$79 Find Cheap Flights to California - Compare and Save

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Cheap Flights to California

Cheapest round-trip prices found by our users on KAYAK in the last 5 days
Los Angeles
Los Angeles1 stop$89
San Francisco
San Franciscononstop$60
San Diego
San Diego1 stop$78
San Jose
San Josenonstop$72
Palm Springs
Palm Springs1 stop$179
Fresno
Fresnononstop$117
San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispononstop$197
Bakersfield
Bakersfieldnonstop$239
Arcata
Arcata1 stop$154
Redding
Reddingnonstop$217
Santa Maria
Santa Maria2 stops$345
Merced
Mercednonstop$121
Imperial
Imperialnonstop$138
Mammoth Lakes
Mammoth Lakes2 stops$999
Reno
Renononstop$116
Los Angeles
Los Angeles1 stop$89
San Francisco
San Franciscononstop$60
San Diego
San Diego1 stop$78
San Jose
San Josenonstop$72
Palm Springs
Palm Springs1 stop$179
Fresno
Fresnononstop$117
San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispononstop$197
Bakersfield
Bakersfieldnonstop$239
Arcata
Arcata1 stop$154
Redding
Reddingnonstop$217
Santa Maria
Santa Maria2 stops$345
Merced
Mercednonstop$121
Imperial
Imperialnonstop$138
Mammoth Lakes
Mammoth Lakes2 stops$999
Reno
Renononstop$116
Booking Insights

KAYAK's insights & trends for flights to California

Get data-powered insights and trends for flights to California to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more.

What is the cheapest flight to California?

The cheapest ticket to California from the United States found in the last 5 days was to San Jose, at $34 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 5 days was $65.

How much is a flight to California?

A flight to California costs $370 on average. The cheapest price found on KAYAK in the last 2 weeks was $28 for the route San Francisco (SFO) to Burbank (BUR). The most popular routes on KAYAK are Denver to Burbank which costs $357 on average, and Boston to Los Angeles, which costs $623 on average.

See prices from:

What is the cheapest month to fly from the United States to California?

The cheapest month for flights from the United States to California is September, when tickets cost $196 (return) on average. On the other hand, the most expensive months are July and June, when the average cost of round-trip tickets is $261 and $238 respectively.

How far in advance should I book a flight from the United States to California?

To get a below average price on the flight from the United States to California, you should book around 3 weeks before departure, which saves you about 36% compared to booking last minute. For the absolute cheapest price, our data suggests you should book 12 weeks before departure.

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 Stockton Airport (SCK), with an average flight price of $65.

Good to know

Low season

January

Cheapest flight

$79
Best time to beat the crowds with an average 13% drop in price.
Most popular time to fly with an average 3% increase in price.
Flight from Seattle to Las Vegas

