Terminal layout at SAN
For arrival planning, start with the terminal layout. The airport is in the middle of a major Terminal 1 redevelopment, so airline locations and pedestrian/road routing should be checked before travel; a free inter-terminal shuttle links the terminal areas. San Diego International Airport has two passenger terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.
Official parking at SAN
The airport-operated parking picture is straightforward to compare once you know the main facilities. Official terminal parking is provided at the Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 parking plazas, with reservation products and additional airport parking choices depending on current construction. Curbside waiting is prohibited, so use signed waiting/pickup areas rather than stopping at the terminal.
Rental cars and ground transport
For rental cars and onward travel, the airport currently uses the following arrangements. All major rental-car pickups and returns are handled at the consolidated Rental Car Center, connected to both terminals by free shuttles. Taxis, rideshare, public buses and other shuttles use terminal-specific transportation zones.
Passenger facilities at SAN
Inside the passenger areas, these facilities can make the journey easier. Dining, retail, charging, information desks, family services and other passenger amenities are spread across both terminals. Official SAN Wi-Fi is provided in Terminal 1, Terminal 2 and the Rental Car Center.
Accessible parking and assisted travel
Accessible parking and assisted travel are easiest when arrangements are checked before the day of departure. SAN offers accessible terminal, curb and transportation facilities and publishes assistance information for travelers with disabilities. Airline wheelchair service should be arranged before travel; accessible shuttles are provided within the airport transportation system.
Airport hotels near SAN
If you want to stay near the airport, these are the main hotel-location points to consider. Harbor Island and Liberty Station contain the closest major hotels, immediately west and south of the SAN runway/terminal complex. Use Fly Away's hotel search page to look for rooms around the airport for your travel dates. Before booking a room, confirm shuttle arrangements, parking-package terms and the final rate.
Sheraton San Diego Resort
Hilton San Diego Airport/Harbor Island
Hampton Inn & Suites San Diego Airport Liberty Station
Booking checks for SAN
| Check | Why to confirm it |
|---|---|
| Terminal or concourse | Choose a parking route that works with the terminal your airline is using. |
| Facility address | Independent parking and hotel parking may use a different address from the passenger terminal. |
| Transfer time | Add walking, shuttle or rail time to the time you need for airline check-in and security. |
| Live price and terms | Rates, taxes, availability and cancellation conditions depend on the provider and travel dates. |
Current SAN maps and official information
Official airport website
Check current terminal, parking and travel notices directly with San Diego International Airport.
Open official airport information ↗Airport map and directions
Use a current map for the passenger terminal. Follow a separate confirmed address if you booked off-airport parking.
Open SAN in Google Maps ↗Other airport parking guides
Frequently asked questions about SAN parking
What should I check before driving to SAN?
Confirm the current terminal or check-in area for your airline, the parking facility address and the time needed to reach the terminal. Use San Diego International Airport official travel information for day-of-travel changes.
How should I compare parking for a longer stay at SAN?
Compare the total stay price, transfer time, access hours, whether you keep your keys, cancellation terms and any vehicle restrictions rather than relying only on the advertised daily rate.
Where can I verify current SAN parking information?
Use the official San Diego International Airport website linked in this guide for current airport-operated parking information, terminal maps, traffic notices and ground-transport changes.
What if I need accessible parking or assistance at SAN?
Check the airport accessibility guidance before travel and arrange airline wheelchair or gate assistance directly with the airline when required. Confirm that any parking transfer can meet your mobility needs.