Gets the best mainstream edm djs for a rave price. I'm going to compare it to rave venues than clubs, just because the tickets are more 70$ than typical $20-30 cover charge. Parking is hard and you will need to park farther out if its on a weekend and you go past opening time. Security and lines were lax, there wasn't much of a line going around 10, but it did get packed very very fast. Exiting was a bit troubling as there seems to be only 1 main exit and maybe a side exit? So very much funneling. Djs wise- again even if you don't know the openers are amazing. Went for slander, I feel like they enjoyed it cuz they repeated their songs & remixes. On a side note- slander is great, they start off hype and end off with their classic simp, great juxtaposition. The openers were very hype. 2 times mosh pit, but if u stay out of the center front it should be fine. Was on the floor so didn't try drinks or tables. Think there's balcony tables which would probably be better for viewing. A lot of phone recording and tall people going near the front so it isn't the best for capturing. I did have some weird moments : very loud screaming in my ear, circles of tall people, people breaking me off from my group. Headbanging still exists in clubs depending on the artist (fyi) Clothing wise- look cute but casual is fine ( more lax on girls), I feel like guys still need pants but they can do a relaxed button down, dj jerseys are fine too. Girls- shorts sneakers OK. Air flow wise, great- they have big fans & mist often during drops so you only get hot sometimes. Another weird thing is allowing glass drinks on the dance floor- it's fine cuz it's a club, but people will often just drop it on the ground instead of holding it and it was hard to step around. For some reason around 12-1 the front cleared up a bit and so you're able to get close to the stage. I enjoyed my night! I feel like the crowd were people who went and enjoyed the dj. It's different than going to a rave venue for a rave because there will be people going there for clubbing too. I feel like in the future- I like nova, but I'd prefer going to an actual rave venue just because of space to see the artist and friendlier crowd. read more

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I've never felt compelled to write a review, but my experience was just that bad was. Never coming back. Want refund. Terrible and horrible service. Never coming back. Ali was horrible. Spent 80+ dollars and wasn't allowed in for having a valid ticket. The manager Ali ruined my experience of both Don Toliver and Nova SD. Wish I could ask for a refund from Nova SD or at least get offered free bottle service or something. Ruined my whole night and weekend since we drove down from LA. I hope no one ever considers coming to Nova SD since it's a waste of time and money. Horrible. Ali needs to do better. Never going here for either clubbing or a concert. My group of 10+ got denied and lost this club hundred of dollars for potential drinks. This club is not worth going to. Devastated. read more

Ali is the worst manager ever. We ( including 10+ others just around us) purchased tickets that were promoted from his brand and he did not honor them. He told us that it was invalid and would not let us in despite paying over 70$ for the tickets just for Ali to be a complete meanie about it. He also would not refund us. Ali is was genuinely the worst about it and did not handle it like a manager at all. He does not deserve business and should not be a manager of this establishment either, doesn't know professionalism or how to handle a situation just had no patience and instead just called security to escort us out. It was very forceful despite having so much patience ourselves. I genuinely am out around 80$ and Ali is to blame to not give this man your business. Whoever owns this establishment fire Ali and find someone better. read more

Horrible customer service. We bought tickets through stubhub and the manager Ali said they wouldn't honor them. Horrible venue he pushed us out with no explanation. Don't go here. read more

Nova security is a fucking joke. First when we walk in, one of the security guards flashes his light at my friends ass to take a look and when another security guard noticed that I noticed he tried to play it off. Second, we were getting elbowed hard by some guy in the crowd who was being the aggressor and when we finally pushed back, the guy grabbed my arm and twisted it and security ended up taking us out of the crowd and not the guy being aggressive in the first place. If you're a girl don't come here, it definitely does not feel like a safe space. I definitely expected more from a club run by insomniac. read more

Great service, the teraki bowl was very delicious, the Ambiance was very nice, and our server Kayla was very attentive and was the best server I ever had. read more

I tried most of the clubs in downtown, Nova it's something else. Their staff, bar ( little bit pricey) but good quality. I love nova, every Saturday night they have good events. read more