Flights to California: the best tips from KAYAK users' own experiences

Insights shared by verified travelers who flew to California 
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jul 2026
Develop a list of essentials, prepare for 3 or 4 interchangeable outfits, 2 pairs of shoes and try not to overpack!
samantaFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jun 2026
the red eye one is perfect to sleep on plane and get there early morning
StevenFlew with Southwest-Jun 2026
Ontario airport is always easy to access, quick security lines, organized airport.
jessieFlew with JetBlue-Jul 2026
Take a direct flight. Its faster and less hassle.
LorynFlew with American Airlines-Jul 2026
Give yourself time if there are any issues that arise. Los Angeles also has an extremely large airport. Wear comfortable walking shoes. The staff working there are not the best at helping navigate through Los Angeles Airport so make sure you have enough time to arrive especially if you have a connecting flight.
DavidFlew with United Airlines-Jun 2026
Arrive early. If you’re over 60 or disabled get LAXtransportation assistance. With assistance the trip between domestic and international is 20 minutes, without assistance or can be over 40 minutes. With a tight connection that can be an issue.
JeanieFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jun 2026
Bring your own food and entertainment. The buy-on-board program may require advance ordering, and it can be expensive. Also, the on-board wifi may not work.
AnujFlew with Delta-Aug 2026
If you want to watch something streaming then better download it in Netflix or Prime. Don't rely on watching it in the flight like you normally do
BillFlew with United Airlines-Jun 2026
Usually, bags come out at LAX on baggage carousel #1 but it has happened several times they switch at the last minute to another.
CherylFlew with United Airlines-Jul 2026
Don’t take a bottle of Korbel in your carry on! It has to be checked.
StephanieFlew with American Airlines-Apr 2026
download what you can work on in advance, don't rely on WiFi, download music, videos, etc and know that you'll wait over an hour before they start the beverage service
ManishFlew with Air New Zealand-Apr 2026
Long haul so make sure to get up and move around a bit.
CharlesFlew with Delta-Mar 2026
Just be aware a smaller jet so overhead may be limited.
CupcakeFlew with Alaska Airlines-Apr 2026
Check flight delays on Google prior to arrival at airport.
SoosnataFlew with Delta-Feb 2026
I prepaid my baggage fee through the Delta App during web check-in; however, I was unable to locate the receipt afterward. It would be helpful if prepaid baggage receipts were clearly linked within the trip details section and/or accessible under the traveler profile for easy retrieval. This added visibility would enhance transparency and provide greater convenience for customers managing their travel documentation. Overall, a small enhancement that could further elevate the digital experience.
JamesFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jan 2026
My advise is to pack lightly to avoid paying for the cost of one bag in the amount of 35 dollars. The amount isn't the worst I've paid, for my traveling bag but so many individuals used the overhead luggage rack as well as a back pack that didn't pay for transporting a large suitcase that I intend to do the same in the future.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jan 2026
Since I flew First Class I really have no advice! Everything was perfect! The ticketing agents were fantastic, flew through TSA Precheck, great announcements at the gate, quick boarding. My only suggestion is to check First Class prices before committing to the very expensive baggage fees and choosing a seat fee!!!
GregFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jan 2026
Upgrade to first class for free checked bags, priority boarding and half off the SFO lounge for not that much extra
BrianFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jan 2026
I would say bring a backup snack or pre-order food with Alaska. I love Alaska airlines' new food options.
AgustinFlew with United Airlines-Feb 2026
Arrive early for your flight so you’re not rushing. And have plenty of patience with other people that are impatient.
PhilipFlew with Alaska Airlines-Feb 2026
Taking a flight with a smaller plane was pleasant, fewer passengers and.easier boarding and disembarking.
MatthewFlew with Southwest-Jan 2026
If you have Pre-Check don't even worry about getting to the airport early.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jan 2026
flying to Santa Ana airport makes it nice because it is not crowded
BeverlyFlew with JetBlue-Dec 2025
Wear support socks which helps when you sit for a long time.
GreggFlew with Hawaiian Airlines-Dec 2025
Be sure to pack food for your flight of 5+ hours.
AndreaFlew with Spirit Airlines-Feb 2026
I chose Spirit because it was a lot cheaper. Expect a very uncomfortable seat for basic economy. Bring something to do because there is no back of the seat entertainment screen.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jan 2026
If you want a better experience, fly non stop. American has a superior wireless connection experience. Delays appear to be the norm. Book two hours between flights minimum. Check your bags.
LindseyFlew with SWISS-Dec 2025
Ready for weather delays of wind in SFO, which happens often. Keep that in consideration when planning an additional leg of a trip after it from SFO.
AnjaliFlew with Spirit Airlines-Dec 2025
look out for landing in the new terminal that is then a bus ride away from your luggage
Verified travelerFlew with United Airlines-Feb 2026
1 hr is doable if you're transferring at sfo but probably just get something to go food wise
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Feb 2026
Dont wear all your clothes its not worth the discomfort to save on a checked bag.
ChristineFlew with Hawaiian Airlines-Dec 2025
Arrive early to go through security unless you have TSA pre check and/or CLEAR
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Dec 2025
Bring your own food and in flight activity since they don’t supply any.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Dec 2025
