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Getting Around San Diego

Getting Around San Diego

San Diego California, USA Travel Guide

Public Transit Overview

The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) maintains a comprehensive public transportation network. This structure aids you in navigating the city efficiently.

PRONTO card or app best for fares.

Systems

  • San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS): Buses and San Diego Trolley.
  • North County Transit District (NCTD): COASTER, SPRINTER, and BREEZE buses.
  • Covers San Diego, Coronado, El Cajon, La Mesa, National City, Santee, Spring Valley.
  • PRONTO card or app provides best value for fares.

Santa Fe Depot

Downtown transfer point for Amtrak, Coaster, and MTS Trolley.

Old Town Transit Center

Transfer point for MTS Trolley, Coaster, and several bus routes.

Th & Imperial Transit Center

A major MTS Trolley hub located downtown.

Fare Options

PRONTO Card Benefits
  • Reloadable card or mobile app for MTS/NCTD fares.
  • Tap on and tap off for accurate fare calculation.
  • Best value for many rides.
Single & Day Passes
  • One ride: $2.50 (PRONTO card/app).
  • Day Pass: $6 for unlimited rides on buses/Trolley.
  • Monthly Pass: $72 (adult).

Hours and Frequency

Buses

Operate early morning (4:30 AM) to late night (midnight-1 AM).

Trolley

Operates 4:30 AM to midnight-1 AM daily, 15-30 min frequency.

Coaster

Mainly weekday commuter service; limited weekend availability.

Accessibility

MTS buses and Trolley automobiles are ADA compliant with ramps and lifts.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services maintain flexible and convenient transportation options, especially for direct routes or when public transit isn't available.

Licensed Taxis

  • Typically yellow or white, with "Taxi" signs.
  • Hailing: On street in busy areas or call dispatch.
  • Fares: Metered system, base $2.80 + $3.10/mile.
  • Payment: Cash and credit cards accepted.

Ride-Sharing Uber & Lyft

  • Widely available and popular in San Diego.
  • Hailing: Request a ride through mobile apps.
  • Payment: Processed through the app; tipping optional.
  • Safety: Verify driver, vehicle, and license plate.

Vehicle Rental Choices

  • Book in advance, pick up at Consolidated Rental Car Center (SAN).
  • Valid driver's license, international permit if needed.
  • 21 or OLDER (surcharge 21-24), major credit card required.
  • Motorcycle rentals require valid endorsement.
  • Scooter rentals from independent shops; helmet typically worn.
  • Lime & Bird: Electric scooter and e-bike sharing programs.

Driving Laws & Parking

Driving Laws

Drive on the right. Seatbelts mandatory. Hands-free mobile use only.

  • Speed limits enforced.
  • Right turn on red after stopping (unless posted).
  • DUI strictly enforced.
Road Conditions

Roads generally good. Heavy traffic common on freeways during peak hours.

  • Interstates 5, 8, 15, 805 well-maintained.
  • Surface streets easy to navigate.
  • Check live traffic during commutes.
Parking Info

Parking challenging and expensive in popular areas (downtown, beaches).

  • Metered street parking, garages, private lots.
  • Beach parking can be challenging on weekends/summer.
  • Balboa Park: Free lots fill quickly.

Walking & Cycling

San Diego's pedestrian-friendly areas and expanding bike network make active exploration a joy.

Pedestrian Areas

  • Highly walkable: Gaslamp Quarter, Little Italy, Old Town, Coronado.
  • Scenic waterfront walk along Embarcadero.
  • La Jolla Cove: Coastal walk with sea lions.
  • Presidio Park: Historical walk with city views.

Cycling Routes

  • Expanding network of bike lanes and paths.
  • Popular: Bayshore Bikeway, Mission Beach/Pacific Beach Boardwalk.
  • Mission Bay Park pathways.
  • Safety: Wear a helmet, obey traffic laws, use hand signals.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Old Town Trolley Tours: Hop-on, hop-off service for major attractions. Narrated historical context.

Water Transportation

Coronado Ferry: Scenic service between downtown San Diego and Coronado Island. Private water taxis.

Accessibility Services

MTS: All buses and trolley cars are accessible. Accessible taxis/ride-shares available on request.

Guided & Self-Guided Tours

Guided Options
  • Historical tours (Old Town, Gaslamp).
  • Food tours (Little Italy).
  • Ghost tours for distinct viewpoints.
Self-Guided Adventures
  • Utilize apps and guidebooks for exploring on your own.
  • Pace your journey to personal preference.
  • Discover hidden gems at your leisure.

Safety Considerations for Active Travel

Areas of Caution
  • No specific "no-go" areas exist for pedestrians/cyclists generally.
  • Exercise caution in less-trafficked industrial zones after dark.
  • Higher crime rates in specific locations late at night require awareness.
  • Always stay alert to surroundings and trust your instincts.
Restricted Access
  • Freeways are strictly off-limits to pedestrians and cyclists.
  • Observe visible signs for restricted access areas.
  • Use well-lit paths and avoid shortcuts through unfamiliar areas at night.
  • Travel with companions when possible, especially after dark.

Effortless City Mobility

Combining different modes of transport aids you in maximizing your San Diego experience.

Integrated Travel

  • Mix public transit for distances, walking for local exploration.
  • Utilize ride-shares for quick, direct trips when needed.
  • Consider bike rentals for scenic coastal paths.
  • The PRONTO card simplifies transfers between MTS/NCTD services.

Maximizing Convenience

  • Download navigation apps (Google Maps, Waze) for real-time guidance.
  • Check traffic conditions before operating a vehicle or utilizing ride-shares.
  • Book tours in advance for popular attractions.
  • Park and ride choices available for crowded areas.

Trolley Downtown

Explore Gaslamp, Little Italy, and waterfront attractions via the San Diego Trolley.

Coastal Drives

Rent a car for scenic car journeys along the coast to La Jolla and Coronado.

Beachside Cycling

Rent a bike and ride the Mission Beach and Pacific Beach boardwalks.

Walkable Wonders

Balboa Park Walks
  • Discover museums and gardens.
  • Enjoy Spanish Colonial Revival architecture.
  • Visit the Japanese Friendship Garden.
Old Town Charm
  • Stroll through California's birthplace.
  • Explore heritage structures and shops.
  • Savor traditional Mexican cuisine.

Final Transit Advice

San Diego maintains a spectrum of transit choices for every travel style. Planning your movements in advance leads to a more relaxed and immersive experience.

Combine public transit for efficiency with walking and biking for local discoveries. Consider ride-shares or rental cars for broader exploration.

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