Seamless Travel from Paradise to the Pacific: HNL to SAN Flight Guide

Cheapest flight found

$214

Economy
May 2026AlaskaHNLSAN

Last updated Mar 13, 2026

Prices by Month

Price History

Tracking the May 7, 2026 departure — the cheapest date we found.

Price Behavior: HNLSAN

Based on 6 months of fare data collected by Trip Manta.

Lowest Fare

$214

Highest Fare

$339

Median Fare

$295

Price Spread

$126

Price Volatilitymoderate

Prices fluctuate moderately — tracking can help you catch dips.

Cheapest month to fly: May 2026 (from $214)

Most expensive month: April 2026 (from $339)

Biggest price drop caught: $105 between consecutive checks

Most frequent cheapest airline: Alaska

What This Means for You

Flights from Honolulu to San Diego range from $214 to $339, a $126 spread across the months we track. If your dates are flexible, May 2026 tends to have the lowest fares. Prices move enough that tracking can save you money — drops often last only a few hours before the algorithm adjusts back up. We have caught drops as large as $105 between hourly checks on this route.

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From

Honolulu (HNL)

To

San Diego (SAN)

Airport Information

Honolulu (HNL)

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) serves as the primary gateway to the Hawaiian Islands and is located just a few miles west of downtown Honolulu. As one of the busiest airports in the United States, it features unique open-air walkways, beautiful tropical gardens, and a diverse range of local dining options where you can grab a final plate lunch or a fresh malasada before your flight.

San Diego (SAN)

San Diego International Airport (SAN) is conveniently situated just three miles northwest of the city's central business district, offering breathtaking views of the harbor and downtown skyline during descent. Known for its single-runway efficiency, the airport provides easy access to public transportation, including the free Flyer shuttle to the Transit Center, and is famous for its sophisticated Arts Program which showcases local installations throughout the terminals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which airlines fly non-stop from HNL to SAN?

Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines frequently offer direct, non-stop service on this specific route, providing a seamless connection between the islands and Southern California.

How long is the flight from Honolulu to San Diego?

A direct flight typically lasts about 5 hours and 30 minutes, though strong tailwinds can occasionally shorten the return trip to the mainland by about 20 minutes.

Is there a time difference between Honolulu and San Diego?

Yes, San Diego is typically 2 hours ahead of Honolulu, but this increases to 3 hours during Daylight Saving Time because Hawaii does not observe time changes.

Do I need a passport for a flight from HNL to SAN?

No, since both Hawaii and California are U.S. states, domestic travelers only need a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a REAL ID-compliant driver's license.

What is the best way to get from SAN airport to downtown?

The most cost-effective way is the San Diego Flyer, a free electric shuttle that connects terminals to the Old Town Transit Center, or a quick 10-15 minute rideshare to the Gaslamp Quarter.

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