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Cheap Car Rental San Diego airport

Cheap Car Rental San Diego airport

Car Rental San Diego International Airport

Are you flying to San Diego soon? Then you are probably in need of a rental car. Holiday Cars can always help you finding the best rental car for the best price. Whether you are just visiting the city of San Diego or planning on exploring the West Coast, hiring a car will always be convenient. You don’t have to rely on public transport and you are free to go everywhere you want. The free shuttle bus will bring you directly from the airport to the Rental Car Center, where you can pick up your rental car.

San Diego International Airport

The airport is also known as ‘Lindbergh Field’, named after the famous Charles Lindbergh: an American aviator, military officer, author, inventor, explorer and environmental activist. The airport was founded in 1928 and it’s the busiest single runway in the nation. It’s located only 3 miles/4.8 kilometres northwest of downtown San Diego.
San Diego International Airport has two terminals (1&2) and 51 gates. A new terminal is slated for 2022. The airport goes out of his way to make sure all the travelers are having a wonderful experience during their travel. Local art is being displayed through the airport in temporary exhibitions and permanent artwork. Every season the airport provides a unique platform to showcase San Diego’s local culture. Dance, theater and live music performed by the region’s diverse talent. There even is a ‘Ready Pet Go’ program to enhance the overall passenger experience. 18 Dogs and their handlers roam the terminals and provide stress relief for travellers who would love to interact with them.

Car hire facilities at San Diego International Airport

Whether you prefer a smaller cheaper car or a more expensive big SUV: the car rental suppliers at San Diego airport offer it all. Holiday Cars only displays the best and trustworthy car rental companies. These companies are available for car hire:

Why get a rental car at San Diego?

Relaxing at the beach is a great way to spend your time in San Diego, but of course you also want to go out and see the famous attractions of the city. Some must-see’s are Coronado Island, the world class Zoo in Balboa park, Liberty Public Market, Legoland for kids, and Balboa park. If you want to go shopping, these are the best places to go: La Jolla, Gaslamp Quarter, Hillcrest, Westfield Horton Plaza, Fashion Valley and Las Americas Premium Outlet. With your rental car you can quickly move from A to B and visit all your favorite locations in one holiday.

Or are you planning on discovering the West Coast of the United States? In approximately two hours you can drive from San Diego to Los Angeles. There you can visit Hollywood, The Walk of Fame, Venice Beach and Melrose Avenue! On your way to Los Angeles you can make a stop at te Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, a beautiful park at sea with hiking routes. Don’t forget your camera to capture the beautiful nature!

Climate San Diego

The climate of San Diego is known to be really pleasant. The Mediterranean climate provides warm and dry summers and mild winters. Most of the annual rain falls between November and March. The best time to travel to San Diego depends on your own personal weather preferences.

Rent your car with the help of Holiday Cars

Holiday Cars offers you the best deals for car hire at San Diego International Airport. Take a look at our sharp rental and insurance rates and compare the different companies, that will probably help you decide.

Contact

IATA: SAN
ICAO: KSAN
Address: 3225 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, California 92101, USA
Phone number: +1 619.400.2404

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Tips and experiences for San Diego airport

Our customers rated San Diego airport with an average of 9.1 based on 93 ratings, and these are the most recent tips, experiences and highlights.

04-10-2021

says:
nice airport. What I did not like about it is that there is little choice of restaurants with alcohol for Southwest terminal. Confused about driving around airport.
03-10-2021

says:
Lunch at C-level on Harbor Island, on the way into the city from the airport, for a fantastic view of the San Diego skyline. Take a harbor cruise to see the Naval Base and Coronado, as well as the city. Catch the 11am Ranger-led tour of Balboa Park on Sunday morning, departing outside the Visitor's Center. Visit the Spanish Village, featuring local artisans, open from 11-4, in Balboa Park, near the carousal. There are no lines at the carousal, and they still have a brass ring to try for! The movie about Balboa Park, at the San Diego History Museum, is worth seeing if you're at the park - very interesting.
18-09-2021

says:
Fox Rental was wonderful and the Jeep Wrangler we rented was perfect for our trip! We stayed in Mission Bay, which was a perfect location for the family. My kids’ favorites were the San Diego Zoo, Tide Pools at Point Loma, and Belmont Park.
16-09-2021

says:
When renting car, keep them clean and abide by the policy of the company.
13-09-2021

