If you're planning a trip from Los Angeles to San Diego, you may be wondering how far apart the two cities are. The answer is, that it depends on how you're traveling.

If you're driving, the distance between LAX and San Diego is 118 miles. This is a straight bird’s-eye view distance, so the actual driving distance may be slightly longer depending on the route you take. The drive time from LAX to San Diego is approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes, without stopping. Drive time can of course vary based on traffic and other unforeseen elements.

If you're flying, the distance between LAX and San Diego is 109 miles. This is the air distance on the most direct route from LAX taken by the vast majority of flights. The flight time from LAX to San Diego is approximately 51 minutes, with an in-air time of 26 minutes. 

If you don’t feel like driving, there is a shuttle from San Diego to LAX. reLAXsan®, the San Diego to LAX shuttle, is roughly the same driving distance but without the stress of actually having to drive yourself. Travel time is just a little bit longer to account for picking up from 3 conveniently located San Diego stops near the I-5.

So, which way is the best way to travel from LAX to San Diego? Well, it really depends on your needs and preferences. If you're on a tight schedule and connecting to another flight at LAX, flying is the fastest option. However, if you're on a budget or want to enjoy the scenery, driving may be a better choice.

Here are some additional details about each option:

Driving from LAX to San Diego

Driving from San Diego to LAX is a relatively easy and straightforward trip. The most direct route is to take Interstate 5. The drive time is approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes, without stopping.

If you're looking for a more scenic route, you can take California State Route 1. This route will take you along the coast, and you'll be able to enjoy some beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. However, the drive time is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Flying from LAX to San Diego

Flying from San Diego to LAX is the fastest way to travel between the two cities. The flight time is approximately 51 minutes. However, you'll need to factor in the time it takes to get to the airport, go through security, and board your flight. So it could end up taking the same amount of time as driving (or longer) depending on how much time you need to do all this.

There are several airlines that offer direct flights from LAX to San Diego. Some of the most popular airlines include Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines.

Shuttle from San Diego to LAX

Taking a San Diego to LAX Shuttle gives you the best of both worlds. You won’t have to drive yourself, plus you get the comfort of relaxing while someone else does the driving from San Diego to LAX. 

Plus, no matter where you’re located, there’s 3 convenient stops: Old Town San Diego, Sorrento Valley/Del Mar, and Oceanside/Carlsbad (so you’re ride time may be even shorter).

San Diego to LAX Cost comparisons

Driving

Here are some of the costs to consider when driving from San Diego to LAX:

• Gas: The cost of gas varies depending on the current market price. However, you can expect to pay around $40 for a one-way trip from San Diego to LAX.

• Parking: Parking at LAX is expensive. You can expect to pay around $20 per day for parking.

• Tolls: There can be tolls on the way to LAX depending on your route. You can expect to pay around $10 in tolls for a one-way trip.

• Food and drinks: You will likely need to stop for food and drinks on your way to LAX. You can expect to spend around $20 on food and drinks for a one-way trip.

Flying

Here are some of the costs to consider when flying from San Diego to LAX:

• Airfare: The cost of airfare varies depending on the time of year, the day of the week, and the airline. However, you can expect to pay around $100 for a one-way ticket from San Diego to LAX. This can vary based on day of the week, time of day, airline and when you book.

• Transportation to and from the airport: You will need to pay for transportation to and from the airport. You can take a taxi, Uber, or Lyft, or you can take the bus or train. The cost of transportation will vary depending on the option you choose.

• Baggage fees: Many airlines charge baggage fees. You can expect to pay around $25 for a one-way bag fee.

Shuttle

Here are some of the costs to consider when taking a shuttle from San Diego to LAX:

Shuttle Fare: A reLAXsan shuttle to LAX from San Diego costs $58 for a one-way ticket. This includes your seat, one piece of luggage and a carry-on bag. 

Transportation to and from your shuttle stop: You will need to find a ride to your stop. This can be a family member or friend, or you can take a taxi, Uber or Lyft. You can even take the light rail to the Old Town San Diego stop if you’re near the downtown area.

Which option is right for you?

The best way to travel from LAX to San Diego depends on your needs and preferences. If you're on a tight schedule, flying is the fastest option. However, if you're on a budget or want to enjoy the scenery, driving may be a better choice. If you’re looking to save money and relax while doing so, taking a shuttle may be the best option. 

No matter which option you choose, you're sure to have a great time in San Diego or on your trip out of LAX.

Learn more about traveling from LAX to San Diego and reLAXsan’s shuttle from San Diego to LAX.