
Experience Unmatched Music in an Idyllic Waterfront Setting
Humphreys Backstage Live is a premier concert hall located on Shelter Island in San Diego, CA. Known for its stunning views of the marina and vibrant atmosphere, it’s the perfect venue for music lovers. Patrons enjoy delicious food and crafted drinks while watching live performances from both local and visiting artists. With outdoor seating offering picturesque sunsets and a lively dance floor, it’s a destination that promises memorable nights. The friendly staff, especially bartender Irons and server Naomi, have received high praise for their exceptional service, ensuring a welcoming experience for all.
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Intimate performances by local and touring artists in genres like soul, rock, and covers, with both early and late shows.
Enjoy a menu featuring items like Wagyu cheeseburgers, flatbreads, and sandwiches while overlooking the marina.
Expertly crafted drinks, including signature cocktails like the Revolver, served by skilled bartenders in a lively bar setting.
Book the venue for group gatherings, parties, or special occasions with dedicated service and customizable options.
Discounted pricing on select food and drinks during designated times for a great value experience.
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Overall rating
Pat Fune
More than 10+ couples in our group came out to enjoy Rebecca Jade’s sweet and soulful voice at our first live performance of 2026. It was a sold out performance with all SRO (standing room only) tickets sold out as well. This review is for the HBL’s food & beverage staff. Our large party occupied most of the tables along the window side (looking out to the marina). Our server, Naomi, was amazing! While we had 20 of us to tend to, she tended to us as well as other tables not part of our group. She checked on us regularly to make sure we didn’t need anything else. My wife had waited a little while for a drink order but Naomi realized & apologized that the bar never made her drink and promptly had it made and took it off our tab. That was very kind of her to do so. We split a Wagyu cheeseburger & fries, and ordered a house Cabernet, a Heineken 0.0 Zero, a Revolver cocktail, and a large bottle of San Pellegrino sparking water. Some of the items qualified for their happy hour pricing so we loved that. HBL is a great small, intimate, and great place to see both local and visiting musicians booked to play that venue. We love coming here and you can’t beat the food and entertainment combination here. Highly recommended!
David Anaya
! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Outstanding Service by Bartender Irons! Bartender Irons at Humphrey’s back stage live in San Diego delivered an exceptional experience! From the moment we sat down, Irons was friendly, attentive, and incredibly skilled. The drinks were perfectly crafted, balanced, and served with a great attitude that made the entire visit even better. Irons’ professionalism, positive energy, and attention to detail truly stood out. It’s rare to find a bartender who makes you feel so welcome while consistently delivering top-tier service. If you’re at Humphrey by the Bay Back Stage live make sure to sit at the bar and ask for Irons — you won’t be disappointed!
JAVIER HERNANDEZ
We were there last Saturday and had great service. My wife's flatbread was good and plentiful. However, the hamburger was the worst burger I ever experienced. The meal was extremely salty and the bun was small and soggy with an unknown white sauce. It was incomplete without lettuce and tomatoe. Just, awful for such an upscale restaurant.
Jennifer St.Clair
I love coming here and listening to music. You have the gorgeous sunsets over the water and all the beautiful yachts to look at the service is outstanding. The food is delicious the Avenue is amazing. The bands are fun. The dance floor is poppin!! Generally, parking is not difficult.The early shows generally cost five dollars and the late shows that start at eight generally cost fifteen dollars.
Jennifer Nillaga
Had a great time dancing last week! My first time at this Venue and I enjoyed it. The location is of course very nice. Shelter Island. There's a balcony overlooking the docks which made it a nice view when you stepped out for some fresh air. The entertainment was on point! We saw Rising Star cover band and they rocked it! If you haven't seen them , you should! The only downfall was the food/ service. Food was limited and overpriced. It took a very long time for the order to arrive, about 45 minutes! But it was a tasty sandwich. All and all, I enjoyed it and will be back!