says:
It's all about the mexican food. Sure, go to Old Town and get the sit-down "authentic" feeling stuff. But also make sure you stop at as many random drive-by taco shops as you can, located alllll over the county. Which ones are good? They're all good, my friend. If you're staying by the beach, don't despair when it's foggy and overcast in the morning until around 10 or 11am. We call that the Marine Layer... it'll burn off soon enough, and you'll be left with another gorgeous San Diego day. Enjoy the sun!
12-09-2021

says:
The security lines at. The airport can be long. Give yourself enough time to return car, take both shuttles to airport.
11-09-2021

says:
Please bring your cell phone holder for the retal car. It gives easy access to maps and directions. Pare your phone to the rental car. Making and receiving calls at easier. Before you buy your souvenirs, try the Kobey's Swap meet on Saturdays and Sundays. Save you from the tourists trap prices.
31-08-2021
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says:
Go to LaJolla Cove and Torry Pines. The seals and sea lions were personable and fun to watch. Shopping in LaJolla Village and Westfield UTC and on the Harbor were great
29-08-2021
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says:
If possible, do try and confirm 24 hours in advance any changes to your schedule that would affect your car or hotel rental schedule or fees. This will avoid a lot of grief later trying to get things straightened out and refunds enacted.
25-07-2021

says:
Get to the airport early! Even with a shorter security line, sometimes it takes forever to get through. Bring hand wipes to clean off the tray, etc on the airplane (think of all of the germs). Wear shoes easy to get on and off in the airport. Definitely make a trip to Torrey Pines in San Diego if you love a good hike. The most breathtaking views and a good workout! La Jolla is always a fun visit, especially to see the seals sunbathing and interacting. Also breathtaking views there! During the week it is easier to find free parking at these places.
08-07-2021

says:
This location can get super busy on Friday evenings and Sunday evenings. They are good at the check in....the return was kinda clustered and no one was there to check out and give me a receipt. There was a sign that said to leave keys in car and take pix of mileage??? Seriously?!! The truck we requested was not available so they gave us a bigger sized truck with a 5.3 hemi engine that burned through gas at 20 mpg!! yikes!! That sucked! They price was dirt cheap. The truck was super nice. Check in was kewl!!
07-07-2021

says:
They were very helpful with the information I needed. The service was quick. They offered additional insurance in the case that they did not know I had already purchased it. They asked if I wanted an upgrade or if the car I was going to get was suitable for my needs. If you purchase everything online prior to your trip, Everything is a breeze.
02-07-2021

says:
San Diego is a great airport to fly in and out of. It's nice and not too big so there aren't a lot of delays. The bus to the rental car location is nice and Fox's location is easy to find. We made sure to go over the car carefully to find any dents, but it was in good shape. We also wait until they tell us everything is ok when we return it so there aren't any surprises later. Everyone was very friendly and helpful & we'll use Fox again.
23-06-2021

says:
San Diego Airport is very nice. Be aware that the rental car area is not on sight though. You will have to take a shuttle to the rental car center. San Diego Airport has an entire complex dedicated to renting cars, with several floors. Upon returning the rental I suggest either GPSing San Diego Airport Car Rental Center, or paying close attention to the “small” directional signs prior to entering airport real estate. If you see airport parking, departure and arrival signs, you’ve went to far. I hope this helps you on your next visit to San Diego.
25-05-2021

says:
It helps if you bring a copy of your reservation. Make sure you have your driver's license and insurance ready. Do the walk around with the employee and record it. If you record it, there are no questions about there being an extra dent or not added to the vehicle. It's usually cheaper if you let them fill the tank to full for you. Do a final once over of the vehicle once it's dropped off to make sure nothing was forgotten.
17-03-2021

says:
Shuttle bus takes you to the rental car agencies. The shuttle bus drivers are helpful and polite. They went out of their way to make sure my needs were met. The pavilion for the rental cars is big so make sure you know where you are going beforehand. When busy, there is often a line to get onto the shuttle bus. Wifi at the pavilion is helpful when trying to figure out your rental reservations on the fly and were much appreciated.
10-03-2021

says:
Airport was easy as the size is manageable however the sidewalk breaks between the elevator and the shuttle bus to the car rental area was horrible- my roller bag got stuck on all of them as they are large gaps. was really a pain! Unfortunately my terminal only had a Peets Coffee, which I find undrinkable. That was a total bummer too. Check out the terminal offerings and leave time to walk to another terminal if you don't have what you want in yours!
23-02-2021

