$31 Find Cheap Flights from North America to California

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Low seasonJanuary
High seasonMay
Cheapest flight$31
Best time to beat the crowds with an average 12% drop in price.
Most popular time to fly and prices are also 2% lower on average.
Flight from San Jose to Los Angeles

Flights from North America to California: the best tips from KAYAK users

Insights shared by verified travelers who flew the route from North America to California 
Verified travelerFlew with Air CanadaFAT-SFOApr 2025
Wish there was a direct flight from Fresno to Toronto, Canada. There were no time delays on this trip. Three and a half hour stop over in SFO was a bit of a drag but all other options either left really early in the morning or got into Toronto too late at night for our pick up arrangement.
Verified travelerFlew with United AirlinesYYZ-LAXMar 2025
I wish I had anticipated the delay at the airport and scheduled my ride pickup for 1.5 hours after the estimated arrival time. I was unaware that passengers from Air Canada flights had to board a shuttle bus to access the aircraft.
BernardFlew with VolarisMLM-LAXApr 2025
Volaris has excellent prices between Morelia and California. Buy tickets as early as possible for the best prices. Boarding is orderly; flights are on time. Bring your own food and water.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesPDX-SBPApr 2025
Super easy airport, TSA is organized and efficient. Lots of food choices once at the gates. There is a piano player on a grand piano!
ShuraFlew with Alaska AirlinesSEA-BURApr 2025
Don’t . Delta has all the gates together for easy transfers and much more food and beverage selection
JudyFlew with Alaska AirlinesSNA-SFOApr 2025
American needs better routes to San Francisco and Oakland, Alaska is the only direct flight!
LuisFlew with DeltaJFK-SFOMar 2025
It’s a long flight, come prepared to either watch movies, read or sleep.
JustinFlew with FrontierDEN-ONTMar 2025
Bring your credit card - lots of fun places to eat at the airport
CHARLESFlew with American AirlinesOGG-LAXMar 2025
Allow plenty of time to pass through agriculture and TSA security screening.
Verified travelerFlew with United AirlinesLAX-SFOMar 2025
Narita was more convenient than SF for connecting flight
RobertFlew with United AirlinesSEA-SFOMar 2025
If you’re picking up a rental car it’s not very clear that you have to take the train. Signage can be improved at SFO.
GeraldFlew with DeltaBOS-SFOMar 2025
Book a flight early in the morning. The plane & crew will have arrived the previous night
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesIAD-LAXMar 2025
The flight attendants were chatting among themselves when we boarded. Didn't even acknowledge us. Not good. Good at deboarding. Bathroom I used was clean. Loved having 3 bathrooms in the economy cabin. Plane was new and clean. Love that.
JordanFlew with Air CanadaYUL-LAXMar 2025
Buy ticket early. This is a very overpriced route that Air Canada monopolizes. In one day my one way ticket jumped from $325 or so to $535 USD.
Tai-shanFlew with Spirit AirlinesDFW-SJCMar 2025
Be careful on unexpected charges as well as unexpected delays; I had a 2-hr delay resulting in the rest of my day getting shafted
RonaldFlew with Alaska AirlinesSNA-SFOApr 2025
The airport security can take a long time, the bathrooms are not always available near the gates due to construction, repairs, remodels.
StephanieFlew with Spirit AirlinesORD-LAXApr 2025
Don’t go to LA and definitely don’t go to LA on Spirit. If I could give negative stars, I would.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesEWR-SANFeb 2025
My flight was not delayed, but my family had a flight earlier in the week that was, by 5 hours. My daughter says she'll never book a late afternoon flight as they seem most likely to be delayed. I personally like the timing and usually they cost less. Also, get on the plan with fully charged devices or a non-electronic form on entertainment.
Verified travelerFlew with American AirlinesPHX-LAXJan 2025
Southwest seems to board and unload about as smooth as any airline - carry on items seem to work as smooth as any airline I have used. Southwest also does not charge to check bags which seems to encourage people to check bags instead of bring an enormous carry on item that does not fit well in the cabin.
MichaelFlew with Alaska AirlinesPVR-SMFFeb 2025
Get to the airport early! It was a Saturday and the airport was very chaotic, lots of gate changes, etc. They have a VIP Lounge there you can pay for, if you have the time and inclination, it might be worth it ($90 US for 2 people), it is quiet with food and drink.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesSEA-PSPDec 2024
