Children at daycare

425 Daycare Centers in San Diego, California

Browse all 425 daycare centers in San Diego, California. Compare options and find the right childcare for your family.

Top 10 Best Rated Daycares in San Diego

Ranked using a weighted score that combines Google rating with the number of parent reviews — daycares with more reviews rank higher than those with a high rating but few reviews. Last updated: March 2026.

  1. 1

    4754 Sea Tern Court, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 14 children

    Montessori Child Development LLC receives consistently excellent reviews from parents who praise the caring, attentive staff and effective Montessori curriculum. Parents report significant improvements in their children's confidence, independence, academic skills, and social development. The school is highlighted for its welcoming environment, strong communication with families, and dedicated leadership.

    Caring and attentive staffeffective Montessori curriculumhe
  2. 2
    Little Angels Academy
    4.8 score
    5(20)

    3078 L Street, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 72 children

    Little Angels Academy receives perfect 5/5 ratings from all parents. Parents consistently praise the caring and attentive staff, smooth transitions for children of all ages, educational activities, and communication through their parent app. Children show strong development and look forward to attending.

    Loving and nurturing staffbilingual teachers availablesmooth transitions for infants and toddlerseducational activities (art
  3. 3

    4895 Saratoga Avenue, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 137 children

    Sacred Heart Academy Preschool in San Diego receives universally positive feedback from parents who praise the caring, dedicated staff and comprehensive curriculum that balances play-based learning with kindergarten readiness skills. Parents consistently highlight the school's effectiveness with potty training, social-emotional development, and strong teacher-parent communication through the Brightwheel app.

    Caring and dedicated teachersstrong kindergarten preparationplay-based learning approachpotty training success
  4. 4

    12285 B World Trade Drive, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 49 children

    Manna's Martial Arts is a highly-rated martial arts studio in San Diego with consistent 5/5 star reviews. Parents praise the quality instruction, strong emphasis on discipline and life skills, and community atmosphere that extends beyond martial arts training. Multiple families report long-term enrollment (8-13 years) and significant positive impacts on their children's confidence, self-defense abilities, and character development.

    Excellent instruction qualityemphasis on safety and respectpersonal attention to studentsflexible class scheduling with unlimited monthly classes
  5. 5

    3743 Front Street, San Diego, CA · Before or After School Daycare · Capacity: 95 children

    Parents consistently praise Fleur de Lis as an exceptional preschool that fosters individual growth, confidence, and a love of learning through a dedicated, play-based curriculum. Staff members are described as caring, professional, and genuinely invested in each child's cognitive, emotional, and physical development. The beautiful natural setting, diverse and welcoming community, and strong preparation for kindergarten are frequently highlighted.

    Individualized attention to each childwarm and caring staffdedicated curriculumbeautiful canyon setting with playgrounds
  6. 6

    1752 Via Las Cumbres, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 60 children

    Manchester Family Child Development Center receives universal 5-star ratings from parents who praise its caring, professional staff, safe and welcoming environment, and focus on child development and learning through play. Parents highlight excellent communication through daily apps and photos, strong parent community engagement, and successful preparation for kindergarten and school transitions. The center has a long-standing positive reputation in the San Diego community.

  7. 7

    9855 Erma Road Ste. 128, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 36 children

    Parents consistently praise Scripps Exploring Academy for exceptional childcare with attentive, caring staff who genuinely bond with children. Families report their children are happy, well-prepared for kindergarten, and experience smooth transitions. The facility is described as clean, welcoming, and homey with strong parent communication.

    Caring and attentive teachershappy childrensmooth transition to kindergartenacademic preparation (reading and writing)
  8. 8

    5075 Ruffin Road, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 90 children

    Chinese Bilingual Preschool receives consistently high praise from parents for its bilingual Mandarin-English curriculum, caring and patient teachers, and strong sense of community. Parents highlight the school's commitment to child development, flexible scheduling, and on-site prepared meals. Children show advanced academic preparation and develop lasting friendships.

    Bilingual Mandarin-English immersioncaring and patient teacherson-site fresh meals (breakfastlunch
  9. 9
    Wee Wisdom Preschool
    4.72 score
    5(13)

    8999 Activity Road, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 50 children

    Wee Wisdom Preschool receives universal 5-star ratings from parents who praise the caring, knowledgeable staff, clean facility, and developmentally appropriate curriculum. Parents highlight strong teacher-child relationships, innovative teaching methods including yoga and meditation, and children's enthusiasm for attending school.

    Caring and knowledgeable staffclean and well-organized facilityindividualized attention to each childdevelopmentally appropriate activities
  10. 10
    Al-Rribat Academy
    4.72 score
    4.9(20)

    7183-A Saranac Street, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 23 children

    AL-RRIBAT Academy appears to be an Islamic center (masjid) rather than a daycare facility. Reviews praise it as a welcoming community space with clean facilities, active programming including classes and events, and knowledgeable religious leadership. Parents describe feeling a strong sense of belonging and community support.