says:
Best travel tips would be to be there on time. Don’t wear anything metal cause it will slow down the process in the TSA line. Don’t bring drink in your carry on cause they will end up having to go through your bag. Adults should wear flip flops. Or sandals. Anything easy to take off and put on.
14-02-2021
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says:
Connect the two sections of Terminal 1 so that people can use either TSA checkpoint.
17-12-2020

says:
Don't skimp on food in San Diego, Enjoy! If you fly into the airport...get good directions to the rental car check in and the shuttle. Flying into San Diego for a short trip can be really cheap if you fly Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays. Pay attention to public access point on the premier beaches. USS Midway and absolute must. Plans to stay several hours.
13-11-2020
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says:
They were efficient and nice and affordable
11-11-2020

says:
Slow process for rental car shuttle; nice otherwise
10-11-2020

says:
San Diego is great. Nice weather and lots to do. We rented electric bikes for a day on Coronado and had a great time!
06-11-2020

says:
-Sea World -Little Italy -Balboa Park -Petco Park -Belmont Park -LaJolla Shores -Ocean Beach -Pacific Beach
02-11-2020

says:
Allow extra time for the shuttle to and from the car rental building. It's a distance, and with traffic can take 10 minutes.
28-10-2020

says:
Plan ahead your itinerary with hotels and rental cars. Get a map, don’t rely on GPS only. Google what fun things to do while in town , make copies and reservations of things to do aheqd of time. Use Yelp, Groupon, other sights to find deals on restaurants. Read theratings on these restaurants. Don’t just go to the big restaurants, go to thw littlw off the main beat places ! Tip your servers! Fill out travel advisors rating on places you’ve been !
24-10-2020

says:
Many gas stations are near the car-rental return garage. It's easy to fill up just before returning the car. Inspect the car carefully before leaving the rental station. Note _all_ damage carefully. Prices in the San Diego airport are extremely high, for nearly everything. Food may be the least overpriced, but beer prices are extortionate.
08-10-2020

says:
If in San Diego for the first time, take the city shuttle, 10 stops throughout the city plus Coronado. Enjoy some great food in San Diego Gas Lamp district. Visit the USS Midway, a great experience. Take a trip up the coast to enjoy sunsets at different beaches like Pacific beach and La Jolla Cove. Take a drive to Palomar Observatory the continue on to Temecula for wine and beer tastings. Enjoy the sun and friendly people along your journey.
07-10-2020

says:
Go to the beach and also to a hike to get ocean and mountain fix on the same trip!!
20-09-2020

says:
very little trouble in driving or departing the airport. Keeping in mind this is a larger airport and expect congestion.
29-08-2020

says:
We stayed in Sunset Cliffs during our visit to San Diego and I would highly recommend that area. It is right on the coast, and not particularly touristy so you can really take in the beautiful scenery without being inundated by other people. There are still convenience stores and restaurants within a short walk, plus you can rent a scooter through the Bird or Lime apps to easily hop over to Ocean Beach in 5 minutes. Other highlights include walking up and down the pier at Ocean Beach, the boardwalk at Mission Beach, hanging out with the sea lions and seals in La Jolla, and exploring Hotel Del Coronado, Balboa Park, and Little Italy. Can't wait to come back!
12-08-2020

says:
a convertible in San Diego is a great car to have
09-08-2020

says:
There is one shuttle for MOST of the car rental agencies which are located in a central location away from the airport port. A few of the rental agencies are located in other parts of downtown SD, but most have shuttles that pick up at the main rental center. Check to confirm if your rental is on or off site! Make a note of what terminal your airline leaves from, 1 or 2. Luckily our shuttle driver asked each passenger their respective airlines to confirm they were on the correct shuttle.
06-08-2020

says:
Let's face it, California is of course beautiful. But having an awesome rental car to drive up the coast along Route 1 made my experience super special. From finding little restaurants along the way like Huckleberry's in Pismo Beach to the people. It was an overall spectacular experience that I will remember forever. I am a photographer and I took some killer pictures along the way.
18-07-2020

says:
There can be some long walks, but that's not always bad after sitting on a plane for 3 or 4 hours.
10-07-2020

says:
Never rent at Mex. Make sure you have an international driver's license when coming from abroad.
30-06-2020

says:
I would rent from Fox again! The reviews had me nervous but everything went smoothly. The rate was really reasonable. The shuttle at both airports was seamless and the staff at both locations were great! I really appreciated the smile of the gentlemen that recieved our car in Las Vegas and the humor of the attendant at the San Diego location. I wish I had grabbed their names! I will defiantly use them again. The only reason its a 4 is the car was banged up but didn't bother me any.
30-06-2020

