$56 Find Cheap Flights to Southern California

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a KAYAK user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from the United States to Southern California departing on 5/13. Fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. Click the price to replicate the search for this deal.
1 adult
1 adult, Economy, 0 bags

KAYAK searches hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to Southern California

 
These are the airlines KAYAK users have selected most often from within our search results for flights to Southern California
These are the airlines KAYAK users have selected most often from within our search results for flights to Southern California
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Flight Deals

Cheap Flights to Southern California

Cheapest round-trip prices found by our users on KAYAK in the last 72 hours
Los Angeles
Los Angelesnonstop$90
San Diego
San Diego1 stop$89
Palm Springs
Palm Springsnonstop$184
Tijuana
Tijuana1 stop$294
San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispononstop$157
Bakersfield
Bakersfieldnonstop$229
Yuma
Yuma1 stop$388
Mexicali
Mexicali1 stop$268
Imperial
Imperialnonstop$151
Los Angeles
Los Angelesnonstop$90
San Diego
San Diego1 stop$89
Palm Springs
Palm Springsnonstop$184
Tijuana
Tijuana1 stop$294
San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispononstop$157
Bakersfield
Bakersfieldnonstop$229
Yuma
Yuma1 stop$388
Mexicali
Mexicali1 stop$268
Imperial
Imperialnonstop$151

Book Cheap Southern California Plane Tickets

 
Here are some of the best deals found on KAYAK recently from the most popular airlines for round-trip flights to Southern California that are departing in the next months. While these flights were available on KAYAK in the last 72 hours, prices and availability are subject to change and deals may expire.
Discover the best prices for you by selecting your travel dates on KAYAK.

Recent round-trip flight deals to Southern California

Thu, May 28 - Mon, Jun 1
Frontier Logo
11:21 am - 2:18 pm
SEA
-
LAX
2h 57mnonstop
Frontier Logo
3:15 pm - 6:35 pm
LAX
-
SEA
3h 20mnonstop
$90Frontier
Tue, May 19 - Sat, May 23
Frontier Logo
11:06 am - 2:03 pm
SEA
-
LAX
2h 57mnonstop
Frontier Logo
3:15 pm - 6:35 pm
LAX
-
SEA
3h 20mnonstop
$95Frontier
Sat, May 30 - Wed, Jun 3
Frontier Logo
11:21 am - 2:18 pm
SEA
-
LAX
2h 57mnonstop
Frontier Logo
3:15 pm - 6:35 pm
LAX
-
SEA
3h 20mnonstop
$96Frontier
Wed, Sep 9 - Thu, Sep 24
Spirit Airlines Logo
6:45 am - 8:04 am
DFW
-
LAX
3h 19mnonstop
Spirit Airlines Logo
9:18 am - 2:23 pm
LAX
-
DFW
3h 05mnonstop
$179Spirit Airlines
Wed, May 27 - Wed, May 27
Southwest Logo
2:45 pm - 6:50 pm
HOU
-
LAX
6h 05m
1 stop
Southwest Logo
11:50 pm - 5:00 am
LAX
-
HOU
3h 10mnonstop
$247Southwest
Sat, Jun 20 - Thu, Jun 25
Spirit Airlines Logo
9:01 pm - 11:59 pm
EWR
-
LAX
5h 58mnonstop
Spirit Airlines Logo
6:20 am - 2:41 pm
LAX
-
EWR
5h 21mnonstop
$255Spirit Airlines
Tue, Aug 18 - Tue, Aug 18
American Airlines Logo
8:00 am - 12:51 pm
EWR
-
LAX
7h 51m
1 stop
American Airlines Logo
12:55 am - 1:30 pm
LAX
-
EWR
9h 35m
1 stop
$257American Airlines
Mon, Jun 1 - Wed, Jun 3
American Airlines Logo
6:10 am - 8:45 am
IAD
-
LAX
5h 35mnonstop
American Airlines Logo
8:50 pm - 4:48 am
LAX
-
IAD
4h 58mnonstop
$257American Airlines
Sat, Jul 18 - Tue, Jul 21
United Airlines Logo
8:18 pm - 10:55 pm
IAD
-
LAX
5h 37mnonstop
United Airlines Logo
11:30 pm - 7:33 am
LAX
-
IAD
5h 03mnonstop
$262United Airlines
Wed, May 27 - Wed, May 27
Southwest Logo
8:35 pm - 10:10 pm
HOU
-
LAX
3h 35mnonstop
Southwest Logo
11:50 pm - 5:00 am
LAX
-
HOU
3h 10mnonstop
$267Southwest
Booking Insights

