How do I get from San Diego to LAX?
LAX airport is only 125 miles north of downtown San Diego. With 174 destinations in 74 countries*, LAX offers travelers more non-stop and affordable options than flying from San Diego’s airport. However there is no direct transportation option connecting San Diego and LAX…until now.
Currently, there are a number of ways to get from San Diego to LAX. The only problem is all of these existing options are inconvenient or expensive for travelers.
Let’s look at some of the more popular transportation options people choose to get from San Diego to LAX:
Amtrak + transfer to FlyAway® bus
Is there a train from San Diego to LAX?
No, currently no trains run directly from San Diego to LAX. You must connect at Union Station in Los Angeles.
This is probably the most well-known, cost-conscious option. Amtrak operates trains between San Diego’s Santa Fe Depot and Los Angeles Union Station. These trains will cost you about $40 each way and take 3 hours.
Once you arrive at Union Station you must then walk to the FlyAway shuttle stop and board a coach bus to LAX airport. The bus costs $10 and takes 30 – 60+ minutes, depending on LA traffic.
So if your connection time aligns favorably and there is no traffic, it will take you a minimum of 4 hours to get from downtown San Diego to LAX. This option will cost about $50, depending on how early you book.
Flixbus + transfer to FlyAway® bus
This option is almost identical to the one above. Instead of taking Amtrak to Union Station though, you take Flixbus. You must again transfer to the FlyAway bus at Union Station. Flixbus prices vary depending on how early you book.
Travel time is consistent with Amtrak, though times can often vary.
Drive and park
How much does it cost to park at LAX?
Parking costs at LAX will vary, but plan to spend around $20/day for LAX parking.
While there are plenty of parking options near LAX, we suggest you do your research when selecting a parking lot. Some that we found have dismal reviews. A reputable lot will cost you at least $20/day.
This can be a good option for a quick trip, however your tab will add up quick for longer trips. You should plan for added time to take a shuttle from the parking lot to LAX. If you choose to park on sight at LAX it will cost you $40/day (at the time of this article).
Rideshare
How much does an Uber cost from LAX to San Diego? An Uber will cost around $200 between San Diego and LAX.
If you can find an Uber or Lyft to drive you the 2+ hours from San Diego to LAX, it will cost you significantly more than the options listed above. Your fare will vary depending on time of day and any surge pricing. At the time of this article, the fare was about $200.
Private transfer
If cost is not a factor, this would be your most convenient option. Private transfers can be prearranged for a specific date and time from your home. Costs will vary, but you can expect this to run you about $300+ one way. This may be a good option if you have a large family.
One-way rental car
Can I rent a car in San Diego and drop it off in LA?
Yes, you can pick-up your car at San Diego Airport and drop it off at LAX.
This option requires planning and coordination. If you can find reasonably priced one-way car rentals, you can avoid paying daily parking fees. Book a one-way rental to LAX, then a one-way rental from LAX.
Keep in mind that rental car companies will often charge “drop fees” for one-way rentals. Daily rates will vary depending on supply and demand. You’ll also need to get yourself to and from the rental car facility in San Diego.
reLAXsan® – Travel without the hassle!
Is there a shuttle from San Diego to LAX? reLAXsan offers shuttle service directly to LAX from San Diego.
Direct, convenient and affordable. This premier shuttle service offers convenient connections between three San Diego County neighborhoods and LAX. With competitively priced fares, reLAXsan takes you directly to & from LAX without the hassle.
With a total travel time estimated at around 2 hours 15 min without traffic (times may vary), reLAXsan is the best way to get to LAX from San Diego.
Sources and info:
*FlightConnections, Oct 2022
San Diego to LAX transit comparison (time and money)
Looking for a simple way to travel from San Diego and LAX?
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