    Clean facilitieswelcoming and friendly communityactive programming (classeslectures

Top Rated

Highest rated daycares in San Diego based on parent reviews

Montessori Child Development LLC

5(20)

4754 Sea Tern Court, San Diego, CA

Montessori Child Development LLC receives consistently excellent reviews from parents who praise the caring, attentive staff and effective Montessori curriculum. Parents report significant improvements in their children's confidence, independence, academic skills, and social development. The school is highlighted for its welcoming environment, strong communication with families, and dedicated leadership.

Caring and attentive staffeffective Montessori curriculumhe

Little Angels Academy

5(20)

3078 L Street, San Diego, CA

Little Angels Academy receives perfect 5/5 ratings from all parents. Parents consistently praise the caring and attentive staff, smooth transitions for children of all ages, educational activities, and communication through their parent app. Children show strong development and look forward to attending.

Loving and nurturing staffbilingual teachers availablesmooth transitions for infants and toddlers

Sacred Heart Academy Preschool

5(20)

4895 Saratoga Avenue, San Diego, CA

Sacred Heart Academy Preschool in San Diego receives universally positive feedback from parents who praise the caring, dedicated staff and comprehensive curriculum that balances play-based learning with kindergarten readiness skills. Parents consistently highlight the school's effectiveness with potty training, social-emotional development, and strong teacher-parent communication through the Brightwheel app.

Caring and dedicated teachersstrong kindergarten preparationplay-based learning approach

Manna'S Martial Arts INC.

5(20)

12285 B World Trade Drive, San Diego, CA

Manna's Martial Arts is a highly-rated martial arts studio in San Diego with consistent 5/5 star reviews. Parents praise the quality instruction, strong emphasis on discipline and life skills, and community atmosphere that extends beyond martial arts training. Multiple families report long-term enrollment (8-13 years) and significant positive impacts on their children's confidence, self-defense abilities, and character development.

Excellent instruction qualityemphasis on safety and respectpersonal attention to students

Fleur De Lis Nursery School

5(18)

3743 Front Street, San Diego, CA

Parents consistently praise Fleur de Lis as an exceptional preschool that fosters individual growth, confidence, and a love of learning through a dedicated, play-based curriculum. Staff members are described as caring, professional, and genuinely invested in each child's cognitive, emotional, and physical development. The beautiful natural setting, diverse and welcoming community, and strong preparation for kindergarten are frequently highlighted.

Individualized attention to each childwarm and caring staffdedicated curriculum

Manchester Family Child Development Center

5(16)

1752 Via Las Cumbres, San Diego, CA

Manchester Family Child Development Center receives universal 5-star ratings from parents who praise its caring, professional staff, safe and welcoming environment, and focus on child development and learning through play. Parents highlight excellent communication through daily apps and photos, strong parent community engagement, and successful preparation for kindergarten and school transitions. The center has a long-standing positive reputation in the San Diego community.

Map

Daycare Centers in San Diego, California

There are 425 daycare centers in San Diego, California. Below you'll find a complete directory to help you compare and choose the right daycare for your child.

When choosing a daycare in San Diego, consider visiting facilities in person, checking their licensing status, and asking about staff-to-child ratios, daily routines, and safety policies.

All Daycare Centers in San Diego

Showing 425 results

Chinese Bilingual Pre-School
Child Daycare & Preschools
5

Chinese Bilingual Preschool receives consistently high praise from parents for its bilingual Mandarin-English curriculum, caring and patient teachers, and strong sense of community. Parents highlight the school's commitment to child development, flexible scheduling, and on-site prepared meals. Children show advanced academic preparation and develop lasting friendships.

Bilingual Mandarin-English immersioncaring and patient teacherson-site fresh meals (breakfast
Address
5075 Ruffin Road, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 633-2950
Ecs Zamorano Head Start
Headstart Programs
5
Address
7375 Tooma Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 434-5780
Emmaus Today Christian Montessori Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
6917 Tait St -1976 Coolidge, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 576-0132
Future Achievers Preschool/Logan Heights Cdc
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
3040 Imperial Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 723-6935
North Park Christian School - School Age
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
2901 North Park Way, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 220-0372
La Petite Etoile 360 Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
4555 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 449-4891
Manchester Family Child Development Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
5

Manchester Family Child Development Center receives universal 5-star ratings from parents who praise its caring, professional staff, safe and welcoming environment, and focus on child development and learning through play. Parents highlight excellent communication through daily apps and photos, strong parent community engagement, and successful preparation for kindergarten and school transitions. The center has a long-standing positive reputation in the San Diego community.

Address
1752 Via Las Cumbres, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 260-4620
Merry Go Round Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
4735 Santa Cruz Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 225-0344
Mira Mesa Christian Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
10770 Rickert Road, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 536-2807
Mission Hills Community Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
5

Mission Hills Community Preschool receives perfect 5-star ratings from all parents who praise the caring, qualified staff and nurturing environment. Parents highlight the thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor spaces that encourage creative play and learning, with regular new activities and daily photo updates. Children reportedly enjoy attending and show strong emotional and academic growth.