KAYAK's insights & trends for flights to Southern California

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

What is the cheapest flight to Southern California?

These are the best round-trip prices found by users searching on KAYAK in the last 72 hours.

The cheapest ticket to Southern California from the United States found in the last 72 hours was to John Wayne (Santa Ana), at $54 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.

How much is a flight to Southern California?

The average and cheapest price for all round-trip flights to Southern California from each origin found by users searching on KAYAK in the last month.

A flight to Southern California costs $353 on average. The cheapest price found on KAYAK in the last 2 weeks was $24 for the route Phoenix Sky Harbor Intl Airport (PHX) to Bakersfield (BFL). The most popular routes on KAYAK are Denver to Bakersfield which costs $362 on average, and Seattle to Burbank, which costs $326 on average.

See prices from:

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

To calculate monthly average prices, KAYAK takes all prices for each month over the last year for flights from the United States to Southern California, removes the top 0.1% to account for outliers, and then takes the median of all values for each month.

The cheapest month for flights from the United States to Southern California is February, when tickets cost $267 (return) on average. On the other hand, the most expensive months are March and June, when the average cost of round-trip tickets is $608 and $568 respectively.

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

To calculate weekly average prices, KAYAK takes all prices for each week before departure over the last year for round-trip flights to Southern California, removes the top 0.1% to account for outliers, and then takes the average of all the values for each week.

To get a below average price on the flight from the United States to Southern California, you should book around 3 weeks before departure, which saves you about 39% compared to booking last minute. For the absolute cheapest price, our data suggests you should book 16 weeks before departure.

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

Prices will differ depending on the departure airport, but generally, the cheapest airport to fly to in Southern California is Santa Maria Public Airport (SMX), with an average flight price of $69.

Good to know

Low seasonJanuary
Cheapest flight$56
Best time to beat the crowds with an average 9% drop in price.
Most popular time to fly and prices are also 7% lower on average.
Flight from San Francisco to Los Angeles