Make sure you check on your flight before going to the airport
FraxysFlew with American Airlines-Feb 2026
Bring your own snacks or sandwich for dinner in the plane.
Verified travelerFlew with Spirit Airlines-Jan 2026
Take an inflatable seat cushion, as the seats are uncomfortable, and take a patience pill as the staff are rude and mean.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Nov 2025
Pay to reserve your seat and bring airbuds for the free movies!
AngeliqueFlew with Spirit Airlines-Nov 2025
Know there is a shuttle to exit or get baggage
MikeFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jul 2025
Be prepared for your flight by purchasing a meal before departure, and by all means spend the eight bucks for inflight WiFi.
KeithFlew with Hawaiian Airlines-Jul 2025
Check your seating assignment thoroughly when you check in to ensure it's the seat you paid for. Flights number, planes, seat assignment, departure times can change at moment's notice, so make sure your confirmed flight assignment in 100% correct!!!
LeoFlew with American Airlines-Jul 2025
Avoid LAX if you can fly into other CA airport. LAX is very confusing. Our gate was adjacent to another that was boarding at the same time. We could not hear our boarding announcements. Almost missed our boarding group. Terminal 4 has multiple floors, the signs were okay, but a 3-D map is needed to fully comprehend your path. Very limited food options and super expensive restaurants with mediocre food (CrownLAX). Avoid LAX if your want a pleasant layover/transfer process.
GeraldFlew with Delta-Mar 2025
Book a flight early in the morning. The plane & crew will have arrived the previous night
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-May 2025
My mom told me prior to boarding an airplane I should empty my bladder. As I age, that advice becomes more sage.
LuisFlew with Delta-Mar 2025
It’s a long flight, come prepared to either watch movies, read or sleep.
HowardFlew with Alaska Airlines-May 2025
Must have a tablet to watch videos. Bring a seat cushion.
RobertFlew with United Airlines-Mar 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.
Verified travelerFlew with American Airlines-Jan 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.
SarahFlew with Alaska Airlines-Feb 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.
PiperFlew with American Airlines-Dec 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
AracelyFlew with Spirit Airlines-Dec 2024
Bring snacks and your own water bottle to stay hydrated.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Feb 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 Alaska Airlines-Dec 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.
AmyFlew with Spirit Airlines-Dec 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.
Verified travelerFlew with American Airlines-Dec 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 Airlines-Jan 2025
Bring water and snacks with shorter flights as some routes will not offer it.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jan 2025
Reserve your plane seat & bring something to eat in the plane.
Verified travelerFlew with American Airlines-Jan 2025
Be ready to walk a long way through the terminal.
DavianFlew with Southwest-Sep 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
MikeFlew with American Airlines-Sep 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 Alaska Airlines-Nov 2024
Use their app, it’s great & they notify boarding, etc
Verified travelerFlew with Spirit Airlines-Sep 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.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Sep 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 Airlines-Nov 2024
Nothing really, being clothes that are easily taken off like shoes at the security will always save time
PhallyFlew with Alaska Airlines-Oct 2024
Don't take too much stuff. Make sure to have the necessary documents or boarding pass ready.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Oct 2024
Landing in La Guardia or Newark (New Jersey) is more convenient for commuting to Manhattan.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Oct 2024
LAX is a large airport with long walking distances to exit in terminal 6.
Verified travelerFlew with Qantas Airways-Sep 2024
You don’t have to arrive two hours early since it is a domestic flight
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jun 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
LisaFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jul 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.
KimberlyFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jul 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 Airlines-Jul 2024
Definitely arrive the 2 hours before your flight or you will have no extra time before boarding. Wear comfortable walking shoes.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jun 2024
Make sure to get food before you get to the airport. Bring chargers for ur phone or your technological device.
PaulaFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jul 2024
Get your boarding pass online and save it to your wallet App on the iPhone. Makes it so easy
HeatherFlew with Hawaiian Airlines-Aug 2024
Easy entry and exit. Easy to get to rental car. Extremely fast exit from airport itself.
IreneFlew with Southwest-Jun 2024
Arrive a least 1 hour before boarding if you’re checking bags. Light layers due weather variation
CarolFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jul 2024
Bring your own entertainment (book, puzzles, devices). T mobile offers free internet with Alaska!
RaquelFlew with Hawaiian Airlines-Jun 2024
Sit last row so no one is behind you and buy cancel noise headphones!
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jun 2024
Los Angeles airport has convenient entry & exit without long walks to & from the gates.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jun 2024
SFO is one of the most convenient and pleasant airports. When flying Alaska Air make sure to bring your food and a larger water bottle that usual (you get only two drink services (one small cup each) for a 6 hour flight.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jun 2024
