Flying from Washington DC to San Diego International Airport (SAN): what you need to know
Kick off your journey at one of Washington DC's main airports, Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) or Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD). Explore your options for booking a flight from Washington DC to San Diego International Airport (SAN) departing from either of these.
San Diego is 3 hours behind Washington DC. San Diego International Airport is located in San Diego, which operates on the UTC-7 timezone.
With 36 direct flights a week between the two airports, Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) is the busiest route. Southwest Airlines operates the earliest flight at 06:15. If you'd like to get more out of your day before leaving, the latest flight from DCA to SAN is with Southwest Airlines at 21:00.
Arrive at the airport on time so you don't miss your flight from Washington DC to SAN. Be there at least two hours ahead for international flights and an hour early for domestic departures to avoid the mad dash to your gate.
Popular months like July or holiday times such as Thanksgiving and Christmas will mean longer lines at check-in and security. If you're travelling then, play it safe and get to the airport even earlier. Arriving two hours before domestic flights and up four hours ahead of international flights is a wise move.
Airports in Washington DC
Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA)
The distance from central Washington DC to DCA is about 8 kilometres. Use Google Maps for the best way to get there, whether you want to drive or use public transport.
Want a hassle-free start to your trip? Stay near Ronald Reagan National Airport. Whether you have an early flight from Washington DC to San Diego International Airport or want to avoid feeling rushed, these hotels are ideal:
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) offers nonstop flights from Washington DC to San Diego International Airport (SAN).
Board your direct flight from Washington DC to SAN with United. This is one of the main airlines that operates this route out of IAD.
Using public transport, you can travel from central Washington DC to IAD in about 3 hours and 26 minutes. The airport is roughly 56 kilometres away, and making the journey by car will take approximately 51 minutes.
Want to enjoy an extra night away before catching your flight from Washington DC to SAN? Relax in a hotel near Washington Dulles International Airport before your trip officially begins. Stay at one of these accommodation options:
About San Diego International Airport (SAN)
If you're coming in on a late flight from Washington DC to San Diego International Airport, few things beat the convenience of staying near the terminal. Grab your bags from the carousel and then be showered and snoozing soon after at one of these hotels near SAN:
Getting from San Diego International Airport (SAN) to central San Diego
From San Diego International Airport, San Diego is approximately 5 kilometres away. It takes around 9 minutes to get to the centre driving.
If you're using public transport, expect a journey of about 20 minutes.
How to find the cheapest flights from Washington DC to San Diego International Airport (SAN)
Book a one-way ticket from Washington DC to San Diego International Airport from 78 € or travel return from just 163 €. Prices are accurate at the time of listing and may change based on availability when you book.
We recommend booking as early as possible to secure cheap tickets from Washington DC to SAN. You're more likely to bag a bargain and enjoy a larger selection of flight times and dates.
Take advantage of the 'Whole month' search tool and compare the prices of tickets from Washington DC to San Diego International Airport across the month. We've made the lowest fares green, so you can quickly pick a flight your budget will love.
Snapping up a cheap ticket from Washington DC to SAN is a breeze with Price Alerts. All you need to do is create one of these automatic alerts and we'll notify you when there's a better deal.
Tailor your trip with filters. Choose your departure and arrival times, airlines and total journey duration. You can also sort your results by 'Cheapest,' 'Fastest' or 'Best' flights from Washington DC to San Diego International Airport.
The best time to fly from Washington DC to San Diego International Airport (SAN)
July is the busiest month for flights from Washington DC to San Diego International Airport. To steer clear of the crowds, head for San Diego in May when it's quieter.
Before you book a flight from Washington DC to SAN, think about the kind of weather you enjoy. August is the warmest month in San Diego, with temperatures ranging from 17ºC to 28ºC.
If you'd rather travel in cooler conditions, look for a cheap flight from Washington DC to San Diego International Airport in February when temperatures average between 7ºC and 23ºC.
More about San Diego
Start your San Diego trip right by choosing the perfect place to stay. Once you've booked your flight from Washington DC to San Diego International Airport, browse our range of accommodation options including:
All great holidays should include some sightseeing. San Diego Zoo, USS Midway Museum and SeaWorld San Diego are essential stops on your San Diego itinerary.
Complete your San Diego trip with a car rental
We use the same magic that helped you find your cheap flight from Washington DC to San Diego International Airport to track down your perfect ride. Check out our car rentals in San Diego and compare offers in one place. Plus you'll find all the info you need to know, from the most popular car type to the average daily price.