Southwest® flights from San Diego to Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii from $179

Island hopping from Honolulu (HNL)

Oahu is an enchanting destination in its own right, but it also makes a natural home base for exploring more of Hawaii. Flying is the primary method for inter-island travel for locals and visitors alike, with frequent flights connecting Oahu to Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island, so you can have a completely different experience on each island. See our Hawaii inter-island flights page for route and scheduling choices, or browse the Hawaii page for trip inspiration.

Getting from HNL to Waikiki, downtown Honolulu and nearby areas

Once your flight from San Diego, CA to Hawaii lands at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, Waikiki is about 20 to 30 minutes away, depending on traffic. You've got several ways to cover the last stretch:

• Rental cars: A rental vehicle is your best bet if you’re interested in exploring beyond Waikiki. Book your rental car before you fly so you can pick up your keys and start your adventure as soon as you land.
• Rideshares and taxis: Both rideshares and traditional taxis are available at the airport and work well if you're heading straight to your hotel.
• Hotel shuttles: Some Waikiki hotels offer complimentary airport transfers, so check with your hotel before you arrive to confirm availability and timing.
• Public transit (TheBus): Oahu's public bus system, TheBus, offers low-cost rides and direct connections to Waikiki from the airport.

How to find cheap flights from San Diego (SAN) to Honolulu (HNL)

Timing and flexibility are the keys to scoring a great deal on flights from San Diego to Honolulu, HI. A few simple strategies can help you find a lower fare:

• Use the Low Fare Calendar: If your dates are flexible, the Southwest Low Fare Calendar makes it easy to spot the cheapest days to score plane tickets from San Diego to Honolulu.
• Book early: Prices on popular leisure routes like SAN to HNL tend to climb as departure gets closer.
• Shoulder seasons: Late spring and early fall often bring lighter crowds and better fares than peak summer or holidays.
• Sign up for alerts: Get on the list for Southwest email alerts so you can jump on fare sales and special promos as soon as deals go live.

What’s the best time to travel from San Diego to Honolulu?

• Whale watching: Visit between December and early spring for the chance to see humpback whales just offshore—a seasonal experience that's unique to Hawaii.
• Surf season: Winter brings world-famous waves to Oahu's North Shore, making it the best time for experienced surfers. Summer typically offers calmer conditions that are ideal for beginner lessons and more relaxed days on the water.
• Best value: If you're looking for fewer crowds and better availability, consider traveling during the spring shoulder season. You'll often find a good balance of value, activities, and a more relaxed pace.
• Family travel: Plan around peak seasons like summer and school holidays for the widest range of activities and events, but book early as demand is highest during these times.

What to do in Honolulu after you land

• Waikiki Beach: The iconic hub for sun, surf lessons, and an easygoing beachfront scene with plenty of dining nearby.
• Diamond Head: A moderate hike up a volcanic crater with sweeping views over Waikiki and the Pacific. Go early to beat the crowds.
• Pearl Harbor: A must-visit historic site featuring the USS Arizona Memorial and museums that offer a powerful look at World War II history.
• Hanauma Bay: A protected marine sanctuary known for some of the best snorkeling on Oahu; note that reservations are typically required.