Amtrak's Southwest Chief goes to LA, then take the Pacific Surfliner to San Diego.

How long is the drive?

Approximately 28 hours of driving time.

What is the best airport?

SAN is the most convenient airport for San Diego.

Some express lanes in California have tolls.

Is San Diego expensive?

Yes, it is one of the more expensive cities in the US.

Sandstone

San Diego

Flight Driving

Sandstone to San Diego

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Sandstone to San Diego spans 3,000 kilometers. Driving via I-80 W and I-15 S takes approximately 28 hours. Flying from MSP to San Diego International (SAN) is the most practical method. You will cross the Great Plains, the Rockies, and the Mojave Desert. This is a major cross-country trek requiring careful planning.

Total Distance: Driving distance 3,000 km; Air distance 2,500 km.

Fastest Way

Flying from MSP to SAN takes 7 hours including connections.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most economical for groups.

Compare Sandstone to San Diego Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	7 hours	28 hours
Avg Price	$400-$800	$600-$800 in fuel
Operator	Alaska Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	MSP to SAN via SEA or LAX.	I-35 S to I-80 W, then I-15 S through Utah and Nevada.
Tip	Direct flights are rare; expect a connection in a major hub.	Plan for at least three days of driving.

Travel Tips

Traffic
Avoid the I-15 corridor in Southern California during rush hour.
Hydration
Drink water while crossing the Mojave Desert.
Parking
Parking in downtown San Diego can be expensive; use public transit.
Weather
San Diego has a Mediterranean climate; pack light layers.
Time Zone
You will cross from Central to Pacific Time.

Safety Tips

Desert Driving
Ensure your car's cooling system is in top shape for the desert heat.
Fatigue
Do not push yourself to drive more than 10 hours per day.
Emergency Supplies
Carry extra water and food for the desert stretches.
Vehicle Check
Check your tires and oil before starting this long journey.