Flying from Ottawa to San Diego: what you need to know
Ottawa's main base, Ottawa International Airport (YOW), is where countless incredible trips begin. Explore the departure options from here when planning your flight from Ottawa to San Diego.
Disembark at San Diego's major arrival point, San Diego International Airport (SAN).
The timezone in San Diego is UTC-8, which is three hours behind Ottawa.
Leave enough time to catch your Ottawa to San Diego flight. It's generally best to arrive at least two hours before international departures and an hour ahead for domestic flights.
Be prepared for bigger queues in popular months like July. Arriving up to four hours ahead of international flights and two hours for domestic departures is a good idea.
How to find the cheapest flights from Ottawa to San Diego
Don't leave everything to the last moment. You're more likely to find cheap Ottawa to San Diego flights if you book early. Airlines often offer some great early bird deals.
If you're willing to be flexible with your trip dates, try using the 'Whole month' search tool. It'll show you the lowest price in each month when searching for your plane ticket from Ottawa to San Diego.
There's no need to check back in every day to find out if fares have dropped when you create a Price Alert. We'll notify you as soon as a better deal comes up on cheap flights from Ottawa to San Diego.
Tailor your trip using filters. Select your departure and arrival times, total journey duration and airlines. You can also sort your results by 'Best,' 'Fastest' or 'Cheapest' Ottawa to San Diego flights.
Flying from Ottawa
Ottawa International Airport (YOW)
YOW is about 11 kilometres from central Ottawa. If you're ride-sharing, catching a taxi or driving from the centre, it'll take you 20 minutes or so to get there, depending on traffic conditions. If you're using public transport, expect the trip time to be around 35 minutes.
Want a handy hotel close to Ottawa International Airport? If you've booked an early flight from Ottawa to San Diego, these accommodation options will have you moments from check-in:
Of the departures from Ottawa International Airport, 65% arrive on time at their destination.
You'll find YOW at 50 Airport Road.
Arriving in San Diego
San Diego International Airport (SAN)
San Diego International Airport (SAN) is approximately 5 kilometres from the centre of San Diego. If you're catching a taxi or a ride-share, the drive takes around 15 minutes.
Travelling to the centre on public transport takes roughly 25 minutes.
Consider booking a hotel near SAN if you have a late flight from Ottawa to San Diego. Settle into one of these options and avoid the hassle of a long transfer:
Pick up a San Diego International Airport rental car and discover San Diego and beyond with your own wheels. Thrifty, Dollar and Budget are popular outlets to choose from here.
Get the best deal by booking your vehicle from San Diego International Airport around two weeks ahead of your trip.
SAN is located at N Harbour Dr.
McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD)
As soon as your flight from Ottawa to San Diego has hit the tarmac, you can get to the city centre in around 35 minutes by car. Central San Diego is approximately 48 kilometres from McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD).
The trip will take approximately 1 hour 30 minutes on public transport.
You'll find some great places to lay your head close to CLD. Unwind after your Ottawa to San Diego flight at any of these well-located options:
Budget, Hertz and Avis make collecting a McClellan-Palomar Airport rental car quick and easy. These trusted companies are located in or around the terminal and will have you on your way in a heartbeat.
Lock in the vehicle you want, not just what's left, by reserving your ride from CLD in advance. You'll also avoid last-minute price hikes, especially when demand is high.
Best time to go to San Diego
August is the busiest month for flights from Ottawa to San Diego. To escape the crowds, go to San Diego in March.
When booking your Ottawa to San Diego tickets, think about what kind of weather works for you. August is the warmest month in San Diego, with temperatures ranging from 16ºC (61ºF) to 27ºC (81ºF).
Look for cheap flights from Ottawa to San Diego in February if you'd rather travel during cooler conditions. Temperatures are at their lowest then, ranging between 8ºC (46ºF) and 22ºC (72ºF) on average.
More about San Diego
Start your San Diego trip off on the right foot by choosing the perfect place to stay. After booking your flight from Ottawa to San Diego, explore our selection of accommodation options including:
San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park are a couple of leading attractions to put on your San Diego to-do list. Continue your sightseeing adventures at USS Midway Museum.
Explore more of the United States
You've visited San Diego, now it's time to discover more of the United States. Travel about 177 kilometres northwest to Los Angeles to check off its popular sights. From Hollywood Sign to Universal Studios Hollywood and Hollywood Bowl, there's plenty to keep you busy.
Around 483 kilometres east of San Diego, Phoenix is another favourite stop in the United States. Experience major highlights starting with Camelback Mountain, Yayoi Kusama Fireflies Infinity Mirror Room and Heard Museum.