Cheapest Gas Prices in San Diego, California Today
Looking for the best gas prices near you in San Diego? The Costco gas station at 12350 Carmel Mountain Rd offers competitive fuel prices with exceptional convenience and extended hours. This popular Carmel Valley location provides regular and premium gasoline with early weekday opening at 5:30 AM – earlier than most San Diego Costco stations. While prices here run about 20 cents higher than other San Diego Costco locations, members consistently emphasize it’s worth it for convenience and note it’s “often open later than other Costco gas too.” Members praise “best prices in San Diego” compared to regular stations, with “high quality gas” and lines that move quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time is Costco gas least busy in San Diego Carmel Mountain?
Early morning at 5:30 AM on weekdays is the absolute best time – this location opens 30 minutes earlier than most Costco stations. Members specifically note “it gets crowded but not at 5:30am! Definitely go when you’re up super early. No lines!!” After-dinner hours also work well since members report “after dinner I take a short drive there’s no waiting” thanks to extended evening hours. Midday on Wednesdays can be “pretty empty” according to members. Avoid traditional PM rush hours for best experience.
What types of gas are available at Costco San Diego Carmel Mountain?
This station offers regular unleaded and premium gasoline. Diesel fuel is not available at this location. If you need diesel, check other San Diego-area Costco stations. Members consistently praise “high quality gas for the best price” with TOP TIER certified gasoline that delivers reliable performance throughout San Diego County.
What are the gas station hours at Costco San Diego CA?
Gas pumps are open Monday through Friday from 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM, Saturdays from 6:00 AM to 8:30 PM, and Sundays from 6:00 AM to 7:30 PM. The early 5:30 AM weekday opening is 30 minutes earlier than typical Costco stations – a significant advantage for early risers and commuters. Members love the extended hours, noting this location is “often open later than other Costco gas too,” making after-dinner fill-ups convenient with no waiting.
How long is the typical wait time at Costco gas San Diego Carmel Mountain?
Wait times are generally manageable at this location. Members note “lines are never very long (even at peak times)” and the station “efficiently processes large numbers of patrons quickly.” While some mention the “usual snake-like gas station line,” they emphasize it “usually moves pretty quick here.” The experience is described as “quick and easy” with “pump and go” service. Visit at 5:30 AM for absolutely no lines, or after dinner for minimal waits thanks to extended hours.
Do I need a Costco membership to buy gas in San Diego?
Yes, a valid Costco membership is required to purchase fuel. The only exception is using Costco Shop Cards (gift cards that must be purchased by members). Executive members enjoy additional perks including 1 hour early weekday access (opening at 4:30 AM for Executive members) and 2% cash back on gas purchases. Many San Diego members find the fuel savings justify membership cost, especially at this conveniently located Carmel Valley station.
Can the gas hoses reach both sides of my car?
Yes. Costco gas stations feature extra-long hoses that extend to either side of your vehicle. Pull up to any available pump regardless of which side your gas tank is on. This flexibility helps maximize efficiency at this busy San Diego location.
What makes this San Diego Carmel Mountain location special?
This location stands out for several reasons: it opens at 5:30 AM on weekdays (30 minutes earlier than most Costco stations), stays open later in evenings, and offers superior convenience for Carmel Valley, Rancho Peñasquitos, and North County residents. While prices run about 20 cents higher than other San Diego Costco locations, members emphasize it’s “worth it for convenience.” The station delivers “best prices in San Diego” compared to regular gas stations, with “high quality gas” and efficient service that “processes large numbers of patrons quickly.”
What payment methods does Costco gas accept?
This station accepts Visa credit cards, Visa debit cards, Costco Shop Cards, and contactless payment options. Mastercard, American Express, and cash are not accepted at the pump. Scan your membership card before fueling to ensure proper access and rewards tracking.
Pro Tips for San Diego Carmel Mountain Costco Gas
- Visit at 5:30 AM weekdays for zero lines – opens earlier than most Costco stations
- After-dinner hours offer no waiting thanks to extended evening hours
- Wednesday midday can be pretty empty according to members
- Avoid traditional PM rush hours for best experience
- Prices ~20¢ higher than other San Diego Costcos but worth it for convenience
- Still “best prices in San Diego” compared to regular gas stations
- “No fuss no muss” – quick and easy service
- High quality gas with efficient processing
- Lines move quickly despite looking busy
- Executive members can access at 4:30 AM weekdays
- No diesel available – check other San Diego locations if needed
- Learn why Costco gas prices are cheaper than regular stations
- Read our guide on saving money at Costco gas stations
What Members Say About This Location
Worth the Convenience: While prices are about 20 cents higher than other San Diego Costco stations, members consistently note it’s “worth it for convenience” with a prime Carmel Valley location.
Best Prices Overall: Multiple members emphasize “best prices in San Diego!!” and “best price!” when comparing to regular gas stations in the area – the Costco advantage remains strong.
