A cityscape with a prominent mountain in the background and dense greenery in the foreground.

$133 Cheap Flights from San Diego (SAN) to Honolulu (HNL)

Popular airlines from San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN) to Daniel K. Inouye Intl. Airport (HNL)

  • Be in the know

    Get alerts if flight prices drop or rise*
  • Book smarter

    Save up to 30% on select hotels after you book a flight*
  • Earn twice

    Earn your airline miles on top of our OneKeyCash

Cheap Flights from San Diego to Honolulu (SAN-HNL)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $133 for one-way flights and $256 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Bargain Flight
Bargain Flight
Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines
United
Delta
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines

Find the cheapest month to fly from San Diego (SAN) to Oahu (HNL)

October is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $282 - $436 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight from San Diego Intl. to Daniel K. Inouye Intl.

San Diego (SAN) to Honolulu (HNL) at a glance

Travel from San Diego (SAN) to Honolulu (HNL) with a selection of airlines catering to this domestic long-haul route. Evaluate options for direct flights from San Diego and find the cheapest flights available, whether you prefer full-service amenities or budget-friendly low-cost carriers. This way, you can select an itinerary that aligns with your budget, travel schedule, and plans to explore the iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods of Honolulu. Get all the essential information for flights from San Diego International Airport to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 6h 15m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 2,600 miles (4,180 km)
  • Flights per week: around 45+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $150–$475, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from San Diego International Airport (SAN) to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)

Based on recent traveler preferences, here are the top airlines flying from San Diego to Honolulu, favored for both non-stop and one-stop flights. Common layover options include Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) with an average layover of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, San Francisco International Airport (SFO) at roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes, and Kona International Airport (KOA) also around 1 hour and 15 minutes. These choices allow you to compare prices, total travel time, and cabin classes to create your ideal travel itinerary.

  • Alaska Airlines: This full-service airline provides both non-stop and one-stop options, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $150 and $565. It represents around 33% of departures on this route, with a non-stop flight duration of approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes.
  • Hawaiian Airlines: A full-service carrier that offers non-stop and one-stop flights, Hawaiian Airlines has one-way fares ranging from $150 to $530. It accounts for about 32% of departures for this route, with a typical non-stop travel time of 6 hours and 15 minutes.
  • Southwest Airlines: Known for its budget-friendly fares, this low-cost carrier provides non-stop, one-stop, and multi-stop services. One-way prices typically vary from $150 to $485, covering about 19% of departures, with a standard non-stop travel duration of 6 hours and 15 minutes.
  • United: This full-service airline offers one-stop flights, with one-way fares generally ranging from $150 to $425. It comprises approximately 11% of the departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 7 hours and a total journey time of around 8 hours and 30 minutes, including layover time.
  • Delta: As a full-service airline, Delta provides one-stop services with fares for one-way tickets usually between $170 and $420. It accounts for about 4% of departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 7 hours and a total travel duration of roughly 8 hours and 30 minutes, including the layover.

Travelers can enhance their journey from San Diego to Honolulu by upgrading their flight. Hawaiian Airlines offers first class, while Alaska Airlines provides both first class and business class options. United Airlines also features first class for a more comfortable experience.

Best time to fly from San Diego (SAN) to Honolulu (HNL)

The most popular months for travelers flying from San Diego to Honolulu are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Honolulu reach up to 73.8°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider May, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 75.4°F. For better deals, January usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $235. Flight availability peaks in December, with approximately 55 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. February has the fewest flights, with approximately 37 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: January usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $235, roughly 19% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Another budget-friendly time to fly: September typically offers an average one-way fare of around $238.
  • Most flight options: December has the highest number of flights from San Diego to Honolulu, with approximately 55 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January72.7°F (22.6°C)Slightly High38$235
February72.0°F (22.2°C)Average37$260
March72.5°F (22.5°C)Slightly High45$316
April73.8°F (23.2°C)Slightly High42$268
May75.4°F (24.1°C)Slightly Low47$268
June76.6°F (24.8°C)Average53$367
July77.5°F (25.3°C)Average51$340
August78.1°F (25.6°C)Average50$266
September78.3°F (25.7°C)Average52$238
October77.5°F (25.3°C)Slightly Low49$280
November75.7°F (24.3°C)Slightly Low51$310
December73.6°F (23.1°C)Average55$363

*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.