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

Insights shared by verified travelers who flew to Southern California 
Mary KayFlew with Alaska Airlines
STS
-
PSP
Apr 2026
Alaska is excellent with many options between SoCal and NoCal. Being able to fly into Santa Rosa was a great option to avoid the hectic pace of other airports. Palm Springs and Santa Rosa are great secondary airports to use.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
DEN
-
SAN
Mar 2026
Airport is very efficient with security, very impressive so. you don't need to worry too much as even a long line moves extremely fast.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
EWR
-
LAX
Mar 2026
This flight is very convenient, it should be noted that the security at Newark seems quite understaffed and not the most efficient so passing through it will always take at least half an hour.
StephanieFlew with American Airlines
DFW
-
SNA
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
CharlesFlew with Delta
ABQ
-
LAX
Mar 2026
Just be aware a smaller jet so overhead may be limited.
CupcakeFlew with Alaska Airlines
SMF
-
SAN
Apr 2026
Check flight delays on Google prior to arrival at airport.
SoosnataFlew with Delta
MIA
-
LAX
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
MCO
-
SAN
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
BOI
-
SAN
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!!!
KathleenFlew with Alaska Airlines
JFK
-
SAN
Feb 2026
allow plenty of time to get to the airport and through security. Take the plane train if you can. Terminal eight has good food options
GregFlew with Alaska Airlines
SFO
-
BUR
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
MCO
-
SAN
Jan 2026
I would say bring a backup snack or pre-order food with Alaska. I love Alaska airlines' new food options.
PhilipFlew with Alaska Airlines
SFO
-
SAN
Feb 2026
Taking a flight with a smaller plane was pleasant, fewer passengers and.easier boarding and disembarking.
MatthewFlew with Southwest
DAL
-
SAN
Jan 2026
If you have Pre-Check don't even worry about getting to the airport early.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
TUS
-
SNA
Jan 2026
flying to Santa Ana airport makes it nice because it is not crowded
AndreaFlew with Spirit Airlines
DTW
-
LAX
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
STS
-
SAN
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.
MehdiFlew with Sun Country Air
MSP
-
LAX
Dec 2025
In Minneapolis stop at terminal 1 if you want to go to lounge and then go to terminal 2. In LAX, don’t take the late flights!
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
DCA
-
SAN
Feb 2026
DCA only has a few flights to other coast. IAD has many. If something goes wrong you’ll have more options flying out of IAD.
AnjaliFlew with Spirit Airlines
EWR
-
LAX
Dec 2025
look out for landing in the new terminal that is then a bus ride away from your luggage
ChristineFlew with Hawaiian Airlines
SEA
-
PSP
Dec 2025
Arrive early to go through security unless you have TSA pre check and/or CLEAR
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
OGG
-
LAX
Dec 2025
Make sure you check on your flight before going to the airport
FraxysFlew with American Airlines
DFW
-
ONT
Feb 2026
Bring your own snacks or sandwich for dinner in the plane.
Verified travelerFlew with Spirit Airlines
ATL
-
LAX
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
KOA
-
LAX
Nov 2025
Pay to reserve your seat and bring airbuds for the free movies!
AngeliqueFlew with Spirit Airlines
DTW
-
LAX
Nov 2025
Know there is a shuttle to exit or get baggage
MarisaFlew with American Airlines
SEA
-
LAX
Jun 2025
Take Alaska Airlines - Clear was great to have at both airports, especially seattle where there was a large security line
KeithFlew with Hawaiian Airlines
OGG
-
LAX
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!!!
Verified travelerFlew with Hawaiian Airlines
SEA
-
ONT
Jun 2025
Make sure to be there on time because the bag drop off can be a little complicated and it takes quite some time to get to the gate.
LeoFlew with American Airlines
HNL
-
LAX
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.
CatlinFlew with Alaska Airlines
PDX
-
LAX
Jun 2025
New terminal at PDX is gorgeous & very easy. LAX is a horrible, stressful mess & worse than when I grew up there. Waited with confirmed reservation at Dollar rentals for 90 minutes with 3 clerks. ALLOW EXTRA TIME.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
PDX
-
SBP
Apr 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!
EricFlew with Alaska Airlines
SBP
-
SAN
May 2025
SBP gets busy in the early morning with several flights departing between 6am and 7am. Arriving early will avoid stress.
ShuraFlew with Alaska Airlines
SEA
-
BUR
Apr 2025
Don’t . Delta has all the gates together for easy transfers and much more food and beverage selection
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
PDX
-
BUR
May 2025
Good to get to PDX early because it is a great airport to hang out in.
CaseyFlew with Scandinavian Airlines
LAX
-
SAN
May 2025
Better concession options on other terminals than 3, if you’re flying Delta. Explore if you have time.
CHARLESFlew with American Airlines
OGG
-
LAX
Mar 2025
Allow plenty of time to pass through agriculture and TSA security screening.
HowardFlew with Alaska Airlines
JFK
-
SAN
May 2025
Must have a tablet to watch videos. Bring a seat cushion.
Verified travelerFlew with American Airlines
PHX
-
LAX
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
SFO
-
BUR
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
DFW
