$40 Cheap flights to San Diego County

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Top places to visit in San Diego County

Cheap flights to San Diego County from $40 One Way, $72 Round Trip

$72 return flights and $40 one-way flights to San Diego County were the cheapest prices found within the past 7 days, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

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Deals For This Weekend's Flights

OriginDestinationTravel DatesFlights From*
DENSan DiegoDecember 14 to December 18$227
SEAPalm SpringsDecember 12 to December 17$242
SEASan DiegoDecember 14 to December 20$339
DENCarlsbadDecember 13 to December 14$377
PAESanta AnaDecember 14 to January 10$382
ORDSanta AnaDecember 12 to December 14$395
BOSSanta AnaDecember 14 to December 15$395
BOSSan DiegoDecember 13 to January 19$423
SFOCarlsbadDecember 13 to December 15$426
ORDSan DiegoDecember 12 to December 21$441
ORDCarlsbadDecember 12 to December 16$451
BOSCarlsbadDecember 13 to January 19$509
SEACarlsbadDecember 13 to December 16$519
ORDPalm SpringsDecember 12 to December 16$650
BOSPalm SpringsDecember 12 to December 16$848
*Prices include taxes and fees

Find The Perfect Hotel For After Your Flight

Score Epic San Diego County Accommodation Deals

Pleasant Inn

Pleasant Inn

2.5 out of 5
5550 Clairemont Mesa Blvd San Diego CA
Fully refundable
The price is $97 total per night from Dec 20 to Dec 21
$97 total
per night
Dec 20 - Dec 21
Stay at this hotel in San Diego. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the convenient parking in our ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,265 reviews)
👍

Reviewed on Dec 3, 2025

Opens in a new windowPleasant Inn
E-Z 8 Motel Old Town

E-Z 8 Motel Old Town

2.5 out of 5
4747 Pacific Highway San Diego CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is $69 total per night from Dec 9 to Dec 10
$69 total
per night
Dec 9 - Dec 10
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in San Diego. Enjoy free parking, WiFi (surcharge), and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
6.4/10 (2,069 reviews)
Staff is awesome with guest services. I had a great experience dealing with them. Very understanding and kind!

Reviewed on Nov 28, 2025

Opens in a new windowE-Z 8 Motel Old Town
Kings Inn San Diego

Kings Inn San Diego

2.5 out of 5
1333 Hotel Cir S San Diego CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is $90 total per night from Dec 15 to Dec 16
$90 total
per night
Dec 15 - Dec 16
Stay at this hotel in San Diego. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 restaurants, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our reviews. Popular ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (3,565 reviews)
We Love Kings Inn Is so confortable and friendly, and secure.

Reviewed on Dec 5, 2025

Opens in a new windowKings Inn San Diego
Save an average of 15% on thousands of hotels when you're signed in
Days Inn by Wyndham Mission Valley/SDSU

Days Inn by Wyndham Mission Valley/SDSU

2 out of 5
5343 Adobe Falls Rd San Diego CA
The price is $89 total per night from Dec 10 to Dec 11
$89 total
per night
Dec 10 - Dec 11
Stay at this hotel in San Diego. Enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
5.8/10 (1,000 reviews)
Service is a little slow and not enough towels

Reviewed on Nov 26, 2025

Opens in a new windowDays Inn by Wyndham Mission Valley/SDSU
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Our Top San Diego County Apartment Hotels

Days Inn by Wyndham Mission Valley/SDSU

Days Inn by Wyndham Mission Valley/SDSU

2 out of 5
5343 Adobe Falls Rd San Diego CA
$77 nightly
The price is $89 total per night from Dec 10 to Dec 11
$89 total
Dec 10 - Dec 11
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in San Diego. Enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
5.8/10 (1,000 reviews)
Service is a little slow and not enough towels

Reviewed on Nov 26, 2025

Opens in a new windowDays Inn by Wyndham Mission Valley/SDSU
Staybridge Suites Carlsbad by IHG

Staybridge Suites Carlsbad by IHG

3 out of 5
2735 Palomar Airport Road Carlsbad CA
Fully refundable
$143 nightly
The price is $160 total per night from Dec 14 to Dec 15
$160 total
Dec 14 - Dec 15
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Carlsbad. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,000 reviews)
Staff was amazing place was nice clean

Reviewed on Dec 4, 2025

Opens in a new windowStaybridge Suites Carlsbad by IHG
Studio 6 Carlsbad, CA

Studio 6 Carlsbad, CA

3.5 out of 5
5010 Avenida Encinas Carlsbad CA
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Carlsbad. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the clean rooms in our reviews. ...
5.4/10 (1,064 reviews)
GREAT PLACE FOR SHORT TERM STAY
I was given a great room as it was away from any noise. Also it's great to have a full kitchen!

