San Diego International Airport (SAN)
San Diego International Airport (SAN), also known as Lindbergh Field, is a major gateway to Southern California and the busiest single-runway commercial airport in the United States. Located three miles from downtown San Diego, it serves more than 25 million passengers annually and handled over 25 million travelers in 2024 (Coronado News; Airport Guide). Its proximity to downtown makes it one of the country’s most accessible major airports, as well as a popular alternative to Los Angeles airports (The Window Flyer).
SAN connects San Diego to more than 85 nonstop domestic and international destinations. It also has 85+ direct routes, including 11 international destinations, and serves as an important regional air gateway (SDtoday).
History, redevelopment and sustainability
Terminal 2 underwent significant modernization in 2013. SAN’s ongoing Terminal 1 redevelopment is a $3.8 billion project intended to increase gate capacity and improve amenities, security and baggage systems (International Airport Review; SAN Airport Projects). Nineteen new Terminal 1 gates are scheduled to open in late summer 2025, with 30 gates planned by 2028 (Coronado News). Future plans include transit connections to regional public transportation.
SAN’s Green Build set a global benchmark as the world’s first LEED Platinum airport terminal, earning the world’s first LEED Platinum certification for a commercial terminal (SAN Green Build). Sustainable design at the airport includes solar energy, recycled materials and energy-efficient systems. New developments, including Terminal 1, include advanced energy and water efficiency, recycled materials and support for clean vehicles (Simple Flying; SDtoday).
SAN’s Climate Resilience Plan addresses risks from sea-level rise and extreme weather. Measures include advanced monitoring and stormwater management that recycles over 39 million gallons of rainwater annually (International Airport Review). The airport is converting 80% of its ground-support equipment to electric or renewable diesel, and all new parking plazas have energy-efficient systems (International Airport Review).
The Quieter Home Program provides sound insulation for homes affected by airport noise (SAN Airport Projects). SAN’s Small Business Development Program supports local and disadvantaged business participation. Airport projects support thousands of jobs and regional sectors such as tourism and technology (SAN Green Build). The Regional Aviation Strategic Plan (RASP) and Airport Land Use Commission guide expansion in line with sustainability and community needs (SAN Airport Projects). Capital projects are funded through user fees, bonds and FAA grants (SAN Green Build).
What to see and do at SAN
SAN’s public art program includes rotating exhibitions, permanent installations and live performances reflecting San Diego’s culture (Airport Guide; SDtoday). Travelers can also explore local dining and shops throughout the airport. Terminal 2 has the most diverse dining and shopping options. The redeveloped Terminal 1 is planned to add 19 restaurants and expanded retail by 2028 (SDtoday).
The official interactive map, virtual terminal tours and photo galleries provide ways to explore the airport’s redevelopment and public art.
Practical visiting information
Hours, access and terminals
SAN operates 24/7, though TSA security and airline check-in hours follow flight schedules. No ticket is needed to enter public airport areas. Visitors who are not flying can access areas outside security and visit shops, dining venues and art installations during operating hours. A boarding pass and valid identification are required to pass through security.
SAN has two main terminals:
- Terminal 1 Undergoing major redevelopment, with 19 new gates planned to open in late summer 2025 and 30 gates planned by 2028 (Coronado News).
- Terminal 2 Houses most other carriers and underwent significant modernization in 2013.
The terminals are adjacent but not connected airside. Passengers transferring between them must walk outside and re-clear security (The Window Flyer).
Seventeen airlines operate at SAN, including all major U.S. carriers and international airlines such as British Airways, Japan Airlines and Lufthansa. The airport offers more than 85 nonstop routes across the United States, Canada, Europe and Asia (The Window Flyer).
Facilities and passenger services
- Dining and shopping SAN has local favorites, national chains and a growing range of shops. Terminal 2 currently has the most diverse options; Terminal 1 is planned to add 19 restaurants and expanded retail by 2028 (SDtoday).
- Lounges and overnight stays Pay-per-use lounges, including the Airspace Lounge with showers, are open to all travelers. There are no dedicated sleeping zones, but overnight stays in pre-security areas are generally allowed (Sleeping in Airports).
