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6+ Hours at San Diego Airport

Maeve Power
Have you got 6+ hours to spare at San Diego Airport? Check out these options to make the most of your airport downtime.
Have you got 6+ hours to spare at San Diego Airport? Check out these options to make the most of your airport downtime.

Head downtown

If you have a long layover at SAN, why not take the opportunity to head downtown and explore the city? Downtown San Diego is located just 2.4 miles from the airport and is well connected via public transport links. See transport options below for more details. Spend the day exploring the numerous museums in Balboa Park or stroll along by the waterfront and enjoy beautiful views of the bay. Just make sure you leave plenty of time to get back to the airport and through security before your next flight.

Avoid downtown

If you have a layover at SAN but don’t want to spend it in the city, head to the Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, west of the airport and enjoy some breath taking views of the Pacific Ocean. A great place to enjoy the California sunshine, relax and watch the boats go by. You may even see the occasional cliff diver! Located just 3.6 miles from the airport, the park is surrounded by natural cliffs that look out over the ocean. The quickest and easiest way to get there is by taxi. Public transport routes are also available. Use Google maps to plan your route but make sure to leave enough time to get back to the airport and through security before your next flight.

Transport Options

Bus: The City Bus connects San Diego Airport with downtown San Diego. Route 992 stops at Terminal 1 and 2 and operated between 05:00 and 23:00 every day. Taxi: Taxis are available outside of the terminal buildings. Simply follow the signs leading to the Transportation Plazas.

Overnight Layover?

If you have an overnight stay at San Diego Airport and want to get a good night’s sleep, there are many hotel options available to you. The closest to the airport are the TownePlace Suites San Diego Airport and Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina. Both are located within 5 minutes’ drive of the airport and offer guests a free airport shuttle.Unfortunately, there are no sleep options available in the transit area at SAN.

Luggage Storage

Baggage NannyAs with most US airports there are no baggage storage facilities available in San Diego. SAN recommends travelers to use Baggage Nanny. The service provides baggage storage with free delivery within 15 miles of San Diego airport. $20 per bag/per day for any sized bag. There are staffed kiosks in the airport terminal where you can make a reservation.

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