San Diego Transit and Sightseeing

The Big Bay Shuttle

The Big Bay Shuttle is an inexpensive waterfront shuttle service that runs from Memorial Day (5/28/2012) through Labor Day (9/3/2012).  For just $1 you get a pass that is good for multiple rides on the same day.  The shuttle has a pickup station directly in front of the Sheraton, and tickets may be purchased at the Sheraton’s concierge desk in the main lobby.

Shuttles carry 12-15 passengers and run every 15-20 minutes.  Stops are at the following locations:

  •  Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina (Harbor Island)
  •  Maritime Museum of San Diego
  •  Broadway/Navy Pier (outside of the Bay Cafe)
  •  Seaport Village
  •  San Diego Marriott Marquis Hotel & Marina
  •  Hilton Bayfront San Diego (next to the San Diego Convention Center)

Hours of operation

  •  Sunday – Thursday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  •  Friday – Saturday: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

A couple of the shuttle stops are quite convenient for getting to the edge of the Gaslamp Quarter.  See Big Bay Shuttle’s website for maps and more info.  Note that the hours of operation end fairly early, so you might need to get a taxi back to the hotel if you stay out past the shuttle’s scheduled hours.

San Diego Metropolitan Transit System

Consult the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System website for bus routes and time tables.
http://www.sdmts.com/map_timetable.asp

Passes:
Day Trip passes are valid for unlimited use on all city buses and trolleys. Tickets can be purchased directly from the driver of the bus, and at most trolley stops. Multiple day passes can be purchased at the transit store located at First and Broadway (M-F 9AM to 5PM) or at most trolley stops.

Fares:
One way on city bus: 2.25$
One way on Trolley: 2.50$
One day pass (regional): 5:00$
Children under the age of 5: Free
Have exact change ready to pay at the machines installed by the driver seat in each bus. (Dollar bills accepted)

Disabled Access:
All buses offer wheelchair lift service

San Diego Water Taxi

The San Diego Water Taxi is a fun way to get to Shelter Island, Harbor Island, Downtown, and to Coronado.  This is an on-call service that runs from 9:30AM – 8:00PM Monday through Thursday, and from 9:30 AM until 10:00 PM Friday through Saturday.  Call 1 (619) 235-8294 for information.

Common Area Attractions & Directions

Click here for a list of common attractions in the area and how to get there.

For information on restaurants and bars in the area, check out our Eating and Drinking in San Diego page.