-
PSP
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
EWR
-
LAX
Dec 2024
Bring snacks and your own water bottle to stay hydrated.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
EWR
-
SAN
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
SEA
-
PSP
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.
MichaelFlew with Southwest
LAS
-
SAN
Jan 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.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
HNL
-
SAN
Dec 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 Airlines
DFW
-
SAN
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 American Airlines
JFK
-
LAX
Jan 2025
Be there on time it really need two hours for security checkups
Verified travelerFlew with American Airlines
MIA
-
LAX
Jan 2025
Be ready to walk a long way through the terminal.
OksanaFlew with Alaska Airlines
GEG
-
SAN
Feb 2025
Arrive early, the registration kiosks may not work and registration will take more than an hour.
Verified travelerFlew with Spirit Airlines
SJC
-
LAX
Nov 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 Airlines
PDX
-
BUR
Oct 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.
MikeFlew with American Airlines
ORD
-
LAX
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.
MohammadFlew with Spirit Airlines
SJC
-
BUR
Sep 2024
The TSA process is very short and quick. No need to come 2 hours ahead.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
SEA
-
ONT
Oct 2024
SeaTac lets you make an appointment to get through security. SpotSaver. No cost. Online.
Verified travelerFlew with Qantas Airways
JFK
-
LAX
Nov 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 Alaska Airlines
STS
-
SAN
Oct 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 Airlines
TPA
-
SAN
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!
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
JFK
-
SAN
Oct 2024
Landing in La Guardia or Newark (New Jersey) is more convenient for commuting to Manhattan.
RebeccaFlew with Alaska Airlines
IAD
-
SAN
Sep 2024
Get something to eat in the airport, just in case there is no food onboard.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
PDX
-
LAX
Oct 2024
LAX is a large airport with long walking distances to exit in terminal 6.
Verified travelerFlew with Qantas Airways
DEN
-
LAX
Sep 2024
You don’t have to arrive two hours early since it is a domestic flight
ReidFlew with United Airlines
SEA
-
LAX
Oct 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.
BruceFlew with Alaska Airlines
SEA
-
LAX
Nov 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.
JamesFlew with Alaska Airlines
SJC
-
SAN
Jun 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 Airlines
OGG
-
SAN
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
BOI
-
BUR
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.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
PDX
-
BUR
Jun 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 Airlines
SEA
-
SNA
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
DCA
-
LAX
Jul 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.
DavidFlew with Alaska Airlines
PAE
-
LAX
Jun 2024
Well I arrived 2 hours early, but everything was very empty and fast so maybe try to be there an hour early better.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
PDX
-
SAN
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 Austrian Airlines
SBP
-
LAX
Aug 2024
SBP is a lovely low stress airport for starting a trip! Have someone drop you off as parking is expensive.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
EWR
-
LAX
Jun 2024
Make sure to get food before you get to the airport. Bring chargers for ur phone or your technological device.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
SEA
-
BUR
Aug 2024
Burbank Airport is the best place to start your travels: small airport, short lines, and easy check in.
HeatherFlew with Hawaiian Airlines
HNL
-
LGB
Aug 2024
Easy entry and exit. Easy to get to rental car. Extremely fast exit from airport itself.
IreneFlew with Southwest
SFO
-
LAX
Jun 2024
Arrive a least 1 hour before boarding if you’re checking bags. Light layers due weather variation
CarolFlew with Alaska Airlines
BOS
-
SAN
Jul 2024
Bring your own entertainment (book, puzzles, devices). T mobile offers free internet with Alaska!
RaquelFlew with Hawaiian Airlines
OGG
-
LAX
Jun 2024
Sit last row so no one is behind you and buy cancel noise headphones!
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
PDX
-
LAX
Jun 2024
Los Angeles airport has convenient entry & exit without long walks to & from the gates.
JohnjimyFlew with ANA
SFO
-
LAX
Aug 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.
FelipeFlew with Delta
DTW
-
SAN
Jun 2024
Make sure you know where you are going it’s a big airport… if you fly delta you can ride the tram inside to get to your gate if it is far away.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
MFR
-
LAX
Jul 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 Airlines
SFO
-
PSP
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.
BillFlew with Alaska Airlines
IAD
-
LAX
Jun 2024
At Dulles, you can spend 30 minutes getting to your AFTER clearing TSA
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
PDX
-
SNA
Jul 2024
Bring your own food and coffee. No hot bevarages available.
FatimaFlew with Frontier
SFO
-
LAX
Jun 2024
Frontier requires 3hr preflight check in even on domestic flights
BerniceFlew with Alaska Airlines
EWR
-
SAN
Jun 2024
Give yourself plenty of time to get through security.
Joo YoungFlew with Alaska Airlines
SMF
-
SAN
Jul 2024