Be courteous of your fellow travelers. Remember the carry on baggage rules. Keep your jackets out of the storage bin on full flights. Don't move other people's luggage from one bin to another. Step out of the isle as quickly as you can. Be sure you're in the seat(s) assigned to you.
HartajFlew with United AirlinesRDU-SFODec 2024
RDU long-term parking can add 30-70 mins to your departure time. At terminal 2 in RDU, getting a taxi can take 2-5 mins, vs. waiting 10-30 mins for a car app pickup. :)
AmyFlew with Spirit AirlinesSAN-OAKDec 2024
Make sure you download your movies in advance and try not to bring more luggage than you need. And keep in mind that the gate at San Diego airport is terribly small.
SarahFlew with Alaska AirlinesSFO-BURFeb 2025
Go early in the day so if your flight is canceled, you might have better alternatives than I did when my 12:30 flight was canceled.
MichaelFlew with SouthwestLAS-SANJan 2025
It’s a quick flight and sometimes turbulent leaving the desert. You may not get drinks service due to the brief flight time and safety measures.
PiperFlew with American AirlinesDFW-PSPDec 2024
Dress according to comfort on plane rather than either destination! Know that Palm Springs airport is outdoors (and NOT cold) so prepare for that too
KFlew with Alaska AirlinesPAE-LAXJan 2025
Paine Field is extremely convenient for my purposes. I wish Southwest flew there, because I have a lot of miles to use up.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesDCA-SFOJan 2025
Bring your own entertainment. Depend on them for reliability and your flight to get you there on time if not early.
MerlynFlew with SouthwestLAX-SMFFeb 2025
Sacramento airport is an easy in and out. Going through some upgrades, looks very modern.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesLAX-SFOJan 2025
Bring water and snacks with shorter flights as some routes will not offer it.
GaryFlew with Hawaiian AirlinesHNL-OAKDec 2024
Southwest has the best luggage policy although the Hawaiian Airlines fares are more reasonable.
ROTKEOFlew with Alaska AirlinesSEA-ONTDec 2024
Alaska Airlines has always been great to fly in and out of Seattle.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesSEA-SBAJan 2025
Alaskan Airlines has a good flight schedule to Santa Barbara every day.
Verified travelerFlew with American AirlinesJFK-LAXJan 2025
Be there on time it really need two hours for security checkups
Verified travelerFlew with Hawaiian AirlinesOGG-SFODec 2024
Hawaiian was nice with the snacks and punch. More friendly than united.
Verified travelerFlew with Hawaiian AirlinesHNL-SMFJan 2025
Flying to SMF is convenient. Your food is better than United.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesDCA-SFOJan 2025
Reserve your plane seat & bring something to eat in the plane.
JaniceFlew with Hawaiian AirlinesHNL-LAXJan 2025
Southwest or Hawaiian will be your best options for carriers
AracelyFlew with Spirit AirlinesEWR-LAXDec 2024
Bring snacks and your own water bottle to stay hydrated.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesIAD-SANDec 2024
I chose it because it was non-stop🥳
MichelleFlew with Spirit AirlinesLAS-BURDec 2024
Burbank is much easier to navigate than LAX.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesEUG-SANDec 2024
Bring whatever you can to keep you as entertained as possible.
Verified travelerFlew with American AirlinesMIA-LAXJan 2025
Be ready to walk a long way through the terminal.
Verified travelerFlew with Qatar AirwaysTUS-LAXFeb 2025
To petition the airlines to give passengers a ticket stamped with the time they started the queue. This will act as a proof that the passenger was on time in the airport. If a passenger's plane leave while the passenger is checked in, the airport crew rush to accuse the passenger as being late, despite the fact being that most of the times it's the airport crews slow speed in checking.
MatthewFlew with Alaska AirlinesMCO-SFODec 2024
I had selected the filter to include flights with 1 checked bag, but it appears this flight did not actually include a checked bag in the flight.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesHNL-SANDec 2024
Get there a couple hours early. TSA is not the best organized. The security line took us about 50 minutes to an hour.
Verified travelerFlew with American AirlinesDFW-SANDec 2024
Bring a neck pillow and if your over 6 ft tall spend the money for exit row. Other customers are not curteous
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesSJD-SMFFeb 2025
Sacramento has a “two step” process with retrieving luggage on inbound flights. Be aware adds about 45 min to your wait.
Verified travelerFlew with FrontierSLC-LAXJan 2025
Passengers should avoid flying Frontier to or from Salt Lake City until Frontier solves the serious problems with their airport staff.
GeraldFlew with Hawaiian AirlinesHNL-SFOFeb 2025
There is an agricultural inspection of carryon bags at the gate. Don’t try and bring home any pineapples.