says:
I travel a lot and have found that "keep it easy" is the best way to go. Have everything ready! Not just the things you pack (lol) but all the information on the place you are staying, the car rental, and airline information. It's frustrating if you can't find times, numbers and itinerary. Check on the need for passports and or visas and for goodness sakes make sure the credit cards you are using don't have foreign exchange fees.
27-06-2020

says:
1. Only take a car which has its location in Airport Car Rental area not off site 2. Live in downtown: Little Italy etc. great food, and beautiful city 3. Air B&B are good source for economical and convenient condos.
21-06-2020

says:
Pack light, put liquids in plastic, print boarding passes the day before at home, wear comfortable shoes and clothes. Make sure carry on fits all type of aircraft and bring own snacks with gum to help ears from popping.
20-06-2020

says:
You have to take a shuttle to the rental car area, but then everything is in one place.
16-06-2020

says:
Fairly easy to find the shuttle that takes you to and from the airport to the rental centre.
07-06-2020

says:
Make your reservations early and via the web page.
03-06-2020

says:
go to San Diego once school is back in. Weekdays are very chill.
02-06-2020

says:
Make sure your gas is full before returning the car.
27-05-2020

says:
Since Fox is in the new main car rental garage, you don't need to look for the Fox shuttle bus like the Fox printed instructions state. Any shuttle bus to the main rental car garage will get you where you need to go.
26-05-2020

says:
Airport has regular buses to navigate to the Rental Car area where are rental car agents are placed. Airport is neatly maintained and no hurry we can reach the place on time.
25-05-2020

says:
Go to the beach. Go to the Mormon Battalion Vistitors center in old town. Have fun at the shops along the beach. Find your favorite animal at the zoo. Take time to explore old town. Have fun with SeaWorld and roller coasters.
19-10-2019

says:
I think it's silly to have me review the airport.
07-10-2019

says:
You can take the trolley that takes you arround the city, in one day you see a lot of things. For a good price you find parking lots on the down town near all the points of interest. Coronado island is a must!! There you can eat a lunch or drink something and walk arround the beautiful streets.
05-10-2019
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says:
I pack light, bringing only essentials and items that are versatile, to avoid the expense and hassle of checking baggage. I choose nonstop flights to avoid delays and wasting of time. I bring nutritious, nonperishable snacks and purchase a drink after passing through security to take on the flight. I choose early morning departure flights and late day return flights to maximize time spent at my destination . Renting a non-luxury car makes getting around more flexible and less expensive. I research free and low cost attractions and events at my destination. Saving money in these ways allows me to travel more freQuentin and to more destinations.
03-10-2019

says:
San Diego is beautiful, especially in January. You can even go to the beach in the winter. Also go north for some of the smaller towns in northern San Diego. Encinitas and Carlsbad in particular are worth a visit. And go out to Anza Borrego. That's a desert park that's perfect for a winter visit.
01-10-2019

says:
San Diego airport is a great place to get the rental car. The shuttle service is very efficient. It does not feel rushed at all. On the other hand, you would not want to be in a hurry, because of this. Our highlights of the visit to San Diego included San Diego Zoo, San Diego Park Safari, and a visit to the Midway. You could easily spend a day at each of these attractions. We also did a Harbour cruise and enjoyed seeing all of the naval ships that were in dock.
28-09-2019

says:
great having continuous shuttle service to rental center
02-09-2019

says:
lots of places to see in San Diego. Weather is always awesome. San Diego Safari park, Zoo, Balboa park, Coranado Island are some of the many interesting places to visit. Don't forget Leggo Land if you have kids.
29-08-2019

says:
I would recommend renting bikes in Balboa park and biking around there because it's beautiful! We also enjoyed eating at Rancho's Cocina. We had really good beers at Thorn Street Brewery. We also had great beer and pizza at Blind Lady Ale House. And it wouldn't be a trip to San Diego without a trip to the beach! We walked by the tide pools at Ocean Beach for a bit before it was time to return the rental car. We'll definitely be visiting San Diego again soon!
05-11-2018

says:
Explore the beach towns. The sark and seal ion colony at La Jolla was brilliant if smelly!
28-10-2018

says:
San Diego is easy to navigate and the area around the Navel ship Midway a must-see. Would like a map for City highlights and instructions for return route when turning in car. It was much farther from the airport than I thought. Most rentals have a map when you pick up the car. Not everyone has a GPS when traveling.
26-10-2018

