Getting Around

How to get to and from San Diego International Airport — taxis, public transport, shuttles and car rental.

Transport Options at SAN

San Diego International Airport is connected to San Diego and the wider United States transport network by multiple ground transport options.

Rail & Metro

No direct rail line reaches the airport terminals, but the MTS Trolley (light rail) connects to downtown and beyond, reachable via a short transfer on Route 992.

Bus & Shuttle

MTS Route 992 (the Airport Flyer) runs between SAN and downtown San Diego every 15 minutes on weekdays, connecting to the trolley and Amtrak/Coaster at the Santa Fe Depot.

Taxi

Taxis are available at the transportation plazas at both terminals.

Rideshare

Uber and Lyft pick up from level 1 transportation plazas at both terminals.

Car Rental

A consolidated Rental Car Center is reached by free shuttle from both terminals.

Insider tip

SAN is unusually close to downtown — Route 992 gets you to the Gaslamp Quarter or the Santa Fe Depot rail hub in well under 15 minutes, making it one of the easiest US airports for a quick city dash.

Transport routes, fares and operators change frequently. Verify current options on the official San Diego International Airport website before travel.

Pre-Book Your Transfer

Skip the taxi queue. Book a private transfer from SAN to San Diego in advance and have a driver waiting when you land.

Recommended · Airport Transfer

SAN → San Diego Transfer

Private and shared airport transfers — fixed price, no meter surprises. Driver meets you in arrivals.

Book transfer →

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Car Rental at SAN

Exploring United States beyond San Diego? Renting a car at the airport gives you maximum flexibility from the moment you land.

Recommended · Car Rental

Rent a Car at SAN

Compare rates from major and local car rental companies. Free cancellation on most bookings.

Compare cars →

LandingAtlas may earn a commission when you book through affiliate links.

Ground Transport Tips for SAN

Only use official taxi ranks or pre-booked apps at San Diego International Airport. Avoid unofficial drivers approaching you in arrivals.

If a rail or metro connection exists, it is usually the fastest and most reliable option during rush hour.

Allow extra time for ground transport during peak hours. San Diego city traffic can significantly extend journey times.

Download offline maps for San Diego before landing — useful if your data connection is slow on arrival.

If travelling with heavy luggage, a private transfer or taxi is often more practical than public transport.

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