Verified travelerFlew with SouthwestAUS-OAKDec 2024
Get to a VERY crowded airport early. TSA Pre doesn’t help much, as everyone has it.
OksanaFlew with Alaska AirlinesGEG-SANFeb 2025
Arrive early, the registration kiosks may not work and registration will take more than an hour.
YvonneFlew with Spirit AirlinesEWR-LAXDec 2024
Even though the flights in Spirit are very affordable, everything else must be paid for.
Verified travelerFlew with Qantas AirwaysSEA-LAXNov 2024
Alaska and Delta by far have the best service from Seattle to LA, with many flights a day. I honestly prefer Alaska in general, but they codeshare so much with American, whom I generally loathe, that I have been switching my flying to Delta simply to avoid American. American themselves run 2 CRJs a day via SkyWest to LA, and United runs one or two flights as well. The American service is what it is — I only took it due to a vastly lower price for a Qantas ticket to Australia.
Verified travelerFlew with Spirit AirlinesLAS-OAKSep 2024
Make sure you know the baggage rules, don’t bring more than you need, and if you get a rental car, know that people target them for break-ins. Never leave anything in your car. Going in for a snack? Take your bags. Basically, drive to your hotel, take the bags out immediately and put them in your room, and try to leave nothing in the car ever. It’s not always this bad, but they spot rentals from a mile away. Be smart, be safe.
ReidFlew with United AirlinesSEA-LAXOct 2024
SeaTac does not have a very good or equitable system for security lines. First class passengers don’t have a TSA precheck option, while there are only 2 TSA precheck lines on opposite sides of the terminal. Highly recommend getting TSA plus Clear, as the airport heavily favors this combination, with each section of the terminal having one of these options. I almost missed my flight because the only TSA precheck line was about 45 minutes long.
Verified travelerFlew with Qantas AirwaysJFK-LAXNov 2024
there was an instance where a non speaking couple didnt know when to board. people cut in front of them and the crew didnt respond. it would be nice if there were translators available to assist when needed. i get that you want people on board as quickly as possible. sometimes, it's like herding cats. but do assist the people who dont understand the language.
Verified travelerFlew with Spirit AirlinesPDX-SANSep 2024
I flew Spirit years ago and didn’t like the spartan nature. With this flight, I shall enthusiastically fly them again. I chose to fly back home with Alaska only because I needed a later flight than Spirit offered. And I’m Very Excited to try out a Big Seat!
MichaelFlew with SouthwestLAS-SJCSep 2024
I alway check luggage on Southwest. That way I don’t have to worry about dragging it through the airport. In and off the plane and just bring my personal item on board. It is going to be interesting how Southwest institutes assigned seating.
Verified travelerFlew with Spirit AirlinesSJC-LAXNov 2024
Make sure to arrive at the airport early. On my recent flight from LAX to San Jose, the plane departed 20 minutes ahead of schedule. It seemed like all passengers were on board, and the aircraft was ready for takeoff.
BrentFlew with Alaska AirlinesPDX-BUROct 2024
At PDX, you can go to either security checkpoint upon entering. Even if the checkpoint with the shorter line is not sided with your concourse, it's all connected & knowing this can save you 30 minutes or more in line.
DavianFlew with SouthwestLAX-OAKSep 2024
Don't rent a car or Uber. Add Clipper Card to your digital phone wallet and use it to take the Bart! It was super easy and very clean with spectacular views along the way
TheresaFlew with Alaska AirlinesSAN-SMFNov 2024
I am partial to Alaska as I fly fo Mexico and San Diego regularly and never been disappointed I also try to use Sacramento airport due to it’s smaller size
MikeFlew with American AirlinesORD-LAXSep 2024
Arrive early, grab a bottle of soda before getting on the plane and open it in the terminal. If you wait until flying the pressure will decarbonize the drink.
Verified travelerFlew with IberiaORD-SFOOct 2024
Use Alaska Airlines. Great attention to detail. The staff is connected with the passengers and they anticipate what we will need , especially when traveling with wheelchair passengers
BryanFlew with SouthwestLGB-SJCOct 2024
Because it's a smaller airport, you can arrive at the airport a lot sooner if you're not checking a bag.
JulieFlew with Alaska AirlinesJFK-SFOOct 2024
Leave early. JFK can be messy. I couldn’t find healthy food choices so eat before you arrive.
MichaelFlew with SouthwestLAS-SJCSep 2024
Flew Southwest was able to check my bag for free. The ticket was pricey but worth it.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesJFK-SANOct 2024