Disclaimer: this review is for the venue, not the performance. Terrible experience at Nova! I came to Nova for the Said the Sky by Lost in Dreams event. As I was going through the security check to enter the club, they confiscated my travel-size hand sanitizer and pür chewing gum. I have gone to countless clubs and festivals across the United States and internationally and NEVER had hand sanitizer or gum confiscated. I asked security why these items weren't allowed inside the club and they cited safety purposes. They said I either had to take them back to the car or relinquish them, but they would not allow me to pick them up later. I checked the FAQ section of Nova's website, and nowhere is it stated that these items aren't permitted. In fact, there are no entry requirements specified other than dress code and Covid safety. I'm disappointed in Nova's oversight to properly communicate what security measures they enforce and which items they permit/restrict in the club. I would understand if I had accidentally brought anything that's actually dangerous or hazardous, but my items were purely for maintaining good hygiene. Do better Nova SD. read more

shout out to duff and the crue lastnight,overheated and not feeling well, they made sure i was cooled off and ok.. mamacat read more

If you love EDM music Nova is the best club in San Diego for that. Nova SD is owned by Insomniac, they run all the big EDM music festivals like EDC, Hard Summer, etc. This club used to be Omnia but they bought it out a little over a year ago and rebranded it to Nova. It's basically the same though if you ever went here when it was Omnia. Venue: - There are 3 levels total. The very top being a rooftop deck, which has a decent view of downtown and is super nice if you need a breather and the best spot to take photos. The second floor has more tables and a mini dance floor with railings. Every floor has restrooms and a bar. The bathrooms towards the end of the show were super gross. If you look at the floor there were tampons everywhere, toilet paper, empty pill casings, you name it. So I definitely recommended getting that all out of your system before the main artist comes on. Experience: I have been here about 4 times already for artists that are super popular and one that wasn't so big. I like EDM in general so it is a great place to see your favorite artist up close and personal. I have gotten a table once and it was so fun. I'm not sure what the process is of getting one or how much it costs since my friend was the one who invited me but definitely recommend for special occasions with your friends. I'm sure you could ask some promoters to help you too. Security: I personally never had a bad experience with the security here but just like any other club I've heard bad and good. Just don't act stupid and get yourself kicked out. One time I came here to see a not so popular artist and it was super dead. I was on the 2nd floor and towards the end of the night a security guard tapped my shoulder and said I could see the rest of the show from one of the tables because there was literally no one occupying it. Shout out to him for making my night. Getting here and leaving: I always always Uber when I go downtown with my friends here and I recommend you do too. Especially if you're planning on drinking or getting crazy. It's worth it, don't be dumb and drink and drive. Usually on Friday and weekend nights Nova closes around 1:30am or 2am and they waste no time kicking people out. I recommend walking down a few blocks until you reach the edge of gas lamp, be careful where you are because there's a lot of homeless and sketchy neighborhoods. Call an Uber a few blocks away and you'll be saving a ton of money. One time the Uber home was $60 right outside of Nova but I walked a few blocks down and it dropped to $25. Tips: - The doors usually open around 9:30 PM and the main artist doesn't come on till midnight usually. - If the artist you're trying to see has a sold out show or is popular your best bet in getting a good view is coming within 30 minutes of the doors opening and camping out basically at the railings on the second floor or the front of the pit near the DJ booth. - I usually avoid the pit because people get packed like sardines there and it gets hot and hard to get out to the bathroom also possible mosh pits. I recommend the 2nd floor if you want a more chill experience, also it's fun to people watch and you can see the screen really well. I've heard stories of people bribing security guards to get into sold out shows, which can be a safety hazard. - Bartenders are nice but drinks are club prices, if you wanna save money just pre-game at home and maybe buy one drink to sip on while you're there. - It gets HOT and stuffy in there so definitely don't bring a jacket, it's just more to carry and if you do I think they have a coat service. - Have fun and go with friends! If you're not used to crowds then maybe try checking out a more chill non-edm club or enjoying the show from the second floor. read more

Nova SD - Dance Clubs Near Me - San Diego, California

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There are so much better clubs I honestly don't think I'll come back. I came tonight to see Said the Sky and the whole experience was horrible. The bouncers and security guards care more about you blocking the way than your safety. There is absolutely no crowd control. I get it, this is a club and most don't have crowd control. But there were an extreme amount of people and crowd control in my opinion was definitely needed for this large of a crowd. At least limit the amount of people on the floor for heavens sake. First off, the show was sold out in the first place. With that being said, I did expect it to be crowded, but not to the extent it was today. It was honestly a safety hazard. They were probably about a dozen more people away from a disaster. I would think that given the past couple years with Astroworld and Korea's Itaewon, they would be more cautious. We were on the dance floor and it just kept getting more and more packed. People couldn't get out, yet the bouncers kept letting more people on. People were throwing up over other people and on the floor due to being pushed and squeezed so much. I was honestly terrified that we couldn't even get out. At moments, I couldn't breathe, luckily they were all brief moments, but like I said, they were probably about a dozen people away from a disaster. The headliner didn't come on until 12:30 and the squishing started around 11. Yeah, honestly don't come here. The reviews say it all. Rude security and lack of crowd control. read more