SFO ~ most convenient People should prepare themselves for cold temperature inside the cabin, bring coat/jacket and food in case flight is delayed.
VyomaFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jun 2024
Be sure to read the signs, i have heard it's confusing for connecting flights if you don't follow the directions.
NoamFlew with Alaska Airlines-Aug 2024
Flying to the Ronald Reagan airport is closer and faster to D.C. than the Dulles airport.
KathyFlew with United Airlines-Jun 2024
Realize it’s a smaller plane and you will probably have to green tag any carry on.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jul 2024
Bring a sweater, just incase other people's ac makes you cool.
SusanFlew with Hawaiian Airlines-Aug 2024
That they willlet you check your carry ons the gate sometimes
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jul 2024
Bring your own food and coffee. No hot bevarages available.
FatimaFlew with Frontier-Jun 2024
Frontier requires 3hr preflight check in even on domestic flights
BerniceFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jun 2024
Give yourself plenty of time to get through security.
Joo YoungFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jul 2024
Make sure your seat can recline when you board!
Verified travelerFlew with British Airways-Jul 2024
Understand that you were going to land in the middle of the airport somewhere way far away from the terminal then you walk down a ramp then you walk to a terminal you get on a bus what you have to wait in the line for the bus to come and get you the bus goes very slowly to the terminal you get out and then you walk 2700 steps I walked to get to where I was supposed to go And then find it because I didn’t have a boarding pass was not easy so don’t try to go there and make a quick connection you can’t do it
JulieFlew with Southwest-Jun 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.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Aug 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 American Airlines-Aug 2024
Do not check a bag if you can help it. Will set you back $40
LauraFlew with Alaska Airlines-Jul 2024
LAX is a bit of a mess. Very long walk between terminals.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Mar 2024
Bring an iPad with lots of shows downloaded. The terminal at jfk is nice and small, easy to go thru security. Palm Springs airport is amazing. You step out and feel like you’re on vacation.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-May 2024
Don't use a small water bottle. Get a big one and fill it prior to boarding so you can keep hydrated better.
JustinFlew with Southwest-May 2024
GET TSA - PRECHECK AND CLEAR. IT'S CHEAPER WITH THE AMEX GREEN OR AMEX PLAT.
Verified travelerFlew with United Airlines-Apr 2024
Use the apps so you know gates before you transfer.
Verified travelerFlew with Southwest-May 2024
Rental car counters close by 1030 (Hertz) and 111PM (Avis/Fox). If you arrive at Dollar/Thrifty/Hertz after 1030 you WILL NOT have a car! We were able to rent for a day with Avis but beware - it’s a firm closing time.
LisaFlew with Alaska Airlines-May 2024
Be sure your carry on fits in the bins before getting on- big rollers are difficult to get into small Horizon Air bins
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Apr 2024
There are buses from Time Square Bus Terminal to Newark for $18 direct no stops you are there in 30 minutes.
Dr. SherrieFlew with United Airlines-Apr 2024
Pack your own snacks and download your movies and shows in case the WiFi doesn’t work.
BillFlew with Alaska Airlines-May 2024
Security at Sacramento can take longer than you think it might for a small airport.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Mar 2024
Be prepared to wait in long line for shuttle to car rental complex.
AntonellaFlew with Southwest-Apr 2024
Bring a charge / battery for your phone and your own food.
FranciscoFlew with Alaska Airlines-May 2024
Make sure to read all the disclaimer disclosures before booking.
Verified travelerFlew with Hawaiian Airlines-May 2024
Bring some food and be prepared for seat changes.
DeniseFlew with Alaska Airlines-May 2024
Bring your own device. No screens on the seatbacks.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-May 2024
Please be prepared to check in your luggage even if there is available space in the overhead bins. Despite the availability of space, Alaska Airlines employees refused to allow us to bring our bags onto the plane and insisted that we check them in.
LaurenFlew with Delta-Feb 2024
If you have kids, bring your own screens. We were counting on the inflight entertainment and it was a definite letdown. Also, TSA Pre-check is only available at station 2, but wait times are posted at each station so you can see if it’s worth the walk.
JosephFlew with Delta-Feb 2024
Your seat selection may be changed at check-in and you may not be able to change your seat to what you originally selected while booking so be aware of this possible issue.
Verified travelerFlew with Delta-Jan 2024
Ride with full belly and the bare minimum. Also I did not know a fanny pack that is staying on my hip was considered a carry on
SridharFlew with Spirit Airlines-Dec 2023
Fly light. Get seats in front. Make sure you get here before 10 - rental car place closes prior.
RalphFlew with Southwest-Feb 2024
If you really want a better seat make sure you upgrade.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines-Feb 2024
Book directly from the airline and/or get refundable tickets.
LaurenFlew with JetBlue-Dec 2023
Be very careful that you don’t misplace anything. If you have to go through TSA multiple times, be sure to retrieve ALL your things even if it means you have to hold up the line unfortunately. Otherwise, there will be zero help to retrieve your things afterwards even though there are so many cameras.
Verified travelerFlew with Spirit Airlines-Feb 2024
There will be additional charges :- select seats, checkin or carry on luggages, food or drinks. Not suitable for big size passengers unless you pay extra to sit on the front two rows