Landing in La Guardia or Newark (New Jersey) is more convenient for commuting to Manhattan.
MohammadFlew with Spirit AirlinesSJC-BURSep 2024
The TSA process is very short and quick. No need to come 2 hours ahead.
RebeccaFlew with Alaska AirlinesIAD-SANSep 2024
Get something to eat in the airport, just in case there is no food onboard.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesPDX-SJCOct 2024
Take care of any work ahead of time and bring a book to read
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesSEA-ONTOct 2024
SeaTac lets you make an appointment to get through security. SpotSaver. No cost. Online.
Verified travelerFlew with Royal JordanianJFK-SFOSep 2024
AA have the best boarding and fast service. Leaving and landing in time. 😀
Verified travelerFlew with Qantas AirwaysDEN-LAXSep 2024
You don’t have to arrive two hours early since it is a domestic flight
teresaFlew with Hawaiian AirlinesHNL-LAXOct 2024
It’s a long flight -but Hawaiian is a good airline e to fly !
Verified travelerFlew with FrontierLAX-SFOOct 2024
Try to catch bargain flights with more reliable airlines
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesMCO-SFONov 2024
Use their app, it’s great & they notify boarding, etc
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesCUN-LAXNov 2024
Take an early flight you will beat TSA lines
BruceFlew with Alaska AirlinesSEA-LAXNov 2024
Tight interline connection at LAX - barely made the flight. Directions from AS arrival gate to separate AA commuter terminal for AS codeshare flight connecting to TUS would have been nice.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesSTS-SANOct 2024
An hour before flight was enough time for departing from Santa Rosa. (I doubt anyone is at the airport and working at 4:30am).
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesTPA-SANSep 2024
Alaska airline has great food but small portions and sometimes isn’t aware of your pre-order, so bring your own just in case!
CongFlew with United AirlinesSNA-SFONov 2024
Nothing really, being clothes that are easily taken off like shoes at the security will always save time
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesPDX-LAXOct 2024
LAX is a large airport with long walking distances to exit in terminal 6.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesSFO-LAXOct 2024
Put phone in airplane mode and fasten safety belts
Verified travelerFlew with Hawaiian AirlinesLIH-SMFOct 2024
Get to the airport early. Long line through security.
KeturahFlew with Air CanadaYVR-SANNov 2024
Bring very small luggage- it’s a small plane.
Verified travelerFlew with Hawaiian AirlinesKOA-SMFOct 2024
The gate we were at did not have a designated boarding area. This caused passengers to congregate in the middle of a walkway. The gate agent was clear in telling people to sit until their zone was called, but many did not listen. Whole fruits and vegetables are also not allowed, so don't pack those back to California. Bags were also weighed -- carry-ons could be just 25 pounds or less. This was enforced.
Verified travelerFlew with United AirlinesYYZ-LAXOct 2024
Make sure you know which terminal to head to upon landing if transferring at Los Angeles as the information board at LAX will show only flight info for the terminal you are at (1 of 8). Transfer information is not transparent from the airline or the airport. Subscribe to airline apps help but can be cumbersome and difficult to manage in a time crunch.
JoanFlew with Porter AirlinesYYZ-SFONov 2024
Maybe get the choice above the cheapest option because you don't get a checked bag or carry on so in the end you end up paying about the same, if not more.
Verified travelerFlew with WestJetYYC-SFOSep 2024
Don’t expect too much from westjet. Most of the staff are rude. Only silver lining is that my flight was on time
ErnestFlew with VolarisGDL-OAKOct 2024
There needs to be better airline options to GDL. It is practically in monopoly with Volaris and they overcharged for baggage
MariaFlew with Alaska AirlinesSJC-SANSep 2024
Fox car rental was very slow at their desk for getting a car.
MikeFlew with Alaska AirlinesPHX-SMFNov 2024
Coach passengers are allowed to use the first class restroom. Beware
JohnjimyFlew with ANASFO-LAXAug 2024
Layover from NRT(JPN), to SFO (US), to LAX(US) Easy if you are a United States Citizen, when you go to US Border & Customs, bring your Passport if you arrive Internationally. Remember to pick up your check baggage before moving into domestic flights, as they will check the tag for the plane you are boarding in. (They will check your baggage again). Bring your ID/DL (Real-ID COMPLIANT) with you to pass security/TSA, passport works too. SFO is pretty strict as well as LAX.
CandaceFlew with WestJetYVR-SFOJul 2024
