San Diego International Airport (SAN) is the third busiest airport in California, but navigating its two terminals doesn’t have to be stressful. I’ve spent enough time here to know the shortcuts that keep things smooth. These tips will help you move through SAN efficiently while soaking up that famously laid-back Southern California vibe.
Getting to and from SAN by public transportation
Route 992 is the cheapest way between Downtown San Diego and the airport, stopping at both terminals every 15 minutes from around 4:15 am to midnight. I always take this bus as long as I’m traveling with no more than one checked bag per person. More luggage gets cumbersome, especially when traveling alone.
Traveling to or from Old Town? The San Diego Flyer is a free shuttle connecting the Old Town Transit Center with both airport terminals. It runs daily from approximately 4:45 am to 12:30 am, picking up every 20–30 minutes. Just know the Flyer is smaller than the bus, so arrive an hour early if you’re airport-bound in case the first one’s full.
There’s a third public transit option involving the trolley, but it can be a bit of a hassle. You have to hop on a free rental car shuttle and tell the driver you’re going to the trolley. They’ll drop you about a block away at Admiral Boland Way, and you’ll have to walk from there to Middletown Station. It’s not great with a lot of luggage, so I’d only recommend it if a trolley stop is right next to your hotel and you’re traveling light.
Getting to and from SAN by car
Cars are the most convenient option, though significantly pricier than public transit. Uber and Lyft have clearly marked pickup spots in both terminals for arrivals, and they’ll drop you curbside at your airline for departures. Costs spike during surge pricing, when taxis become the better deal since their fares stay comparable during normal traffic.
You’ll find all the major rental car companies at SAN. Free shuttles run 24/7 between the terminals and the Consolidated Rental Car Center. Just remember that while the shuttles run all night, not all rental counters are open 24 hours.
Parking at SAN
The Terminal 2 Parking Plaza is the main parking facility at SAN, with easy access to both terminals. You’ll find daily and hourly rates, and I recommend making reservations during busy periods.
For passenger pickups, skip the paid lot entirely. Wait in the free cell phone lot at 2311 McCain Road until your passenger signals, then head to arrivals for curbside pickup at no cost.
Security lines at SAN
For such a busy airport, security lines at SAN are surprisingly manageable. During peak times, typically around 5-7 am and 4-6 pm, TSA says you could wait up to an hour. Most other times, it’s often much less. To be safe, I always stick to the golden rule of travel: get to the airport at least 2 hours before your flight.
Programs like TSA PreCheck can reduce wait times and speed up screening. You’ll need to apply well before your trip, but there’s an enrollment center in Terminal 2 if you want to start the process while passing through.
Personally, I appreciate not removing shoes or electronics even more than the time savings, but that’s because I also use CLEAR.
Airline lounges at SAN and alternatives
If you’ve got status or the right credit card, Delta and United have you covered with their lounges. But if you’re flying another airline or just don’t have access, you’re not totally out of luck. There are a couple of other options.
There’s an Aspire lounge with airline-independent membership in Terminal 2, located between Gates 23 and 33. Since the busiest international route at SAN goes to London Heathrow (British Airways operates this route), this UK-based lounge network set up shop here. I’d only recommend membership if you travel to the UK and EU regularly, as Aspire has very few lounges elsewhere.
Active US military members and their families can also use the USO Neil Ash Airport Center. It’s a great free spot with snacks and comfy chairs, but it’s located landside just outside Terminal 2 across Airport Terminal Road. This means you’ll need to budget time to go back through the security line before your flight. Hours can also vary based on volunteer availability.
Things to do during a layover at SAN
Even without lounge access, you can find your zen at the Be Relax Spa in Terminal 2 East near Gate 26. Beyond massages and facials, it’s a great spot to get a last-minute manicure before you head out on your trip.
The Art Program at SAN provides public art throughout the airport. One of my favorites is also often overlooked: a picnic table in Terminal 2 inscribed with quotes from travelers about their experiences.
The table’s before security, so it’s better for arrivals than layovers, but check it out if you get the chance. Many passengers walk right past without noticing.
You’ll also find live music throughout the airport, from the food courts to baggage claim. You might catch anything from a singer-songwriter to a full-on jazz ensemble. It’s a nice touch that adds to the chill vibe of the city.
Free Wi-Fi at SAN
Need to get online? You’ll get free Wi-Fi at SAN in 2-hour chunks. What I appreciate is that you can just sign right back in for another two-hour session when your time is up, no strings attached. The connection is generally strong and reliable in all the main areas of the airport.
Lockers and storage at SAN
A quick heads-up for travelers with long layovers: there’s no luggage storage or lockers available at SAN. If you get to the airport early, you’ll have to check with your airline about how far in advance they’ll accept checked bags, which is usually no more than three or four hours before a flight.
Service Animal Relief Areas at SAN
Traveling with a four-legged friend? There’s one post-security relief area in Terminal 2 West (between gates 46 and 47), and another in Terminal 1 across from gates 6 and 7. For any other potty breaks, you’ll need to use one of the spots outside the terminals and go through security again. That’s why I always make sure my dog gets plenty of time at the outdoor area before we even head inside.
This KAYAK-commissioned article is presented as-is, for general informational purposes only, and may not be up-to-date. The opinions contained in the article are original to the author and reflect their authentic experience, which may vary significantly from the experience of others.
