Cheap Flights to San Diego

Popular airlines to San Diego

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Alternative airports near San Diego

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Find the cheapest month to fly from Columbus (CMH) to San José (SJO)

January is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $302 - $754 per traveler.

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 choose between full-service or budget airlines. Evaluate flight durations and select the option that aligns with your budget and itinerary as you plan to discover the city's iconic attractions and vibrant neighborhoods.

  • Major airports near San Diego: Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), Quepos Airport (XQP)
  • Closest (typical) airport to San Diego: Juan Santamaría International Airport, SJO (around 16 miles)
  • Flights per week: 2,100+ flights arriving across San Diego airports
  • Number of airlines that fly to San Diego: around 25+ carriers

Popular airports near San Diego

San Diego is a dynamic city ideal for family getaways, urban explorations, and business trips. Visitors are drawn to its stunning outdoor activities, family-friendly attractions, adventurous spirit, and beautiful scenery. The city is conveniently accessible via two major airports, making travel plans easier for everyone.

  • Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO): Situated in Cantón Alajuela, Alajuela Province, approximately 16 miles from San Diego, this airport provides both domestic and international flights, linking around 8 domestic locations and over 230 international spots. Travelers can opt for business class, premium economy, or first-class service based on their selected airlines and routes. Major carriers include United, American Airlines, and JetBlue Airways.
  • Quepos Airport (XQP): Found in Cantón Quepos, Puntarenas Province, about 33 miles from San Diego, this airport operates domestic flights. Key airlines servicing this location are FlexFlight and Servicios Aereos Nacionales S.A.

Top routes to San Diego

  • Los Angeles (LAX) to San Diego (SJO), with one-way airfare from around $150
  • Newark (EWR) to San Diego (SJO), with one-way fares starting at around $120
  • New York (JFK/LGA) to San Diego (SJO), with one-way tickets available from around $110
  • Miami (MIA) to San Diego (SJO), with one-way fares starting at around $95
  • Orlando (MCO) to San Diego (SJO), with one-way fares starting at around $55

Cheapest routes to San Diego

  • Orlando (MCO) to San Diego (SJO), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $55
  • San Juan (SJU) to San Diego (SJO), with affordable one-way prices from around $90
  • Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to San Diego (SJO), with affordable one-way prices from around $90
  • San Salvador (SAL) to San Diego (SJO), with cheap one-way fares from around $90
  • Guatemala City (GUA) to San Diego (SJO), with low one-way fares from around $95

*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: Operating flights to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), this airline represents about 26% of arrivals in San Diego. The typical one-way fare hovers around $320, with premium service options that may include business class depending on the specific route.
  • United: This carrier also flies to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), making up roughly 20% of San Diego's arrivals. The average fare for a one-way ticket is around $330, and premium service options might feature business class depending on the route taken.
  • Avianca: Providing flights to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), Avianca accounts for around 11% of arrivals to San Diego. Passengers can expect an average one-way ticket price of about $330, with potential premium service options that may include business class based on the route.
  • Copa: This airline flies to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) as well, contributing approximately 11% of arrivals to San Diego. The average cost for a one-way fare is about $310, and premium service may include business class depending on the specific route.
  • JetBlue Airways: Operating flights to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), JetBlue accounts for around 7% of arrivals in San Diego. The average one-way fare is approximately $260, with premium service options that may feature premium economy class, depending on the route.

Best time to fly to San Diego

The most popular months for travelers to fly to San Diego are January, February, and March, when peak temperatures in San Diego can reach up to 66°F in March. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 66.6°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $220), roughly 20% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? October and August offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $224 to $237, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January64.4°F (18.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHigh$294
February65.1°F (18.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHigh$291
March66.0°F (18.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHigh$302
April67.1°F (19.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$294
May67.3°F (19.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyLow$249
June66.9°F (19.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverage$277
July66.2°F (19.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverage$289
August66.6°F (19.2°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverage$237
September66.6°F (19.2°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyLow$220
October66.0°F (18.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyLow$224
November65.3°F (18.5°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverage$250
December64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$378

*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 Juan Santamaría International Airport, Bahia Drake Seaport, a seaport, is located about 1.5 miles away by car, while San Antonio de Belen Station, a train station, is approximately 2.8 miles away by car, providing convenient options for onward travel.
  • 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 around San Diego