I would recommend Westjet. I suggest checking in at the agent counter. My husband & I don't mind sitting apart on a short flight rather than paying to sit together, but the agent was able to get us seats together. I did think the prices for selected seats was reasonable. Baggage fees were confusing & a bit pricy, but carry-ons were free & plane had large overhead bins.
JamesFlew with Alaska AirlinesSJC-SANJun 2024
It’s pretty simple there. It’s one of the better airports.TSA has never been a problem for me there it moves and is mostly efficient… I was happy that we didn’t have to takeoff our shoes, which surprised me. They’re always seems to be long walk to the gates coming and going not sure why that is
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesOGG-SANJun 2024
The exiting gates and boarding connecting flights are very close, always bring an empty water container that you can fill in the airport filtered water dispensers bring your own favorite food
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesBOI-BURJul 2024
If they ask you to check your bag at the gate because the flight is full, you get to board sooner even if you don't check ALL of your bags.
ChristineFlew with SouthwestDEN-LGBAug 2024
I always fly Southwest. I actually don’t mind they are moving to Assigned seating. Easy boarding. On time. Smooth landing. Long Beach is small airport and easy to Navigate.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesPDX-BURJun 2024
PDX can be slow getting through TSA but the car rental return is super easy. Still might need to add a little more time than you usually would.
KimberlyFlew with Alaska AirlinesSEA-SNAJul 2024
When going to Disneyland fly to this airport. Only 8 miles from Disneyland and super quick to check in and check out. Highly recommend this airport!
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesDCA-LAXJul 2024
Easy access via metro, and by car with parking available walking distance from the terminal. Lots of seating and dining options near the flight boarding gates.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesMFR-LAXJul 2024
Medford is a small airport, so it’s easy to get in and out. Checking bags with Alaska can get pricy, so plan accordingly.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesSTS-LAXJul 2024
It is a super easy flight. Santa Rosa is easy to get in and out of and the trip is nice and short!
Verified travelerFlew with Air CanadaYUL-LAXAug 2024
US bound terminal has very few good options and one lounge that’s always over capacity. Make sure to eat well before getting there.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesPDX-BURJun 2024
Alaska was so smooth...actually left on time and got in early! Room for all bags and everything ran like clockwork.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesPDX-SANJul 2024
Definitely arrive the 2 hours before your flight or you will have no extra time before boarding. Wear comfortable walking shoes.
PaulaFlew with Alaska AirlinesBOS-SFOJul 2024
Get your boarding pass online and save it to your wallet App on the iPhone. Makes it so easy
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesSEA-BURAug 2024
Burbank Airport is the best place to start your travels: small airport, short lines, and easy check in.
Verified travelerFlew with Air CanadaYYZ-LAXAug 2024
It is great to have a nonstop flight. Might be worth paying a bit extra for it.
BradFlew with Alaska AirlinesSFO-SANAug 2024
Alaska airlines with the SkyWest planes have 'no middle seats'. That is a comfy way to go.
NoamFlew with Alaska AirlinesIAD-SFOAug 2024
Flying to the Ronald Reagan airport is closer and faster to D.C. than the Dulles airport.
HeatherFlew with Hawaiian AirlinesHNL-LGBAug 2024
Easy entry and exit. Easy to get to rental car. Extremely fast exit from airport itself.
IreneFlew with SouthwestSFO-LAXJun 2024
Arrive a least 1 hour before boarding if you’re checking bags. Light layers due weather variation
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesSEA-SJCAug 2024
Unfortunately Southwest seems to be the best with no charges for the bags..atleast in 2024
CarolFlew with Alaska AirlinesBOS-SANJul 2024
Bring your own entertainment (book, puzzles, devices). T mobile offers free internet with Alaska!
RaquelFlew with Hawaiian AirlinesOGG-LAXJun 2024
Sit last row so no one is behind you and buy cancel noise headphones!
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesSFO-SANJul 2024
They could smile more! It woukd greatly improve the mood in the packed aircraft
Verified travelerFlew with Hawaiian AirlinesHNL-LAXJul 2024
I would recommend sticking with United or Hawaiian Airlines. They are the best!
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesJFK-SFOJul 2024
provide crew with more training on how to offer help to passengers
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesIAD-SFOJul 2024
