me with a personalized book suggestion. We need more Matthew’s in the world! Next time I’m in SD, I will absolutely stop back here at Hey Books!

  • Sophie Lee 33 reviews · Local Guide 4 May 2026

    A cozy indie bookstore that opened fairly recently! They offer quite a good variety, from non-fiction to mythology to history, as well as cute book bags, socks, and other small trinkets. Their older, used books are packaged in plastic wrapping to protect them, which is pretty thoughtful. The kids section also has an adorable nook you can sit and read in! Staff was very friendly and helpful.

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