San Diego International Airport
San Diego, United States · Since 1928
Last updated:
About SAN
A single-runway airport located on San Diego Bay offering scenic approaches.
Terminals
Terminal 1
The older terminal undergoing a massive renovation. Currently handles Southwest Airlines, Frontier, Spirit, and some other domestic carriers. The New T1 project is adding modern facilities.
Terminal 2
The newer, more modern terminal featuring The Sunset Cove and extensive dining. Handles United, Delta, American, Alaska, and international flights. Features excellent local San Diego restaurants and craft beer.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at SAN
Southwest Airlines
Terminal 1
Air Canada
Alaska Airlines
Terminal 2
American Airlines
Terminal 2
Breeze Airways
British Airways
Terminal 2
Copa Airlines
Delta Air Lines
Terminal 2Showing 8 of 17 airlines. View all airlines →
Getting There & Away
Taxi
$15-20
10-15 minutes to city center
Public Transport
$2.50 by bus (Route 992)
15-20 minutes by bus to city center
Parking at SAN
Terminal Parking T2
Terminal Parking T1
Economy Lot
Ace Parking Valet
Airport Lounges
USO Lounge
Terminal 2
Free lounge for military members and their families with showers, beds, food, and drinks. One of the best USO lounges in the country given San Diego's large military presence.
Delta Sky Club
Terminal 2
Renovated Delta lounge with craft cocktails, hot food, and views of San Diego Bay. Popular during evening departure banks.
United Club
Terminal 2
Standard United Club with food, drinks, and shower facilities in Terminal 2. Views of the harbor and downtown skyline through the windows.
Airspace Lounge
Terminal 2
Independent lounge in Terminal 2 with local craft beers, California wines, and light food. Open to all passengers for a fee.
Where to Stay
Nearby Hotels
Comfort Inn & Suites Airport
Near airport on Pacific Highway
Budget-friendly option very close to the airport with free shuttle and continental breakfast. Simple rooms but excellent value for the location.
Hilton San Diego Airport/Harbor Island
On Harbor Island, free shuttle
Waterfront hotel on Harbor Island with stunning bay and skyline views. Free airport shuttle runs every 15 minutes. Pool, restaurant, and marina access.
Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina
On Harbor Island, 2 miles from airport
Large resort-style hotel with two towers, pools, marina, and multiple restaurants. Free shuttle to the airport. Great views of downtown and the bay.
The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
Downtown, 3 miles from airport
Upscale hotel in the Gaslamp Quarter entertainment district. Walking distance to restaurants, bars, and attractions. Short ride from the airport.
Food & Dining
Rubio's Coastal Grill
Mexican/Seafood
Terminal 1 (Airside)
San Diego-born fish taco chain. The original fish taco spot that helped make San Diego famous for this dish. Fresh, affordable, and authentic.
6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Panera Bread
Cafe/Bakery
Terminal 1 (Airside)
Fresh soups, salads, sandwiches, and bakery items. Reliable option with a wide menu suitable for various dietary needs.
5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Panda Express
Chinese/Fast Food
Terminal 2 (Airside)
Popular American-Chinese chain. Orange chicken, chow mein, and rice bowls. Quick and filling option.
6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Ballast Point Brewing
Craft Beer/American
Terminal 2 (Airside)
Another iconic San Diego craft brewery. Famous for Sculpin IPA. Fish tacos, burgers, and California-style bar food alongside award-winning beers.
6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Phil's BBQ
Barbecue
Terminal 2 (Airside)
San Diego institution serving award-winning barbecue. The El Toro tri-tip sandwich and baby back ribs are legendary. Expect a line during peak times.
7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Starbucks
Cafe
Terminal 2 (Airside)
Multiple locations throughout both terminals for the standard Starbucks coffee menu. Quick caffeine fix before your flight.
4:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Car Rental
Hertz
Rental car center, free shuttle from terminals
Rental car center is a short shuttle ride away. San Diego is very car-friendly with wide roads and easy parking.
Enterprise
Rental car center, free shuttle from terminals
Great for exploring San Diego's beach communities, the zoo, and day trips to Tijuana (check border crossing requirements).
Avis
Rental car center, free shuttle from terminals
Good selection of convertibles - San Diego's weather is perfect for top-down driving along the coast.
Budget
Rental car center, free shuttle from terminals
Budget-friendly option. Pre-book online for best rates. Note that some Mexico insurance is required if crossing the border.
What to Do During a Layover
Inside the Airport
Craft Beer at Terminal 2
San Diego is the craft beer capital of America. Sample local brews from Stone Brewing and Ballast Point right at the airport in Terminal 2. Several other craft beer options airside.
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
Harbor Island Waterfront Walk
Take the free shuttle to Harbor Island hotels and enjoy a scenic walk along the waterfront with views of downtown San Diego, Coronado Bridge, and the bay. Free and close to the airport.
Gaslamp Quarter Walk & Dining
Walk to downtown San Diego's historic Gaslamp Quarter in 15 minutes by bus. Explore Victorian-era buildings, craft breweries, Mexican restaurants, and waterfront views.
USS Midway Museum
Visit the aircraft carrier museum on San Diego Bay. Interactive flight simulators, restored aircraft on the flight deck, and sailor-guided tours. A 10-minute drive from the airport.
Balboa Park & San Diego Zoo
World-famous San Diego Zoo in beautiful Balboa Park, also home to free museums, gardens, and Spanish colonial architecture. About 15 minutes from the airport by car.
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (Unlimited)
- Power Outlets: Type A, Type B (120V)
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Left Luggage: $10-15 per item per day
- Showers: Available in USO and lounges
- Medical Services: Available
- Prayer Rooms: Available
Family Facilities
- Children's Play Areas
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
- Pet Relief Areas
Money & Currency
- Currency: USD (US Dollar)
Smoking Areas
Outdoor areas outside terminal entrances only
Facilities & Contact
Traveler Reviews
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