I have seen two shows here and had a good experience both times. The venue has great lighting and sound. However, the center dance area is small and gets congested quickly depending on the popularity of the DJ. There is also a small second level where the front spots have a view of the stage. This can fill up quickly as well. The third floor is the smoking area and is super nice for getting fresh air and a break from the loud music. Insomniac owns the venue, and I give them credit for putting someone desireable behind the decks almost every weekend. read more

Easygoing friendly and attentive staff. Music was fun and groovy, although the bass is a little overwhelming on the main dance floor. It's worth it if you know what you're coming for. read more

Everyone here is friendly starting from the table service line to the EMT, bottle service girls, bathroom attendants, and bouncers! My friend was drunk and needed to throw up, so she accidentally did inside. Instead of kicking her out, the bouncers took her to the EMT to get check out. Once she was cleared, she was able to go back! The bouncers also introduced himself and told us that he was taking care of our table! Never had I experienced this service ever at a club! read more

Never again... got an RSVP a week prior which they did not honor. Frustrated and not worth the wait.

Where to start.. we picked Nova to celebrate New Year and Bday and rented a cabana and bottle service. On the way out of club security guys were extremely rude and racist toward us and were pushing girls and guys out of the club. I've never experienced treatment like this in my life. This is how you treat your clients? This is how you treat people that spend $$ and bring you business? To top this off, my boyfriend was pushed several times and then two heavy security guys literally pulled Rolex watch off of his wrist. When he started asking them where was the watch, they simply left and ignored our requests and all the attempts to find out what happened to the watch. Please do not go to this trash place as they are a bunch of rude people who rob their clients. read more

Nova SD - Rolex watch was pulled off by the security guard at Nova. - Dance Clubs Near Me - San Diego, California

March 2 2024 Benny Benassi DJ show- Service fee of $12 on top of $36 each for some doubles (Margarita and Vodka Tonic) so it came out to about $85 for 2 drinks. Security staff is hit or miss. One time they said no hand sanitizer and offered to let me go to car or I can toss it. I tossed it. The other time they looked in the clear fanny pak bag and tossed out my cough drops without talking to me or interacting with me. They just reached in and took it and tossed it. That's odd considering I've had other security guards say they cannot reach in and touch my stuff and I'm responsible for taking anything out of the compartments. The club promoter who saw my husband and I get separated into different lines suggested I just screenshot and send him the tickets since I had both digital tickets. So at least that staff member was treating us like humans. Some of the staff here act like they really really hate people and it shows! I hate people sometimes too in a front of house position but at least I can act like I'm there to help. Specifically it was an avg built lady who tied her black hair back and was about 5feet 5 with light brown skin tone about mid 30s/late 20s who threw out my things and other people's things without notice. I've had other staff crack jokes and treat us like people even if they are charging close to $90 for two drinks. I would love if they vet staff to only have those who knew how to talk and communicate clearly instead of saying nothing to you at security check. read more

Place was oversold, which I halfway expected and it didn't bother me because it was a sold out show. It's decently sized in there and the bathrooms were easy enough to find Security has a stick up their ass but I can also overlook that. They let me in, right? Most of the VIP/bottle service tables were unoccupied , leaving everyone to either make their way to the dance floor or hover around the bar. No one waits in line here apparently. I patiently waited in the queue like a civilized person for about five minutes before I realized people were literally shoving themselves in front of me like at some packed PB club or crusty punk show at SOMA. Alright I guess. $24 for a single vodka soda! So I make my way to the main floor, to dance and vibe and enjoy the show. I am immediately struck at the male/female ratio. I'm very used to festivals, dance music etc and immediately felt like I had 10 pairs of male eyes on me the entire time, a few of them physically touching me to try to hit on me. People rammed into me, stomped on my feet and shoved me into the people in front to get further in the crowd without so much as an "excuse me" Maybe PLUR is dead, but until they address the weird predatory vibe which honestly feels unsafe for women in my opinion I don't think I'll be back. I planned to stay open to close and left at midnight because I had been approached by men trying to touch me and was fed up with feeling like I was in a mosh pit. read more

I've been here twice, the location is great close to several bars and food places, just a walk a way from my hotel. The bartenders were happy to help and the wait was very short to get a drink regardless of how packed it was. The bass was on point and the security were friendly. This is one of my favorites places as it allows you to be closer to the DJs. read more

