Getting Around San Diego
San Diego offers visitors several practical ways to move around the city, from light rail and buses to ferries and ride-sharing services. The public transit system connects major attractions and neighborhoods, while walking remains pleasant in many areas. Understanding your transportation options will help you navigate the city efficiently.
Light Rail and Trolley Network
The San Diego Trolley is a light rail system serving central San Diego, East County, and South County areas extending to the border. It's an efficient way to reach popular destinations and neighborhoods throughout the metropolitan area. The trolley connects to the downtown Santa Fe Depot and Old Town stations, making it easy to transfer to other transit services.
If you're traveling to northern areas of the county, the COASTER is a commuter rail line running along the coast with eight stations between downtown San Diego and Oceanside. The SPRINTER is another light rail option, running between Oceanside and Escondido with multiple stops in between, including Vista and San Marcos.
Bus Services
Two main agencies operate buses across San Diego County. The Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) serves central, south, and east San Diego, while the North County Transit District operates the "BREEZE" service in the northern portions of the county. Buses connect throughout the city and to regional destinations.
The MTS also operates bus rapid transit services. MTS Rapid service was launched along the I-15 corridor in 2014 and expanded to other locations in 2015. Breeze Rapid and SuperLoop are additional bus rapid transit options operating in Escondido and University City respectively, offering signal priority and dedicated stations.
Ticketing and Transit Passes
PRONTO is the universal electronic fare system used throughout San Diego County. You can pay fares using either a mobile app or a reloadable contactless smart card. PRONTO is accepted on MTS buses, the San Diego Trolley, North County buses, the COASTER, and the SPRINTER. Bus passes and transfers can be used across both MTS and NCTD services, though traveling on the COASTER may require a fare upgrade.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Taxis operate throughout the San Diego area with rates based on distance and pickup location. The RideYellow app, launched in 2016, offers discounted rides to compete with other ridesharing platforms. These services provide convenient alternatives to public transit when you need direct, door-to-door service.
Ferry Services
The Coronado Commuter Ferry carries passengers across San Diego Bay during morning and afternoon commute times, departing from Broadway Pier downtown and the Coronado Ferry Landing. San Diego Harbor Excursion also operates ferry shuttles between these locations and Fifth Avenue Landing. These ferries offer both commuting and scenic transportation options.
Walkability
San Diego's downtown area and many neighborhoods are walkable, with attractions and services within reasonable distance. Downtown hotels and attractions are accessible on foot, particularly near the historic Santa Fe Depot area and the waterfront. However, San Diego's sprawling geography means you'll need transit or a vehicle for travel between distant neighborhoods.
Getting from the Airport to the City
San Diego International Airport is conveniently located less than 10 minutes from downtown. Several transportation options connect the airport to the city:
- Public Bus: MTS bus #992 The Flyer offers an economical option, taking about 10 minutes to reach Santa Fe Depot downtown. From there you can connect to other MTS routes, the COASTER commuter train, the Trolley, and Amtrak.
- Free Shuttle: A direct free shuttle runs from both airport terminals to the Old Town Transit Center and trolley stop, where you can access Greyhound, additional MTS buses and trains, or visit the historic Old Town area.
- Shared Shuttles: Airport shuttle companies provide transportation to various city destinations, generally costing around $15 per person.
- Car Rental: The Airport Consolidated Car Rental Center is located on the opposite side of the airport from the terminals, with free shuttle service between the rental center and terminals.
Alternative Airport Options
If flying from Mexico, the Cross Border Xpress (CBX) terminal in Otay Mesa provides an alternative. A pedestrian bridge connects directly from the CBX terminal to Tijuana International Airport on the Mexican side, allowing you to bypass the vehicle inspection lanes at the border. From CBX, shuttle service connects to downtown San Diego and the San Ysidro bus station, making this option practical if you're traveling to or from Mexico.
Regional Rail Connections
The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner connects San Diego to Los Angeles and San Luis Obispo, with stops at the historic Santa Fe Depot downtown, Old Town, Solana Beach, and Oceanside. The COASTER connects to the regional Metrolink network at Oceanside, providing access to major Southern California cities. These services are useful for day trips or onward travel beyond San Diego County.
Biking
San Diego County has an extensive network of bikeways, including separated bike paths, designated bike lanes on roads, and bike routes on regular streets. The regional planning agency publishes an annual bikeway map available at most local bike shops, making it easy to plan cycling routes around the city.