San Diego International Airport Made Easy for Every Traveler

San Diego International Airport is the busiest single-runway airport in the United States that handles over 25 million passengers every year. The sheer crowd tells you why the planning matters. I have been through the major airports worldwide and collect real-time updated information that can help you breeze through your movement at the airport. So, if you are planning to take a plane from San Diego Airport, then take a moment to understand the layout and find where the shops, lounges, and parking are and which terminal your airline uses. 

What Is San Diego International Airport Really Like?

San Diego International Airport is located just three miles northwest of downtown. The short distance from downtown ensures you do not spend much time on the highway. 

The airport has only one operational runway that is used by every flight. And thus, it is one of the busiest runways in the United States. The most common domestic destinations from San Diego are Seattle, Las Vegas, and Denver. 

With recent transformation, the airport has taken a new shape. On September 23, 2025, Terminal 1 completed its reconstruction and redesign. It completely replaced the 1960-era building and gave it a modern look. Now, you will get the natural light inside the terminal, and the seating is more spacious. Terminal 2 is the larger terminal and mostly handles the international flights. 

Here are the quick facts to know about the San Diego Airport: 

• San Diego Airport code: IATA: SAN; ICAO: KSAN; WMO: 72290. 

• Number of Terminals: It has two main passenger terminals, Terminal 1 & Terminal 2. Terminal 2 is further divided into East and West sides. 

• Distance from downtown: Approximately 3 miles. Take a short drive of 10 to 15 minutes to reach the airport. 

• Hub for: Alaska Airlines

Good to know: I have experienced that late-night flights are not available from San Diego Airport. It is because the SAN prohibits departure between 11:30 p.m. and 6:30 a.m. due to the noise curfew. Thus, if you have a late-night flight, it may get rescheduled. 

Which Terminal Does Your Flight Operate From at San Diego Airport?

Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 cater to different types of airlines. The domestic and short-haul flight mainly operates from Terminal 1, whereas Terminal 2 incorporates the international flights. 

Knowing the flight terminal is highly important at SAN, because the two terminals are not connected airside. It means that once you pass the security in one terminal, your mobility is restricted to that terminal only. If you move to the wrong terminal, you will have to exit the terminal completely and go through the security screening once again. 

Terminal 1: What Flights Operate From Here?

San Diego Airport Terminal 1 has recently gone through a massive redevelopment. It had brought the newer facilities and upgraded the amenities to enhance the overall experience of the travelers. There are around 19 gates at the terminal, which are numbered from 101 to 119 and the airport is planning to add 11 more gates by 2028. It has a large ticketing hall and a 13-lane security checkpoint.  

Most of the flights that run their operation from Terminal 1 are the low-cost carriers. These flights are responsible for domestic and short-haul travel. Along with this, these flights are more leisure-focused. 

Here are airlines that operate from Terminal 1: 

• Southwest Airlines (largest carrier at SAN)

• Breeze Airways

• Frontier Airlines

• JetBlue Airways

• Sun Country Airlines

• Air Canada

• WestJet

If you have traveled from or to San Diego Airport last year, you might have seen Air Canada and WestJet listed in Terminal 2. These two airlines have shifted to Terminal 1 on January 14, 2026, as the terminal has grown in size and facility. Also, the Delta is planning to move to Terminal 1 by 2028. 

Terminal 2: What Flights Operate From Here?

Terminal 2 is where most of the business of the airport takes place. The major and legacy carrier operates from here, and it is mainly responsible for the international travel. There are a total of 30 gates at the terminal, which are numbered from 20 to 50. It is larger than Terminal 1 and divided into East and West, which are connected through a walkway. 

If you are looking to travel to major domestic hubs in the United States or want to take an international flight, the Terminal 2 is where you have to move. 

Here is a list of airlines that fly from Terminal 2: 

Domestic & Transborder Airlines:

• Alaska Airlines

• American Airlines

• Delta Air Lines

• Hawaiian Airlines

• United Airlines

International Airlines:

• British Airways

• Copa Airlines

• Japan Airlines (JAL)

• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

• Lufthansa

• Volaris
  

The check-in counters of Alaska and American Airlines are available on the East Side, whereas the check-in counters of other international airlines are located on the West Side. 

How Do You Get Around the Terminals at San Diego Airport?