Alternative route from San Diego (SAN) to Honolulu (HNL)

  • Carlsbad to Honolulu (CLD-HNL): McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD) is located approximately 28 miles from San Diego International Airport (SAN). One-way economy ticket prices for this journey usually fall between $225 and $565, influenced by the time of year and when you book. Flights on this route are mostly one-stop, with many connections via Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). The leading airline for this route is American Airlines.

How to find the best prices for flights from San Diego (SAN) to Honolulu (HNL)

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

  1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually available when booking at least two months in advance, although most travelers book their flights 2 to 8 weeks ahead. Departures in the morning, between 5 AM and 12 PM, often offer lower prices and are the most popular, while flying on Wednesday tends to be cheaper, even though Thursday is the most common travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.* Find Honolulu hotel and flight deals.
  4. 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.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. 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 allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.

*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.

Arriving at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport from San Diego International Airport

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

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Honolulu, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance with your hotel.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.
  • Public transportation: From Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, Hālawa / Aloha Stadium Station (a metro station) is located about 4.2 miles away by car, while Honolulu Seaport (a seaport) is about 6.3 miles away by car, and Hālaulani / Leeward Community College Station (a train station) is situated approximately 8.8 miles away by car, providing convenient access to various transport options for travelers.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $133 and cheap return flights from $256 San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $147 and $2522, and roundtrip flights usually range from $410 to $2622. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.) ticket fares go up or down.*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.
What is the cheapest month to fly from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.)?
January is the cheapest month to fly from San Diego, CA (SAN) to Honolulu, HI (HNL), with average round-trip fares around $409. This price is about 19% lower than the average throughout the year, as demand typically decreases after the holiday season. Other budget-friendly months include February and September.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.)?
There are 2 airlines offering direct flights from SAN to HNL:

  • Hawaiian Airlines operates around 18 direct flights from SAN to HNL every week
  • Qantas Airways operates around 7 direct flights from SAN to HNL every week

What is the cheapest airline that flies from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.)?
Alaska Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from San Diego, CA (SAN) to Honolulu, HI (HNL), with round-trip tickets starting from around $677. Use Expedia's search tool to compare the prices and schedules of airlines that fly this route to find the best option for your plans and budget.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I find cheap flights from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best airline to fly with from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from San Diego, CA (SAN) to Honolulu, HI (HNL) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, Hawaiian Airlines offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, Southwest Airlines typically offers the lowest fares. Alaska Airlines offers the most daily flights from SAN to HNL, which is great if flexibility is what you value most. The best carrier for this journey could also be the one you have a loyalty membership with, as flying with that airline or another airline within the same alliance could help you collect points or enjoy lounge access.
What is the best time to fly from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.)?
The best times to fly from San Diego, CA (SAN) to Honolulu, HI (HNL) are in January and February. Return flights during these months average around $409, providing a great opportunity for budget-friendly travel. These months are less crowded, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful Hawaiian scenery without the hustle and bustle.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.)?
You can find approximately 3 nonstop flights per day from San Diego Intl. (SAN) to Daniel K. Inouye Intl. (HNL). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.)?
The earliest flight from San Diego (SAN) to Honolulu (HNL) typically leaves at 6:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is active in February, March, and April, giving you a great start to your Hawaiian adventure. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 36% of travelers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including United Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest, operate flights during this period. This timing is ideal for those looking to start their day early and enjoy the beautiful scenery upon arrival.
How long does it take to fly from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.)?
Flying nonstop from SAN to HNL takes around 6 hours 20 minutes, with the route covering approximately 2,609 miles. Flights with a layover typically take 2 hours 30 minutes longer than direct options. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.)?
First class seats are offered on the SAN to HNL route. First class cabins are available on:

  • United Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • Hawaiian Airlines

How much is a business class flight from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.)?
A direct, return business class ticket from San Diego (SAN) to Honolulu (HNL) typically costs between $2,207 - $3,229. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $829 - $1,999 per adult in economy/coach class. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.) if you opt for a connecting flight.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I earn miles on a San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for Honolulu from San Diego Intl. (SAN)?
From San Diego Intl. (SAN), you can fly into Daniel K. Inouye Intl. (HNL) to reach Honolulu. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Los Angeles Intl. (LAX), San Francisco Intl. (SFO), Denver Intl. (DEN) before reaching Honolulu. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.) Honolulu Vacation Packages is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.)?
If you booked your San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Honolulu, HI (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye Intl.) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

Travel information

Origin airport
San Diego Intl.
Destination airport
Daniel K. Inouye Intl.
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$255
Distance
2609 mi
Average flight time
3 hours 4 mins

Book with confidence

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

Explore a world of travel with Expedia