We've mapped 3 drives from San Diego, from 2 hr 30 min to 8 hr 30 min. Shortest: Joshua Tree.
Drives from San Diego, shortest first
| Destination | Miles | Drive time | Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joshua Tree | 144 | 2 hr 30 min | 1 |
| Phoenix | 354 | 5 hr 30 min | 1 |
| The Grand Canyon | 532 | 8 hr 30 min | 2 |
San Diego to Joshua Tree
144 mi · 2 hr 30 min
Up through the Inland Empire or the back way through Julian and Anza-Borrego for wildflowers in spring.
San Diego to Phoenix
354 mi · 5 hr 30 min
I-8 east hugs the Mexican border past the Imperial Sand Dunes and Yuma's old territorial prison.
San Diego to the Grand Canyon
532 mi · 8 hr 30 min · 2 days
A long but simple drive inland through the desert. Split it at Flagstaff or Williams for a sunrise at the rim.
Road trips to San Diego
Where to stay in San Diego
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