San Diego is a compact airport, which makes the movement easier. No matter where you are standing at the airport, even two distant ends of the airport hardly take 15 minutes to cover via foot; the shuttle increases the speed and decreases the time. The San Diego Airport map shows that the airport has two buildings sitting next to each other.  

• Walking between the terminals. You can move between terminals 1 and 2 using the terminal loop shuttle. The shuttle runs every day from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. The pickups happen every 10 minutes from the curbside in front of the Terminal 2 baggage claim. However, the two terminals are not connected airside, and thus, you cannot move between the terminals after passing through the security. 

• Moving inside Terminal 2. Terminal 2 is divided into an east and west side and are connected through a walkway. So, you can easily walk between the two sides without exiting the security. However, the walk between sides can easily take 15 minutes. 

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Where Can You Park at San Diego International Airport?

If you are planning to drive to the San Diego Airport, it’s essential to compare the San Diego Airport parking, as choosing the wrong spot for your vehicle can be expensive and inconvenient. Here are the options available for you: 

• Parking Plaza: Both terminals have their own plaza parking located across the terminals and connected through a walking pedestrian. It is the closest parking space to the terminals and costs $40 for a day. The five-story building is equipped with EV charging, and the height clearance is 9'6" for the first floor and 8'4" for the rest of the floors.  

• Valet Parking: This is the most convenient option, as you can bring your car, hand over the keys, and then leave for your journey. However, this is the most expensive parking option, which costs $60 for a day. 

• Cell Phone Lot: If you are visiting the airport just to pick up or drop someone, you do not require paying the parking bills. The parking at San Diego airport is free inside the cell phone lot. It is just a five-minute drive from the airport, so it is ideal for waiting until the passenger lands and reaches the baggage claim area. However, it opens at 5:30 am and closes at 12:30 am, so it won’t be a choice for early morning or late-night flights. 

• Off-site parking: If you are traveling for a week or more, parking at San Diego Airport can quickly become expensive. In such a situation, the off-site parking becomes an ideal choice, where the daily rate starts from $9, which helps you keep your parking bills lower for an extended trip.

Pro-trip: If you have an early morning flight and are looking for a spot where you can sleep as well as park your vehicle after the checkout, then look for the hotels nearby that offer a park-and-fly package. These hotels also provide the shuttle service for passengers. 

What Are the Best Hotels Near San Diego Airport?

San Diego Airport has no hotel inside either of the two available terminals. However, the airport is close to downtown, so there are plenty of hotels near San Diego airport available on both sides. 

Comfort Inn San Diego Old Town

Nightly Rate: $96

Check-in & Check-out: 3:00 pm & 11:00 am. 

Located: The hotel is approximately 1.2 miles from the airport near the Old Town. 

The guests seem to have a mixed review about the hotel. However, the good part is the guest seems to be happy with the cleanliness, bed quality, and staff behavior. The hotel charges include the breakfast, Wi-Fi, and laundry. However, some guests have shown concern about the size of standard king rooms and also sometimes missing the essentials like towels and toiletries. 

Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego Old Town

Nightly Rate: $130

Check-in & Check-out: 4:00 pm & 12:00 pm. 

Located: The hotel is just 1.2 miles from the airport. 

It is a 3-star mid-range hotel that is close to Maxican restaurants, local shops, and the historic Old Town. The property has been praised for its modern look following the renovation, but few guests have complained about hearing the noise in rooms' nearby corridors. So, it is better to avoid the corridor rooms; otherwise, it is a nice choice to spend a few nights at an affordable rate. 

Motel 6

Nightly Rate: $76

Check-in & Check-out: 3:00 pm & 11:00 am.

Located: It is just 1 mile from the airport.

It is probably the cheapest option on the list and a property that allows the pets (two pets, irrespective of their size) to stay for free. Also, there are no charges for the kids; they can stay with you for free. However, the guest has repeatedly mentioned that the motel does not provide the basic items such as shampoo and hair dryers. 

Holiday Inn Express San Diego Airport

Nightly Rate: $152

Check-in & Check-out: 4:00 pm & 11:00 am. 

Located: At 3.3 miles from the airport, this is the farthest property on the list.

If you are looking for a hotel that provides the convenience of a free shuttle to and from the San Diego Airport, then Holiday Inn Express is the only option on the list. The rooms are clean & comfortable, staff is friendly, and free breakfast is available that has got them a Google rating of 4.6. However, there are some downsides to the hotel too, such as a higher parking fee, pets are restricted, and regular traffic noise. 

