So, whether you’re driving and need to find parking or a hotel with parking, or flying in and need to get from the airports to the port area, we’ve covered all the options for you to make the best decision.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our full disclosure policy here.
San Diego sits at the very south-west of the continental USA and interstates 5, 15 and 8 all meet up here. So whether you are coming from North or East, easy access to the city shouldn’t be a problem.
Driving times from nearby major cities are:
- Las Vegas CA: 5.25 hours (335 miles)
- Phoenix, AZ: 5.5 hours (360 miles)
- Los Angeles, CA: 2 hours (120 miles)
- Tucson, AZ: 6 hours (415 miles)
San Diego International Airport (Code: SAN)
No airline dominates this airport, so it doesn’t operate as a hub for any of the major carriers. It is the 2nd busiest single-runway airport in the world, after London Gatwick, and there really is nowhere to build another one nearby!
The cheapest way to get to the cruise terminal, or into the city is by public transport. San Diego Metropolitan Transit System route 992 goes from both terminals to the
Day passes, if you want to use the buses to get around the city, are good value at just $5, but you will require a “compass” card, which costs $2. For full details visit
With the airport located so close to the city, a taxi won’t be an expensive option, so if you want the convenience of just hailing a cab at the airport and being on your way, at this cruise port where that is not going to break the bank. If you want the luxury of a private transfer, and prefer to book ahead, the companies below can all accommodate you.
Offering sedans for 4 people and minivans for up to 7 as well as wheelchair accessible vans, USA Cab could be the ideal way to get to the cruise terminal.
If you are a part of 3 or less, La Jolla Transport offers luxury sedans as well as standard sedans and SUVs for 4/6 people.
SD Taxi Services Limousine offer flat rates fares so you can know the exact price in advance of your ride.
With the distance from the airport to the city so short, there is not a great deal of competition for shuttles. Plenty of companies advertise as shuttle services, but they just book you into taxis at high prices. Two companies who do provide a proper shuttle service are Super Shuttle and EZ Ride Shuttle.
| Name | Telephone | SAN Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Super Shuttle | 800-258-3826 | 15.40 | SuperShuttle also have an app. Private rides can be booked for between $87.60 and $137 for up to 5 people. |
| EZ Ride Shuttle | 800-777-0585 | 18 |
With the cruise port right in the heart of the city and the airport just minutes away, it’s worth looking at a hotel which is close to one and provides a shuttle service to the other. Check out our San Diego hotels section for more info.
Looking for more information to plan your visit to San Diego?
You may find these articles helpful.
San Diego Cruise Port Guide
Where to Stay in San Diego with ‘Park & Cruise’ Deals
San Diego Cruise Parking Options
Things to See and Do in San Diego
Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission but this does not affect the price to you. Please read our full disclosure policy here.
