A large bridge spanning a body of water with a city skyline in the background.

$99 Cheap Flights from Tampa (TPA) to San Diego (SAN)

View $99 flight on Thu, Sep 24, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Tampa Intl. Airport (TPA) to San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN)

  • 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
    Learn about One Key

Cheap Flights from Tampa to San Diego (TPA-SAN)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $99 for one-way flights and $198 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines
Thu, Sep 10 - Mon, Sep 14
TPA
Tampa
SAN
San Diego
$198 Roundtrip, just found
$198
Roundtrip
just found
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Thu, Sep 10 from Tampa to San Diego, returning Mon, Sep 14, priced at $198 just found
Frontier Airlines
Mon, Nov 9 - Thu, Nov 12
TPA
Tampa
SAN
San Diego
$208 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$208
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Mon, Nov 9 from Tampa to San Diego, returning Thu, Nov 12, priced at $208 found 1 hour ago
Frontier Airlines
Tue, Oct 20 - Fri, Oct 23
TPA
Tampa
SAN
San Diego
$214 Roundtrip, just found
$214
Roundtrip
just found
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Tue, Oct 20 from Tampa to San Diego, returning Fri, Oct 23, priced at $214 just found
Frontier Airlines
Thu, Nov 5 - Sun, Nov 8
TPA
Tampa
SAN
San Diego
$228 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$228
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Thu, Nov 5 from Tampa to San Diego, returning Sun, Nov 8, priced at $228 found 1 hour ago
Frontier Airlines
Fri, Sep 18 - Fri, Sep 25
TPA
Tampa
SAN
San Diego
$230 Roundtrip, found 4 hours ago
$230
Roundtrip
found 4 hours ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Fri, Sep 18 from Tampa to San Diego, returning Fri, Sep 25, priced at $230 found 4 hours ago
Alaska Airlines
Thu, Sep 10 - Wed, Sep 16
TPA
Tampa
SAN
San Diego
$238 Roundtrip, just found
$238
Roundtrip
just found
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Thu, Sep 10 from Tampa to San Diego, returning Wed, Sep 16, priced at $238 just found
Frontier Airlines
Thu, Oct 15 - Sun, Oct 25
TPA
Tampa
SAN
San Diego
$238 Roundtrip, found 12 hours ago
$238
Roundtrip
found 12 hours ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Thu, Oct 15 from Tampa to San Diego, returning Sun, Oct 25, priced at $238 found 12 hours ago
United
Sat, Sep 26 - Tue, Sep 29
TPA
Tampa
SAN
San Diego
$243 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$243
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select United flight, departing Sat, Sep 26 from Tampa to San Diego, returning Tue, Sep 29, priced at $243 found 1 hour ago
Southwest Airlines
Sat, Sep 19 - Wed, Sep 23
TPA
Tampa
SAN
San Diego
$248 Roundtrip, just found
$248
Roundtrip
just found
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Sat, Sep 19 from Tampa to San Diego, returning Wed, Sep 23, priced at $248 just found
American Airlines
Tue, Sep 22 - Wed, Sep 30
TPA
Tampa
SAN
San Diego
$297 Roundtrip, just found
$297
Roundtrip
just found
Select American Airlines flight, departing Tue, Sep 22 from Tampa to San Diego, returning Wed, Sep 30, priced at $297 just found

Find the cheapest month to fly from Tampa (TPA) to San Diego (SAN)

September is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $218 - $248 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight from Tampa Intl. to San Diego Intl.

Tampa (TPA) to San Diego (SAN) at a glance

Embark on a journey from Tampa International Airport (TPA) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) with a selection of airlines catering to this popular domestic short-haul route. Explore various options, whether you prefer full-service or low-cost carriers, to discover the best itinerary for your budget and travel plans. Review detailed flight information to help you plan your adventure and experience the iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods of San Diego.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 5h 15m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 2,100 miles (3,380 km)
  • Flights per week: around 30+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $95–$355, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Tampa International Airport (TPA) to San Diego International Airport (SAN)

Based on recent traveler bookings, the top airlines favored for flights from Tampa to San Diego include both non-stop and one-stop options. Common layovers occur at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) with an average layover of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) also around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and Denver International Airport (DEN) with a 1 hour and 30 minutes layover. This variety allows you to customize your itinerary by considering price, total travel time, and cabin class.