I have tried to list the cheapest hotels near San Diego airport, but there are several more options available that provide premium amenities, luxury service, and free shuttles. These options include Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Airport/Liberty Station, Hampton Inn & Suites, and Hilton San Diego Airport Harbor Island. 

Which Lounges Can You Use at San Diego Airport?

If you want a quiet corner before your flight, the San Diego Airport lounges are all located in Terminal 2. There is no lounge in Terminal 1, but the airport has discussed the installation of lounges at the new terminal in the future. If the airline is serving from Terminal 1, the best thing to do is to sit in one of the seating areas or a restaurant in the terminal.

The lounges are located in Terminal 2 and include:

Aspire Lounge 

It is easily accessible in the first section of Terminal 2, after security. It is available for Priority Pass and other network members to enter for free, and walk-in guests can purchase access as well, which makes this the most flexible option here. Inside, you will find free snacks and beverages, comfy chairs, and showers, which are a welcome relief before your next long-haul flight or after an all-night flight.

Delta Sky Club

A quiet area for working or relaxing, as well as a bar and food area, on the mezzanine level of Terminal 2 West before boarding. Day pass sales are no longer available with Delta, so you must have a valid membership, a Medallion, a member airline ticket with Delta One, a qualifying ticket class (depending on the itinerary), or an eligible American Express card. Some access is now by card, and you may have a maximum number of visits per year, depending on the terms, so verify before assuming that this is the case.

United Club

Near gates 47 and 48, which is handy if you are flying United, is also on the Terminal 2 West mezzanine. Access is available to United Club members, Club card holders, and qualifying ticket holders, including premium cabin or qualifying Star Alliance Gold travelers on international flights. There are also one-time passes, so non-members can enjoy the rides. Snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, and a workspace will be provided free.

Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club 

Newer addition with good reviews, designed to be more upscale than the older lounges. Any eligible Chase cardholders, including Sapphire Reserve cardholders, and some Priority Pass members will be able to use it. It's famous for the food and drink services, which are far superior to an ordinary airport lounge, as well as for its comfortable seating and work-friendly spaces. Guest access is generally restricted; please refer to the current policy.

Where Can You Eat? San Diego Airport Food and Dining Options

Get a taste of the San Diego Airport food. If you are an outsider and have landed at the airport for a layover or connecting flight, then you must not miss out on the local cuisine. The city is famous for seafood, fish tacos, and the best craft beer. And the San Diego Airport has all these options available for the travelers. 

Terminal 1

Terminal 1 has recently gone through major changes, and their dining has also been improved. They have 12 new food and beverage options to give travelers more dining options. Terminal 1 majorly incorporates the local chains. 

• Ambrogio 15: The shop is located near gate 116. You can have the thin-dough pizza at the restaurant. 

• JT Bros: It remains open 24 hours a day, and the shop is available at gate 115. The shop is famous for handicraft sub sandwiches, beer, and salads. 

• 2 Luna Grill: You will find the restaurant at gate 115. You will find the best Mediterranean cuisine. 

• Novecientos Grados by Tony Hawk: It is a full-service dining option featuring Mexican cuisine. Move to the gate 115 to find the restaurant. 

• SIP Wine Bar: The bar is located near gate 104. It mainly focuses on local beer and wines with signature appetizers. 

•  The Tace Stand: This shop, you will find at gate 116, has a menu inspired by the original, scratch tortillas, lunch, and breakfast burritos, tacos, Tijuana taquerias, and quesadillas. 

• Parfait Cafe Paris: You will easily find this shop near the post-security checkpoint, and it remains open daily between 5:00 am and 9:00 pm. You will find a variety of sandwiches. 

Terminal 2

Most of the dining options are available at Terminal 2. It includes a variety of range from continental to world-class. 

• Asian Kitchen: It is located inside the sunset clove. The restaurant opens at 9:00 am and closes at 9:30 pm. It features Korean, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Japanese. 

• Qdoba Mexican Grill: The food options include Mexican, burritos, tacos, quesadillas, salads, and breakfast. It opens early and closes early daily from 6am to 8pm. 

• 12 Artisan Market: The travelers can have freshly prepared sandwiches, salads, beer, and coffee at gate 23 between 5:00 am and 10:00 pm. 

• Jack In The Box: It is ideal for early morning or late night flights, as it remains open for 24 hours a day. 