Make sure your seat can recline when you board!
Verified travelerFlew with British Airways
SMF
-
LAX
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
SFO
-
LAX
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
SEA
-
SNA
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
LAS
-
LAX
Aug 2024
Do not check a bag if you can help it. Will set you back $40
LauraFlew with Alaska Airlines
SEA
-
LAX
Jul 2024
LAX is a bit of a mess. Very long walk between terminals.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
JFK
-
PSP
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
HNL
-
SAN
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
AUS
-
SAN
May 2024
GET TSA - PRECHECK AND CLEAR. IT'S CHEAPER WITH THE AMEX GREEN OR AMEX PLAT.
LorraineFlew with Alaska Airlines
MCO
-
SAN
Mar 2024
Do get there 2 hrs. ahead as security lines can be long.
Verified travelerFlew with United Airlines
AUS
-
LAX
Apr 2024
Use the apps so you know gates before you transfer.
KFlew with Southwest
PHX
-
LAX
May 2024
Book with a long gap if you have a connection on another airline. My flight from Phoenix was only 1 hr long but there was an over 2 hr delay in boarding. Luckily I allowed a 6 hour gap between flights for my other flight leaving overseas or I would have missed it. Many people like me fly one flight to LA which has a lot more international departures because it’s a lot cheaper to break the flights up than to book them together . So it’s important that flights are somewhat on time especially between different flights not connected with one booking.
BobFlew with Alaska Airlines
PDX
-
BUR
Apr 2024
We usually fly on Southwest, which allows entering and exiting the plane in both the front and the rear of the plane. I was hoping for the same options on Alaska Airlines, but discovered that they do not use that approach at Burbank. I don''t know whether this is specific to Alaska Air, or maybe specific to the fact that it is in a different terminal at Burbank than Southwest uses. Had I known ahead of time that they did not allow deplaning from the rear exit, I would not have chosen seats in the rear of the plane.
JoelFlew with American Airlines
DFW
-
ONT
May 2024
Dallas is a very spread out airport, jus make sure that you have enough time to transfer during layovers. Also all the restaurants close fairly early
LisaFlew with Alaska Airlines
EUG
-
SAN
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
JoonwonFlew with Alaska Airlines
SJC
-
SAN
Apr 2024
The airplane is a quite small one, compared to the regular size, so pls be ready for some restrictions on carry on bags.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
EWR
-
LAX
Apr 2024
There are buses from Time Square Bus Terminal to Newark for $18 direct no stops you are there in 30 minutes.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
AUS
-
SAN
Apr 2024
Austin check in is long, make sure to come early to allow for the crowded lines.
Dr. SherrieFlew with United Airlines
HNL
-
LAX
Apr 2024
Pack your own snacks and download your movies and shows in case the WiFi doesn’t work.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
BOS
-
SAN
Mar 2024
Be prepared to wait in long line for shuttle to car rental complex.
FranciscoFlew with Alaska Airlines
MCO
-
SAN
May 2024
Make sure to read all the disclaimer disclosures before booking.
MichaelFlew with Alaska Airlines
OGG
-
SAN
Mar 2024
Get to the airport extra early for a Hawaii flight.
KateFlew with Alaska Airlines
SFO
-
PSP
Apr 2024
Fly in the morning when it’s not windy.
MasakoFlew with Alaska Airlines
EWR
-
LAX
Apr 2024
Newark has few food options so pack something if you can. It’s not worth getting food at Newark.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
EWR
-
SAN
Feb 2024
Allow time for TSA (I had) or figure out the priority boarding (I didn't but will look into it for future flights), I thought they were pretty inefficient. A guy behind me was freaking out because he was going to miss his flight and a bunch of us let him cut the line in hopes he could make it.
LaurenFlew with Delta
SEA
-
LAX
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
LAS
-
SAN
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
ATL
-
LAX
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
Verified travelerFlew with United Airlines
HNL
-
LAX
Jan 2024
Not many places to eat at LAX after 9 pm, sandwiches are 11.99 at the convenience store. Everything else was good at both airports.
RalphFlew with Southwest
DEN
-
PSP
Feb 2024
If you really want a better seat make sure you upgrade.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
STS
-
SNA
Feb 2024
Book directly from the airline and/or get refundable tickets.
Verified travelerFlew with Spirit Airlines
FLL
-
LAX
Feb 2024
The shuttles from the rental car drop off to the various terminals was an insanely long wait. The guy working the shuttle lines told everyone we could walk, that it would only take "4 minutes" to get to our terminal, but it ended up taking about 30 minutes. So hoards of people slugging their luggage to various terminals on the sidewalk was painful. The security lines were LONG, probably would've taken 1 hour to get through, but we paid for the Clear and it ended up being maybe 45 minutes instead. The TSA process was not super efficient and they only had a 3 lanes open out of the maybe 10 possible. Not too many nice shops or eating places near our gate. Will do everything to avoid flying to/from Ft Lauderdale in the future.
LaurenFlew with JetBlue
JFK
-
LAX
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.

