A Honey of a Tour in Old Town San Diego

If you’re curious about the sweet world of bees and want to sample some of San Diego’s finest, the Old Town San Diego Honey Tasting & Bee Talk offers a charming, hands-on experience. For $45 per person, you get about an hour and fifteen minutes of tasting 10 raw, single blossom honeys, learning about pollinator conservation, and chatting with a local beekeeper—a true taste of local flavor and science.
What we love most about this experience is how smoothly it combines education with flavor. First, you’re inside a cozy honey boutique in historic Old Town, a setting that feels both authentic and inviting. Second, the small group size (max 8 people) means you’ll get personalized attention, making the session both engaging and relaxed.
The only caveat is that transportation is not included, so you’ll want to plan your arrival accordingly. This tour suits anyone interested in sustainable food, local specialties, or learning about native pollinators—especially if you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group of friends looking for a unique activity.
Key Points

- Authentic Local Honey: Taste 10 raw honeys from San Diego’s own collection.
- Educational Focus: Learn about honeybees and pollinator conservation from a knowledgeable beekeeper.
- Small Group Experience: Maximize interaction and personalized insights.
- Cost-Effective: Includes a 10% same-day shop discount.
- Convenient Location: Held in a charming boutique in historic Old Town San Diego.
- Optional Private Bookings: Perfect for groups or special occasions.
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An Inside Look at the Honey Tasting & Bee Talk
The Savage Bee-ches San Diego Gourmet shop provides a perfect backdrop for this intimate tour. Located at 2802 Juan St Suite 19, the boutique is a cozy, inviting space packed with local honey jars and bee-related goodies. From the moment we arrived, it was clear that this isn’t just a tasting—it’s an exploration of nature’s sweetest product and the important role pollinators play.
The Itinerary: What to Expect
The session kicks off with a warm introduction from the local beekeeper, who shares their passion and expertise. You’ll be led through a tasting of 10 different raw honeys—each one representing a different blossom or local honey hunting exploration. The guide explains how flower variety influences honey flavor, color, and aroma, helping you appreciate what makes each jar special.
The honey is served in small tasting cups, and you’ll have bottled water to cleanse your palate. As you sample, the beekeeper offers insights into honey production, harvesting methods, and sustainable practices. This is where we appreciated how educational and fun the experience was—no boring lectures, just lively storytelling and flavor comparisons.
Honey Varieties and Flavor Profiles
Expect to encounter honeys ranging from mild and floral to deep and robust. Some might remind you of citrus blossoms, while others could have a caramel-like richness. Our guide emphasizes that trace pollen in honey can sometimes be traced back to specific flowers, adding a layer of complexity to the tasting.
The Mini-Class: Beekeepers and Conservation
Beyond the tasting, the tour includes a brief conservation talk. The beekeeper discusses native bee species, pollinator health, and efforts to protect local ecosystems. It’s an eye-opening reminder that bees are vital for our food supply and that honey production is just one facet of their importance.
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The Experience’s Intimate Nature
With only up to 8 participants, we found the setting to be relaxed and engaging. The small group allowed for plenty of questions and tailored insights—you won’t feel rushed or like just another number. Plus, the 10% shop discount encourages you to pick up some local honey or bee-related souvenirs.
Practical Considerations
While transportation isn’t included, the boutique is located within easy reach of public transportation and is near other Old Town attractions. The session is suitable for ages 14 and up, and children under 18 are welcome with a guardian. Allergies are taken seriously; you’ll sign a waiver, and if you have specific food allergies, make sure to notify beforehand.
Why This Tour Offers Real Value

At $45, this experience provides a rare glimpse into the world of honey and bees, with tangible takeaways like tasting 10 different honeys and learning how to identify flower sources. The small-group format means you’ll get personal attention from a knowledgeable host, making the session both fun and insightful.
The inclusion of a mini-conservation class adds depth, turning a simple tasting into a meaningful exploration of local ecology. Plus, the chance to buy local honey at a discount makes this a practical souvenir or gift.
Who Will Enjoy This?
This tour appeals to foodies, nature lovers, and those curious about sustainability. If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates small, authentic experiences rather than large group tours, this is perfect. It’s also a good choice for families with teens interested in science and food.
The Sum Up

The Old Town San Diego Honey Tasting & Bee Talk strikes a nice balance between educational insight and flavor exploration. It offers a relaxed, intimate setting where you can genuinely learn about local honey varieties and pollinator conservation, all while enjoying some tasty samples.
If you’re looking for a unique, hands-on activity that combines culinary curiosity with environmental awareness, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially worthwhile if you enjoy supporting local artisans and want to understand the vital role bees play in our ecosystems.
While it’s not a comprehensive bee-keeping workshop, it provides enough depth to leave you with a new appreciation for these tiny workers and the sweet gifts they produce. Perfect for curious travelers seeking a small, meaningful diversion in San Diego.
FAQ

Is transportation to the boutique included?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to 2802 Juan St Suite 19 in Old Town San Diego.
What if I have allergies to honey or pollen?
Participants sign a waiver, and if you have specific food allergies, it’s best to notify beforehand so the staff can accommodate your needs or omit certain honeys.
Can I book this experience for a private group?
Yes, each session accommodates up to 8 people. To guarantee a private experience, you can book all eight slots or contact the provider for a custom schedule.
Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children 14 and older are welcome, and those under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian.
How long does the tour last?
The experience runs approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it a perfect short activity that fits easily into a day of sightseeing.
What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the honey tasting, a mini-class on bees and conservation, bottled water, and a 10% discount on same-day shopping.
This well-rounded, authentic experience gives you a taste of San Diego’s native honey and the chance to meet a beekeeper—an enjoyable and educational outing for anyone looking to add a flavorful twist to their visit.
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