Nova SD - Yellow Claw at Nova 2024 - Dance Clubs Near Me - San Diego, California

I came here with some friends to see Slander perform, what an experience! We went on day 1 (Friday, June 10). We didn't know what time their set was going to start, so we came here right when the event started at 9:30PM. Parking was a true PITA. We parked a few blocks down in a paid parking lot. Street parking was extremely limited (if there was any). The sidewalks were quite crowded as we made our way to the venue, as a Padre's game had finished and people were walking back to wherever they parked. As it hit 9:30PM we got in the short, but quick line. Entering the venue was quick, even through the security "checkpoint" as you enter. The venue is quite spacious, though there were many people on each floor. We made our way to the rooftop and hung out there for a bit. There was a local DJ playing some tunes as well as a little area for taking photos. It wasn't as crowded when we got there but after about an hour or so it got packed, it felt almost as if there was no limit on how many people entered. Fast forward to Slander's set (I don't recall what time), the main floor's dance floor was PACKED. I squeezed my way almost to the dead center and it was butt-to-balls in there, literally. It was hot AF, and almost everyone was buzzed/drunk. I got myself out of there and ended up standing by the bar. Sound quality was good throughout. I checked out the other levels as their set went on and it was pretty much packed by the ledges. I would possibly be back again but would need to claim my viewing spot or dance floor spot immediately and just wait until the good sets come on. Some better ventilation would be nice too.. read more

This is the worst nightclub I have ever been to in my entire life. The sound system is very weak and has very little bass. It's not like in a real nightclub where you feel excited because of the great sound. The bar menu is very limited and the drinks are overpriced. They don't accept cash. They do not follow their own business hours and treat their customers like garbage. When I was there, they kicked everyone out way before 2:00am without letting customers use a restroom or finish their drinks. The security personnel members were extremely rude and aggressive about it too. Over the years, I have visited hundreds of nightclubs in different cities and countries and this was by far the worst experience. When people spend hundreds of dollars inside and you don't let them use a bathroom right after the show, that's just inhumane. read more

Piece of sh** service. No count down for new years. Ambiance sucked. And no food. I hated it here.

Went to this place with some friends on a Saturday night and it was super lame. Very small club with tons of security guards. They're suppose to be open till 2am but they killed the music at 1:45 an kicked everyone out. The drinks were over priced. The roof top had tons of space but they had it locked up. ust such a lame experience. I've been to other clubs in SD and this one just doesn't even come close. read more

We came for a lovely evening to enjoy early 2000 music (and potentially some 90s) and we were SORLEY let down. This man is playing gaga and Rebecca black. Send him home. We literally came for Little Wayne because it was on the flyer and this mother fudger played lady Gaga 3 times. When asked to play little Wayne he gave us a thumbs up and lied. Kinda seemed like DJ gave up, poor guy. This DJ needs a calendar because he does not know what the 2000s is. read more

We went as a group for VIP Bottle Service on a Friday night and had a great time. The service was impeccable. Once inside, the staff all treated us with respect and were gracious and accommodating. The staff outside of the venue are much more standoffish and bordering on rude. The team doing security checks upon entry were very professional and friendly. We were escorted to the 2nd floor to the VIP area by an attendant. Immediately, we were given a list of bottles to choose from and a food menu. Once the selections were made, shots were quickly poured and cocktails mixed for our group. Again, all of the team assigned to our party were wonderful. They provided mixers, juices, water and clean glassware throughout the night. They kept the tables wiped down, clean and cleared. From the balcony, we could see the dance floor & the DJ and had plenty of room to dance. The couches have drawers to stash coats and purses which is super convenient. Seating is spacious and there's plenty of room for a larger party. There are also restrooms close to VIP which was convenient. The venue should limit access to these for VIP parties whenever possible to cut down on the long lines and wait time. Our party was made up of people of different ages which can be tricky to navigate but it was such a fun experience for everyone. Due to cost, VIP Bottle Service is not something most of us can afford to do often but it's definitely worth experiencing at least once! Thanks Nova for a great night! read more

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This place was so crowded you couldn't even move, seems like they over sold tickets and was continuing to sell tickets at the door for Ray Volpe. I understand wanting to make money but it was way over capacity and honestly was a safety issue. read more

went to the phantogram dj set a few months ago. $30 each and they didnt even play phantogram and they pocketed my friends stizzy. never going back read more