  • San Ramón: Located 3 miles drive away from San Diego, San Ramón is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural experiences. Visitors often explore the University of Costa Rica, a modern institution that adds a youthful energy to the area. Families can enjoy the lush surroundings of Sabana Park, an urban oasis perfect for outdoor activities. For a deeper understanding of Costa Rican history, the National Museum of Costa Rica is a must-visit, offering insightful exhibits that celebrate the nation’s heritage.
  • Guadalupe: Guadalupe is located 6 miles away from San Diego and is a delightful destination for beach lovers and families seeking outdoor adventures. The area boasts beautiful beaches and the nearby national state park, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature. Shopaholics will appreciate the vibrant shopping mall center, while the local parks provide great spots for relaxation and recreation. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit both the University of Costa Rica and Sabana Park, which enhance the area's family-friendly atmosphere.
  • Tres Rios: Tres Rios is located 1 mile away from San Diego and serves as an excellent hub for families and business travelers. The city is equipped with shopping centers and recreation facilities, making it convenient for visitors. Central Park is a lovely spot where families can unwind, and the nearby national state park offers stunning natural scenery. The University of Costa Rica and the National Museum of Costa Rica round out the key attractions, providing a blend of educational and recreational experiences.

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, it's often more economical to travel with just a carry-on. Maximize your space by using mini toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and planning your outfits wisely. This approach also allows you to bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights might not provide in-flight entertainment options. To keep yourself entertained, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book. Remember to charge your devices fully before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your departure time, taking into account potential traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack your own 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 flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines typically allow free seat selection once online check-in opens, generally 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may offer seat selection even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—aim to reach 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 explore the shops, find a coffee shop, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is typically free and readily available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by setting your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try 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?
is the cheapest month to fly to San Diego. Demand is lower then, so you're likely to snag a great deal. Booking your trip outside of school and public holidays can also help you save.
Which US cities fly direct to San Diego?
You can fly to San Diego directly from 13 US destinations. To find a nonstop route, check "Direct flights only" when organizing your flights to San Diego on Expedia. Then, explore your options and pick the best departure from any of these cities:

  • Houston
  • Orlando
  • Fort Lauderdale
  • Miami
  • Atlanta

How to find a cheap flight to San Diego?
Traveling in the low season and booking ahead of time are two great ways to get cheap flights to San Diego. Or, consider flying on a Thursday, which is on average 16% cheaper than leaving on a Sunday.* Want to be the first to know when fares fall? Set up price tracking on the Expedia app for real-time updates.*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?
You can find cheap deals on last-minute flights to San Diego, especially if your travel arrangements aren't set in stone. Think about leaving from a different airport, tweaking your trip dates or picking another carrier to get a cheap flight to San Diego.
How far in advance should I book a flight to San Diego?
Find the travel dates you want and a fare that works with your budget by booking your domestic flight to San Diego up to 28 days in advance. Lock in tickets two to four months ahead if you're visiting San Diego from an international destination.**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?
Generally, you can find cheap flights to San Diego on a Sunday. You'll save around 8% on average compared to booking on a Friday, which is often the most expensive day for tickets.**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?
San Diego is accessible from 40 airports worldwide through 24 carriers, with Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO) as its chief entry point. Consider these major airlines to San Diego when organizing your journey:

  • Copa Airlines
  • SANSA Regional
  • GetJet Airlines
  • AVIANCA

Where do you fly into San Diego?
The main hub when you fly to San Diego is Tobias Bolanos Intl. Airport (SYQ), but there are other nearby choices like Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO) and Quepos (XQP). You can also arrive at Puntarenas (JAP-Chacarita) and Tortuquero Airport (TTQ) when flying to San Diego.
How far is the airport from central San Diego?
Arriving at Tobias Bolanos Intl. Airport (SYQ) puts you roughly 11 mi northwest of central San Diego.
Can I save money by booking a San Diego trip package?
Book a San Diego flight and hotel package deal on Expedia, and you can make significant savings. It's simple to bundle your hotel and flight, and you can even add car rentals and tours to create your own personalized San Diego break. Plus, there's nothing like the convenience of booking everything in the same place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to San Diego?
If you bought your flight to San Diego in the last 24 hours, you can often change or cancel it for free. After that, additional charges may apply depending on the airline's rules and restrictions. To learn more, visit our Customer Service Portal. Remember that some flights are non-refundable, so you may be issued a credit toward future flights in place of a direct refund. When searching on Expedia, select the "No cancel fee" or "Changes included" filters to find tickets with flexible change policies.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
San Diego
Destination airport IATA code
SJO

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