Airports Near La Jolla
Looking for the nearest airport to La Jolla? La Jolla is served by several airports located in different directions around the city. With three airports within a 50-mile radius, you have plenty of options to choose from. Here's a quick guide to help you find the one that best suits your travel plans.
What Is the Closest Airport to La Jolla?
The closest airport to La Jolla is San Diego International Airport (SAN), a large airport located approximately 9.3 miles (14.9 km) southeast of the city center. The driving distance is about 13.1 miles (21.1 km), which typically takes around 19 minutes by car.
For better flight options, consider Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which offers more connections. It's located 100 miles (161 km) northwest of La Jolla. The driving distance is approximately 116.7 miles (187.8 km), with a typical drive time of 2 hours and 22 minutes.
San Diego International Airport (SAN)
Direct Distance 📏
9.3 miles
14.9 kilometers
Driving Distance 🚗
13.1 miles
21.1 kilometers
Driving Time 🕓
19 min
Direction ➤
Southeast
McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD)
Located 19.4 miles (31.3 km) north of the city.
Direct Distance 📏
19.4 miles
31.3 kilometers
Driving Distance 🚗
25.1 miles
40.4 kilometers
Driving Time 🕓
36 min
Direction ➤
North
Tijuana International Airport (TIJ)
Located 27.6 miles (44.4 km) southeast of the city.
Direct Distance 📏
27.6 miles
44.4 kilometers
Driving Distance 🚗
34.4 miles
55.3 kilometers
Driving Time 🕓
43 min
Direction ➤
Southeast
Nearby airports to La Jolla
| Airport | Iata Code | Location | Distance | Driving Distance | Driving Time | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Diego International Airport | SAN | San Diego | 9.3 mi (14.9 km) | 13.1 mi (21.1 km) | 19 min | Large |
| McClellan-Palomar Airport | CLD | Carlsbad | 19.4 mi (31.3 km) | 25.1 mi (40.4 km) | 36 min | Medium-sized |
| Tijuana International Airport | TIJ | Tijuana | 27.6 mi (44.4 km) | 34.4 mi (55.3 km) | 43 min | Large |
| Orange County John Wayne Airport | SNA | Santa Ana | 66.7 mi (107.4 km) | 78 mi (125.5 km) | 1 h 36 min | Large |
| Palm Springs International Airport | PSP | Palm Springs | 81.1 mi (130.4 km) | 125.3 mi (201.7 km) | 2 h 35 min | Medium-sized |
| Long Beach Airport | LGB | Long Beach | 84 mi (135.3 km) | 97.9 mi (157.6 km) | 1 h 58 min | Medium-sized |
| Ontario International Airport | ONT | Ontario | 85.6 mi (137.8 km) | 110.7 mi (178.1 km) | 2 h 9 min | Large |
| San Bernardino International Airport | SBD | San Bernardino | 86.3 mi (138.8 km) | 107.9 mi (173.7 km) | 2 h 11 min | Medium-sized |
| Jack Northrop Field Hawthorne Municipal Airport | HHR | Hawthorne | 96.3 mi (154.9 km) | 112 mi (180.2 km) | 2 h 16 min | Medium-sized |
| Imperial County Airport | IPL | Imperial | 98.7 mi (158.8 km) | 121.3 mi (195.1 km) | 2 h 22 min | Medium-sized |
| Los Angeles International Airport | LAX | Los Angeles | 100 mi (161 km) | 116.7 mi (187.8 km) | 2 h 22 min | Large |
| Hollywood Burbank Airport | BUR | Burbank | 112.5 mi (181 km) | 125.3 mi (201.6 km) | 2 h 32 min | Medium-sized |
| Mexicali International Airport | MXL | Mexicali | 119.1 mi (191.6 km) | 144.5 mi (232.5 km) | 2 h 48 min | Medium-sized |
| Palmdale Regional Airport | PMD | Palmdale | 131.7 mi (211.9 km) | 178.1 mi (286.6 km) | 3 h 38 min | Medium-sized |
General Airport Travel Tips
- Allow enough time: It's generally recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
- Check your terminal: Confirm your departure terminal before heading to the airport, especially at larger airports.
- Airport selection: When choosing between multiple airports, consider flight availability, prices, and proximity to your final destination.
- Transportation options: Research transportation options to and from the airport including public transit, taxis, rideshares, or car rentals.
- Check flight status: Always verify your flight status before heading to the airport as schedules can change.
When planning your trip to La Jolla, choosing the right airport can help ensure a smoother travel experience. Consider all available options based on your specific needs.