Reviewed on Oct 16, 2025

Opens in a new windowStudio 6 Carlsbad, CA
Save an average of 15% on thousands of hotels when you're signed in
Homewood Suites by Hilton Carlsbad-North San Diego County

Homewood Suites by Hilton Carlsbad-North San Diego County

3 out of 5
2223 Palomar Airport Rd Carlsbad CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$106 nightly
The price is $119 total per night from Dec 14 to Dec 15
$119 total
Dec 14 - Dec 15
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Carlsbad. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,001 reviews)
It was quite okay, but in a less crowded area like that, charging for car parking doesn't make sense

Reviewed on Dec 1, 2025

Opens in a new windowHomewood Suites by Hilton Carlsbad-North San Diego County
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Score Epic San Diego County Accommodation Deals

Bay Club Hotel & Marina

Bay Club Hotel & Marina

3.5 out of 5
2131 Shelter Island Dr San Diego CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$133 nightly
The price is $153 total per night from Dec 16 to Dec 17
$153 total
Dec 16 - Dec 17
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in San Diego. Enjoy free WiFi, a marina, and a health club. Our guests praise the breakfast and the restaurant in ...
9/10 Wonderful! (3,171 reviews)
The room was great! Loved the view! Staff was so nice! Room service does a great job at making virgin piña colada’s! Great location! only one complaint is it’s a little loud but it quiet down after 10!

Reviewed on Dec 7, 2025

Opens in a new windowBay Club Hotel & Marina
Hampton Inn San Diego/Mission Valley

Hampton Inn San Diego/Mission Valley

2.5 out of 5
2151 Hotel Circle South San Diego CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$101 nightly
The price is $116 total per night from Jan 5 to Jan 6
$116 total
Jan 5 - Jan 6, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in San Diego. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,267 reviews)
Spacious and clean rooms, helpful staff

Reviewed on Dec 2, 2025

Opens in a new windowHampton Inn San Diego/Mission Valley
Sheraton Mission Valley San Diego Hotel

Sheraton Mission Valley San Diego Hotel

4 out of 5
1433 Camino Del Rio S San Diego CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$118 nightly
The price is $136 total per night from Dec 14 to Dec 15
$136 total
Dec 14 - Dec 15
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in San Diego. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,645 reviews)
Decent room, great staff and close to am

Reviewed on Dec 6, 2025

Opens in a new windowSheraton Mission Valley San Diego Hotel
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Hard Rock Hotel San Diego

Hard Rock Hotel San Diego

4 out of 5
207 5th Ave San Diego CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$210 nightly
The price is $243 total per night from Jan 1 to Jan 2
$243 total
Jan 1 - Jan 2, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in San Diego. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 restaurants, and a nightclub. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the convenient parking in our reviews. ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (3,132 reviews)
Yes. Awesome staff

Reviewed on Dec 3, 2025

Opens in a new windowHard Rock Hotel San Diego
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Family Friendly Hotels in San Diego County

Bahia Resort Hotel

Bahia Resort Hotel

3.5 out of 5
998 W Mission Bay Dr San Diego CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$175 nightly
The price is $202 total per night from Dec 17 to Dec 18
$202 total
Dec 17 - Dec 18
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this beach resort in San Diego. Enjoy a beach locale, breakfast (surcharge), and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,801 reviews)
Very clean

Reviewed on Dec 4, 2025

Opens in a new windowBahia Resort Hotel
Grand Pacific Palisades
Great for families

Grand Pacific Palisades

3.5 out of 5
5805 Armada Drive Carlsbad CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$204 nightly
The price is $229 total per night from Jan 1 to Jan 2
$229 total
Jan 1 - Jan 2, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this golf hotel in Carlsbad. Enjoy 2 outdoor pools, 2 restaurants, and 2 hot tubs. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,001 reviews)

Families like: Outdoor pools, kitchen, game room, close to beach

Travelers say...
Rose, at the front desk was very helpful and went above to answer all of our questions and help make our vacation memorable.

Reviewed on Dec 3, 2025

Opens in a new windowGrand Pacific Palisades
Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel

Carlsbad By The Sea Hotel

3 out of 5
850 Palomar Airport Road Carlsbad CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$127 nightly
The price is $142 total per night from Dec 11 to Dec 12
$142 total
Dec 11 - Dec 12
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Carlsbad. Enjoy a 24-hour front desk, a 24-hour business center, and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the ...
7.6/10 Good! (1,740 reviews)
It was great and a perfect location

Reviewed on Dec 4, 2025

Opens in a new windowCarlsbad By The Sea Hotel
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The Dana on Mission Bay

The Dana on Mission Bay

3.5 out of 5
1710 W Mission Bay Dr San Diego CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$166 nightly
The price is $191 total per night from Jan 4 to Jan 5
$191 total
Jan 4 - Jan 5, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in San Diego. Enjoy 2 outdoor pools, a marina, and 2 hot tubs. Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (3,900 reviews)
Stayed there for thanksgiving weekend and the pool was very cold though they advertise as heated. Disappointed

Reviewed on Dec 4, 2025

Opens in a new windowThe Dana on Mission Bay
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Need a Car For After Your Flight?