- Wi-Fi and charging Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Sessions last two hours and can be renewed after a brief advertisement. Charging stations and FuelRod swaps are widely available (Sleeping in Airports).
- Accessibility and assistance The airport has accessible restrooms, elevators and dedicated support staff. Traveler’s Aid at baggage claim assists with transportation, emergency needs and general inquiries (Sleeping in Airports).
- Baggage Curbside baggage check-in is available for select airlines (SAN Official). Luggage storage is not offered.
Parking and ground transportation
- Parking The new Terminal 1 Parking Plaza has 2,834 spaces, including 519 for clean vehicles. The Terminal 2 Parking Plaza is the primary long-term parking option. Parking can be reserved online through SAN Official. Reserve early, especially during construction (SDtoday; SAN Official).
- Public transit MTS Route 992 connects SAN to downtown and Santa Fe Depot, where passengers can connect with COASTER and Amtrak. Buses run frequently from 5:00 AM to midnight (Sleeping in Airports).
- Taxis, rideshares and shuttles Designated curbside areas serve taxis and rideshares such as Uber and Lyft. Hotel, off-site parking and car rental shuttles are also available (Sleeping in Airports).
Travel tips
- Arrive early, especially during morning and evening peak periods.
- Check parking and terminal changes in advance during construction.
- Allow time to exit and re-clear security when transferring between terminals.
- Explore the airport’s art, dining and amenities.
Nearby place: Cabrillo National Monument
Cabrillo National Monument is at the tip of the Point Loma Peninsula, about 7 miles from downtown San Diego. It honors Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, the first European to land on the U.S. West Coast, in 1542. Established in 1913, the monument offers ocean views, cultural exhibits and preserved World War II military sites (National Park Service Cabrillo page).
Attractions and activities
- Visitor Center Exhibits cover local history and marine life.
- Old Point Loma Lighthouse Built in 1855, it offers panoramic views.
- Tide pools Accessible at low tide and home to diverse marine species.
- Scenic trails Trails offer views of the Pacific and the city skyline.
- Special events The annual Cabrillo Festival, reenactments and educational programs take place at the monument.
- Whale watching The site offers excellent views during migration seasons.
Visiting information and access
The monument is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with last entry at 4:30 PM. It is closed on Christmas.
Admission is $20 per vehicle for a 7-day pass, $15 per motorcycle, or $10 per individual arriving on foot, by bicycle or by public transit. Annual and interagency passes are accepted. Tickets are available at the gate or online.
Cabrillo is accessible by car, rideshare or public transit. Onsite parking is available but fills quickly during peak times. The site has wheelchair-accessible ramps, restrooms and trails, and is ADA-compliant.
Ranger-led tours are offered seasonally; check schedules in advance. Designated picnic areas are available. Pets are allowed only in parking lots and paved areas, not on trails or indoors.
Other nearby attractions
- Point Loma Tide Pools
- Liberty Station Dining, shopping and historic venues.
- Old Town San Diego Historic buildings and cultural events.
Frequently asked questions
San Diego International Airport
What are SAN’s visiting hours?
SAN is open 24/7, but airline and TSA hours vary.
Do I need a ticket to enter the terminal?
No. A boarding pass and valid identification are required for security access.
How do I transfer between terminals?
Walk outside between the terminals, then re-enter and clear security.
How do I reserve parking?
Reserve online through the SAN Official website.
Is there airport art or history to see?
Yes. Both terminals have art installations and exhibitions.
Cabrillo National Monument
Are pets allowed?
Pets are allowed in parking lots and paved areas, but not on trails or indoors.
Is the monument family-friendly?
Yes. It has interactive exhibits and outdoor activities.
Are there picnic areas?
Yes. Designated picnic spots are available.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Rangers offer seasonal tours; check schedules in advance.
Is the site accessible?
Yes. It is ADA-compliant and has accessible facilities.
Can I watch whales from the monument?
Yes. The site offers excellent views during migration seasons.
For up-to-date hours and event details, visit the National Park Service Cabrillo page. The Audiala app provides audio tours, ticketing and travel tips, as well as real-time updates, alerts and travel resources.