I would recommend Alaska Airlines. The amenities and comfort was great.
SoniaFlew with American AirlinesDFW-SFOAug 2024
Leave at least 1.5 hours between flights as Dallas is HUGE!
Verified travelerFlew with Spirit AirlinesCMH-LAXJun 2024
Go with a major airline if you can afford it.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesPAE-SFOAug 2024
Everett is a lovely airport to travel from
CaitlynFlew with Alaska AirlinesSJD-LAXJul 2024
Airport in Cabo does not have drinking fountains or water bottle filling stations so be ready to buy water. Be ready for a long line at US customs and boarder patrol for US citizens just because of the sheer volume of people coming back from vacation.
HibaFlew with Porter AirlinesYUL-SFOAug 2024
People with kids or disabilities should be informed that boarding this flight requires taking stairs and a bus. Also, although this was over 5 hr flight, we were only served tiny snack bag and a drink. WiFi was great👍.
JulieFlew with Alaska AirlinesSEA-SFOAug 2024
Please make sure you at least change your clothes if you are flying right after a sporting event where you participated. Don’t be stinky.
VyomaFlew with Alaska AirlinesSAN-SFOJun 2024
Be sure to read the signs, i have heard it's confusing for connecting flights if you don't follow the directions.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesLAX-SFOJul 2024
Bring a sweater, just incase other people's ac makes you cool.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesPDX-SNAJul 2024
Bring your own food and coffee. No hot bevarages available.
Verified travelerFlew with Spirit AirlinesCMH-LAXAug 2024
Spirit is the only airline that goes to Columbus nonstop
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesPDX-SJCJun 2024
Check whether you're flying at a busy time a day.
Joo YoungFlew with Alaska AirlinesSMF-SANJul 2024
Make sure your seat can recline when you board!
CherrylynFlew with Alaska AirlinesMCO-SFOAug 2024
Be on time and check the parking space
Verified travelerFlew with VolarisMEX-LAXJun 2024
Their electronic boards change so quickly they’re difficult to read. Check the board often because they often change the gate without any warning. If you’re a tourist you don’t have to download the pdf of the digital migratory thingie. They give you a receipt saying you’ll. It be able to leave unless you do, but it’s not clear that tourists are exempt. And the information booth I used in the airport didn’t k is, and sent me to Gate 28 immigration, but it was at Gate 25, and I walked all that way for nothing. So get there early, and check the board often for changes.
JulieFlew with SouthwestSFO-LAXJun 2024
Avoid flying into LAX. It’s a nightmare. Baggage claim took 40 minutes. And then the shuttle to the car rental place took an hour because there are two shuttles. The first is a local bus that makes a stop at every seven terminals and then it takes you to another place where you have to wait for your smaller shuttle to the car rental place.
WALTERFlew with Alaska AirlinesBOI-BURJun 2024
Do not purchase tickets from Spirit airlines, those guys are jokes. Cancelled my family flight and made them spend one whole day at airport with no food.
Verified travelerFlew with Air CanadaYYZ-LAXAug 2024
Treat this like you’re flying on a greyhound bus. Bring food. Bring a pillow. Bring entertainment. Know that you will be uncomfortable and the airline won’t care.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesSEA-SNAAug 2024
Flight was delayed 9-1/2 hours. Make sure you have somewhere to go in you have to check out of your hotel.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesSEA-SJCAug 2024
The airport is busy and a mess with construction. There is a train to take so account for extra time.
AndrewFlew with Porter AirlinesYYZ-SFOJul 2024
I've flown many discount airlines and I think this is the first I will not use again.
Verified travelerFlew with American AirlinesLAS-LAXAug 2024
Do not check a bag if you can help it. Will set you back $40
Tuan-ThanhFlew with SouthwestPHX-SNAAug 2024
Try to be in group A if possible or steer clear of this airline.
KeelanFlew with FrontierSMF-SANAug 2024
Do not book with Frontier. Even Spirit is better (and that's saying something)!
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesPDX-SFOJun 2024
Don’t fly Frontier. They refuse customer assistance and scam people on checking bags.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska AirlinesSFO-BURJul 2024
Don't trust the announcements about the lack of carry-on space on board.
LauraFlew with Alaska AirlinesSEA-LAXJul 2024
LAX is a bit of a mess. Very long walk between terminals.
HosungFlew with Hawaiian AirlinesHNL-LAXJul 2024
Always expect for the delay if flying with Hawaiian Airline.
JoeFlew with American AirlinesDFW-SBPAug 2024
Do not fly through Dallas. Go through Denver or LA

