Other Options for This Route
Other Destinations
Dallas (DFW) to Chicago (ORD) in December from $30
From $30
Dallas (DFW) to Orlando (MCO) in December from $58
From $58
Dallas (DFW) to New York (Any) in December from $66
From $66
Dallas (DFW) to Chicago (ORD) in December from $70
From $70
Dallas (DFW) to Lubbock (LBB) in December from $92
From $92
Dallas (DFW) to Santa Ana (SNA) in December from $92
From $92
Flights from Other Cities
Phoenix (PHX) to San Diego (SAN) in December from $78
From $78
Tulsa (TUL) to San Diego (SAN) in December from $126
From $126
Tulsa (TUL) to San Diego (SAN) in December from $138
From $138
Boston (BOS) to San Diego (SAN) in December from $168
From $168
Charleston (CHS) to San Diego (SAN) in December from $204
From $204
Seattle (SEA) to San Diego (SAN) in December from $225
From $225
✈️ Flight Guide: Dallas (DFW) → San Diego (SAN)
Complete travel information for your December journey
In December, travelers departing from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) should expect heavier holiday traffic, especially during the third week of December. For the best fares, book early in the month or aim for midweek travel; DFW to SAN routes have frequent nonstop flights operated by American Airlines and Southwest, with typical flight times around three hours. Pack light for San Diego's mild weather, pre-book airport parking near DFW or use DART connections, and sign up for fare alerts to capture December seat sales. CTA: Search and compare DFW to SAN December flights now to lock in the best holiday airfare.
Departing from Dallas (DFW) FAQs
To find cheap flights from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) in December, search early and compare fares across carriers like American Airlines, Southwest, and Alaska. Book non-holiday travel days (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) and set price alerts; mid-December (before peak holiday weeks) often has the lowest fares. Use flexible-date search tools and check bundled deals from Dallas and Fort Worth area airports for savings.
Nonstop flights between Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and San Diego International Airport (SAN) typically take about 2 hours 50 minutes to 3 hours. Flight time can vary slightly with winds and routing, so allow extra time for taxiing and potential delays when planning connections. For planning, factor in local traffic to/from Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, and commuting time to DFW.
Yes, several airlines operate nonstop service between Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and San Diego International Airport (SAN) in December, with increased frequency around the holiday period. Carriers commonly include American Airlines and Southwest, offering morning, afternoon and evening options. Check schedules early and book nonstop flights to reduce travel time during busy December travel windows.
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) offers full-service terminals, car rental counters, long-term parking, and multiple ground transport options including DART/Trinity Metro connections, shuttles, and ride-shares year-round. In December expect holiday crowds and additional shuttle services; allow extra time for check-in and security. For lower parking rates consider off-site lots in Irving or Terminal B economy lots and pre-book parking to save time.
December weather can bring cold fronts and occasional icing or fog to the Dallas/Fort Worth area which may cause delays, while San Diego typically has mild, cool weather with low chance of major winter disruptions. Check both airports' status before departure; airlines often issue rebooking options during weather disruptions. Plan buffers for potential delays when traveling between Dallas, Fort Worth, Plano, and the DFW hub.
Most major carriers operating between Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and San Diego International Airport (SAN) allow upgrades and award bookings, but December holiday demand reduces availability. Use frequent flyer miles early and check upgrade inventory or pay-for-upgrade options when booking. Consider flexible award dates and mileage deals to improve chances of upgraded seats during peak holiday travel.
December arrivals at San Diego International Airport (SAN) are attractive due to mild coastal weather and festive holiday programming. Visitors can quickly reach downtown San Diego, La Jolla, Coronado, and Carlsbad using rental cars, shuttles, and rideshares; expect holiday crowds on peak December weekend days and check local event calendars for December Nights and the Parade of Lights. CTA: Book your DFW to SAN December arrival early and reserve ground transportation to lock in the best rates.
Arriving at San Diego (SAN) FAQs
Arrivals at San Diego International Airport (SAN) in December are typically smooth, with mild temperatures and low likelihood of major weather delays. Expect holiday crowds on peak travel days, and plan for ground transportation options like rental cars, taxis, shuttles, and the forthcoming Trolley connection phases; downtown San Diego, Coronado, La Jolla, and Carlsbad are easily accessible. Allow time for baggage claim and rideshare pickup during busy holiday periods.
San Diego International Airport (SAN) offers shuttle services, shared-ride vans, and public transit connections that provide cost-effective transfers to La Jolla, Coronado, and downtown San Diego in December. For Coronado, consider water taxi or rideshare; La Jolla and Carlsbad are best reached by rental car or regional buses. Book private shuttle services in advance during December to guarantee space for holiday peak times.
For domestic arrivals at San Diego International Airport (SAN), collect checked bags at the baggage claim and proceed through standard exit procedures; customs applies only to international flights. In December, increased passenger volume may slightly lengthen baggage claim times, so allow extra time before transfers to Coronado, downtown San Diego, or Carlsbad. For international connections, review U.S. CBP guidelines and plan for longer processing times during holiday weeks.