FAQs - booking California flights

  • What’s the closest airport to Yosemite National Park?

    The closest airport to Yosemite National Park with regular flights is the Fresno-Yosemite International airport (FAT), 2h 30m from Yosemite Valley. Alternatively, and within the same distance from Yosemite, you can book flights to California operated by Allegiant Air and United Airlines that land at Stockton Metropolitan Airport (SCK).

  • I’m going to Disneyland. Which airports can I fly into and which is the best?

    There are four airports in California that you can fly into when visiting Disneyland. Those are John Wayne Orange County Airport (SNA), Long Beach Airport, Ontario International Airport (ONT), and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). John Wayne Airport is the best because it’s the closest one to the resort (14 mi) and, like LAX, it’s also served by the Disneyland Resort Express bus.

  • What’s the closest airport to Napa Valley?

    Sonoma County Airport (STS) is the closest airport to Napa Valley, just 1 hr away. American Airlines, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines fly there from most cities in the United States. However, if you want more options of airlines serving multiple destinations, you can look for flights to Oakland International Airport (OAK) or Sacramento International Airport (SMF), both 1h 30m from Napa Valley.

  • I’m traveling to Hollywood. What’s the best airport to fly into?

    The Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the most convenient and offers a wider selection of airlines and flights, but it’s one of the busiest airports in the United States, and it’s 35m from Hollywood. Alternatively, you can look for flights to California that land at Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), which is just 20m from Hollywood.

  • How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights from the United States 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 the United States to California.

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

    KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight from the United States 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 the United States 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 the United States 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 the United States 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 the United States to California up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

  • What is the cheapest day to fly to California?

    Based on KAYAK data, the cheapest day to fly to California is Friday where round-trip tickets can be as cheap as $372. On the other hand, the most expensive day to fly is Sunday, where round-trip prices are $546 on average.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to California

  • Looking for cheap airfare to California? 25% of our users found round-trip tickets to California for the following prices or less: From Denver $471, from Boston $862, from Newark $1,060
  • Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest California flight deals.
  • If you’re planning to travel to one of the two main cities in California, San Francisco and Los Angeles, you should look for flights to airports in neighboring cities. Los Angeles is close to Long Beach (30m), Burbank (15m), and Ontario (40m). San Francisco is close to Oakland (20m) on the East Bay and San Jose (50m).
  • If you’re traveling to San Francisco, your first thought is to look for flights that land at San Francisco International Airport (SFO). However, if you want to avoid a busy airport, you can search for flights to the nearby airports Oakland International Airport (OAK) (30m by car) and San Jose International Airport (SJC) (45m by car).
  • Passengers traveling to Los Angeles can choose to fly into alternative airports like Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) and Long Beach Airport (LGB), but for most, Los Angeles International is still the most convenient option, only 25m from the city center. A taxi costs around $47 flat rate, and a one-way ticket on the LAX FlyAway Bus to the city center costs about $8.
  • Business travelers visiting Silicon Valley should look for nonstop flights to San Jose International Airport. Most major airlines fly there nonstop from other American cities and destinations in Asia and Europe, and the airport is only a 15m drive from the world’s most famous tech hub.
  • If you’re traveling with your dog, you’ll find pet relief areas in all airports in the Golden State. If choosing the airport with the best pet relief area is important when looking for flights to California, then the Los Angeles International Airport and the San Diego International Airport (SAN) have the best facilities.

Reviews of the top 5 airlines flying to California

 
Need help choosing which airline to fly with from the United States 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
SouthwestOverall score based on 4208 reviews
7.0Food
8.0Comfort
8.6Crew
8.1Boarding
7.5Entertainment
Airline reviews

Seated at front bulkhead for a smidge extra leg room away from home and on flight back home. Away crew was very proactive about assuring our carryons had space close behind us (because no seat in front of us our personal items had to be in a small bin overhead). They actively required passengers place overhead luggage on its side so more items could fit in bins. Home crew made no such efforts. I had to struggle back rows to get overhead bags upon landing, no crew help then either, and some disgruntled passengers as I and others retrieved our bags. There was a system that worked pretty well. The home bound crew just didn't feel like working.

