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How much is the cheapest flight to San Diego?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $211 for one-way flights and $365 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

United
American Airlines
avianca
Copa
Alaska Airlines

What you need to know for your flight to San Diego

Flights to San Diego at a glance

Traveling to San Diego is easy; you can select from full-service or budget airlines. Compare flight durations and choose the best option that aligns with your budget and schedule as you plan to discover the city's renowned attractions and charming neighborhoods.

  • Major airport near San Diego: Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA)
  • Flights per week: 850+ flights arriving at San Diego airport
  • Number of airlines that fly to San Diego: around 10+ carriers

Popular airport near San Diego

San Diego is a charming destination renowned for its stunning beaches, picturesque scenery, and outdoor activities. Visitors flock here for family vacations, romantic getaways, and adventures in nature. The area is conveniently accessible via a major airport, providing easy travel options for those eager to explore.

  • Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA): Situated in the Managua Department, approximately 34 miles from San Diego, this airport facilitates international travel with connections to over 105 destinations globally. Passengers have the option to upgrade to business class or premium economy for enhanced comfort, depending on the selected airlines and routes. Notable carriers operating from this airport include Avianca, American Airlines, and United.

Top routes to San Diego

  • Miami (MIA) to San Diego (MGA), with one-way tickets available from around $120
  • Los Angeles (LAX) to San Diego (MGA), with one-way fares starting at around $170
  • San Francisco (SFO) to San Diego (MGA), with one-way flight options from around $200
  • New York (JFK/LGA) to San Diego (MGA), with one-way fares starting at around $130
  • Washington (IAD/DCA) to San Diego (MGA), with one-way airfare from around $160

Cheapest routes to San Diego

  • Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to San Diego (MGA), with budget one-way fares from around $75
  • Las Vegas (LAS) to San Diego (MGA), with affordable one-way prices from around $90
  • San Jose (SJO) to San Diego (MGA), with cheap one-way fares from around $100
  • Miami (MIA) to San Diego (MGA), with budget one-way fares from around $120
  • Newark (EWR) to San Diego (MGA), with cheap one-way fares from around $120

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to San Diego

  • American Airlines: Providing service to Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA), American Airlines holds approximately 31% of the market share for arrivals in San Diego. One-way fares typically hover around $320, with the potential for business class service on select routes.
  • United: Another major airline serving Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA), United captures about 29% of arrivals to San Diego. The average fare for a one-way ticket is roughly $320, and business class may be offered depending on the specific route.
  • Avianca: Operating flights to Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA), Avianca accounts for around 26% of arrivals in San Diego. Passengers can expect average one-way fares of about $350, with premium cabin options potentially including business class on certain routes.
  • Copa: Serving Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA), Copa Airlines represents roughly 12% of arrivals to San Diego. The average fare for a one-way flight is around $360, with business class available on select routes as a premium cabin option.
  • Air Europa: Offering flights to Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA), Air Europa makes up about 1% of arrivals in San Diego. Travelers should anticipate an average one-way fare of approximately $770 for this airline.

Best time to fly to San Diego

The most popular months for travelers to fly to San Diego are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in San Diego can reach up to 84.7°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider May, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 83.5°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $261), roughly 14% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? August, September, and June offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $263 to $275, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January81.1°F (27.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately High$303
February82.0°F (27.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$303
March83.3°F (28.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately High$300
April84.7°F (29.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately High$304
May83.5°F (28.6°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$261
June81.5°F (27.5°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverage$275
July81.9°F (27.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$279
August81.7°F (27.6°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverage$263
September81.1°F (27.3°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyModerately Low$275
October79.9°F (26.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyModerately Low$292
November79.9°F (26.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$335
December80.6°F (27.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$454

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to San Diego

Getting some of the best deals on flights to San Diego is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
  3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia.*
  4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
  5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your San Diego flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in San Diego

San Diego welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach San Diego efficiently:

  • Public transportation: From Augusto C. Sandino International Airport, Uca Bus Stop, a bus station, is located about 8 miles away by car, while Managua Seaport, a seaport, is situated approximately 8.2 miles from the airport, both easily accessible by car.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in San Diego, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in San Diego is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in San Diego on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in and around San Diego