Caring and qualified staffwarm and nurturing environmentthoughtfully designed learning spaces
Address
1211 W Lewis St, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 291-2112
Montessori Learning Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
11354 Pegasus Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 549-2201
Montessori School Of San Diego
Child Daycare & Preschools
5

Montessori School of San Diego receives unanimous 5-star reviews from parents who praise the quality of education and teaching staff. Parents report that children develop a genuine love of learning, strong social skills, and academic success that carries into public school. The school is described as well-organized, clean, and genuinely caring toward students.

Excellent teaching staffstrong academic preparationfosters love of learning
Address
1323 West Spruce Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 295-7591
Nha-First Step Headstart Child Dev. Ctr.
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
802/804 San Pasqual Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 262-1905
Nha Early Link-Skill Centers Of America Head Start
Headstart Programs
5
Address
6285 University Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 243-1607
Nha O'Farrell Head Start
Headstart Programs
5
Address
6130 Skyline Drive, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 266-9375
Nha Webster Head Start Family Focused Ctr
Headstart Programs
5
Address
2930 Marcy Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 232-4521
Noah'S Ark Preschool Of The Clairemont Covenant Ch
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
5255 Mt Ararat Dr, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 571-1880
Open Minds Language Immersion Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
4855 College Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 665-1264
Point Loma Nazarene Early Childhood Learning Ctr
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
3900 Lomaland Drive, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 849-2223
Porter / Kennedy Child Development Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
4800 T Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 266-4551
Petits Amigos Immersion Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
5

Parents consistently praise Petits Amigos for its Spanish immersion curriculum and dedicated teachers, particularly Ms. Leslie and Ms. Lydia. Children reportedly enjoy the program with engaging songs, games, and activities, and parents note significant language learning progress. The facility is described as clean, organized, and providing strong one-on-one attention.

Exceptional teachers (Ms. Leslie and Ms. Lydia)engaging Spanish curriculum with original songschildren eager to attend
Address
17022 Camino San Bernardo, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 428-4652
Peninsula Family Ymca Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
4425 Valeta St, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 224-4661
Penasquitos Christian Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
5

Parents consistently praise Penasquitos Christian Preschool for its exceptionally caring and loving staff who create a warm, nurturing environment. The facility offers a thoughtful, play-based educational program with strong communication and community engagement. Multiple families report their children thriving academically and emotionally in this setting.

Caring and loving staffwarm and nurturing environmentstrong communication
Address
14484 Penasquitos Drive, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 672-9353
Playhouse Preschool Forever Young
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
7045 Forum Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 279-2016
Westwood Club Preschool Program
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
17394 West Bernardo Drive, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 618-2159
Sacred Heart Academy Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
5

Sacred Heart Academy Preschool in San Diego receives universally positive feedback from parents who praise the caring, dedicated staff and comprehensive curriculum that balances play-based learning with kindergarten readiness skills. Parents consistently highlight the school's effectiveness with potty training, social-emotional development, and strong teacher-parent communication through the Brightwheel app.

Caring and dedicated teachersstrong kindergarten preparationplay-based learning approach
Address
4895 Saratoga Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 222-7252
Kinderhouse Montessori School
Before or After School Daycare
5
Address
6540 Flanders Drive, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 550-0097
Kiddies Korner Montessori Child Development Ctr.
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
8748 Gold Coast Drive, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 578-9740
Scripps Exploring Academy-Infant
Child Daycare & Preschools
5

Parents consistently praise Scripps Exploring Academy for exceptional childcare with attentive, caring staff who genuinely bond with children. Families report their children are happy, well-prepared for kindergarten, and experience smooth transitions. The facility is described as clean, welcoming, and homey with strong parent communication.

Caring and attentive teachershappy childrensmooth transition to kindergarten
Address
9855 Erma Road Ste. 128, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 693-3702
Sdja'S Children'S House: Beit Yeladim
Child Daycare & Preschools
5
Address
11860 Carmel Creek Road, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 704-3807

Page 2 of 15· 425 results

Frequently asked questions

There are 425 all daycares in San Diego, California. Browse our directory to compare options and find the right fit for your child.
When choosing a daycare in San Diego, consider visiting facilities in person and checking:
  • Licensing status with California's regulatory agency
  • Staff-to-child ratios (requirements vary by age group in California)
  • Safety measures and cleanliness
  • Daily routines and educational curriculum
  • Parent reviews and ratings
  • Location and hours that fit your schedule
San Diego offers several types of childcare facilities:
  • Child Daycare & Preschools — 372 facilities
  • Headstart Programs — 29 facilities
  • Church Daycare — 7 facilities
  • Before or After School Daycare — 17 facilities
Each type serves different needs — center-based facilities typically offer structured programs, while head start programs are federally funded for low-income families.
Daycare costs in California typically range from $200 to $400 per week for full-time care, depending on the child's age, facility type, and location within the state. Infant care tends to be more expensive due to lower staff-to-child ratio requirements. Contact individual facilities in San Diego for current pricing.
Yes, daycare centers in San Diego must be licensed by California's childcare licensing agency. Licensed facilities are required to meet standards for safety, health, staff qualifications, and staff-to-child ratios. You can verify a facility's license status through your state's licensing database.