4.0 OkayMather, Aug 2026
Read more Southwest reviews

Seated at front bulkhead for a smidge extra leg room away from home and on flight back home. Away crew was very proactive about assuring our carryons had space close behind us (because no seat in front of us our personal items had to be in a small bin overhead). They actively required passengers place overhead luggage on its side so more items could fit in bins. Home crew made no such efforts. I had to struggle back rows to get overhead bags upon landing, no crew help then either, and some disgruntled passengers as I and others retrieved our bags. There was a system that worked pretty well. The home bound crew just didn't feel like working.

Flight left on time and was early landing. Seats not comfortable and not enough space…

It would have been better if the flight was on time

No wifi, seems to be very common with Southwest currently. Everything else was normal.

Poor customer service, no accommodation for passengers when the flight was delayed over 5 hours.

The flight was late. The crew was rude. There was no food. Cramped and uncomfortable. Nothing about this flight was good.

It was just okay, no frills, basic transportation with no luxury. No screens on the seats, no water or drinks on a short flight. Full flight but at least it was on time.

The first time I flew in the extra legroom section. It was difficult to notice a difference. I had bad luck with my neighbors. The crew was okay. Southwest has reduced the live TV options.

No gluten free snacks. Seats felt worn or bare bones even though it was a new 737 MAX 8.

Plane was clean and comfortable. Flight attendants and gate staff were professional, friendly and efficient. Boarding and deplaning were orderly and efficient. All in all, the typical excellent Southwest experience.

Very bad multiple confusion and miscommunication which i ended up missing my flight.

The experience was bad. Flight was delayed to handle maintenance (understandable) but still there was some dew forming and dropping as droplets on few seats. Internet at best was allowing some browsing but at a snail pace.

Both of my flights to and from JFK experienced significant delays. Most notably, my first flight was delayed by six hours due to crew members being affected by delays on a previous flight. While I understand that disruptions can occur, Delta’s staffing and operational planning should include sufficient contingency measures to handle situations like this rather than placing the full burden of those delays on customers. Additionally, the $12 meal voucher offered as compensation was inadequate, particularly given the high cost of food and beverages at the airport. Considering the length of the delay and the substantial inconvenience caused, I believe more meaningful compensation would have been appropriate.

Comfortable seats. Nice service online. Short flight, so not a lot of time to enjoy.

The flight was done by SkyWest only WIFI no entertainment center are available on the CRJ

Delta is always late. Ruined our first day of a short vacation. Timing is important. We pay to stay on an itinerary

We never made it on this flight because we missed our connection due to o delayed flight from Jackson.

We got stuck on the tarmac taxiing after landing early so we didn’t get off the plane until an hour later than we thought we would

It was okay. We were delayed for weather reasons, but the pilots and the flight control staff figured a way around the storm and were able to get us to Los Angeles safely. Not all the staff members were polite, but the entertainment on the flight was good.

Crew was real good, flight was smooth and came in early.

The flight was excellent. Their was no service as we boarded, the flight attendants spent about 30 minutes just taking and not really caring that the cabin was about 80 degrees and did not offered any beverage to first class passengers or any passenger. The flight from DEN to ONT is not long but not under an hour, we received one drink and bag of chips if you were lucky. I was in first class…. I did leave my hat on the plane and it only took less than five minutes for a United rep to locate and bring it to me.

The app logs you out right when you are boarding requiring all passwords and reservation number for the flight. Super annoying

The pre-order only approach for fresh food is really challenging

the seat has a problem. the back had a hole.

Old 757 with poor entertainment system. United no longer partners with United for free text and email. O'Hara an absolute disaster! Limited gates clauses two hour delay. Unfortunately this appears to be the norm.

The SFO lounge closes at 12 midnight. My flight took off at 2AM

Delayed 2 hours while stuck on the aircraft. If the luggage was properly loaded the first time we probably wouldn’t have been delayed at all

Flight be on time would be a good start. Then train your flight attendants to be attentive and friendly. This time they completely forgot my row for the measly snack! United, do better!

It was a short, comfortable flight. It did leave an hour late due to the pilot having to be replaced (family emergency) but that didn’t inconvenience myself & my friend. The situation was explained, eventually.

