If you’ve got a layover in San Diego, don’t let it go to waste sitting at SDM. The city, in United States, is within easy reach — roughly 180 minutes by local transport. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Before You Step Outside SDM
A few things to sort out before you leave SDM:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for United States. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to San Diego takes about 180 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Exploring San Diego on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in San Diego:
Start with Balboa Park. Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule. Then, if time allows, make your way to Gaslamp Quarter. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
If you’d rather stay inside SDM — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Signature Flight Support Lounge (SDM)
- Aircraft Spotting at Brown Field
Getting to San Diego from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from Brown Field Municipal Airport into town:
- local transport: About 180 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 200 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Eating Well on a San Diego Layover
- In the city: La Puerta and Hodad’s Downtown are both worth a visit if you’re exploring San Diego.
- At the airport: Brown Field Airport Cafe and Hangar Cafe will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into San Diego might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in San Diego, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at SDM for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate San Diego or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Bag Storage Near SDM
Specific locker facilities at SDM aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in San Diego itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at SDM include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in United States also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in San Diego is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy San Diego.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.