Yes — San Diego International Airport (SAN) is ideal for visiting downtown San Diego, Balboa Park, La Jolla, Coronado, and Carlsbad in December due to its proximity and mild winter weather. Many attractions host holiday events such as December Nights, the Parade of Lights, and seasonal markets, making SAN a convenient gateway. Rent a car or use regional shuttles to reach top destinations efficiently.
Delays at San Diego International Airport (SAN) in December are usually minor and weather-related issues are infrequent compared with northern U.S. airports, but holiday congestion can cause schedule shifts. Allow at least 90-120 minutes for domestic connections during peak December travel days and monitor your airline app for gate changes or rebooking options. Consider purchasing flexible tickets or travel protection during the holiday season.
San Diego International Airport (SAN) typically hosts seasonal decorations and may operate extended customer service and lost-and-found hours during December, but there are no major travel restrictions specific to the month. Expect increased security lines on peak travel dates; use TSA PreCheck if available and arrive early. Check SAN's official site for holiday service announcements and local events like the Parade of Lights for trip planning.
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December Events & Festivals Near San Diego International Airport (SAN) for DFW Visitors
December in San Diego features family-friendly events like Balboa Park December Nights, the San Diego Parade of Lights on the bay, holiday markets in Little Italy, and seasonal performances at the Old Globe Theatre. These events draw visitors from across Southern California and beyond, so plan reservations and transport early if arriving from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). For quieter experiences, visit coastal spots like La Jolla and Carlsbad weekday mornings. CTA: Check event dates and buy tickets ahead for December activities after you book your DFW to SAN flight.
Best Time to Fly DFW to SAN in December — When to Save on Airfare
The best time to fly from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) in December is early-to-mid month or midweek (Tuesday–Wednesday) to avoid holiday surcharges and congestion. Avoid the week immediately before Christmas (Dec 20–26) when fares and airport crowds peak. If flexibility allows, book 6–8 weeks in advance and target off-peak days and red-eye or early-morning departures for lower prices and quieter airports. CTA: Use flexible-date search filters to find the best DFW to SAN December travel days.
Direct vs Connecting Flights from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) in December
Nonstop flights from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) are generally preferable in December for reliability and speed—typical nonstops take about three hours. Connecting itineraries can be cheaper but add risk of missed connections when holiday weather or high passenger volumes cause delays. Consider a connecting flight if the savings exceed the added travel time and you allow generous layovers, particularly through hubs like Phoenix or Los Angeles. CTA: Choose nonstop DFW to SAN flights for fastest holiday travel, or compare connecting options for deeper savings.
Airline Comparison for DFW to SAN in December — American, Southwest, Alaska & More
American Airlines offers multiple daily nonstop flights from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) with strong connectivity from other DFW hub routes and premium cabin options. Southwest provides competitive fares and two free checked bags, which can be attractive for families traveling to San Diego in December. Alaska Airlines and other carriers may offer connecting service through their hubs with loyalty program advantages. Compare total trip cost including baggage and seat assignments and book early in December to get the best combination of price and schedule. CTA: Compare airlines now to find the best DFW to SAN December flight for your needs.
Seasonal Travel Tips for Flying DFW to SAN in December — Packing, Weather & Airport Advice
Pack light layers for San Diego in December—daytime highs are often in the 60s (°F) with cooler evenings. Arrive at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) 2–3 hours before domestic departures during peak holiday weekends, and use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR to minimize security wait times. Reserve rental cars in advance for trips to La Jolla, Coronado, or Carlsbad as inventory tightens during December events. CTA: Prepare your December DFW to SAN trip checklist and book parking, rental cars, and tickets early to avoid holiday shortages.
DFW to SAN Flight Time & Schedules for December — Nonstop and Connecting Options
Average nonstop flight time from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) is approximately 2 hours 50 minutes to 3 hours. In December the route maintains multiple daily nonstop departures—early morning, midday, and evening—to accommodate business travelers from Dallas and Fort Worth and holiday visitors to San Diego. If nonstop options are sold out, common connection cities include Phoenix (PHX), Los Angeles (LAX), and Denver (DEN), which add 1–3 hours depending on layover length. CTA: Check current December schedules and pick a nonstop flight for the fastest DFW to SAN travel experience.
How to Find Cheap Flights from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) in December
To find cheap flights from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) in December, start monitoring fares 6–8 weeks in advance and use flexible-date search tools. Midweek departure and return dates (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) are generally less expensive than weekend travel, and flying earlier in December—before the holiday surge—yields significant savings. Sign up for fare alerts, follow airline flash sales, and check both nonstop and single-connection options (via Phoenix or Los Angeles) to compare total travel time and cost. CTA: Set a price alert now to capture cheap DFW to SAN December fares and book when you see a drop.