BNA to SAN: Your Guide to Flights from Music City to America’s Finest City
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Last updated Feb 16, 2026
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Tracking the Jun 4, 2026 departure — the cheapest date we found.
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Nashville (BNA)
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San Diego (SAN)
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Search FlightsTraveling from the heart of the Tennessee hills to the sparkling coastline of Southern California has never been more convenient or exciting for travelers looking to trade honky-tonks for beach bonfires. Nashville International Airport (BNA) serves as your gateway to the West, offering a seamless transition from the vibrant country music scene of Broadway to the laid-back, sun-drenched lifestyle that San Diego (SAN) is famous for across the globe. This popular transcontinental route connects two of the most culturally significant cities in the United States, providing visitors with an unparalleled opportunity to experience world-class barbecue, legendary live music venues, and then pivot directly into a paradise of Pacific surf, lush botanical gardens, and top-tier craft breweries.
Travel Tips
To make the most of your journey from Nashville to San Diego, consider booking a non-stop flight on Southwest Airlines, which frequently operates direct legs between BNA and SAN, saving you hours of layover time in hubs like Dallas or Phoenix. Given the two-hour time difference moving west, try to schedule a morning departure to land in San Diego by lunchtime, allowing you to maximize your first afternoon at Balboa Park or the Gaslamp Quarter. Don't forget to pack layers; while Nashville can be humid and hot, San Diego’s coastal breeze often brings a cool "May Gray" or "June Gloom" marine layer that can make the evenings surprisingly chilly. Lastly, check the BNA terminal maps before arriving, as the airport is currently undergoing massive renovations, and gate locations can shift frequently during construction phases.
Airport Information
Nashville (BNA)
Nashville International Airport (BNA) is a rapidly growing transportation hub that perfectly reflects the city’s energetic spirit with its "Music City" theme throughout the terminals. Located just a short drive from downtown, BNA offers a wide variety of local dining options, including famous Nashville hot chicken and local coffee roasters, alongside live music performances on several stages. The airport is currently undergoing the "BNA Vision" expansion, which has added a brand-new international arrivals facility and upgraded security checkpoints to handle the surge in passenger traffic.
San Diego (SAN)
San Diego International Airport (SAN) is unique for its incredibly central location, situated just three miles from the bustling downtown area and offering spectacular views of the skyline and harbor during descent. As the busiest single-runway commercial airport in the United States, it operates with impressive efficiency, featuring two main terminals that are well-connected by a free shuttle service. Travelers will find high-end retail, local San Diego eateries, and beautiful public art installations that celebrate the region's coastal heritage, making it one of the most scenic entry points in California.
Seasonal Pricing Patterns
Flight prices for the Nashville to San Diego route generally fluctuate based on the heavy demand for Southern California’s mild climate, with the highest fares typically occurring during the peak summer months of July and August and around the winter holidays. For those looking for the best deals, the "shoulder seasons" of late September through November and February through April offer the most competitive pricing and fewer crowds. Mid-week departures on Tuesdays or Wednesdays are almost always cheaper than weekend travel, as business travelers and vacationers tend to saturate the Friday and Sunday schedules, driving up costs significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the flight from BNA to SAN?
A direct flight typically takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes, though return flights from California to Tennessee may be slightly shorter due to prevailing tailwinds.
Which airlines fly non-stop from Nashville to San Diego?
Southwest Airlines is the primary carrier offering direct service between these two cities, while others like American, United, and Delta offer convenient one-stop connections through their respective hubs.
Is there a time difference between Nashville and San Diego?
Yes, San Diego is in the Pacific Time Zone, which is two hours behind Nashville’s Central Time Zone. Remember to adjust your watch upon landing to stay on schedule.
What is the best way to get from San Diego Airport to downtown?
The airport is very close to the city center; you can take the 992 bus, a ride-share service like Uber or Lyft, or the airport shuttle, all of which reach downtown in under 15 minutes.
Are there lounges available at BNA for departing passengers?
Yes, BNA offers several lounges including the Delta Sky Club and an Admirals Club, as well as a Minute Suites in Concourse D for those needing a private, quiet space before their flight.