FAQs - booking Southern California flights

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

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    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 Southern 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 Southern California?

    Based on KAYAK data, the cheapest day to fly to Southern California is Friday where round-trip tickets can be as cheap as $330. On the other hand, the most expensive day to fly is Sunday, where round-trip prices are $470 on average.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Southern California

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Reviews of the top 5 airlines flying to Southern California

 
See real verified KAYAK customer reviews for airlines flying to Southern California. Airline scores are aggregated from all reviews left by passengers on KAYAK after flying with an airline from the United States to Southern California. KAYAK doesn’t show reviews that are older than 5 years. Learn how KAYAK collects reviews.
Need help choosing which airline to fly with from the United States to Southern 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 4314 reviews
8.6Crew
7.0Food
8.1Boarding
7.5Entertainment
8.0Comfort
Airline reviews

This leg was much better, but we did have to have a 3 hour lay o er after coming from a very exhausting hiccup with our flight from BNA to Den

8.0 ExcellentCheryl, Apr 2026
DEN - SBA
Read more Southwest reviews

This leg was much better, but we did have to have a 3 hour lay o er after coming from a very exhausting hiccup with our flight from BNA to Den

The Air hostess were very rude on my flight from Houston to Austin . Their regular communication itself felt a they are shouting at people.

Boarding was easy. The seats are small and fairly uncomfortable

The problem with the seat assignments is that there were a lot of rows in the front that were empty but my row at the back was full. Just not so pleasant.

No food or entertainment, just a quick 40 minute flight. A little bumpy due to Santa Ana winds but pilot has no control over that. Good flight and landing!

Good but I prefer choose your own seat. With the new assigned seats they should board from the back I see no advantage to this new boarding. Just like every other airline

Mediocre. Boarding is now unpleasant. The employees, once friendly and nice, are now regularly speaking sternly to passengers, badgering them to do things right so they can take off on time and gate check bags because they don't have enough overhead bin space. The pretzel snack was crushed flat and broken into even smaller pieces, which happens frequently lately. Drink service was suspended before they reached my row.

The charges were ridiculous for an hour flight and the turbulence was very scary.

3 hour delay. Had to change plans and was still delayed.

The flight crew was extremely rude and especially not helpful when our flight was delayed.