Flights to San Diego arrive at the San Diego International Airport (SAN), which is located only 3 miles from the city center. It is also known as Lindbergh Field and provides service for 22 carriers—a hub for Southwest and Alaska Airlines. It is easy to move around in the airport and often only takes a short time to gather your luggage and be on your way. A small area in the southeast infield of the airport is home to the California least tern, an endangered species. They sit on their nest for several months over the summer, and the planes protect them from predators. While you wait for San Diego flights, you can browse in the shops or grab a bite to eat in one of the restaurants. You can also enjoy the art displayed throughout the airport.

San Diego Weather

The climate in San Diego is beautiful all year, but can vary depending on where you are visiting. You will experience coastal temperatures as well as mountains and desert. Within the city, the weather is mild and sunny with pleasant temperatures. Late summer or early autumn are typically the hottest periods, but you will still enjoy the city if you look for cheap San Diego flights during these months. Winter weather doesn’t exist here besides little rain, which makes it an ideal time for a trip to the city.

Getting Around San Diego

When San Diego flights arrive, several options can get you into town. The airport provides shuttle service to multiple locations, or you can easily find a taxi circling SAN. You will find several limousine and chauffeur services waiting at the airport too. The airport is also served by bus #992 of the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS). You can hire a car from the agencies located within the airport, but if you choose not to drive while visiting San Diego, you can use MTS to get around the city by bus, trolley, or Coaster train. You will want to experience the red trolley at least once on your trip; it provides transportation all around the city, running Monday to Saturday.

San Diego Attractions

San Diego flights take you to one of the most popular places in all of California for relaxation and nightlife.

  • San Diego Zoo: spend all day visiting the animals and special exhibits or book one of the special tours at the U.S. best zoo.
  • SeaWorld San Diego: feed and touch dolphins and visit the Turtle Reef that has up to 60 endangered and rare turtles.
  • Legoland California: enjoy thrilling rides and shows with more than 22,000 Lego models.
  • Old Town State Park: get a feel for San Diego’s past with 17 museums and buildings from the nineteenth century.
  • Balboa Park: featuring 15 museums, gardens, and art venues.

Frequently asked questions

Which airlines fly to San Diego County?
With 12 airlines to pick from, finding the right flight that suits your budget and plans should be a piece of cake. San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN) is the main entryway to San Diego County and where you'll likely be flying into. These top international airlines are waiting to take you there:

  • Air Canada - 61 flights to San Diego County per month
  • Alaska Airlines - 19 flights to San Diego County per month
  • British Airways - 13 flights to San Diego County per month

What is the best airport to fly to in San Diego County?
San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN) is the main arrival point to the city, so your only tough decision will be the aisle seat or the window seat. Central San Diego County is around 2 miles away and where many travelers begin their adventure.
How much is a flight to San Diego County?
Round-trip prices started as low as $72 this week to San Diego County, and climbed to a high of $848. Several lucky travelers departing San Francisco (SFO) managed to pick up one-way tickets from just $40.
How to book the cheapest flight to San Diego County?
With Orbitz, you'll find some of the most incredible flight deals around from a big range of airlines. But if you'd like to boost your prospects of landing cheap flights to San Diego County, here are some suggestions to try out:

  • Depending on where you're departing from, select the 'Nearby airports' function (located under the departure and arrival options). At times, other departure points offer more competitive fares.
  • If you're flexible with your plans, click on the 'Show flexible dates' option. It'll display the flight deals for the days around your chosen departure. Fares often vary depending on the day of the week.
  • Hit 'Show options' to refine your search results. You can pick your preferred airline and seating class here. Under 'Sort & Filter' to the left, you can even select whether you want to fly in the morning, afternoon or evening.
  • The early bird gets the best savings, so purchase your seats once you've settled on your travel dates. The most affordable fares sell out quickly and prices normally rise as the departure date nears.
  • Make even more savings on your adventure by bundling your hotel, flights and car rental into an Orbitz package. Your credit card will thank you.
  • Don't fly during peak seasons if possible. By steering clear of summer, school vacations and other popular dates, you can make amazing savings on your airfares.

