Start your Golden State getaway in the Birthplace of California with a flight on Southwest Airlines. Southwest flies from Chicago O’Hare International Airport to San Diego International Airport, making it easier to plan your next trip to SoCal. If you have flexible travel dates, explore our Low Fare Calendar for more flights within your travel window. Make the most of your reservation with package deals on flights, hotels, rental cars, and more from Southwest Vacations®.
Set your sights on Southern California and book your next flight today!
| Departing from | Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) |
|---|---|
| Arriving at | San Diego International Airport (SAN) |
| Distance | 1723 miles |
| 58* | Weekly flights |
|---|
Other popular flights from Chicago (O'Hare):
View our interactive map*Weekly flights based on DOT published scheduled average flights Monday through Sunday between 9/1/2023 and 9/30/2023. Note: route may not operate every day of the week.
San Diego has deep roots in aviation. While you’ll deplane at San Diego International Airport, this single-runway portal to the skies was originally named for Charles Lindbergh. Lindbergh tested his San Diego-built Spirit of St. Louis before his famous 1927 flight at the nearby Dutch Flats, inspiring the city to build the airport and invite more Americans to take to the air. When you deplane—or on your way home after your stay—consider swinging by Terminal 2 to see a recreation of Lindy’s famous plane.
You didn’t come to San Diego to explore the airport, of course! If your arrival marks your first visit to California, you can appreciate the city’s Birthplace of California moniker—Europeans first landed in San Diego Bay in 1542. Back then, it was claimed for Spain; this influence still echoes in the architecture of the city. Sightseers interested in exploring can’t-miss neighborhoods or landmarks can take a walking tour and let a local show them the way.
Locals will let you know: San Diego is a city of neighborhoods, just like sweet home Chicago. While Chi-town has lakefront neighborhoods, San Diego has coastal communities brimming with classic So-Cal vibes. To enjoy some of the best beaches San Diego has to offer, head to the South Bay neighborhood for fun in the sun. Ride horseback in the surf, join a game of beach volleyball, or belly up to a counter for a delicious Mexican meal. Cyclists should be sure to take a ride along the portion of the Bayshore Bikeway that’s in the neighborhood—a leisurely tree-lined cruise.
One child over 14 days and under two (2) years of age, not occupying a seat, may be carried free of charge when traveling with an adult (12 years of age or older). Learn more.
Customers flying with a pet are subject to a pet fare. To learn more about traveling with your furry friend, explore the Southwest® pet policy.
Minors under the age of 18 are not permitted to fly unaccompanied on international flights or any itinerary that includes an international flight. Learn more.
At Southwest, we know it takes more than great deals on San Diego airfares and convenient scheduling options to make your trip memorable. So from booking to boarding, we offer services and features designed to make your travel from Chicago (O'Hare) to San Diego the best it can be. Learn more about the Southwest® travel experience before you book your flight from Chicago O'Hare International Airport to San Diego International Airport.
Flying with Southwest is simple and fun, no matter which of our dozens of exciting destinations you choose. When you search for your next flight to San Diego, know that you won’t be surprised at checkout. Low fares and no hidden fees. That's Transfarency®. And as always, two bags fly free®1. Want the latest news, information, and promotional offers from Southwest? Sign up to receive email from us. Book your flight today and know that you'll earn Rapid Rewards® points when you fly.
1First and second checked bags. Weight and size limits apply.
2Fare difference may apply.
3Failure to cancel a reservation at least 10 minutes prior to departure may result in forfeited Travel Funds.
4Flight credits unexpired on or created on or after July 28, 2022, do not expire and will show an expiration date until our systems are updated. See full details here.
5Where available. Available only on WiFi-enabled aircraft. Limited-time offer.
6Due to licensing restrictions, on WiFi-enabled international flights, free live TV and iHeartRadio may not be available for the full duration of flight.
7Internet access for $8 per device from takeoff to landing. Price is subject to change. May not be available for the full duration of flight. In order to provide a top-notch Internet experience, we prohibit access to certain high-bandwidth applications and websites. We also prohibit access to certain obscene or offensive content.
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