$19 Cheap Flights to Dana Point, CA

Flights to Dana Point at a glance

Getting to Dana Point is easy; simply choose from a variety of airlines, whether you prefer full-service options or are on the lookout for affordable Dana Point flights. Compare travel times and select the best fit for your budget and plans to explore the city's iconic sights and neighborhoods.

• Major airports near Dana Point: John Wayne Airport (SNA), Long Beach Municipal Airport (LGB)
• Closest airport to Dana Point: John Wayne Airport, SNA (around 17 miles)
• Flights per week: 3,500+ flights arriving across Dana Point airports
• Number of airlines that fly to Dana Point: around 15+ carriers

Popular airports near Dana Point

Dana Point is a charming destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking beach vacations. Travelers are drawn to this scenic city for its adventures and natural beauty. Conveniently, Dana Point is served by two major airports, including the Dana Point John Wayne Airport and nearby Carlsbad Airport.

• John Wayne Airport (SNA): Situated in Orange County, California, approximately 17 miles from Dana Point, this airport offers a mix of domestic and international flights, linking travelers to over 220 domestic cities and more than 30 international spots. Passengers can opt for upgraded seating options, such as first class, business class, and premium economy, based on their chosen routes and airlines. Major carriers operating here include American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and United.
• Long Beach Municipal Airport (LGB): Located in Los Angeles County, California, about 35 miles from Dana Point, this airport provides both domestic and international connections, servicing roughly 90 domestic cities and a single international destination. Travelers can enhance their journey with upgrades to premium economy, first class, or business class seating, depending on their flight and airline. Southwest Airlines, Delta, and Hawaiian Airlines are among the popular airlines that operate from this airport.

Top routes to Dana Point

• San Francisco (SFO) to Dana Point (SNA/LGB), with one-way airfare from around $30
• Seattle (SEA) to Dana Point (SNA/LGB), with one-way flights starting at around $70
• Las Vegas (LAS) to Dana Point (SNA/LGB), with one-way airfare from around $30
• Phoenix (PHX) to Dana Point (SNA/LGB), with one-way flights starting at around $40
• Denver (DEN) to Dana Point (SNA/LGB), with one-way flights starting at around $50

Cheapest routes to Dana Point

• San Francisco (SFO) to Dana Point (SNA/LGB), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $30
• Las Vegas (LAS) to Dana Point (SNA/LGB), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $30
• Ogden (OGD) to Dana Point (SNA), with affordable one-way prices from around $35
• San Jose (SJC/SJO) to Dana Point (SNA/LGB), with affordable one-way prices from around $40
• Reno (RNO) to Dana Point (SNA/LGB), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $40

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Dana Point

• Southwest Airlines: This airline operates flights to John Wayne Airport (SNA) and Long Beach Municipal Airport (LGB), making up roughly 28% of the total arrivals in Dana Point. Expect an average one-way fare of around $230.
• American Airlines: Connecting to John Wayne Airport (SNA), American Airlines is responsible for about 24% of arrivals in Dana Point. The average cost for a one-way ticket is approximately $260, with premium cabin options including business and first class available depending on the specific route.
• United: United Airlines services John Wayne Airport (SNA) and accounts for nearly 17% of arrivals to Dana Point. Travelers can anticipate an average one-way fare of about $270, with premium cabin choices that may include premium economy, business, and first class based on the route.
• Delta: Offering flights to both John Wayne Airport (SNA) and Long Beach Municipal Airport (LGB), Delta represents around 14% of arrivals at Dana Point. The typical one-way fare is approximately $250, with premium service options like premium economy and first class available depending on the route.
• Alaska Airlines: This airline provides flights to John Wayne Airport (SNA) and Long Beach Municipal Airport (LGB), capturing about 11% of arrivals in Dana Point. The average one-way fare is roughly $250, featuring premium service options that may include business and first class based on the route.

Best time to fly to Dana Point

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Dana Point are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Dana Point can reach up to 60.1°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider May, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 61.7°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $200), roughly 8% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? September, August, and October offer average one-way fares of around $210, making them good options for flexible travelers.

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Dana Point

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Dana Point is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Dana Point hotel and flight deals.
4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Dana Point flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Dana Point

Dana Point welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Dana Point efficiently:

• Public transportation: From John Wayne Airport, Tustin Station (a train station) is located about 5.3 miles away by car, while the Balboa Island Ferry (a ferry terminal) is situated approximately 7.2 miles from the airport, also accessible by car.
• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Dana Point, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car in Dana Point is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Dana Point on Expedia.
• Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in and around Dana Point