  • American Airlines: This full-service airline provides one-stop options, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $105 and $320. It covers about 27% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 6 hours and 15 minutes, culminating in a total travel time of approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, including layover.
  • Southwest Airlines: As a budget-friendly carrier, Southwest offers both non-stop and one-stop flights, with one-way fares typically ranging from $95 to $385. It accounts for around 23% of departures on this route, with a direct flight time of about 5 hours and 15 minutes.
  • Alaska Airlines: This full-service airline provides both non-stop and one-stop services, with one-way fares usually between $100 and $485. It represents roughly 20% of departures for this route, with a standard non-stop travel duration of 5 hours and 15 minutes.
  • United: A full-service airline, United offers non-stop and one-stop flights, with one-way fares typically ranging from $110 to $345. It makes up about 11% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 6 hours and 15 minutes and a total journey time of around 7 hours and 30 minutes.
  • Delta: This full-service carrier provides one-stop service, with one-way fares generally between $130 and $325. Delta accounts for approximately 10% of departures along this route, with an in-flight time of 6 hours and 15 minutes, leading to a total journey duration of about 7 hours and 30 minutes when including layover.

Travelers flying from Tampa to San Diego have the option to enhance their experience by upgrading their flight. Top airlines include Alaska Airlines, which offers first class and business class, American Airlines with first class service, and Delta, providing both first class and premium economy options.

Best time to fly from Tampa (TPA) to San Diego (SAN)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Tampa to San Diego are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in San Diego reach up to 60.6°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider August, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 72.3°F. For better deals, October usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $180. Flight availability peaks in June, with approximately 41 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.

  • Cheapest time to fly: October usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $180, roughly 13% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: August, May, and February typically offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $183 to $198.
  • Most flight options: June has the highest number of flights from Tampa to San Diego, with approximately 41 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January57.4°F (14.1°C)Moderately High33$232
February56.8°F (13.8°C)Average29$198
March58.1°F (14.5°C)Moderately High36$224
April60.6°F (15.9°C)Moderately High36$208
May62.6°F (17.0°C)Average40$191
June66.4°F (19.1°C)Average41$213
July70.5°F (21.4°C)Average33$202
August72.3°F (22.4°C)Moderately Low28$183
September72.0°F (22.2°C)Moderately Low31$203
October68.2°F (20.1°C)Average31$180
November62.6°F (17.0°C)Moderately Low36$215
December57.4°F (14.1°C)Average37$231

*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 Tampa (TPA) to San Diego (SAN)

  • Tampa to Carlsbad (TPA-CLD): McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD) is located roughly 28 miles from San Diego International Airport (SAN). On this route, one-way economy tickets generally fall between $100 and $405, influenced by the season and how early you book. Typically, flights are available with one stop, mainly connecting through Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). The leading airline for this route is American Airlines.

How to find the best prices for flights from Tampa (TPA) to San Diego (SAN)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Tampa to San Diego 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 typically available when booking at least two months in advance, although most travelers book two to eight weeks ahead. Afternoon departures from 12 PM to 6 PM usually offer lower prices, while morning flights from 5 AM to 12 PM are more popular. Additionally, flying on Saturday often results in cheaper fares, even though Friday is the busiest 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 San Diego 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 San Diego International Airport from Tampa International Airport