There was a piece of plastic baked into my buttermilk biscuit! I have a pictures. The flight attendants in first class were really apologetic, and tried to rectify the situation. I I am very appreciative that they were able to give me some packets of pretzels and gummy bears. I understand they don't personally handle the food until warming it up so I know it wasn't their fault. I don't know whether it was a newer aircraft, or different food packaging, but I was happy that when the food was being warmed up - it didn't smell like plastic. Jokes on me with finding plastic in my food.

The plane was late getting to Ontario by half an hour which makes it inconvenient when you have people waiting for you.

I have to sit in the middle for more than five hours because the first flight was delayed. Terrible experience. No more American Airlines.

The boarding process was slow and we had a delay on the tarmac, not the fault of the airline. They had ZERO food options available for purchase which shouldn't happen.

Once again the staff of American Airlines is kind, helpful, efficient, and professional.

Awful! We boarded and then sat on the plane for 50 mins before having to deplane due to a maintenance issue which should have been addressed before boarding. Then we had to change terminals as there was no other plane for us at the current terminal. Then we waited another 2 and a half hours to board again only to wait for 50 mins on the plane again for the snacks to be brought from the broken plane. And once we were on the flight we still only got the complimentary cookie and soda or water. No food vouchers provided even though we had waited over 3 hours for our flight.

Our experience with American Airlines was extremely disappointing and honestly made an already exhausting international journey much worse. After flying all the way from Melbourne and dealing with significant jet lag, the American Airlines experience at LAX was the last thing we needed. The terminal and boarding area felt very old and uncomfortable, with little to no air conditioning and only old fans running in the area. Boarding was also through outdoor stairs rather than a jet bridge, which felt especially inconvenient after such a long journey. Even though we were traveling First Class, the onboard experience was surprisingly poor. There were no meaningful snack options, no decent coffee available to order, and the aircraft was so small that there was barely enough overhead space for carry-on luggage. The staff experience was also disappointing and lacked the warmth or attentiveness we had experienced on our international flights. To make matters worse, the flight departed late, extending an already very long travel day. Overall, the combination of the outdated terminal, uncomfortable boarding process, limited First Class service, small aircraft, poor staff experience, and delay made this an extremely unpleasant final leg of our journey. It significantly worsened our exhaustion and jet lag rather than making the connection home easier. Unfortunately, this experience was bad enough that I do not plan to travel with American Airlines again in the future.

No food. I paid over $1.000 for my ticket for nuts and espresso beans.

My flight in Dallas had maintenance issues. Which caused us to missed our connecting flight in LA. We had to stay overnight in Los Angeles. American Airlines booked us a hotel. The hotel was the Holiday Inn. It was horrible. The whole hotel smelled like weed and there were people rambling all night long up and down the hallways. The carpets in the hallway and the room has stains. There was dirt on the floor. It was so nasty that I slept in my clothes.

Great. Clean. Seats comfortable. Food was free. Had new release movies.

The airplane I love and I love I came back safe thank you American airlines

Tiny seats, no entertainment, no amenities, delays, they charge for carry on and their allowed personal item is smaller than in other airlines.

I really didn't like anything. Paid for my checked luggage online ($79) and then was told that I would have to paid another $79 for my carry on. Was not allowed to enter the terminal until 3 hours before my flight and when I finally was allowed to check my bag and enter, my flight was delayed 3 times. When I finally landed, we were all instructed to "run off the plane" as they had to do a quick turn around to Las Vegas. Me and several of my flying companions will never fly Frontier again.

Our flight was canceled. I will never use Kayak nor Frontier for travel again. The entire experience was a headache.

Terrible. The canceled my entire flight when I requested a refund for a trip frontier canceled trip one way.

i was unable to check in the flight. refund requested

I think Frontier was very good at communication. Their app worked very well. Loading was great and the flight was nice and easy.

Great for the price. No wifi or entertainment, but gate agents and crew were fantastic and we boarded quickly and left on time.

Decent clean onboard experience. Okay discount airline experience. Unfortunately, any customer service interactions are difficult and unhelpful. There is no service. Also, a premium seat only gets you premium boarding if you line up first. Once they start general boarding you must go to the back of the line. Not very premium

The crew was mostly okay. The flight attendant who answered our questions was curt and unhelpful unfortunately. He seemed upset and I understand having off days.

Very bad! No good service delayed my second connection flight

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