Best Time to Drive from LAX to San Diego

Right now (5:00 pm PDT): about 144 minutes via I-5 South and I-405 South, usually 125 at this time.

On weekdays the 124-mile drive from LAX to San Diego (via I-5 South and I-405 South) usually takes as little as 112 minutes and up to 167 minutes, when leaving around 2:30 pm on Fridays. The fastest times to leave are before 6:30 am or after 6:30 pm. Midday (11 am to 2 pm) it takes about 130 minutes. On weekends it is slowest around 11:30 am on Saturdays (144 minutes).

Typical drive time by departure time

Simulated from typical freeway speeds at each point of the drive for the time you would reach it, from every 5-minute reading we have recorded. Surface streets at each end are estimated.

Questions

What is the best time to drive from LAX to San Diego?

On weekdays, leave before 6:30 am or after 6:30 pm. The drive usually takes about 112 minutes then, versus up to 167 minutes at the worst times.

How long does it take to drive from LAX to San Diego?

The 124-mile drive usually takes 112 to 167 minutes on weekdays, depending on when you leave, and about 130 minutes midday.

When is traffic worst from LAX to San Diego?

Leaving around 2:30 pm on Fridays is usually slowest, about 167 minutes.

Estimate this drive for any day and departure time →

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