FAQs for booking flights from North America to California

  • How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights from North America to California?

    KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from North America to California.

  • How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from North America to California?

    KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight from North America to California is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

  • What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from North America to California?

    Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly from North America to California with an airline and back with another airline.

  • What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight from North America to California?

    Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying from North America to California up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

  • Which is the cheapest airport to fly into in California?

    Prices will differ depending on the departure airport, but generally, the cheapest airport to fly to in California is Ontario Airport (ONT), with an average flight price of $102.

  • What is the cheapest flight to California?

    The cheapest ticket to California from North America found in the last 72 hours was to Ontario, at $36 round-trip. The most popular route is Atlanta (ATL) to Los Angeles (LAX) and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $58.

  • What is the cheapest month to fly from North America to California?

    The cheapest month for flights from North America to California is September, when tickets cost $308 (return) on average. On the other hand, the most expensive months are June and December, when the average cost of round-trip tickets is $428 and $411 respectively.

  • How far in advance should I book a flight from North America to California?

    To get a below average price on the flight from North America to California, you should book around 3 weeks before departure. For the absolute cheapest price, our data suggests you should book 25 weeks before departure.

  • How long is the flight to California?

    An average nonstop flight from North America to California takes 3h 50m, covering a distance of 1467 miles. The shortest route is Burbank (BUR) to Las Vegas (LAS) with an average flight time of 1h 04m.

  • What are the most popular destinations in California?

    Based on KAYAK flight searches, the most popular destination is Las Vegas (34% of total searches to California). The next most popular destinations are Los Angeles (29%) and San Francisco (14%). Searches for flights to San Diego (6%), to Santa Ana (5%) and to Ontario (4%) are also popular.

Top 5 airlines serving from North America to California

Need help choosing which airline to fly with from North America to California? KAYAK airline reviews give an overall score for each airline based on loads of factors, including comfort, boarding, in-flight entertainment and more, to make your decision easier. See airline scores according to verified KAYAK customer reviews.
8.0
Alaska AirlinesOverall score based on 9968 reviews
8.2Boarding
7.9Comfort
7.1Food
7.1Entertainment
8.5Crew
Airline reviews

Boarding was quick and easy as always the crew is on their game as always I always have an enjoyable flight so I’m good.

10.0 ExcellentAnonymous, Apr 2025EUG - LAX
Read more Alaska Airlines reviews

Boarding was quick and easy as always the crew is on their game as always I always have an enjoyable flight so I’m good.

Need to get on train for second flight it’s much nicer when all the gates are together for obvious reasons

Cramped, crowded aircraft. Poorly organized boarding. Tasteless crackers to eat. 40 minutes late. A standard US air travel experience.

Economy class seats have inferior leg room for long trip, esp when people in front of you crank their seats back. If you are group 8 during boarding, good luck in find spaces for your carey on luggage!

It was my first time flying Alaska Airlines and first time flying from Santa Rosa airport. The staff was very professional and friendly. Their instructions were clear and any question was answered satisfactorily. My seat was comfortable and the in-flight beverage service very adequate for the duration of the flight. We arrived ahead of the scheduled landing time and deplaning was simple. I look forward to flying with Alaska again.

The flight was good, there were no problems at all. The only thing that was very disappointing was how filthy the bathroom was, it was discussing.

Flight attendant took my carefully folded coat and flung it across the aisle to the bin across the way. Where one of the passengers rescued it for me, because that just wasn’t right!!

the flight was delayed twice and then delayed from taking off.

Crew was very good. Problem was not Alaska Airlines’ fault, there was a horrible, squealing, screaming kid near me.

This was my first trip in years with Alaska. I don’t think I’ll do it again. The planes are old and tired looking. The seats are small with zero legroom. The JFK terminal is one of the worst I’ve been in. On this flight the pilot had to abort the landing and circle the Bay before trying again. I think I’ll stick with the usual suspects …

This had nothing to do with Delta… The flights were on time and flawless. The service was excellent. We purchased seats in (aisle/middle) comfort plus since this was a cross country flight. Unfortunately, the woman seated at the window was 300+ pounds and, as might be expected, covered up about a third of the middle seat also. there was absolutely nothing that Delta could have done about that… I just don’t know what the answer should be. If you purchase a seat, you should should be able to use the entire seat and not just the portion that someone else is not sitting/oozing in. Disappointing…there should be something that could be done….I'm just not sure what solution could be.

I love the free WiFi!! Crew was nice. Bathroom was decent. First time flying delta in a long time and I enjoyed it. Will definitely look into booking with Delta more but I think Delta is a little more expensive than the other airlines.

Seats are much much more comfortable than United, which is what I usually fly

If I pay extra for "comfort+" I expect leg room where I can stretch my legs. I was seated with an attendant's seat blocking my feet. Knee space was fine but my feet had less room than the non-"comfort+" seats. Also, don't go cheap on food when you have flights of 3+ hours. It's insulting.

Only one side of the heafphone jack work. Crew was friendly and helpful.

Great. Flight departed early and arrived early. Deplaning and baggage claim ww were quick.

They separated our seats and moved us to the back of the plane. Hundreds of dollars and thousands of miles used and this was my platinum member experience.

Since it wasn’t a Delta flight, I was not able to sit with my group and there was no entertainment.

