San Diego International Airport

Welcome

San Diego International Airport (SAN) offers a rare convenience for a city of its size: it's located a mere 3 miles northwest of downtown San Diego. Known to frequent travelers for its compact terminals and time-to-the-minute efficiency, it’s both a blessing for its location and a challenge due to its constrained footprint. Despite this, the airport surprises visitors with its local food and beer offerings, a true taste of San Diego's culinary scene.

At a glance

SAN serves approximately 25.2 million passengers annually through its two terminals. Alaska Airlines has established it as a hub, sharing these terminals primarily with Southwest, American, Delta, and JetBlue. Its single runway is a limitation that makes peak periods feel hectic, contributing to bottlenecks in security and curbside traffic.

Terminals & layout

The airport consists of Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 is dominated by Southwest Airlines, with separate security checkpoints for its three concourses. Terminal 2 hosts a mix of American, Delta, JetBlue, and others, along with more extensive dining and lounge options. Travelers praise Terminal 2 for its food and beverage offerings, featuring local favorites like Stone Brewing and Phil’s B.B.Q.

Getting to and from the city

The airport’s proximity to downtown San Diego makes it an attractive entry point. A quick 10-15 minute drive can take you to areas such as Gaslamp Quarter or the Embarcadero. Ground transport options include the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System Route 992 bus, Uber, Lyft, and taxis. For those connecting via rail, Amtrak and the COASTER commuter rail can be accessed from Santa Fe Depot, a short rideshare away from the airport.

Traveller essentials

Parking rates vary depending on choice, with options like the Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 parking areas at $38 per day and the more economical Pacific Highway Lot at $11 per day. For car rentals, plan for an additional 10-20 minutes shuttle ride to the Consolidated Rental Car Center, especially during peak times. However, for those simply picking up, the Cell Phone Lot offers free short-term parking.

Dining & shopping highlights

Terminal 2 holds the culinary crown at SAN, with standout options like Stone Brewing, Bankers Hill Bar & Restaurant, and specialty coffee at Pannikin Coffee & Tea. Terminal 1, while offering basics like Jack in the Box and Dunkin', lacks the same variety. Retail options in Terminal 2 also cater to travelers seeking travel accessories or last-minute reading materials at shops such as Warwick’s of La Jolla and Bay Books.

Lounges

SAN features the Aspire Lounge and the Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club, both located in Terminal 2. The Aspire Lounge, near gates 23–33, offers Priority Pass holders access to tarmac views and showers for $45. The Chase Sapphire Lounge, near gates 46–47, provides enhanced food and beverage options, standing out among domestic airport lounges.

Insider tips

• Insider: If flying Southwest out of Terminal 1, ensure you use the correct security checkpoint for your concourse to avoid a lengthy detour.
• Time: TSA lines in Terminal 1’s Southwest section can be severe between 6–8 a.m.; using CLEAR or PreCheck can save up to 40 minutes.
• Quiet: The Aspire Lounge in Terminal 2 offers a peaceful break from the bustling airport environment, especially outside the morning rush.
• Local: Craft beer enthusiasts should spend some time at Stone Brewing in Terminal 2 for San Diego’s finest brews.
• Money: Avoid rideshare surcharges during peak times by walking to Harbor Drive to call your Uber or Lyft.
• Local: For a taste of San Diego, head to Bankers Hill Bar & Restaurant in Terminal 2 for a quieter dining experience.
• Avoid: Curbside pickup can be chaotic during peak periods; consider arranging to meet rides one street over.
• Insider: Spotters should try to arrive at sunset to enjoy the city’s beautiful skyline approach, ideally from the left side of the plane.