• Laguna Beach: Located 7 miles drive away from Dana Point, Laguna Beach is a vibrant city known for its stunning coastal views and artistic culture. Families and outdoor enthusiasts flock to its beautiful beaches and parks. Key highlights include the picturesque Treasure Island Beach, the scenic Heisler Park perfect for picnics, and the expansive Crystal Cove State Park, which offers adventure and breathtaking scenery. Don’t miss the charming shopping center and boardwalk that add to the area’s appeal.
• San Clemente: Situated 6 miles drive away from Dana Point, San Clemente is a delightful city that embodies the spirit of Southern California beach life. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, family-friendly beaches, and a lovely boardwalk. Key attractions include the iconic San Clemente Pier for stunning ocean views, the serene Dana Point Harbor ideal for a scenic outing, and the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano, a cultural gem. The shopping centers here also offer a variety of local goods and eateries.
• Monarch Bay: Monarch Bay is located in the area of Dana Point and is a charming village that showcases the beauty of coastal living. Known for its stunning beaches and recreational parks, it’s an excellent spot for relaxation and outdoor activities. Explore Thousand Steps Beach for a classic beach experience or visit the scenic Dana Point Harbor, perfect for a leisurely day out. The nearby Mission San Juan Capistrano adds a touch of history and culture to your visit, making Monarch Bay a picturesque getaway.

Tips for short-haul flights to Dana Point

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more cost-effective. Maximize space by opting for mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and planning your outfits wisely. This approach also helps you avoid the hassle of waiting at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights might not provide in-flight entertainment options. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself entertained. Be sure to fully charge your devices before you board.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it’s advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account potential traffic and security line delays.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Dana Point

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often allow free seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours prior to your flight. Some airlines may permit seat selection even earlier than this.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—aim to be at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration processes.
• Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and sleep pattern to align with your destination's time zone. Try to rest or stay awake during the flight in accordance with the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.

Tips to find the cheapest flights to Dana Point

The cheapest day to fly

Get started finding a cheap flight to Dana Point on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

The cheapest month to fly

December is the cheapest month to fly to Dana Point. This coincides with the low season when fewer people travel. Whichever month you travel in, though, be sure to book at least a month in advance if you want to score cheap tickets to Dana Point. ARC's data shows that domestic flights booked 28 days or more before departure are typically 24% cheaper than those booked last minute.

The most affordable time to book a flight

Typically, a Sunday can be the cheapest time to book a flight to Dana Point, according to ARC’s data. On average, you could save between 6% and 13% by booking on a Sunday instead of a Friday, which is the most expensive day to make a reservation.

The cheapest round-trip tickets to Dana Point

The lowest price for round-trip flights to Dana Point in 2026 starts from $38, while one-way tickets start from from $19. Expedia's effective search tool is one of the best ways to find a budget airfare. Simply enter your dates, and within seconds, it'll show you a vast selection of the cheapest flights to Dana Point. If you have a preferred departure time or airline, you can use the handy filters to customize your search.

The cheapest airlines flying to Dana Point

Frontier Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines, United, Alaska Airlines are just some of the airlines that can typically offer cheap tickets to Dana Point. You can find their most affordable flights by using the “airline” search filter and then sorting prices from low to high. As a trusted partner of the world's leading airlines, Expedia offers you some of the best airfare deals to Dana Point and countless more destinations worldwide.

The most affordable airports to fly into

To view the cheapest airports to fly into for Dana Point, simply order your search results from lowest to highest price. Expedia's search tool compares flight prices for all airports close to your destination, so you don't have to manually search them one by one to find the cheapest flight to Dana Point. If you have a preferred place to fly into, take advantage of the “arrival airport” filter to narrow down your search on Expedia.

Save with a package

With Expedia's amazing package deals, you could save hundreds of dollars by booking your Dana Point plane tickets together with your accommodations, car rental, or activities. Just select the search wizard's “package” option to view some of the cheapest deals. Look out for the green savings label to see how much you're saving.

Date flexibility for the cheapest flights to Dana Point

If you can be flexible with your travel dates, it's a good idea to broaden your search by comparing prices on different days. This will open up more options, meaning you could uncover a less expensive flight to Dana Point.

Stopover savings

The cheapest tickets to Dana Point are sometimes those with a stopover. Book one of these flights, and you'll change planes at an airport en route to Dana Point. While the overall travel time might be longer than a non-stop flight, you may decide it's worth it for the money saved.

Get Expedia's Price Drop Protection

Price Drop Protection means that if your flight gets cheaper after booking, you'll be credited the difference*. This gives you peace of mind that you're getting one of the cheapest flights to Dana Point for your chosen departure. Expedia's Price Drop Protection is available for a small fee but is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

*Terms apply.

Use our Price Tracking feature

Expedia's Price Tracking feature is another great tool that removes the guesswork from finding cheap flights to Dana Point. Simply download the free Expedia app to your smart device and activate Dana Point flight price alerts for your travel dates. There's even a price predictor tool that uses historical data to indicate the best time to book, giving you peace of mind that you'll nab the lowest prices.

Book with Expedia

As well as Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking, Expedia's close partnership with a vast selection of the world's leading airlines means you're sure to find cheap flights to Dana Point. Plus, the One Key rewards program lets you earn real cash rewards on most bookings that you can use to save money on future trips. Best of all, it's free to join, and members often unlock exclusive discounts, too.

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.