Getting Here, Getting Around

San Diego is a destination city. In fact, it is sometimes referred to as the cul-de-sac of the Southwest, a distinction that rankles most locals, but ultimately they grudgingly agree. Few people come through San Diego on their way to someplace else, as they do with major hubs like Los Angeles, Chicago, or Dallas. Of course, Lindbergh Field is called San Diego International Airport, but unless you’re headed to Mexico, leaving the country usually involves a stop in Los Angeles first. Once you’re here, well, there’s really no reason to go anyplace else aside from an occasional day trip. As you’ll soon discover, that’s not such a bad thing. The city has more than enough attractions and entertainment to amuse you for weeks. And if you’re really determined to go someplace else when you leave San Diego, we’ll get you there . . . eventually.

Another distinction San Diego has is the location of its primary airport, Lindbergh Field. It sits right smack in the middle of the city, not on the outskirts of town like most major airports. That means when you land, you’re already here. You don’t have to spend an hour or more finding your way into the city. Oh, and just a word about the landing. Because the airport is right next to downtown, your pilot will have to navigate some high-rises during final approach. But don’t let that worry you—they’ve been doing it for years and they’re used to it. Just wave to the office workers on the top floors as you fly by.

We’ve designed this chapter to help you find your way to San Diego and to get around once you’re here. We’ve included all the traditional modes of transportation as well as a few that may surprise and delight you, such as pedicabs, water taxis, and ferries.

San Diego is an excellent home base, and there’s so much to do here that there’s really little reason to venture farther afield. But should you choose to venture north—to visit Disneyland and Knott’s Berry Farm or Temecula’s wine country or the old mission at San Juan Capistrano—we won’t hold it against you. We’ll be here to welcome you back at the end of the day or weekend.