San Diego International Airport (SAN) is the primary aviation gateway to Southern California’s coastal region, serving 25+ million passengers annually. Located approximately 3 miles (5 kilometres) from downtown San Diego, SAN is one of the most conveniently positioned major airports in the United States. Its proximity to the city centre and surrounding coastal communities makes it a popular arrival point for both business and leisure travellers.
This guide outlines what to expect when arriving at SAN, including terminal layouts, airline terminal assignments, parking options, pickup methods, ground transportation choices, and estimated travel times to popular destinations throughout the region.
San Diego International Airport operates with one primary commercial runway, making it one of the busiest single-runway airports in the country. Despite its passenger volume, SAN remains relatively compact and easy to navigate. The airport supports hundreds of daily domestic flights along with international routes connecting San Diego to Mexico, Canada, and select overseas destinations.
Because of its coastal location and limited expansion space, planning ahead is particularly helpful during peak travel periods such as summer months and major holidays.
SAN consists of two main terminals:
Most passengers reach baggage claim within 15-30 minutes after deplaning, depending on flight volume and arrival time. Walking between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 typically takes 10-15 minutes, with clear signage throughout the airport. International arrivals are processed through U.S. Customs and Border Protection facilities located in Terminal 2, where processing times vary based on arrival schedules and passenger volume.
Airlines at SAN are divided between the two terminals:
Terminal 1 primarily serves domestic carriers operating high-frequency regional and short-haul routes. Airlines commonly operating from Terminal 1 include Southwest Airlines, Air Canada, WestJet, Spirit Airlines, and Frontier Airlines.
Terminal 2 (East and West) accommodates major U.S. airlines and international carriers. Airlines such as United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and most international airlines operate from Terminal 2. U.S. Customs and Border Protection facilities for international arrivals are also located in this terminal.
Because airline terminal assignments may change due to operational needs, travellers are advised to confirm terminal information directly with their airline or through the official San Diego International Airport website prior to travel.
San Diego International Airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options located near the terminals, as well as off-site parking facilities connected by shuttle service.
Parking availability can be limited during peak travel periods, so travellers arriving by car may benefit from allowing additional time or planning in advance.
After exiting the terminal, travellers have several ground transportation options depending on destination, timing, and personal preference.
Designated pickup areas are available for ride-hailing services and taxis. During busy periods, wait times generally range from 5-20 minutes, and pricing may fluctuate based on demand.
Public bus routes connect SAN with downtown San Diego and nearby neighbourhoods. Rental car facilities are located off-site and accessed via shuttle, with shuttle rides typically lasting around 10 minutes each way.
For travellers who prefer pre-arranged transportation, particularly for business travel, early departures, or longer regional transfers, private ground transportation can be a practical option. Companies such as Richline Transportation provide chauffeur-driven transfers from SAN to destinations throughout San Diego County and Southern California, allowing travellers to coordinate arrival logistics in advance.
Travellers using pre-arranged transportation typically choose between two pickup styles:
Passengers exit the terminal and meet their driver at a designated curbside pickup area located outside the baggage claim level. These pickup zones are clearly marked with posted signage near the terminal exits. This option is often faster than indoor pickup but requires coordination upon landing and clear communication between the passenger and driver.
Drivers meet passengers inside the terminal, typically near baggage claim. This option can be helpful for first-time visitors, international arrivals, or travellers with multiple bags. Both options are commonly used, with the choice depending on arrival details and traveller preference.
SAN serves as a starting point for travel throughout Southern California. Approximate distances and typical travel times include:
Travel times can vary significantly based on time of day, traffic volume, and route selection.
San Diego International Airport offers a convenient and accessible entry point to Southern California. With its close proximity to downtown, straightforward terminal layout, and multiple transportation options, travellers can transition efficiently from plane to destination with thoughtful planning.
Overview of San Diego International Airport (SAN)
San Diego International Airport operates with one primary commercial runway, making it one of the busiest single-runway airports in the country. Despite its passenger volume, SAN remains relatively compact and easy to navigate. The airport supports hundreds of daily domestic flights along with international routes connecting San Diego to Mexico, Canada, and select overseas destinations.
Because of its coastal location and limited expansion space, planning ahead is particularly helpful during peak travel periods such as summer months and major holidays.
