Music Mart — Attraction in Solana Beach

Visiting Music Mart instantly reminds you why local music shops are so valuable and deserve your continued support and business.

I was researching acoustic guitars to upgrade and compliment the dreadnought I have. I started honing in on Taylor options but the online journey became frustrating and difficult to navigate because of all the choices, models, where to buy, etc. without ever actually playing an instrument. I essentially gave up with buying online given the amount of money the guitars were that I was interested in.

I happened to be in Solana Beach last weekend and got the bug to window shop and demo some guitars. Not wanting to experience super store chaos I found Music Mart on Google - didn't know anything about them or what kind of guitars they even had. Within seconds of walking in I was brought back to the feeling of what this should all be about - local experience with knowledgeable musicians in an intimate atmosphere. It brought me back to my first guitar purchase as a 16 year old in a shop just like this. John and Ken were awesome, knowledgeable, and very intuitive as they listened to me play. They just put a few well-thought options in my reach as they listened to what I said I was looking for and they heard me play. And just as you want it to be, my next guitar found me - a beautiful Taylor acoustic in a form I never would have even considered by shopping online or reading reviews on websites or watching videos. I love my guitar and how it found me.

To all musicians - please support your local music shop! This is a great spot and I'm so happy I...

Are you kidding me?!? Geoff and John literally saved the show! After walking into the shop a couple of weeks ago and trying out a few guitars (John was extremely helpful, patient and informative), I left with the feeling I would definitely come back. Fast forward to yesterday where, at around Noon, my band was setting up for soundcheck at a gig where we about to perform at and...CRACK! The worst sound in the world.... which was that of my Taylor 314-ce falling onto a cement floor where it instantly suffered a crushing blow to its side. I was in disbelief and shock. As I stumbled around in a numb state, I thought I would try an act of desperation...calling Music Mart and see if they could deliver a guitar (the exact same model) within an hour. I expected an obvious "NO" to such a crazy request. Fact is, that these guys delivered the guitar to the location where the gig was taking place...a good 40 minute drive and put it in my hands minutes before the show started. It was strung up, in tune and sounded and played wonderfully. I can't begin to thank you guys for the amazing customer service and dedication to my emergency yesterday. You guys...

If you’re into music at all (whether you're a beginner, a longtime player, or just love the vibe) you have to check out Music Mart in Solana Beach.

The staff here is awesome! Super friendly, zero ego, and genuinely excited to help you find exactly what you’re looking for (or just let you explore). You can tell they’re all musicians who know their stuff but also know how to make people feel welcome, not intimidated :)

The collection of instruments, especially the guitars, is insane!

They’ve got some really unique, rare finds you don’t normally see outside of collector forums or big-city shops. Everything from beautifully aged acoustics to funky vintage electrics and pedals that sound like magic.

The space itself has that relaxed, coastal creative energy where you just want to hang out, plug in, and play. Whether you're picking up your first instrument or hunting down something special, this place is a gem.

Highly recommend stopping by. It’s not just a store,...