Is there a direct flight?

No, all flights from MRY to SAN require a connection.

There is no direct train service from Pacific Grove to San Diego.

Flying is faster, but driving allows for more flexibility.

What is the best route?

Taking I-5 South is the most direct route.

Pacific Grove

San Diego

Flight Driving

Pacific Grove to San Diego

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Pacific Grove to San Diego covers approximately 750 kilometers. Driving via I-5 is the most direct route, taking about 7.5 to 8.5 hours. Alternatively, you can fly from Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) with a connection. This route traverses the entire length of California. It is a popular trip for those visiting Southern California.

Total Distance: 750 km driving distance; 650 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying is the fastest, taking about 3.5 hours including the connection.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective for groups.

Compare Pacific Grove to San Diego Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	3 hours 30 mins	8 hours
Avg Price	$200 - $400	$100 - $150 in fuel
Operator	United Airlines / Alaska Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	MRY to SAN via SFO or LAX.	Highway 68 to Highway 101 to I-5 South.
Tip	Connecting flights are necessary as there are no direct flights.	Plan for multiple stops to avoid driver fatigue.

Travel Tips

Traffic
I-5 through Los Angeles is the biggest bottleneck; plan accordingly.
Airport
San Diego International Airport is very close to downtown.
Car Rental
If driving, ensure your vehicle is well-maintained for the long trip.
Navigation
Use a GPS to navigate the complex freeway interchanges in Southern California.
Hydration
Drink plenty of water during the long drive.