How long is a flight to San Diego County?
The duration of your flight will depend on where you're jetting in from, whether that's the South, the Northern states or anywhere else. Listed below are some of the busiest routes to San Diego County and how long they take:

  • San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.) to San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN) - 1 hour and 22 minutes
  • Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN) - 1 hour and 36 minutes
  • San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.) to San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN) - 1 hour and 34 minutes

What is the best time to book a flight to San Diego County?
If you can, purchase your seats to San Diego County in January. This is the best month to reserve low airfares, closely followed by February and August. With a bit of patience and planning, you're bound to find a cheap flight with Orbitz.
What day of the week is the cheapest to book a flight to San Diego County?
Get a great flight deal by making a booking on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Saturday. Typically, these are the best days of the week to land cheap seats to San Diego County.
What is the cheapest day of the week to fly to San Diego County?
If you're after cheap flights to San Diego County, leave earlier in the week. Orbitz data from 2020 shows Monday is the cheapest day to set off, followed by Tuesday. Saturday has the most expensive fares, so avoid flying on this day and do your budget a favor.
What is the cheapest month to fly to San Diego County?
If you have some flexibility with your travel plans, consider departing during August. Orbitz data shows that this is generally the best month to take a trip if you're after cheap flights to San Diego County. As you would imagine, fares rise in the busy month of June and flights fill up fast.
Which airlines allow free cancellation?
We understand that plans can change and flexibility is important. That's why you can search for flights that include free cancellation and no change fees on Orbitz. Just click on "Filter by flexible change policies" and we'll find you fares with more flexibility than a lollipop left in the sun!
What do I need for the flight to San Diego County?
Nothing's more fun than jetting off on vacation, but it's good to be prepared. The following useful tips will help get your journey off to a good start:

  • Whether you print it out beforehand or use an electronic one, you'll need your boarding pass to walk on to the plane. You'll also need some kind of government-issued photo ID. If you're flying internationally, make sure your passport is valid.
  • Make time fly by even quicker on your short hop by packing the right gear. Think tasty snacks, a water bottle and entertainment. If you want your trip to San Diego County to pass quietly, throw some noise-canceling headphones or earplugs in your bag too.
  • No matter how hot it is outside, plane cabins can get chilly. Bring a sweater on board to keep yourself warm and cozy.

How many direct flights are there to San Diego County?
At the moment, there are 672 direct flights every month to San Diego County. When it comes to airlines that will take you there, you've got plenty to choose from. Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines and United Airlines are among the most sought-after. Delta Air Lines, American Airlines and Frontier Airlines are some other reliable carriers offering nonstop services.
How do I get cheap first-class/business deals to San Diego County?
Savvy travelers have honed the art of finding first or business-class fares to San Diego County without the hefty price tag. Be like them with these practical tips:

  • Being flexible isn't just useful in the gym. Avoid locking in your travel dates so you can snap up cheaper airfares when they crop up.
  • Low-cost airlines offer business-class seats at a fraction of the usual price. Skip the full-service carriers and fly with one these cheaper options.
  • Bid for an upgrade in online auctions (if available) or upgrade your fare with points earned through loyalty programs.

How to get into San Diego County from the airport?
One of the simplest ways to reach downtown San Diego County is by organizing a San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN) car rental. Touch down, collect your luggage and then collect a set of wheels from Economy's SAN on-site branch. You'll need to drive about 2 miles southeast of San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN) before you're in the center. Alternatively, take a taxi or public transportation into town, then rent a ride from one of our city center San Diego County car rentals instead.
What is the best time to go to San Diego County?
Tourists come from far and wide to check out San Diego County in February, March and April. So if you want to explore this fabulous destination in the busy season, this is the best time to go. As with many places in the Northern Hemisphere, summer commences June 20 in San Diego County, with average daily temperatures floating between 65 ºF and 75 ºF.
Travel tips for San Diego County

  • Start out in the downtown area and take a walking tour of the city's top attractions. San Diego Zoo and San Diego Convention Center are visitor favorites.
  • Also check out the sights within an easy drive of San Diego County's center. Set out for LEGOLAND® California and San Diego State University and experience a different side of this awesome destination.
  • When it's time to get out and see more of California, book a car rental and hit the road for Anaheim. Los Angeles is another leading city with plenty to do and see.

More to Explore

Fare, taxes & fees: Fares include all taxes and fees, except baggage fees. Rates shown reflect fares found by other Orbitz users over the past 7 days. Due to rapidly changing airline prices & seat availability, these fares may no longer be available.

Refunds/changes/cancellations: Itinerary changes, if permitted for the fare, will have a $30 service fee charged by Orbitz. Additional airline charges may apply.

Other conditions: Schedules, fares and rules are subject to change without notice. Seats are limited and may not be available on all flights/dates or in all markets. Lower fares may be available. Fares will not be honored retroactively or in exchange for any wholly/partially unused ticket. Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. Fare rules are provided for the selected itinerary before booking.