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

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in San Diego, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance with your hotel.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from San Diego International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at San Diego 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 San Diego International Airport, Seaport, a seaport, is located about 0.1 miles away on foot, while Middletown Station, a metro station, is approximately 2.3 miles from the airport by car. Additionally, B Street Cruise Ship Terminal, a cruise terminal, is situated about 3 miles away by car, providing convenient access to various transport options for travelers.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $99 and cheap return flights from $198 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $104 to $1096, and return flights typically cost between $282 and $1953. 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
August is the cheapest month to fly from Tampa, FL (TPA) to San Diego, CA (SAN), with average return fares around $278. This price is about 16% lower than the average throughout the year, as demand tends to drop after the summer peak. Other cheap months to fly from Tampa to San Diego include January and September.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
You can fly direct from TPA to SAN on Hawaiian Airlines, with around 7 flights per week.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
Southwest Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Tampa Intl. (TPA) to San Diego Intl. (SAN), with round-trip tickets starting from around $123. 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Tampa, FL (TPA) to San Diego, CA (SAN) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, Alaska Airlines offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, WN typically offers the lowest fares. American Airlines offers the most daily flights from TPA to SAN, 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
For flights from Tampa (TPA) to San Diego (SAN), the best times to travel are in August and January. You can expect to pay about $278 for a return flight in these months. August offers warm weather and plenty of activities, while January provides a quieter travel experience, making both months great choices for your trip.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
There are approximately 1 nonstop flights per day from Tampa Intl. (TPA) to San Diego Intl. (SAN). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Tampa International Airport (TPA) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is active in March, giving you the chance to start your day early and make the most of your time in San Diego. 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Tampa (TPA) to San Diego (SAN) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 37% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Southwest Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing is popular because it allows you to arrive in San Diego with a full day ahead of you.
How long does it take to fly from Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
Flying nonstop from TPA to SAN takes around 5 hours 30 minutes, with the route covering approximately 2,083 miles. Flights with a layover typically take 2 hours 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
You can fly first class between TPA and SAN. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • Spirit Airlines

How much is a business class flight from Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Tampa (TPA) to San Diego (SAN) typically costs between $1,656 - $2,372. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $944 - $1,899. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego 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 San Diego from Tampa Intl. (TPA)?
If you're planning to travel to San Diego from Tampa Intl. (TPA), you can fly into San Diego Intl. (SAN) Some flights may connect through major hubs like Love Field (DAL), George Bush Intercontinental (IAH), Denver Intl. (DEN) before reaching San Diego. 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) San Diego 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
If you booked your Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego 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
Tampa Intl.
Destination airport
San Diego Intl.
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$198
Distance
2083 mi
Average flight time
2 hours 27 mins

Book with confidence

Tampa to San Diego Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Tampa to San Diego

On average, Thursday can be the cheapest time to fly, according to data from the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), one of the world's biggest databases for global airline sales. The data reveals that you could save up to 16% by flying on a Thursday—the cheapest day to travel on average—instead of a Sunday—the most expensive. Some of the most affordable flights from Tampa to San Diego are during the month of September. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Tampa to San Diego with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

The best time to book a flight from Tampa to San Diego

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Tampa to San Diego: Tickets reserved on a Sunday cost between 6% and 13% less than those reserved on a Friday, according to ARC data. The data also suggests booking early can also lead to cheaper airfares. You could save 24% by buying your tickets for domestic flights at least a month in advance and 10% by booking international flights 2 months in advance.

 

How to find cheap round-trip tickets from Tampa to San Diego

Being flexible with your dates and using Expedia's Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking features are some of the best ways of finding a cheap ticket from Tampa to San Diego in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $99 one-way. Expedia also offers Price Drop Protection, so if the cost of your airfare goes down after booking, you'll receive a credit for the difference*. This is available for a small fee, and is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

 

Expedia's Price Tracking feature means you can stay on top of airfares without manually checking every day. It sends you automated price alerts for cheap Tampa to San Diego flights and uses historical data to indicate when the best time to book is. Download Expedia's free app to activate this handy tool in a few easy taps.

 

You could also save big by booking one of Expedia's vacation packages. Bundling together your Tampa to San Diego airfare with your accommodations and car rental is often cheaper than booking everything separately. There’s also One Key, Expedia's generous rewards program. Join for free and you could earn One Key cash on most bookings to save on future adventures.

 

*Terms apply.

 

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.

 

Tampa to San Diego Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

Explore a world of travel with Expedia