says:
San Diego was very beautiful. We enjoyed Balboa Park and the Old town area as well as the view at Cabrillo national monument. Overall it was tidy and nice with the harbour and water and hills and buildings. It felt clean and safe and friendly.
22-10-2018

says:
The area where we stayed (Hotel Circle) has lots of places to eat, but most are family dining. Better restaurants can be found by heading north towards La Jolla.
23-09-2018

says:
Convenient San Diego airport location (SAN) with good road infrastructure allows for great deal of flexibility in traveling, especially if you have limited time in the city. The most interesting landmarks including downtown, historical districts (Gaslapm, Little Italy, Hillcrest, Northpark), Coronado and Mission beaches, Balboa park with numerous museums, famous San Diego zoo and university campuses are within 30 min of driving from the rental location.
20-09-2018

says:
Came t see daughter and family so basically staying and enjoying them but one of our favorite places is always Extraordinaire Desserts!
04-09-2018

says:
It's all beautiful
30-08-2018

says:
Mexican food! Hit up all the little taco shops.
30-08-2018

says:
Whale watching was great!
03-08-2018

says:
Watch the signs carefully and you will get in and out of the rental garage.
17-04-2018
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says:
Paddle boarding on Mission Bay is a must! Rentals are easy and inexpensive. Seal-watching at the Cove is another daytime activity not to be missed. At night, be sure to visit the Gaslamp District for some drinks and great vibes!
07-04-2018

says:
Go to Belmont Park at Mission Bay
03-04-2018

says:
We thought Hawaii was great - well, San Diego ranks right up there. Fantastic time in the Gaslamp Quarter.
22-03-2018
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says:
Clean and quick
03-03-2018
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says:
So many things to see and do that a week is not enough. The zoo, biking on Coranado Island, the beaches, Sunset Cliffs, the breweries...too mant to list. Kayaking on the ocean at nearby LaJolla. Torrey Pines State Park has great trails and gorgeous views.
28-02-2018

says:
Visit the beaches and Petco Park for a baseball game. La Especial Norte in Leucadia is the BEST place for Mexican food.
24-02-2018

says:
There are many things to do and see!
10-02-2018

says:
Stay in Pacific Beach-Delmar or LaJolla. Downtown seems like it would be great but getting in and out is BRUTAL between 3-7 (extra 30-40 minutes weekdays 15-25 weekends). San Diego is all about the beaches base your trip on that.
05-02-2018

says:
Avoid the freeways during rush hour.
31-01-2018

says:
Rental cars relatively inexpensive and readily available, although prices have REALLY jumped since the airport established rental car hub earlier this year.
26-12-2017

says:
wildlife safari, uss midway, leo carillo ranch, petco park, old town
17-12-2017

says:
Stay for a few days to enjoy the city...wwnt for work but was able to enjoy the city a little bit. Will be back.
12-11-2017

says:
Nicest city in the USA. Much to do in a close proximity withinthe city and lots around SD
10-11-2017

says:
San D is an excellent place to visit If driving route 1 use the 101 upto Santa Barbara
07-11-2017

says:
visit the beaches and all attractions on the coast
05-11-2017

says:
Balboa Park is a must. Spend time and relax.
24-10-2017

says:
enjoy the weather
21-10-2017

says:
I was in San Diego for only one day but i definately recommend to go to Little Italy and restaurant Fillipi's
17-10-2017

says:
Great restaurants and friendly community
15-10-2017

says:
Visit, Sea Port Village. See the Midway Museum. Walk along the many beaches.
30-09-2017

says:
The simple things like walking on the beaches, anywhere from PB to Carlsbad. They are all adorable beach towns with lots of fun coffee shops, restaurants, shopping. Riding bikes around Mission Bay & the boardwalk are some of my favorite things to do. I used to live there & enjoyed it's relaxed daily living.
18-09-2017

says:
It is wise to visit San Diego, a lot of places for sightseeing and fun, ecpecially with children
14-09-2017
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says:
none at this time
04-09-2017
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says:
it was good
21-08-2017
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says:
We absolutely Loved our hotel; Us Grant in downtown San Diego. Lunch at the beach in Coronado island and hotel del Coronado was amazing. The San Diego zoo was the best I've ever seen. And last but not least, sunset at la Jolla coves was breathtaking!
16-07-2017
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says:
Weather is great and lots to do, I would recommend the whale watch tour and beached for value and Old Town for food and charm.
22-02-2017
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says:
Do visit USS Midway