Lines Move Quickly: Members report “lines are never very long (even at peak times)” and the station “efficiently processes large numbers of patrons quickly at a fair price.”
Extended Hours Winner: Members love that this location is “often open later than other Costco gas too” – making after-dinner fills convenient with no waiting.
5:30 AM Advantage: Early risers celebrate “it gets crowded but not at 5:30am! Definitely go when you’re up super early. No lines!!”
Quick and Easy: The experience is described as “quick and easy with great prices” and “no fuss no muss” – straightforward and efficient.
Best Times to Visit
- Least Busy: Weekday mornings 5:30-7:00 AM (opens earlier than most!), after-dinner hours 8:00-9:30 PM, Wednesday midday
- Moderately Busy: Weekend mornings 7:00-9:00 AM, weekday mid-mornings 9:00-11:00 AM
- Busiest: Traditional PM rush hours (5:00-7:00 PM), weekend afternoons
The early 5:30 AM opening and extended evening hours give members more flexibility to avoid crowds. Strategic timing delivers the “no fuss no muss” experience members appreciate.
Executive Membership Benefits
Executive members get special perks at this location:
- Extra early weekday access starting at 4:30 AM (1 hour before regular 5:30 AM opening)
- 2% cash back on all gas purchases
- 30 minutes early weekend access
- Additional rewards that often cover the membership upgrade cost
The early access is particularly valuable at this location, allowing Executive members to fuel up before any lines form. Learn more about maximizing membership benefits for fuel savings.
Comparing San Diego-Area Costco Locations
The San Diego Carmel Mountain location offers superior convenience and extended hours, though prices run about 20 cents higher than other San Diego Costco stations. If you’re considering alternatives:
- Other San Diego Costco locations – May offer lower prices but less convenient hours
- Poway Costco – North County alternative
- Carlsbad Costco – North coastal option
- Chula Vista Costco – South County option
Check our website for current prices at all San Diego-area locations. Members note the convenience and extended hours at this Carmel Mountain location often justify the slightly higher price compared to other San Diego Costcos.
Fuel Quality and Performance
Costco gasoline meets TOP TIER standards, which means it contains enhanced detergent additives that exceed EPA requirements. Members specifically praise “high quality gas for the best price” at this location.
TOP TIER fuel benefits include:
- Cleaner fuel injectors and intake valves
- Reduced engine deposits over time
- Maintained optimal engine performance
- Potentially improved fuel economy
Location and Access Details
The San Diego Costco gas station sits at 12350 Carmel Mountain Road in Carmel Valley, conveniently located for North County San Diego residents. The location provides excellent access for residents of Carmel Valley, Rancho Peñasquitos, 4S Ranch, Del Mar Heights, and surrounding communities.
The convenient location combined with early opening and late closing hours makes this a preferred choice for North County drivers despite the premium pricing compared to other San Diego Costco stations.
Seasonal Considerations
San Diego enjoys mild weather year-round, but consider these tips:
- Summer mornings remain comfortable – perfect for 5:30 AM visits
- Coastal influence keeps temperatures moderate throughout the day
- After-dinner summer visits offer pleasant evening temperatures
- Winter weather rarely affects operations – station functional year-round
- Marine layer mornings may be cool – comfortable for early fueling
Station Features and Amenities
Early Opening: 5:30 AM weekday start – 30 minutes earlier than most Costco stations gives early birds a huge advantage.
Extended Evening Hours: Often open later than other San Diego Costco gas stations, making after-dinner fills convenient.
Efficient Processing: Members note the station “efficiently processes large numbers of patrons quickly at a fair price.”
Quick Service: “No fuss no muss” experience with “pump and go” efficiency.
Additional Services at This Warehouse
Beyond the gas station, this San Diego Costco warehouse location offers:
- Full grocery and household goods selection
- Tire center for vehicle maintenance
- Pharmacy with competitive prescription prices
- Optical department for glasses and contacts
- Food court serving Costco favorites
Combine your gas fill-up with warehouse shopping to maximize visit efficiency and savings in North County San Diego.
Stay Updated on Current Prices
Gas prices at this San Diego location change regularly based on crude oil costs and local market conditions. Visit our website to check current prices before you fill up. We update San Diego-area gas station prices multiple times daily.
Search “cheapest gas prices near me” on our site to see real-time pricing for this Carmel Mountain location and nearby alternatives. Compare prices across all San Diego-area Costco stations and other local gas stations to maximize your savings.
With best prices in San Diego compared to regular gas stations, high quality fuel, early 5:30 AM opening, extended evening hours, and convenient Carmel Valley location, the San Diego Costco gas station at Carmel Mountain Road offers excellent value for North County drivers. While prices run about 20 cents higher than other San Diego Costco locations, members consistently confirm it’s worth it for the superior convenience and extended hours. Visit early morning or after dinner for the best “no fuss no muss” experience that makes this location a favorite among San Diego members.