Everything went smoothly, although the usual gripes about airline travel were still present: the boarding process is inefficient, the snack selection is limited, and so on. Since there was extra space on the flight, the gate agent rearranged many people's seats to put people on the aisles and windows, leaving the middle seats empty, as much as possible, which was pretty great.

While they turned off most cabin lights to allow people to sleep, I was bothered by how bright the side lights still were. It was still quite bright for me in a window seat, when I wish I could have slept!

One of the flight attendants was a little cranky. I appreciated the free wifi and plug to charge my laptop

WiFi didn’t work most of the time. The usb chargers would work only occasionally for 5 mins and wouldn’t charge after that. Had to keep trying repeatedly at each of the seats in the row.

The crew bent over backwards to thank us for flying and make us comfortable. The food service was quick and efficient. The Captain communicated and said goodbye and thank you as we departed. They really stood out!

Generally on time departures and arrivals, clean planes, sky miles membership provides great benefits (complimentary upgrades, etc).

my mom urmila patel needed a wheelchair which was not available on the curbside. she needed to walk almost 50 meters inside (at the risk of falling) and then had to wait in line to get a wheelchair (this is not ok). Once obtained she had to seat in it for 30-45 minutes for someone to take her in thru the checkin process (which was fairly smooth and easy). the lady who helped her with her checkin process was very courteous and helpful

Staff at the check-in counter were friendly, happy and helpful. They tagged our bags and sent us to “bag drop off” but were not very clear about where that was. The airport was busy we headed off in what we thought was the right direction until a gentleman waved us down and actually came after us. He was the baggage handler for Delta and recognized our “deer in the headlights “ look-he brought us to the right area (which was marked as the Southwest Airlines Drop Off) and sent us on our way. Wonderful guy, low key and working with a big smile on his face. Loved it. Loved him.

Arlene was a great flight attendant. I also liked how one of the other flight attendants gave us a heads up about snacks and asked everyone to remove their headphones when it was their turn to order. Good idea.

I haven’t flown economy in over 20 years but it was not bad. Room by my feet for my bag and seat was roomy enough. Surprised in a good way.

Outstanding service, efficient & friendly crew, flight was safe, comfortable & on time

The crew was great. Very friendly and responsive. The plane was old, small and tight. We ran out of overhead space and I had to check. Middle seat was particularly tight.

The flight was delayed from take off because only one runway was operational in San Francisco.

Several missed and almost missed connections. It felt like everything was being patched together last minute without enough resources and it ended up being an extremely stressful experience that basically ruined our weekend on the west coast. What a waste.

Packed in plane small uncomfortable seats elbow to elbow nobody wants to be in that situation for the money they paid

Checking in united could not figure out my star alliance gold. Baggage did not get marked priority and didn't receive boarding passes. When got to SFO lounge personal fixed everything Immediately

Flight left on time, arrived early, pleasant staff provided water, coffee, etc. access to bathrooms was reasonable and were well maintained. blankets were available, lots of entertainment options. LUGGAGE SERVICE WAS GREAT. I got my one checked bag quickly and was able to make a bus connection for a 2 hour bus ride saving me from waiting another 1.5 hours.

Terrible, if possible won't be flying again anytime soon!

Wonderful in-seat entertainment with seatback screens and huge selection of quality movies. The ability to bluetooth connect headphones was amazing.

Horrible service no Wi-Fi connection on both leg of the flight and they are refusing to fix bad service

American delayed the flight for a crew rest period. The delay occurred late in the evening - the earliest i can find is 10:20 pm. With a 6 am flight anyone on the flight would have already have been asleep (unless you are insane, a vampire or on drugs) and at least for me i was already on the way to the airport at 445 am the next morning when i discovered they delayed the flight until 9 am. Given the incoming flight was in the air at 6 pm the evening before this should have been figured out a lot more timely that was there only crew to use. Just frustrating given there is no consideration for customer experience anymore in flying.