The bartenders tip themselves whatever amount they want here so make sure to be careful when closing out. Take a picture of the receipt too. I had to dispute the charge with my bank read more

New club in SD! This place replaced Omnia in SD, and I believe Insomniac owns this club so a lot of bigger name DJ's have been performing here. I think if this club had more lasers and lights, it would be pretty cool The dance floor is a bit small which makes it difficult to walk through people to use a restroom. No guest list currently. Drinks are expensive but as expected at a club. read more

I came for Troyboi. Had to wait 3 hours for him to start eww.. Two shots of tequila $34. When I asked how much the bartender just turned away, charged my card and gave it back to me. Not leaving the tips for that bs and such prices- it's San Diego not Vegas. The club itself is just a disaster. Never coming back. It's just not fun. read more

Celebrated my 30th birthday here for Whipped Cream's show on Oct 6!! I reserved a table way back in May LOL I wanted to be prepared! Mark was my VIP host the whole time and he and his team truly made it a night to remember. We even had a situation where I thought I won tickets, but they turned out to be FAKE. Despite this, Mark still honored the tickets so a couple more of my friends could join. It was the BEST night with the best people. I think he may have even upgraded our table from the balcony to the floor which made partying with my friends who didn't have VIP sooo much more convenient and fun. Would recommend Mark to anyone wanting to invest in a special night at Nova. read more

Nova SD - Dance Clubs Near Me - San Diego, California

Every time we come to Nova it is always a good time. Drinks are pricey and it can get hot in there but it is all worth it. Wooli absolutely killed it last night! Huge shoutout to Duff, the EMTs and the other security guards for giving my Mom the time and grace to cool off then head back to the front to enjoy the rest of her night. Outstanding experience all around. Y'all have my heart and gratitude forever! Thank you! read more

New fav weekend activity! Wow this place is so amazing. The lights, confetti, and smoke make the vibe so fun! You're definitely in for a late but great night with this place! read more

Nova SD - Dance Clubs Near Me - San Diego, California

Nova denied me entrance to a concert I bought a ticket to, since they didn't believe my ID was real/that I was 21+. A nearby police officer then checked and confirmed my ID was real and I was actually 22 at the time, but Nova continued to refuse my entry. Then, they denied my request for a refund the next day. I was DD for the night, so I was both sober and non-confrontational, and had to wait around outside for the others I was with to not ruin their night. After hearing that Dillion Francis was denied entrance, and forced to pay $500 to enter, for a show that he was performing at... I thought I'd add what happened to me. read more

I went to see illenium last night at nova San Diego. Show was amazing. Bartenders are friendly but let me tell you the security was super annoying. Constantly moving me when the whole place is full over capacity. I'm like where do you want me to stand?! The security that was by the bathrooms and kitchen were constantly flashing the lights at me while trying to see the show which was taking away from my experience. And there so rude. Especially the woman security. read more

I experienced some of the nicest staff I've ever experienced at a club in my life! The bouncers, bartenders, even the bottle service girls were all so kind and helpful. They all took the time to connect with you if you had an interaction with them, whether it be by looking me in the eye despite it being a busy night to telling me a story of receiving gifts from customers. Even when staff had to instruct us to leave because they were closing, they did it with such class and kindness. I truly had such a good time! I will definitely be going back! Kindness is hard to find in these environments and it was so refreshing. read more

This place sucks, Omnia was better in every way. This is now a concert venue and you can only go when they are events. Omnia was not like this, it was a straight up nightclub you could go to anytime like a normal bar/club not a concert venue. Bring Omnia back read more

I spent 45 minutes around 1 am here on my 21st birthday for my iPhone 16 pro ($1500) total to be stolen and taken to Mexico. I didn't know it at the time, but when it went missing from my bag, I asked the security workers to help ask the DJs to put out a small announcement for a missing phone or get help from a manager they were not helpful. Horrible experience - never going back. I know it wasn't in their control in having thieves, but they also failed to answer my many phone calls when I was looking for it and their voicemail inbox was full. Maybe have security cameras or something if clubs are known for stealing to catch awful people like this. read more

Very awesome and convenient place to see my favorite DJ's in action!! Will probably keep going!! read more

Nova SD - Avello!! - Dance Clubs Near Me - San Diego, California

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Getting in here was relatively easy and was not too crowded at 10:30 or so. It got pretty crowded around 11:15 so we moved around a bit and were able to sit upstairs since nobody had it reserved which was super cool! I think the dancefloor itself is pretty big and the staff are less strict than Time in Costa Mesa. Overall great experience and good vibes read more