Three adults, three children. They did not give us seats together. Two seats together, in row 23, one in 13, one in 14, one in 10, and one in 17. When we got on the plane, the crew tried to ask people to move but basically threw up their hands. One person moved so we had two pairs of seats together. The 1.5 year old sat on a parent's lap (despite having paid for his own seat).

the fight attendants were great and i appreciated that they had season 1 of The Wire from HBO as a viewing option

A bit rush for transit. Food and entertainment are not available

Wonderful and fast TSA checkpoint. The line was fast and our gate was close by

The gate was too far away for the connecting flight

Generally good. The aisles have gotten narrower which can slow down boarding. Flight crew was great! Healthier complimentary snacks would be appreciated. Due to earthquake in San Francisco we had to circle in air space for a bit but then had a smooth landing. I laud the flight crew for their patience ;)

We tried to upgrade to economy premium but were told this was not possible as we had booked through United Airlines (and Air Canada was operating the flight). This seemed silly given there was ample space in economy premium. Additionally, we had to wait almost 1.5 hours upon arrival to taxi to the gate. Otherwise, the crew were very pleasant and passengers were friendly.

headphone jack didnt work for the first flight and not much variety

The agents was very rude and they charged me $50 for a carry-on bag saying that it was too big and then I saw someone going on a plane with the same size bag as me

For the most part united was a good experience, how ever when they came by with the snacks and water, they completely passed by my wife and I. As we were in separate rows. On a 5 hr flight we were not offered water

Fantastic crew. Flight was delayed at last minute but we were given updates every 20 minutes and the crew was so friendly and considerate. I miss the touch screens on the back of the seats, wish they would bring that back though.

Beijing PEK to SFO. I had an economy seat on this flight. The seat comfort was acceptable. My main complaint is with the FA’s lack of personality and absence from servicing the plane, specifically restroom care (I wish I could share a pic of the restroom that I captured) and care of travelers—drink cart/availability of drinks. I'm amazed at the level of service on other International travel where a passenger is most often appreciated.

One bottle of water and a package of cookies for comfort plus. We had to literally beg a flight attendant for an extra bottle of water later in the flight due to feeling dehydrated.

Flight boarded from Gate 39 at OGG, the farthest gate in the terminal. There were no Hawaiian themed amenities for the flight. The first class service was mediocre at best; I received not special welcome or recognition as an executive platinum member of American Advantage program. The flight attendants were more concerned with their cell phones than saying "thank you" to the passengers as we disembarked. Fortunately, the flight arrived at LAX a few minutes early.

Bigger seats. Board back to front! Disembark front to back!

Extraordinary service in business class, and very good breakfast and snacks. A really lovely flight.

This flight didn’t happen because AA agents didn’t let us board the flight

Plane was pretty clean, staff was friendly and helpful, flight left about on time arrived early. Took a long time to board and get off the plane - carry on items didn't have enough room so people had to move all around to find places.

The service and food needs to improve to catch up with other international flights

Would have been good to have a meal since it was a 5.5 hour flight

We boarded after several delays due to mechanical failure and a gate change. The seat cushion in the exit row was very compressed and offered no cushion, making the four-hour journey reasonably uncomfortable. The WiFi worked for a few people, but for most, it did not, and you cannot get entertainment unless you can connect—American Airlines flights do not have seatback screens, and you must use your mobile phone.

AA is always pretty solid. Was on time all the way around today so can’t complain!

The reps working at the airport counter were dumber than a second coat of paint.

My costume jewelry was stolen out of my bag. Got to airport and my bag weighed 45 pounds- 5 pounds over cost me $100 Long lines in tier one. No entertainment No WiFi no free drinks or snacks

Not very good. Paid in excess of $400 for assigned seating for my family and that was not provided. I want that money back.

The seats were hard molded plastic covered in plastic vinyl. And the scam to charge people extra to sit together. Don’t they know we can just ask someone to trade seats. And watching the staff separate young children from parents… super classy. We had to guilt them into offering up our seats. This companies policies suck. Don’t give them your money.

The seats were awful, hard plastic covered in sheet vinyl. The airline tries to scam you into paying extra to get seat together when the flight wasn’t full. They were going to separate a family with young children but my wife who had a row to herself gave up her seat so the young mom could be with her young boys. I’m never giving this airline my money again.

It was a short flight so no food or entertainment….

Seats are uncomfortable but price is good. Guess I can put up with misery for four hours.

I’ve never traveled on Frontier before. If you want basic, no frills, friendly service at great prices then give them a fly!

I guess you get what you pay for. The seats are very uncomfortable and very little space. The snacks were pricey.

Cancelled and declined to find alternatives Earlier flight is 2 days later Sent the cancellation notification very late, wish I knew earlier would have stayed to watch the Miami open final game Very disappointing service

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Recent round-trip flight deals

5/27Tue
1 stopSpirit Airlines
8h 06mSJC-LAX
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$61
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3h 56mSJC-LAX
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nonstopDelta
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6h 17mEWR-SFO
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5h 30mSFO-EWR
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5h 30mJFK-LAS
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multi-stopSpirit Airlines
21h 57mDFW-LAX
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8h 42mLAX-LGA
$397
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7h 37mLAX-LGA
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Everything you need to know for your flight to California

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