Flight: Started on time. Comfortable flight. Arrived on time. Crew: Very cordial and helpful. Drinks and snack was served with a smile. Overall enjoyed the trip. Regards, Hari Doss Chanchala Doss

To have arrived on time and not 3 hours late after having already spent $100 to change to an earlier flight, only to arrive back home close to the original flight time.

American Airlines is a miserable experience. It is predictably miserable, in the sense that every time I fly American, I brace myself for the certainty that it will be unpleasant and uncomfortable. But it is unpredictable in the sense that I never know if the flight will be on time or delayed nine hours (both happened to me this week). I never know if I will be able to sit in the seat that I selected when I purchased the ticket or if I will be told by Customer Service (!!!) that I must relocate from first class to a seat in the back of the aircraft with no explanation (both happened to me this week). Will the food be frozen and half defrosted, or scalding hot? Will the drinks be warm? Will the flight attendants be surly and mean? Will the toilets be cramped and foul? Will the seats be narrow and uncomfortable? Will there be a real electric outlet at the seat, or just an unreliable USB-2 port? Will there be enough seats in the boarding lounge or just a few? Will the boarding process be smooth and efficient, or will the gate agents mess it up and delay it needlessly for 30 or 40 minutes? Will the catering and cleaning crew be prompt or will they take an extra 30 minutes? Will the brakes on the aircraft work properly, or will the pilot delay takeoff for four hours while the ground crew attends to what can only be described as routine maintenance that should have been done the night before? I've eexperienced every one of these unpleasant things this year, 2026. The only thing I can reliably count on is that American will find a new way to make the experience of flying as miserable as they possibly can.

Wifi was spotty. Tray table was very dirty when I sat down.

The WiFi would not connect enough for me to do my actual work. It permaspooled, disconnected, said it was connected, then wouldn't open an email... it was frustrating. I am not a tall person, 5'4" - and I felt cramped with little room to reach into my bag under the seat in front of me. I feel sorry for anyone taller than me having to fly. the one positive thing I will add, is the overhead bins are roomy enough to manage more bags than other carriers.

Going non stop to lax like I paid for. Not stopping in MCI for gas. Too long of delays

Delayed for mechanical and no updates on what was happening and how long the delay might be.

A first class seat should fit a fat person, and this doesn't. The trays in the armrest are less functional than an ordinary tray in the back of the seat.

The experience at checkin for my American Airlines flight from Sacramento to LAX was very good including the assistance I received in getting my bags checked in and boarding passes printed. Was pleasantly surprised the my bags were checked through all the way to my destination at Clark International Airport in Angeles, Philippines.

Plane was hot and miserable and the crew was rude!

12 hour delay required getting on and off plane 3 times - would have at least liked to have been offered a snack or drink

They didn’t offer a water, even after I asked

They switched our terminal 3 times and we were delayed for four plus hours!!!

It was an early flight and most people napped/slept and the crew let us which was nice.

The crew acted like they had never done this and kept barking passive aggressive orders at people. + the security line + the delay + sitting on the tarmac for 2 hours + none of the apps or signage updating with correct times

More inflight connection. And leg space is horrible. And the paying for baggage I'd ridiculous!!!

My flight was originally from SAT to MCO connecting from MCO to ORD. We got diverted to ATL and than Frontier staff there was sooo un helpful first they said they couldn’t give us any accommodation since our flight first got delayed that cancelled and now it’s 221am and I am still in ATL since they said they need to create a new flight my final destination is ORD and I have been delayed twice and cancelled. With no real help the frontier app didn’t work no email updates over all such a horrible experience

There's no seats that lean back with little leg space i wad uncomfortable the entire flight. Your charges for extra baggage is despicable and costly!!

Remind customers of the need to have passport or new ID for boarding.

Everything you need to know for your flight to Southern California

Cabin class types available on flights to Southern California

Cabin classes available on flights to Southern California. Prices are the lowest found on KAYAK over the last 7 days. Price and availability is not guaranteed.