• Jetbox Market: The timing of the restaurants is 10 am to 9 pm and serves salads, chocolates, energy bars, beverages, and more. It sits near gate 24. 

• Prado At The Airport: Find the restaurant near gate 26, and it opens at 6:00 am and closes at 10:00 pm. You will find the freshly cooked California food. 

• Beaudevin Wine & Tapas Bar: The opening hours are daily 5:00 am-11:30 pm. The bar has a premium selection of global wines. The bar is located near gate 42.

• Elegant Desserts: It has some of the finest donuts and cookie options. To taste their items, move to gate 38 between 5:30 am and 1:00 pm. 

• PGA Tour Grill: It is a sit-down restaurant that runs from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm, daily. Navigate to gate 36 and spot the restaurant. 

• Phil's BBQ: A premium option for lunch, dinner, and breakfast at gate 46. It may not be an option for travelers with early-morning or late-night trips, as timings is 11AM–10PM.

• Camden Food Co.: The shop has a variety of options, from salad, coffee, bakery, etc., to healthy breakfast. 

• Stone Brewing Company: You can chill with San Diego craft beer and also have a full meal at lunch, breakfast, and dinner. It is located at gate 36 and opens daily at 6:00 am and closes at 10:00 pm. 

Pro-tip: You will find the water refill in both the terminals after crossing the security. So, fill your bottle and save money. Also, there are certain restaurants that take the mobile order that allows you to simply pick your food when you reach the restaurant and skip the line. 

Where Can You Shop at San Diego Airport?

Traveling can be somewhat hectic, and you might not get enough time to shop while you are in the city. San Diego Airport has a variety of shops, where you can find last-minute essentials, duty-free shops, souvenirs, and gifts. 

1. Hudson News: A shop located near gate 48, where you can find the snacks, beverages, electronics, reading material, and beauty products. 

2. Lindbergh Field News: You will find this shop pre-security, and items you can shop from here are snacks, beverages, travel essentials, and electronics. 

3. Travel @ Ease: This shop is located near gate 35. A place where you will find all the travel essentials under a single roof. 

4. Sunglass Hut: It is close to the security gate and sells fashionable sunglasses. 

5. Gaslamp Marketplace: You will find this shop at gate 46, and you can purchase the local attraction merchandise and San Diego souvenirs. 

6. Steller News: A shop located near gate 39, where you can find the travel gadgets, snacks, reading materials, and local souvenirs. 

7. Tech On The Go: If you require mobile accessories, then you can move to gate 37. 

8. Warwick’s of La Jolla: If you are traveling with kids, then come to gate 47 to explore the toys, kids' books, guidebooks, local authors, and greeting cards. 

9. Old Town News & Market: The shop sits near the gate 26 and sells snacks, drinks, and travel items. 

10. The U.S. News & World Report store: You will find this shop near gate 26. And the items that can be purchased from this shop are electronics, luggage, and merchandise. 

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How Do You Get to and from SAN Airport?

SAN Airport has plenty of transportation options to visit or leave the airport. The options include the most affordable to the most comfortable ride. 

• Car rental: The car rental companies do not sit inside the terminal; instead, they are located at a distance from the airport, but a free shuttle runs regularly from the car rental center to the terminal. The car rental at San Diego Airport asks you to arrive at least 20 to 30 minutes earlier than your planned schedule to the terminal. 

• Rideshare and taxis: Uber, Lyft, and taxis pick up and drop off the passengers from the dedicated pickup area at both the terminals. You can use the signage to reach the designated area. 

• Public transit: Public transit. The MTS Airport Flyer (Route 992) connects the airport terminals with the downtown area, passing by the Santa Fe Depot. From there, it's a short trip to the San Diego Trolley, the Coaster commuter rail and Amtrak. If you're traveling light, it's very inexpensive. Be sure to see the latest fare and timetable on MTS before you travel.

• Shuttles: The hotel shuttles pickup from the designated Transportation Island, which is located outside the terminals 1 & 2. Use the pedestrian from terminal 1 and the crosswalk from terminal 2 to reach the ground transportation. 

Conclusion 

San Diego International Airport is a compact and modern airport. The airport is updating every year, with the new Terminal 1 now open and another phase set to be added in 2028. For a hassle-free trip, you must know the flight terminal, parking & transportation ahead of time, and factor in some extra time for the one runway and the late-night curfew, and allow time to dine with a view. I hope this guide will help you understand the layout of the airport and ease your movement.