What to Expect When You Land at SAN
SAN consists of two main terminals:
- Terminal 1
- Terminal 2, divided into East and West concourses
Most passengers reach baggage claim within 15-30 minutes after deplaning, depending on flight volume and arrival time. Walking between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 typically takes 10-15 minutes, with clear signage throughout the airport. International arrivals are processed through U.S. Customs and Border Protection facilities located in Terminal 2, where processing times vary based on arrival schedules and passenger volume.
Airlines and Terminal Assignments at San Diego International Airport (SAN)
Airlines at SAN are divided between the two terminals:
Terminal 1 primarily serves domestic carriers operating high-frequency regional and short-haul routes. Airlines commonly operating from Terminal 1 include Southwest Airlines, Air Canada, WestJet, Spirit Airlines, and Frontier Airlines.
Terminal 2 (East and West) accommodates major U.S. airlines and international carriers. Airlines such as United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and most international airlines operate from Terminal 2. U.S. Customs and Border Protection facilities for international arrivals are also located in this terminal.
Because airline terminal assignments may change due to operational needs, travellers are advised to confirm terminal information directly with their airline or through the official San Diego International Airport website prior to travel.
Parking Options at San Diego International Airport
San Diego International Airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options located near the terminals, as well as off-site parking facilities connected by shuttle service.
- Short-term parking is convenient for brief stays and passenger pickup.
- Long-term parking is designed for extended trips and typically involves shuttle transportation, with average shuttle travel times of 8–12 minutes.
Parking availability can be limited during peak travel periods, so travellers arriving by car may benefit from allowing additional time or planning in advance.
Ground Transportation Options at SAN
After exiting the terminal, travellers have several ground transportation options depending on destination, timing, and personal preference.
Ride-Hailing and Taxi Services
Designated pickup areas are available for ride-hailing services and taxis. During busy periods, wait times generally range from 5-20 minutes, and pricing may fluctuate based on demand.
Public Transportation and Rental Cars
Public bus routes connect SAN with downtown San Diego and nearby neighbourhoods. Rental car facilities are located off-site and accessed via shuttle, with shuttle rides typically lasting around 10 minutes each way.
Private Car and Chauffeured Transportation
For travellers who prefer pre-arranged transportation, particularly for business travel, early departures, or longer regional transfers, private ground transportation can be a practical option. Companies such as Richline Transportation provide chauffeur-driven transfers from SAN to destinations throughout San Diego County and Southern California, allowing travellers to coordinate arrival logistics in advance.
Understanding Airport Pickup Options: Curbside vs. Meet-and-Greet
Travellers using pre-arranged transportation typically choose between two pickup styles:
Curbside Pickup
Passengers exit the terminal and meet their driver at a designated curbside pickup area located outside the baggage claim level. These pickup zones are clearly marked with posted signage near the terminal exits. This option is often faster than indoor pickup but requires coordination upon landing and clear communication between the passenger and driver.
Meet-and-Greet Pickup
Drivers meet passengers inside the terminal, typically near baggage claim. This option can be helpful for first-time visitors, international arrivals, or travellers with multiple bags. Both options are commonly used, with the choice depending on arrival details and traveller preference.
Popular Routes from San Diego International Airport
SAN serves as a starting point for travel throughout Southern California. Approximate distances and typical travel times include:
- Downtown San Diego: ~3 miles | 10–20 minutes, depending on traffic
- La Jolla: ~12–14 miles | 20–35 minutes
- Del Mar: ~18–20 miles | 25–45 minutes
- Encinitas: ~25–27 miles | 35–55 minutes
- Carlsbad: ~33–35 miles | 45–65 minutes
- Los Angeles (LAX area): ~120 miles | 2–3 hours under typical conditions, longer during peak traffic periods
Travel times can vary significantly based on time of day, traffic volume, and route selection.
Tips for a Smooth Arrival in San Diego
- Confirm airline and terminal assignments before landing.
- Arrange ground transportation ahead of time during peak seasons.
- Allow extra travel time during weekday rush hours.
- While San Diego’s climate is generally mild, coastal fog can occasionally affect early-morning flights.
- For longer regional transfers, adding a 20–30% time buffer can help reduce stress.
Final Thoughts for Travellers Arriving at SAN
San Diego International Airport offers a convenient and accessible entry point to Southern California. With its close proximity to downtown, straightforward terminal layout, and multiple transportation options, travellers can transition efficiently from plane to destination with thoughtful planning.
Understanding airline terminals, parking availability, pickup methods, and regional travel times can help ensure a smooth and well-organised arrival experience! (Photo credit: Reed Naliboff)