  • San Rafael del Sur: Located 12 miles drive away from San Diego, San Rafael del Sur is a charming city perfect for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the scenic Montelimar Beach, ideal for a relaxing getaway, or explore the adventure-filled Masaya Volcano National Park. The area also boasts a shopping mall center and golf facilities for those looking to unwind. Don't miss the historic San Rafael Church, a cultural landmark that adds depth to your visit.
  • Villa El Carmen: San Diego is situated in Villa El Carmen, a vibrant city where romance meets coastal beauty. With attractions like Quisala Beach, couples can enjoy sun-soaked days by the shore. The El Transito Art Center offers a glimpse into local creativity, making it a great spot for culture lovers. Additionally, the shopping mall center and golf options provide leisurely activities for all. Enjoy the unique blend of beach and urban charm in this delightful destination.
  • El Transito: El Transito is located 12 miles away from San Diego and offers a quaint village atmosphere for visitors. Beachgoers can relax at Quisala Beach, while those seeking culture can explore the El Transito Art Center. For families, Parque Central de Nagarote presents a lovely urban park perfect for outdoor fun. This picturesque area is ideal for travelers looking to enjoy stunning scenery and peaceful surroundings.

Tips for short-haul flights to San Diego

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more affordable. Maximize space by opting for mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and planning your outfits wisely. This approach also helps you avoid the hassle of waiting at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. To keep yourself entertained, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts beforehand and bring along a book. Remember to charge your devices fully before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to San Diego

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

  • Select your seat in advance—for long-haul flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines typically allow seat selection for free once online check-in opens, which is generally 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may provide seat selection even earlier than this.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—plan to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration processes.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take the opportunity to browse the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is usually free and available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Aim to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to San Diego?
September is the cheapest month to fly to San Diego. There's less demand then, so fares are usually more affordable. Planning your trip outside of major holidays and school breaks could also help you save.
Which US cities fly direct to San Diego?
Miami and Houston are a couple of US cities offering nonstop journeys to San Diego. Browse options on Expedia by selecting the "Direct flights only" checkbox. Choose the ideal departure for your getaway, and then get set to fly to San Diego without any layovers.
How to find a cheap flight to San Diego?
To get cheap flights to San Diego, book in advance and visit during the off-season months of April and June. Want another tip? Depart on a Thursday and save around 16% on average compared to those who travel on a Sunday.* Set a price alert on the Expedia app and we'll let you know as soon as your fares drop.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
How to get a cheap last-minute flight to San Diego?
While booking in advance is typically the best way to save cash, don't panic if your San Diego vacation is last minute. It's still possible to find cheap flights to San Diego, especially if your plans have a little leeway. Try changing your trip dates, looking at different ticket types or departing from an alternative airport.
How far in advance should I book a flight to San Diego?
For some of the biggest savings on domestic journeys, book your flight to San Diego 28 days ahead of your travel dates. For international flights, book between two and four months in advance. This improves your chances of securing your preferred departure dates, times and seats.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which day of the week is the cheapest day to buy a plane ticket to San Diego?
Sundays are generally the best day to book a cheap flight to San Diego, where you can save 8% on average compared to a Friday. If you purchase tickets on a Friday, expect to pay more as this is often the most expensive day.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which airlines fly to San Diego?
There are 8 airlines that connect San Diego with 9 airports globally. The chief gateway to this city is Augusto C. Sandino Intl. Airport (MGA). Book a fare with any of these popular airlines to San Diego:

  • AVIANCA
  • United Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • Copa Airlines

Where do you fly into San Diego?
The main airport to fly to San Diego is Augusto C. Sandino Intl. Airport (MGA). You also have the option to land at Tola (ECI-Costa Esmeralda) when flying to San Diego.
How far is the airport from central San Diego?
If you're arriving at Augusto C. Sandino Intl. Airport (MGA), you'll be approximately 35 mi northeast of the center of San Diego.
Can I save money by booking a San Diego trip package?
Bundle your flights and accommodations and you could save hundreds of dollars. What's more, you can add extras like car rentals and tours to your San Diego flight and hotel package deal. With Expedia, it's easy to organize all your San Diego travel arrangements in one place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to San Diego?
You can often change or cancel your flight to San Diego within 24 hours of booking. However, be mindful that some fares are non-refundable. In those cases, you may receive credit for future travel rather than a direct refund. Be sure to check the airline's rules and restrictions in your itinerary for exact details. You can use Expedia's "Changes included" or "No cancel fee" filters during your search to find cheap flights to San Diego with flexible change policies. To learn more, visit our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
Augusto C. Sandino Intl.
Destination airport IATA code
MGA
Destination city name
Managua
Roundtrip price
$365

Trending flights to San Diego

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $211 for one-way flights and $365 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

United